In his highly anticipated State of the Union address, President Joe Biden laid out his second-term agenda and highlighted key priorities for the coming years.

Taking a campaign footing ahead of his expected rematch with former President Donald Trump this November, Biden focused on several critical issues that will shape his presidency. One of the significant topics he addressed was reproductive rights, vowing to restore Roe v. Wade as the law of the land if Americans sent him a Congress that supports the right to choose. Biden mentioned the power of women in America and the victories achieved in 2022 and 2023 regarding reproductive freedom.

Additionally, the President made important announcements concerning aid efforts in Gaza. Biden revealed plans to add a port in Gaza, which would serve as a valuable entry point for humanitarian assistance provided by the United States and its partners. The administration aims to coordinate with Israel, the United Nations, and various non-governmental organizations to ensure the smooth flow of aid. Importantly, the operation will not involve U.S. boots on the ground in Gaza.

Furthermore, President Biden emphasized the post-Covid economic recovery, highlighting the creation of nearly 15 million jobs since he took office. The unemployment rate remained below 4% for two full years, and inflation significantly decreased. He also outlined his administration's plans to revamp the tax code, expand housing supply, and reduce the federal budget deficit. Lowering costs for working families was identified as a top economic priority.

The timing of the speech is notable, as it comes just two days after Super Tuesday's primaries, during which both Biden and Trump effectively secured their party's nominations. Framing his address around the question of whose side politicians are on, Biden positioned himself as a champion for working Americans and democratic values. He contrasted his stance with opponents who, he claimed, prioritized tax breaks for the wealthy at home and abandoning Ukraine to Russian autocrat Vladimir Putin abroad.

The President intended to remind voters of his legislative accomplishments, such as the Inflation Reduction Act, which polling suggests many Americans are unfamiliar with. Biden used the speech as an opportunity to make a positive case for another four years in the White House, as the Democratic rhetoric thus far has focused primarily on stopping Trump.

Moreover, Biden sought to address concerns within his own party regarding his political and physical health, as polls indicate Trump's lead in key battleground states. While State of the Union Addresses may carry less agenda-setting power in today's polarized Washington, they remain a significant moment for Biden to connect with Americans who do not closely follow politics but tune in for key events.

Notably, President Biden did not introduce new immigration orders during his address. Despite considering unilateral action to make it harder for migrants to pass the initial screening for asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border, the administration opted to focus on urging congressional Republicans to advance a bipartisan border deal. Biden criticized their lack of action during his recent visit to the southern border and emphasized the need for concrete policy reforms.

Overall, President Biden's State of the Union address provided a comprehensive overview of his second-term agenda, spanning critical issues such as reproductive rights, aid efforts in Gaza, economic recovery, and immigration reform. The President showcased his accomplishments and sought to rally support for his vision for the future of the nation.