The State of the Union address today by Joe Biden started at 9:16 pm EST and wrapped up at 11:04 pm EST. Before going into detail about his speech let us know
What is the State of Union Address
The State of the Union address is an annual speech delivered by the President of the United States to a joint session of the United States Congress.
The purpose of the address is to provide an overview of the nation’s current condition. Furthermore, it outlines the president’s legislative agenda and priorities for the coming year.
The president typically discusses domestic and foreign policy issues, economic concerns, achievements, challenges, and proposals for legislative action. The State of the Union address is an important event in American politics. It serves as a means for the president to communicate directly with Congress and the American people.
As this is the election year, the State of the Union Address by Joe Bidden is more important for Americans.
Lawmakers who attended the Union of State Address
Six out of the nine members of the Supreme Court, namely Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Ketanji Brown Jackson, attended Mr Biden’s State of the Union. Additionally, retired Justice Anthony Kennedy was also in attendance.
Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Amy Coney Barrett were absent. Moreover, Thomas and Alito have not attended the annual address in recent years.
Justice Alito was last seen at the State of the Union in 2010. Where he appeared to mouth “not true”. When former President Obama criticized the Supreme Court’s decision in the Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission case. In 2010, Judge Thomas commented that he found the annual speech to be “partisan” and “uncomfortable” to sit through.
Highlights of Joe Bidden Speach
At 9:16 pm, Mr Biden strode into the House chamber to loud boos from Democrats. As he made his way to the podium, he was greeted by lawmakers who had taken up positions along the aisle. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell followed Mr Biden.
Members of his Cabinet entered the chamber before him. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, the designated survivor, was not in attendance. The president paused to greet Sens Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Mitt Romney (R-UT), who are retiring after serving their full terms.
Marjorie Taylor Greene (D-GA) was in the audience and was wearing a red “Make America Great Again” hat. She was heard to say to the president, “Say her name.” Laken Riley (22) was a nursing student who died in Athens, GA last month. A Venezuelan immigrant is suspected in her death.
“Biden has issued a warning that freedom and democracy seem to be ‘under assault’ in the United States.”
Mr Biden opened his speech by quipping, “If I were a smart man, I’d go home.” He went on to remind those gathered in the House Chamber that “we are facing an unparalleled moment in our nation’s history.” Moreover, he called on Congress to “wake up and let the American people know that this is not an ordinary moment.”
He said that since the election of President Abraham Lincoln, “freedom and democracy have never been more at risk in the United States.” But “what makes this moment extraordinary is that they are being challenged at home and abroad at the same time,” he said.
Pressed on foreign policy, he urged lawmakers to approve assistance for Ukraine to help the country defend itself against Russian aggression. He did not mention President Donald Trump by name but accused him of bowing to Putin. “This is outrageous, this is dangerous, and this is unacceptable,” he said.
Biden Welcome Sweden for joining NATO
“Please stand, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson,” Biden said warmly, greeting his Swedish counterpart seated in the First Lady’s box. Then he said ” Welcome, Welcome, Welcome”
He highlighted the strengthening of NATO and Finland’s recent entry into the alliance.
“History is watching,” said Bidden to Congress
President Biden urged Congress to pass the national security bill and foreign aid package, telling Russian President Vladimir Putin that the US “will not walk away.”
During his speech, Biden reminded Congress that history was watching, just like it was on Jan. 6 three years ago. The president emphasized that this is a crucial moment to acknowledge the reality and not disregard the lies about the events of January 6th. Mr Biden expressed his concern that the falsehoods about the 2020 election represent the most significant danger to democracy since the Civil War. Although he did not mention Trump by name, he urged that patriotism cannot be limited to supporting the winner of an election.
Biden said ” We will Win Again” during the Union of State Address
The president attributed the success of Democrats in recent elections to reproductive rights, confidently stating, “We’ll emerge victorious once again in 2024.” He vowed to reinstate Roe v. Wade, which ensured the right to abortion if the American people choose a Congress that “upholds the right to choose.”
