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House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., lit the Capitol Christmas tree Tuesday night with fourth-grade homeschool student Rose Burke.
He posted a clip of the lighting to X and stated, “It’s officially Christmas time at the Capitol.”
Alaskan native Burke won the honor of helping to light the tree in an annual essay contest last month, per Homer News.
A copy of her handwritten-winning piece was shared on Facebook in which she wrote about the Capitol tree being from her home state and the joy it will bring.
She penned, “People from all over the country come to our nation’s Capitol, Washington D.C. When they see this majestic Christmas tree. they will be reminded of our farthest north state. Though far away, we are united in love for our country.”
“A Christmas tree brings joy to our hearts. May this Christmas tree fill the hearts of those who see it with extreme joy and hope for the future of the United States of America,” Burke concluded in her essay.
The 2024 US Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony was posted to YouTube and included various leaders.
Capitol Architect Thomas Austin introduced the 60th annual tree lighting ceremony. He stated, “A lot of work goes into finding the perfect Christmas tree for the United States Capitol, and I’m glad to say we have made a beautiful selection this year.”
The 80-foot Sitka Spruce stood before the crowd after being shipped all the way from the Alaskan Tongass National Forest.
Austin noted that the tradition began in 1964, “and it is one we’re proud to continue.”
