WASHINGTON (AP) - It's the hottest ticket in Washington, a chance to sit in the upper galleries of the U.S. House for Pope Francis' historic speech to Congress.
The pontiff will deliver his address on Sept. 24 as part of his visit to the United States. Members of Congress, the diplomatic corps and members of the Supreme Court - six of whom are Catholic - are expected to attend the speech.
Lawmakers, whether freshmen or longtime senators, get just one guest ticket for the galleries, similar to a State of the Union. The demand is high.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said recently that they've had more requests for the pope's appearance than anything anyone can remember.
Some lawmakers say the ticket is immediately going to their spouses. Others have invited parents.