President Biden is delivering his State of the Union address amid various challenges, including concerns about the southern border, frustration with the economy, and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. This speech, his third State of the Union and the final one of his first term, comes as he faces former President Donald Trump in a rematch of their 2020 election. Biden, the sole major Democratic candidate, aims to address lingering questions about his age and highlight his differences with Republicans in this address.
During his State of the Union speech, President Biden plans to speak on abortion access, promising to restore Roe v. Wade as the law of the land if Americans elect a Democratic Congress. He will contrast his political philosophy with that of Trump, emphasizing respect for everyone and aiming to give everyone a fair shot. Biden will also focus on plans to lower costs for middle- and low-income families, drawing a contrast with GOP lawmakers who prioritize tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and large corporations.
Despite recent polling showing Biden trailing Trump in a potential general election matchup, the economy has been relatively stable during Biden’s presidency, with low unemployment and inflation rates. However, Americans have faced a higher cost of living, with rising grocery and home prices. Biden plans to urge Congress to take action to ease economic strain by lowering health care costs, restoring the expanded Child Tax Credit, and targeting big companies with proposals to raise the corporate minimum tax rate and deny tax deductions to companies paying employees over $1 million.
President Biden will also call on Congress to pass national security funding to support Ukraine as it faces Russia’s invasion, as well as funding for Israel. The national security bill, which includes this funding, has been stalled in Congress due to opposition from Trump. The president’s ability to deliver these measures will depend on support from Congress, particularly the Republican-led House, which has struggled to pass legislation.
Alabama Sen. Katie Britt will deliver the Republican response to President Biden’s State of the Union address, highlighting the GOP’s contrast with the president and positioning the party as better suited to lead the nation. As Biden addresses a wide range of challenges in his speech, including economic concerns, foreign conflicts, and political divisions, his message will set the tone for the upcoming general election against former President Trump.
