During President Donald Trump's State of the Union address, Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins took on the role of designated survivor, a security measure that has been in place for many years. This precaution is designed to ensure that a member of the federal government's leadership remains safe and secure in the event of a catastrophic incident that could incapacitate the officials gathered at the Capitol. Collins had also held this role the previous year, highlighting the ongoing importance placed on such safety protocols during major national events.

As the designated survivor, Collins was not present at the joint session of Congress but was instead relocated to a secure and undisclosed location for the duration of the address. The identity of the designated survivor is usually kept confidential until the speech is underway, when the person is already in a safe location, reflecting the seriousness with which the government approaches potential risks associated with these gatherings. The planning around these events emphasizes the necessity for continuity in leadership at all levels of government.

The presence of the designated survivor during the State of the Union holds critical implications for national security. The event brings together various branches of the U.S. government, including the president, vice president, members of Congress, and judicial officials from the Supreme Court, all in one location, which increases vulnerability to potential threats. By ensuring that even in the worst-case scenario there would be a leader ready to assume control, the government reassures citizens of its resilience and readiness to maintain stability and governance in crisis situations.