By Ruzeki, Shadow News
On Thursday, President Joe Biden delivered his State of the Union address, his last before the 2024 presidential election.
The president addressed a sweeping range of issues facing the nation and the world, from providing aid for Ukraine, humanitarian aid to Gaza, to expanding abortion rights.
Generally, Biden told Americans from coast to coast that "The state of our union is strong and getting stronger.”
But as the president seeks another term in office, he also repeatedly hit former President Donald Trump, whom he only referred to as his "predecessor."
Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont., said he was impressed by Joe Biden's energy on Thursday night, despite his age. The Montana lawmaker remarked that the president's energy was notably "high."
President Joe Biden ended his SOTU speech by addressing Americans' well-documented concerns about his age, cracking a joke.
“I know I may not look like it, but I’ve been around a while,” Biden quipped.
"Whether young or old, I’ve always known what endures,” Biden said.
“The very idea of America, that we are all created equal and deserve to be treated equally throughout our lives.”
The president said he is still up to the task, citing his experience and wisdom. He seemed to draw a direct comparison to his predecessor and opponent, alluding to his belief that he and Donald Trump think different core values define America.
“As commander-in-chief, I will not hesitate to direct further measures to protect our people and our military personnel,” Biden said.
President Joe Biden warned the Houthis in Yemen that the U.S. will take any means necessary to protect commercial vessels in the Red Sea and minimize disruptions to global trade.
"America is rising, we’re standing up against China’s unfair economic practices. We’re standing up for peace and stability across the Taiwan straits. Frankly, for all his tough talk on China, it never occurred to my predecessor to do any of that." Biden said.
Relations with China have at least stabilized. But competition with the rival nation remains a top priority for the Biden administration.
“Humanitarian assistance cannot be a secondary consideration or a bargaining chip. Protecting and saving innocent lives has to be a priority. As we look to the future, the only real solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict is a two-state solution over time.” Biden said.
President Joe Biden rebuked Israel for the high death toll in Gaza(over 30,000 civilians massacred) and called for a temporary cease-fire in Israel's war in Gaza.
“None of this violates the Second Amendment or vilifies responsible gun owners. Meanwhile, my predecessor told the NRA he’s proud he did nothing on guns when he was president." Biden said.
President Joe Biden told the joint session of Congress that he is demanding a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines and urged lawmakers to pass universal background checks.
“But unfortunately, politics have derailed it so far. I’m told my predecessor called Republicans in Congress and demanded they block thebipartisan border bill. He feels it would be a political win for me and a political loser for him." Biden said.
President Biden talked about introducing a comprehensive plan to fix the immigration system, secure the border, and provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers.
"There are forces taking us back in time. Voter suppression. Election subversion. Unlimited dark money. Extreme gerrymandering. It's time do to more than just talk. Pass the Freedom to Vote Act, the John Lewis Voting Rights Act!" Biden emphasized.
In recognition of a dark moment in U.S. history, Biden pressed Congress to strengthen voter protections.
“Restore the Child Tax Credit because no child should go hungry in this country,” Biden said.
Biden said he would like to see a return of the expanded Child Tax Credit he approved during the pandemic. The credit enacted as part of his American Rescue Plan was only active in 2021.
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