Biden uses fiery State of the Union address to attack Trump
President Joe Biden turned his State of the Union speech into an animated argument for a second term as he laced into Republican frontrunner Donald Trump for espousing “resentment, revenge and retribution” and jeopardising freedom at home and abroad.
Over and over, mr bid en delivered broadsides at" my predecessor" without ever mentioning Mr Trump by name –13 times in all – raising his voice repeatedly as he tried to quell voter concerns about his age and job performance while sharpening the contrast with his all-but-certain November rival.
It was a far feistier tone from Mr Biden than his prior State of the Union addresses and it was designed to banish doubts about whether the 81-year-old is still up to the job.
For 68 minutes in the House chamber, Mr Biden goaded Republicans over their policies, invited call-and-response banter with fellow Democrats on economic issues, taxes and healthcare and seemed to revel in the fight.
"Freedom and democracy are under attack both at home and overseas at the very same time," Mr Biden said as he appealed for Congress to support Ukraine's efforts to defend itself against Russia's invasion. "History is watching." Mr Biden quickly pivoted to the threats at home, referencing the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol by Mr Trump's supporters seeking to overturn the 2020 election, and calling for the threat to democracy to be countered.
"My predecessor – and some of you here – seek to bury the truth about January 6 – I will not do that," Mr Biden said.
"This is a moment to speak the truth and to bury the lies. Here's a simple truth. You can't love your country only when you win.
"My lifetime has taught me to embrace freedom and democracy. A future based on the core values that have defined America: honesty, decency, dignity, equality. To respect everyone. To give everyone a fair shot. To give hate no safe harbour.
"Now some other people my age see a different story: an American story of resentment, revenge, and retribution. That's not me."
The president showcased his accomplishments on infrastructure and manufacturing, and pushed Congress to approve more aid to Ukraine, tougher migration rules and lower drug prices.
He also sought to remind voters of the situation he inherited when he entered office in 2021 amid a raging pandemic and a contracting economy.
The 81-year-old president was being closely watched not just for his message, but for whether he could deliver it with vigour and command.
White House aides said Mr Biden was aiming to prove his doubters wrong by flashing his combative side and trying to needle Republicans over positions he believes are out of step with the country, particularly on access to abortion, but also tax policy and healthcare.
Taking a victory lap in selling his legislative accomplishments, Mr Biden veered from his prepared script to take a dig at Republicans who voted against such policies but are eager to take credit for them back home.
My predecessor – and some of you here – seek to bury the truth about January 6 – I will not do that Joe Biden