Speaker Mike Johnson revealed on Monday that the House of Representatives is hustling to accommodate the U.S. men and women's hockey teams at President Trump's upcoming State of the Union address. The teams, fresh from their gold-medal victories, face logistical challenges due to their large numbers and the unique setting of the event.

Johnson, addressing the media, expressed the complexities involved in managing such an arrangement. "We're trying to figure out the logistics now for a potential visit from the teams," he said. Given the traditional constraints of the venue during a congressional session, the usual fanfare for honored guests is not feasible on the floor itself.

The Speaker suggested alternative plans to celebrate the athletes' achievements. "We're trying to work out logistics to see if there's some way to perhaps get them into the gallery and the doors, wave and receive the applause that they're due," Johnson added. This solution would allow the teams to be acknowledged without disrupting the formal proceedings of the State of the Union.

The White House extended invitations to both teams shortly after their victories, with President Trump personally inviting the men's team and offering a military jet to facilitate their travel to Washington. The men's team secured their win in a dramatic overtime match on Sunday, capturing national attention and praise, including the presidential invite.

However, a spokesperson for the women's team told NBC News that while the players are "sincerely grateful" for the invitation, they will be unable to attend. “Due to the timing and previously scheduled academic and professional commitments, they cannot be present,” the spokesperson stated.

As the House scrambles to make this unique arrangement work, the situation underscores the challenges of merging ceremonial honors with the rigid protocols of government events. Despite these hurdles, the effort to recognize the national teams at such a high-profile event speaks volumes of their commendable achievements and the pride they have brought to their country.