Throwing a Pitch

The Story

Last night, President Biden pitched himself before a divided Congress and nation.

How’d that go?

As many expected. Biden used his third State of the Union address to outline why he should get four more years. Without naming his predecessor, Biden put a spotlight on the contrast between his administration and former President Trump’s — including their individual approaches to challenges at home, such as immigration, and those abroad in Ukraine and the Middle East. Here were some of the big moments of the night…

Reproductive health care…Biden vowed to restore the nationwide right to an abortion if reelected. He urged lawmakers to protect IVF nationally, amid the backlash surrounding the Alabama Supreme Court’s decision. He directly addressed women’s political power, saying they’ll vote to defend reproductive freedoms. It comes as one poll found 17% of female voters under 50 say abortion is their No. 1 issue in the election.

The economy…Americans generally have a pessimistic view of it, but Biden tried to focus on job growth, cooling inflation, and his admin's efforts to boost infrastructure and manufacturing. He also acknowledged high housing costs, saying he would work to pass a tax credit to help homeowners. Biden said part of creating a booming economy is focusing on education.

The Israel-Hamas war…Biden vowed the US would not rest until all the remaining hostages, who were taken by Hamas on Oct 7, are brought home. He said Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas but also has a responsibility to protect innocent civilians. Biden announced the US military would be building a temporary port on Gaza’s coast to deliver humanitarian aid. It comes amid UN warnings that at least a quarter of Gaza’s 2.3 million population is on the brink of famine. Biden also faces growing pressure from within the Democratic Party and from voters to address the humanitarian crisis and back a cease-fire.

What else happened?

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) interrupted Biden on immigration and brought attention to the death of UGA student Laken Riley. The president is now getting backlash for engaging with Greene and referring to undocumented migrants as “illegals.” Sen. Katie Britt (R-AL) — who could be a potential running mate for Trump — delivered the GOP response, saying Biden created the border crisis. She criticized his admin’s handling of the economy, crime, and foreign policy. Britt pitched the Republican Party as the best option for families, adding the GOP supports nationwide access to IVF — even though a Republican senator recently blocked a bill to protect the fertility treatment.

theSkimm

Last night’s State of the Union address was considered a major test for President Biden, amid debate about his age and mental fitness. With the approaching November election, Biden outlined his vision for a second term. Whether it’ll be enough to sway Americans, many of whom aren't excited about a Trump-Biden rematch, remains to be seen.