5 Takeaways from the State of the Union

Annually, the president of the United States delivers a speech known as the State of the Union speech or address, during which they discuss the political issues, upcoming plans, and the concerns that impact the country.

This year, President Biden delivered a passionate speech that served as both a State of the Union and a campaign kickoff to persuasively argue that he was qualified to serve another four years.

This year’s audience turned out to be the largest.

Biden’s address at the State of the Union differed from the usual one, where the president usually addresses issues and puts forth ideas. Rather, Mr. Biden’s address presented a clear choice between two candidates.

Here are the 5 Takeaways from the State of the Union that can be drawn from Mr. Biden’s ferocious speech:

Biden addressed his rival as ‘my predecessor’ and not Trump

Even if Joe Biden did not specifically address Donald Trump, it was clear to whom he was referring and who he was challenging.

Using the phrase “my predecessor,” the president laid forth starkly different perspectives on America, its government, and its place in the world.

Indirectly using “My predecessor,” Biden constantly attacked Trump, highlighting on the events of how he had attempted to change the course of events surrounding the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, how he had shown little concern for the pandemic, how he had done little to counter China, and how he did nothing to address gun violence.

To clearly set himself apart from Trump, Biden laid out these differences and then later summarized his own achievements and touched upon his plans for the rest of the year.

Later, Biden remarked, “If my predecessor is watching,” while urging the former president to support the bipartisan border bill that failed and was sabotaged by Mr. Trump.

Through this carefully curated speech, Biden set himself apart from Trump.

Biden sparred with the G.O.P. once again

Biden engaged in a heated debate with Republicans on Thursday over immigration, tax cuts, and other topics, which brought back memories of last year’s speech, when Biden was seen cleverly retorting to the Republicans’ taunts.

Mr. Biden and his advisors anticipated engaging with G.O.P. lawmakers. Assuming that people are searching for a fighter and someone who still has the vigor to take on his foes in politics and on a worldwide scale.

Biden tried to showcase his reflection through this address.

During the address of the State of the Union, Biden showed his assertiveness and not his usual demeanor of being too soft-spoken or extremely angry. Democrats gave him a standing ovation as he concluded the 68-minute speech.

Biden talked about economics and not ‘Bidenomics’

The majority of Americans consistently express in polls their belief that Mr. Biden’s policies have not benefited them and that the nation is moving in the wrong direction.

On Thursday, Mr. Biden addressed this. He exclaimed that inflation was dropping and “consumer confidence is soaring.”

He argued, however, that voters should “remember” the depths of 2020 and compare them with the current State of the nation. He stated, “I inherited an economy that was on the brink,”

He added, “Now our economy is the envy of the world.” In addition, he referred to the recovery as “the greatest comeback story never told.”

Biden predicted that the issue of abortion would propel Democrats in November

Since Roe v. Wade was reversed, Mr. Biden has given two addresses to the State of the Union.

However, compared to the 72 words he wrote about abortion in 2023, he spent a lot more time talking about it this year.

He declared, “We’ll win again in 2024,” citing the abortion issue. He added, “My God, what freedoms will you take away next?”

Mr. Biden emphasized the importance of “reproductive freedom” in his remarks. Among the guests were a Texas woman who had to flee her State to have an abortion to save her own life and an Alabama woman who had appointments for fertility treatments after the Alabama Supreme Court overturned the State’s I.V.F. laws.

The president’s pledge to “restore” Roe v. Wade was so carefully worded to include the hedge that he would only do so “if” voters also elect a Congress that has the authority to enact such legislation.

Biden retorted to his criticism of being too old

Concerns regarding Biden’s age and suitability for office have been voiced in many instances.

Several Democrats cited this as one of the primary reasons they would choose a different candidate. Mr. Biden was fixed on using Thursday’s address to refute claims that he is too elderly to serve a second term.

Amidst chuckles in the room, Biden remarked, “I know I may not look like it, but I’ve been around a while.”

He added, “And certain things become clearer than ever when you get to my age.”

In addition to the speech’s content, the president’s delivery and manner left a significant impact.

The president surprised supporters by giving a fiery address that was very different from some of his more reserved ones. He spoke loudly during most of the speech, maybe to assert that he is capable of serving a second term.