University of Central Florida (UCF) POS3413 The American Presidency Practice Exam

The association of Woodrow Wilson with changing how the State of the Union address was given is significant due to his decision to deliver the address in person to Congress rather than submitting it in writing as had been the practice for many years. This shift marked a change in the presidential tradition, enhancing the visibility and personal connection between the president and Congress, as well as the American public.

Prior to Wilson, many presidents would send a written report that Congress would read, which kept a certain distance in the communication process. By delivering the address in person, Wilson aimed to engage more directly with lawmakers and emphasize the importance of the address as a key moment in the legislative calendar. This modernization of the address has been influential and has continued to shape the expectations and norms surrounding the State of the Union address as we know it today.