It is evident from exit polls that the abortion issue has motivated voters to participate in recent elections, including the midterms. Despite expectations of a red wave in the 2022 midterms, Democrats surpassed predictions and witnessed significant voter turnout in numerous races. While this trend may continue in 2024, President Biden’s commitment to reinstating Roe faces significant obstacles, particularly in the Senate, where 60 senators would be required to advance any legislation.
President Biden has called on Congress to ensure that the right to in vitro fertilization (IVF) is guaranteed nationwide. During this recent event, President Biden introduced Latorya Beasley and Kate Cox, who had been affected by recent decisions relating to fertility and abortion. Both guests were seated with First Lady Jill Biden.
Biden praises infrastructure law and CHIPS Act.
The president highlighted his accomplishments from his initial term in office, such as passing a $1.2 trillion infrastructure plan to improve the country’s transportation systems and legislation focused on increasing the production of semiconductor chips domestically.
Mr. Biden highlighted that despite opposition from some Republicans towards the infrastructure bill, they have been supportive of investments in their districts. He emphasized that if any of them do not wish to receive the funding, they should inform him.
The president recognized Shawn Fain, president of the United Auto Workers, and Dawn Simms, a third-generation UAW worker in Belvidere, Illinois, to commemorate the resolution of the significant strike last year. This strike led to a labour agreement with the Detroit Big 3 auto manufacturers, making Mr Biden the first president to join a picket line during the strike.
He reiterated the importance of the middle class and unions in building the nation, stating that when Americans face challenges, they always rise again. Additionally, Mr. Biden discussed his administration’s efforts to reduce prescription drug prices and his commitment to safeguarding the Affordable Care Act, emphasizing its significance. He expressed his dedication to both protecting and expanding the act.
Biden reaffirms tax pledge for fairer tax system.
Mr Biden emphasized the importance of a fair tax code to invest in essential services such as healthcare, education, and defence.
He criticized the previous administration’s tax reform, which he believed favoured the wealthy and corporations, leading to a growing deficit. The president questioned the fairness of the current tax system, particularly in providing additional tax breaks to the wealthy.
He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that those earning less than $400,000 would pay their fair share in federal taxes. Additionally, Mr. Biden proposed a minimum tax rate of 25% for billionaires, estimating it could generate over $500 billion in revenue over the next ten years, benefiting the country as a whole.
Child Tax Credit should be restored
The president urged Congress to reinstate the Child Tax Credit that he signed into law at the start of his term in response to the COVID-19 crisis.
“Every child deserves access to food in our nation,” stated Mr Biden.
Earlier this year, leaders of tax committees in Congress reached an agreement on a tax plan that would increase the Child Tax Credit, although not as significantly as during the pandemic. However, the future of this plan remains uncertain.
The deal aims to strengthen the Child Tax Credit, providing support to families with lower incomes. A more robust version of the Child Tax Credit was distributed monthly during the pandemic, leading to a substantial decrease in child poverty. These monthly payments ceased at the end of 2021, prompting Democrats to advocate for the reinstatement of this aid.
Biden criticizes Republicans for rejecting border deal
Some House Republicans are wearing pins criticizing Mr Biden for his border policies, but the president confronted the GOP, accusing them of rejecting a border security bill for not being strict enough.
“We can argue about the border or we can solve it,” he stated. “I’m prepared to solve it. Send me the border bill immediately.”
Mr Biden pointed out that the bill had the support of the Border Patrol Union and Chamber of Commerce, leading to a heated exchange with Republicans. “Examine the facts,” he urged. “I know you can read.”
As Mr Biden expressed disappointment that “politics has derailed this bill” and criticized Trump for encouraging Congress members to block it, he went off-script to mention Laken Riley, the Georgia woman who was recently killed.
The president displayed a button with Riley’s name, given to him by Greene upon entering the House chamber, and conveyed his condolences to her parents, saying “My thoughts are with you.” Greene was visible in the crowd shouting “Say her name.”
“Unlike my predecessor, I know who we are as Americans,” Biden said
As Mr Biden concluded his discussion on immigration, he made a clear distinction between himself and Trump in terms of their views on the country. He emphasized that he understands the essence of being American, unlike Trump.
According to Mr Biden, America is a unique nation that embraces both tradition and innovation. It is unique with a diverse population from all corners of the globe. He highlighted the fact that everyone in America has roots elsewhere but ultimately identifies as American.
