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STORY: The proposed overhaul, which has drawn street protests across Israel from critics who decry it as anti-democratic, included curbs on the Supreme Court's authority while granting the government decisive powers in appointing judges.

Herzog vowed to work toward a consensus on the difficult issue, calling the protests a reflection of the strength of Israeli democracy.

"Israel has democracy in its DNA," said Herzog, whose position is largely ceremonial.

While Herzog's invitation to address a joint meeting of the U.S. House and Senate is one of the highest marks of esteem Washington affords foreign dignitaries, it is not without controversy.

Ties have been strained over Israeli settlement expansion on the occupied West Bank and what Washington sees as dimming prospects for a two-state solution to relations with the Palestinians as well as the judicial overhaul.