In his State of the Union speech, President Joe Biden delivered a passionate argument for a second term, but a moment during the address involving the use of a controversial term has drawn criticism from some Democrats and immigration activists.

During his speech, President Biden referred to an undocumented migrant accused of killing 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley as "illegal," a term considered offensive and outdated. The use of this term caused disappointment among Democrats and immigration activists who advocate for more inclusive language when discussing undocumented immigrants.

White House communications director Ben LaBolt clarified that Biden's use of the term was a response to language used by a lawmaker who interrupted the address. LaBolt explained that Biden wanted to speak directly to the parents of Laken Riley, expressing his empathy as someone who has also experienced the loss of a child. LaBolt emphasized that Biden's broader stance on immigrants is one of respect and support for a bipartisan solution to the immigration challenges at the border.

When questioned about his use of the term while on his way to a campaign event in Philadelphia, President Biden responded, "Well, I probably shouldn't -- I don't re-- technically he's not supposed to be here." His answer appeared hesitant as he addressed the question.

The specific moment that sparked scrutiny occurred as Biden was discussing immigration and criticizing Republicans for hindering a bipartisan border deal. Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene interjected, drawing attention to Laken Riley's case. A back-and-forth exchange ensued between Greene and Biden, with Greene emphasizing that Riley was killed by an "illegal." Biden repeated this term before offering his condolences to Riley's family.

The National Immigration Center expressed shock at Biden's use of the term, while Democratic Representative Chuy García, an immigrant himself, expressed extreme disappointment. It is worth noting that there has been no reported outreach from Biden or senior White House aides to Democratic lawmakers who criticized his use of the term.

Vice President Kamala Harris, when asked about the language during an interview, attributed it to the chaotic scene but emphasized Biden's ability to empathize with Riley's family and his broader stance on immigration reform.

Mitch Landrieu, Biden's campaign co-chair, acknowledged that Biden should have used a different word and characterized it as a small mistake.

Campaign aides responded to the ensuing controversy by highlighting Biden's contrasting view on immigration compared to many Republicans, including former President Donald Trump. They emphasized that Biden aims to fix the broken immigration system and rejects the cruelty and extremism associated with demonizing immigrants for political gain.

As opinions on Biden's use of the term "illegal" during the State of the Union address continue to stir debate, it remains to be seen if there will be any further repercussions or actions taken to address the concerns raised by critics.

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