<P> As applause and cheering begins , the President slowly walks toward the Speaker 's rostrum , followed by members of his Congressional escort committee . The President 's approach is slowed by pausing to shake hands , hug , kiss , and autograph copies of his speech for Members of Congress . After he takes his place at the House Clerk 's desk , he hands two manila envelopes , previously placed on the desk and containing copies of the speech , to the Speaker and Vice President . </P>
<P> As applause and cheering begins , the President slowly walks toward the Speaker 's rostrum , followed by members of his Congressional escort committee . The President 's approach is slowed by pausing to shake hands , hug , kiss , and autograph copies of his speech for Members of Congress . After he takes his place at the House Clerk 's desk , he hands two manila envelopes , previously placed on the desk and containing copies of the speech , to the Speaker and Vice President . </P>
who sits next to the speaker of the house during the state of the union
who sits next to the speaker of the house during the state of the union
Vice President
Vice President