On Tuesday night, President Biden addressed the nation in his first official State of the Union. He addressed a wide array of topics, from the Russian invasion of Ukraine to the high cost of insulin. At a time of high alert to both foreign and domestic threats, the President did his best to convey a sense of peace and unity to millions of Americans, following a long history of addresses.

Biden’s breakout speech

Russia Ukraine War

President Biden’s first State of the Union covered a vast array of pressing issues. First, he addressed the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The president outlined his current sanctions, most of which target the Russian banking industry, and announced an additional penalty for the aggressor: shutting of American airspace to Russian planes. 

“Biden’s message about Ukraine during the State of the Union was meant to unify the country. He was able to rally bi-partisan support, as both Republicans and Democrats stood up and clapped after his messages of support, chanting ‘USA, USA’,’’ said Jayani Chidipotu (‘22).

Employment

Another major talking point in the address was infrastructure and American jobs. He stated that he would bring nearly 3,000 jobs to America by establishing a new technological advancement facility for Intel in a largely undeveloped area of Ohio. He’d also bring manufacturing jobs back to the United States to cut price rates and inflation. Along with this, he announced plans to increase the number of electrical vehicle charging stations.

“Biden wants to redefine the rust belt states by bringing new industry there, which is smart for his campaign and the American people,” said Chidipotu.

Law

Towards the end of his address, President Biden secured his stance on both justice and immigration. In regard to the former, President Biden said he wishes to “fund the police”, in order to better equip officers to protect their communities. For the latter, Biden pushed back against house members chanting “build the wall” by promising to make paths to citizenship easier for immigrants and stating diversity’s positive impact on our nation.

“When Biden was sharing his thoughts, there was a polarized eruption from the crowd. Yelling and cheering. It was interesting to see,” said Sanika Newadkar (‘22).

Honors

It is customary for Presidents to recognize members of government and bring guests to further their message. Biden’s first guest was the Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States Oksana Markarova, who he praised for her and her country’s bravery during the war. He thanked retiring Justice Stephen Breyer for his service to America as well as shouting out Joushua Davis, a young boy living with type 1 diabetes, and promised to work on lowering the cost of insulin. Finally, he recognized Frances Haugen, the Facebook Whistleblower, when discussing how he would hold tech companies accountable. He vowed to Danielle Robinson, the wife of a veteran who died of cancer due to burn pit exposure, to focus on aiding veterans and minimizing their exposure to toxins.

“It was a good variety of individuals. It’s typical of presidents to bring in individuals who will help push or represent their agenda. Seeing people who were affected by everything from medical costs to jobs and infrastructure was an accurate cross section of America,” said AP Government and Economics Teacher Samuel Weaver.

President Biden’s first State of the Union Address encompassed many issues, but can best be summarized by his final words, urging Americans to “go get ‘em”.