Mr Biden also made it a point to reject the demonization of immigrants, particularly in response to comments made by Trump. He emphasized that immigrants are not a threat to the nation, contrary to what his political opponent suggests.
Gun Violence was a concern in the State of the Union Address
During his address, the president highlighted Jazmin Cazares, whose sister, Jackie, tragically lost her life in the devastating 2022 shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, he once again urged Congress to pass crucial legislation. That would prohibit assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, while also advocating for stronger background checks.
Since taking office, President Biden has consistently called upon lawmakers to take action in response to each mass shooting that has occurred. In a pointed remark, he contrasted his approach with that of his predecessor, who had openly expressed pride in his lack of action on gun control during his presidency.
The president further highlighted a previous incident in Iowa, where his predecessor had suggested that the nation should simply “get over” school shootings. In stark contrast, President Biden firmly asserted that such tragedies must be stopped. Moreover, he emphasized the need for immediate and effective measures.
The Isreal-Hamas war was the part of State of Union Address
Acknowledging the immense hardship endured by countless individuals over the past five months, President Biden expressed his empathy. He reiterated his unwavering support for Israel’s efforts to eradicate Hamas. Moreover, he emphasizes that Israel also bears the responsibility of safeguarding innocent civilians in Gaza.
In pursuit of a lasting resolution, the President has been actively engaged in brokering a six-week ceasefire in Gaza. Furthermore, he unveiled the administration’s proposal to establish a temporary port on the Gaza coast. That will aimed at facilitating the smooth flow of humanitarian aid.
During the President’s address, a group of progressives visibly demonstrated their dissent by standing and displaying signs that read “Stop sending bombs,” reflecting their opposition to U.S. assistance to Israel amidst the ongoing bombardment of Gaza.
President Biden emphasized that Israel must fulfil its obligations. While underscoring that humanitarian aid should never be relegated to a secondary concern or used as a bargaining tool. Highlighting the imperative of a two-state solution in the long run. Moreover, the President asserted that no other path guarantees lasting peace.
Biden shuns criticisms of age as he highlights his experience
As he approached the conclusion of his speech, even playfully remarked to Sen. Lindsey Graham that he still had “a few more things” to share. Furthermore, Mr Biden did not shy away from acknowledging his age. Instead, he emphasized that his extensive years in public service have granted him a profound sense of clarity.
“While it may not be immediately apparent, I have been in this game for quite some time. With age comes a certain level of wisdom and insight that becomes clearer than ever before.”
He expressed. “I am intimately familiar with the American narrative. Time and time again, I have witnessed the clash between opposing forces in the struggle for the essence of our nation. It is a battle between those who yearn to drag America back into the past and those who strive to propel America towards a brighter future.”
His commitment
The president expressed his commitment to embracing freedom and democracy. Moreover, a future built on the fundamental values that have long defined America: Honesty, Decency, Dignity, and Equality. He emphasized the importance of respecting everyone and providing equal opportunities for all while rejecting any form of hatred.
Without explicitly mentioning his predecessor, Mr. Biden drew a clear distinction between his perspective. Furthermore, what he perceived as a narrative of resentment, revenge, and retribution that some people of his generation hold. He made it clear that he does not align with that narrative.
Despite being criticized for being too young and too old throughout his career, the president highlighted his unwavering belief in enduring principles. He referred to the guiding principle of America. Additionally, all individuals are created equal and deserve equal treatment throughout their lives.
At 81 years old, Mr Biden acknowledged his age. Moreover, he emphasized that he has always understood the enduring values that serve as the North Star for the nation.
Biden concluded the State of the Union Address with an optimistic note
The president expressed his optimism by stating, “I am truly optimistic.” He then outlined a series of positive aspirations for the future. This includes restoring the right to choose, safeguarding freedoms, and providing equal opportunities for the middle class. Moreover, ensuring the wealthy pay their fair share in taxes, addressing the climate crisis, and tackling gun violence.
He emphasized his vision of an inclusive future for all Americans and pledged to serve as a president for all. Mr. Biden attributed his optimism to the American people and called for collective efforts in building a better future.
