Susan Page

USA TODAY

In their first speech to a joint session of Congress, newly elected presidents traditionally identify their legislative priorities and outline policy details beyond the soaring rhetoric of their inaugural address delivered a few weeks earlier.

In advance of President Trump's prime-time speech on Tuesday night, here's a look at how his predecessors approached the task:

Barack Obama: Feb. 24, 2009

Context: The United States was in the midst of a financial meltdown.

Message to Congress: “We will rebuild, we will recover, and the United States of America will emerge stronger than before. The weight of this crisis will not determine the destiny of this nation.”

Domestic policy: Stimulus bill had just been enacted. Proposed rescue plans for big banks and the auto industry, and tax hikes for the wealthiest 2% of Americans. Pledged to cut the deficit in half by the end of his first term. “Health care reform cannot wait; it must not wait, and it will not wait another year.”

Foreign policy: “In words and deeds, we are showing the world that a new era of engagement has begun. For we know that America cannot meet the threats of this century alone, but the world cannot meet them without America.”

Read Obama's full speech

George W. Bush: Feb. 27, 2001

Context: The Sept. 11 terror attacks that would define his presidency were seven months away.

Message to Congress: “Together, we are changing the tone in the nation's capital. And this spirit of respect and cooperation is vital because, in the end, we will be judged not only by what we say or how we say it, we will be judged by what we're able to accomplish.”

Domestic policy: “Education is my top priority.” Proposed to lower tax rates and increase defense spending. Promised to reduce the federal debt and create a presidential commission to reform Social Security.

Foreign policy: “America has a window of opportunity to extend and secure our present peace by promoting a distinctly American internationalism. We will work with our allies and friends to be a force for good and a champion of freedom.”

Read Bush's full speech

Bill Clinton: Feb. 17, 1993

Context: He had ousted an incumbent Republican president amid economic unease, although the recession had ended.

Message to Congress: “For too long, we have drifted without a strong sense of purpose or responsibility or community. And our political system so often has seemed paralyzed by special interest groups, by partisan bickering, and by the sheer complexity of our problems. I believe we can do better because we remain the greatest nation on Earth, the world's strongest economy, the world's only military superpower.”

Domestic policy: Proposed to raise the top tax rates for individuals and corporations and to reduce federal spending. Backed a $30 billion jobs package, creation of national service program and a welfare overhaul. Pledged to develop a comprehensive plan for health care reform through a task force headed by first lady Hillary Clinton.

Foreign policy: “Our nation will be prepared to lead a world challenged as it is everywhere by ethnic conflict, by the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, by the global democratic revolution, and by challenges to the health of our global environment.”

Read Clinton's full speech

George H.W. Bush: Feb. 9, 1989

Context: He promised to continue Reagan’s policies but with a “kinder, gentler” approach.

Message to Congress: “The hand remains extended; the sleeves are rolled up; America is waiting; and now we must produce. Together, we can build a better America.”

Domestic policy: Promised to be “the Education president”; backed education awards and expanded school choice. Proposed cutting the capital-gains tax rate, reforming the budget process and toughening enforcement of toxic-waste polluters.

Foreign policy: “The fundamental facts remain that the Soviets retain a very powerful military machine in the service of objectives which are still too often in conflict with ours. So, let us take the new openness seriously, but let's also be realistic. And let's always be strong.”

Read Bush's full speech

Ronald Reagan: Feb. 18, 1981

Context: He had ousted the Democratic incumbent at a time of high inflation and economic uncertainty.

Message to Congress: “True, it'll take time for the favorable effects of our proposal to be felt. So, we must begin now. The people are watching and waiting. They don't demand miracles. They do expect us to act. Let us act together.”

Domestic policy: Proposed a 10% across-the-board tax cut, $41.4 billion in cuts in direct federal spending for fiscal year 1982, and a campaign to reduce regulations. Backed adding work requirements for some welfare recipients and reducing spending on the school breakfast and lunch program.

Foreign policy: “Since 1970, the Soviet Union has invested $300 billion more in its military forces than we have. As a result of its massive military buildup, the Soviets have made a significant numerical advantage in strategic nuclear delivery systems, tactical aircraft, submarines, artillery, and anti-aircraft defense. To allow this imbalance to continue is a threat to our national security.”

Read Reagan's full speech

USA TODAY coverage of Trump's speech:

Here's how to watch Trump's joint address to Congress

Trump comes before Congress, a body he has largely bypassed

Democrats on Trump's first 40 days: He's not a populist but a fat cat

Trump says he'll 'speak from the heart' during first speech to Congress