Takeaways From The State of the Union
As President Biden began his State of the Union, there was a sense of respect for the traditional institutions as the entire hall stood and applauded the introduction of the president. However, that respect for the institution quickly faded over the course of the speech, as jeers from republicans permeated many of Biden's main points. The main hecklers were the usual suspects, including Marjorie Taylor Greene and Andrew Ogles. These comments were received negatively by independent voters and will likely sway new polls on the president's approval rating.
Biden's main points were met with mixed receptions. His stance on social security was extremely provocative, illustrating legislative plans to insure proper funding before calling for the support of senior citizens in an unusual display of bipartisan agreement. Biden seemed in his element the whole speech, speaking fluidly and thinking quickly on his feet. When republicans booed him after he stated that some of them wanted to sunset medicare, he clapped back with, “I enjoy conversion.” Biden was a senator for thirty-six years, and his experience showed.
Biden took a hard stance on some topics that plague the current American political system. He was uncharacteristically imposing on topics such as abortion, stating that he would veto any legislation that restricted abortion access. He also mentioned that he would veto any attempt to raise the price of prescription drugs and any attempt to cut medicare.
Foreign affairs was a crucial topic, especially as the Chinese spy balloon was shot down just days before. Biden said that China had been the up-and-coming superpower, but that our economic resurgence solidified the US on top. He mentioned that this was partly due to his passed plans including his $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill and the Inflation Reduction Act. At one point, Biden said, "It’s never, ever been a good bet to bet against America. Never.” He’s repeated the phrase many times since his election and the impact was felt throughout the chamber, especially how it was directed at large corporations and a rival country. In regards to the Ukraine War, he talked about how the US was an immense force in the war effort, as they created an organized coalition in defense of Ukraine, and funded Ukraine with vast amounts of weaponry and intelligence.
Biden aimed to spur bipartisan cooperation in the legislature multiple times, discussing the necessity of police reform and arguing that the budget for policing should be increased. His stance was increasing education and requirements of police officers while appeasing his Republican counterparts. Other unanimously approved positions included: the requirement of all federal construction to be built with American tools and equipment, the prevention of big tech companies from collecting excess information on individuals, and the acknowledgment that the border needs to be secured to combat the influx of fentanyl.
Overall, the speech was a success as Biden accomplished what he wanted to in terms of setting himself up for reelection and taking a strong stance on many of the legislative hot topics.
By Elijah Roth