President Biden's State of the Union Address
Summary
TLDRIn a powerful address, the President calls for unity and action on pressing issues facing the nation. He emphasizes the need to defend democracy at home and abroad, support Ukraine against Russian aggression, and address domestic challenges such as healthcare, education, and economic inequality. The President also highlights the importance of climate action, immigration reform, and gun control, while advocating for a fairer tax system and the protection of fundamental rights. His message is one of optimism and a commitment to building a future for all Americans.
Takeaways
- 🗣️ The President emphasizes the unprecedented moment in American history, with democracy under assault both domestically and internationally.
- 🤝 The President calls for unity and defense of democracy, urging Congress to stand up against threats to freedom and democracy.
- 🛡️ The President addresses the need to support Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression, highlighting the importance of NATO and international cooperation.
- 🏛️ The President condemns the January 6th insurrection, stressing the importance of truth and the defense of American institutions.
- 👨👩👧👦 The President advocates for reproductive rights and the protection of IVF treatments, criticizing the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
- 🏥 The President proposes capping insulin costs and expanding Medicare's drug price negotiation powers, aiming to reduce healthcare costs for Americans.
- 🏢 The President outlines his economic achievements, including job growth, small business expansion, and manufacturing revival.
- 🏫 The President emphasizes the importance of education, proposing investments in pre-school, high school programs, and making college more affordable.
- 🌍 The President discusses his climate change initiatives, including reducing carbon emissions and creating clean-energy jobs.
- 🔫 The President calls for stricter gun control measures, including a ban on assault weapons and universal background checks.
- 🕊️ The President addresses the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating for a two-state solution and immediate humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Q & A
What was the main purpose of the President's speech?
-The main purpose of the President's speech was to address the nation on the unprecedented challenges facing the country, both domestically and internationally, and to call for unity and action in defense of democracy, freedom, and the American way of life.
How did the President describe the current state of freedom and democracy in the United States?
-The President described the current state of freedom and democracy in the United States as under assault, both at home and overseas, likening the current situation to the challenges faced during the Civil War and the presidency of Franklin Roosevelt.
What was the President's stance on Ukraine and Russia?
-The President expressed strong support for Ukraine, urging Congress to stand up to Putin and provide Ukraine with the necessary weapons to defend itself, while emphasizing the determination to avoid American soldiers being sent to war in Ukraine.
What did the President say about the January 6th insurrection?
-The President referred to the January 6th insurrection as a dark day for American democracy, stating that the insurrectionists were not patriots and that their actions posed a grave threat to democracy. He also emphasized the importance of acknowledging and addressing the truth of that day.
What was the President's message regarding reproductive rights and the Supreme Court's decision on Roe v. Wade?
-The President expressed support for reproductive rights and criticized the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. He called for Congress to act to guarantee the right to IVF nationwide and promised to restore Roe v. Wade as the law of the land if given a supportive Congress.
How did the President address the economy and job growth?
-The President highlighted the economic comeback, mentioning the creation of 15 million new jobs, record low unemployment, and the growth of small businesses. He also discussed investments in clean energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of building an economy that benefits all Americans.
What actions did the President propose to address the climate crisis?
-The President proposed significant actions to confront the climate crisis, including cutting carbon emissions in half by 2030, conserving 30 percent of America's lands and waters, creating clean-energy jobs, and launching a Climate Corps to engage young people in clean energy efforts.
What was the President's approach to immigration reform?
-The President called for a comprehensive immigration reform bill that would secure the border and provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, among other measures. He emphasized the importance of fixing the immigration system and opposed policies that demonize immigrants or separate families.
How did the President address the issue of gun violence?
-The President called for urgent action to address gun violence, including the establishment of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, demanding a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, and advocating for universal background checks.
What was the President's vision for the future of America?
-The President's vision for the future of America includes a country that defends democracy, restores rights, ensures a fair shot for the middle class, and requires the wealthy to pay their fair share in taxes. He also envisions a future where the planet is saved from the climate crisis and the country is protected from gun violence.
Outlines
🎙️ Introduction to the Session
A female speaker opens the session, followed by applause and background discussions. A male speaker then introduces the President of the United States, which is also met with applause.
👏 Acknowledging the Audience
The audience responds with applause and chanting, showing their support and enthusiasm for the event and the speakers.
🇺🇸 Presidential Address: Historical Context
The President begins his address by referencing a historical speech by President Franklin Roosevelt, comparing the challenges faced then with the current situation. He emphasizes the unprecedented moment in history, the assault on freedom and democracy, and the need for awareness and action.
🌍 International Affairs: Focus on Ukraine
The President discusses the geopolitical situation with Russia's actions in Ukraine, criticizes the previous administration's stance towards Russia, and highlights the importance of NATO. He stresses the need for continued support for Ukraine to defend democracy and the global leadership role of the United States.
🗽 Defending Democracy: Domestic and International Challenges
The President addresses the internal and external threats to democracy, referencing the January 6th insurrection and the situation with Ukraine and Russia. He emphasizes the importance of unity in defending democracy and highlights specific individuals affected by current policies on reproductive rights and IVF treatments.
📈 Economic Recovery and Vision for the Future
The President outlines the progress made in recovering from the pandemic and economic crisis, detailing job creation, infrastructure improvements, and healthcare advancements. He expresses a vision for continued growth and opportunity, emphasizing a future focused on inclusivity and support for all Americans.
🏗️ Infrastructure and Economic Initiatives
The President discusses significant investments in infrastructure and manufacturing, highlighting the positive impacts on local communities and the broader economy. He mentions specific projects and initiatives that demonstrate the government's commitment to improving infrastructure and supporting job creation.
📚 Education and Healthcare Reforms
The President emphasizes the importance of education and healthcare, proposing initiatives to make these sectors more accessible and affordable. He discusses the impact of policy changes on everyday Americans, illustrating with personal stories to highlight the need for reform.
📢 Call to Action on Democracy and Fairness
The President urges bipartisan support for defending democracy, emphasizing the need for fairness in elections, institutional trust, and the rejection of political violence. He highlights the critical nature of the moment for history and democracy.
🌐 Addressing Global Challenges and Domestic Policy
The President connects domestic policy actions with global challenges, discussing the United States' role on the international stage, particularly in relation to NATO, Ukraine, and global democracy. He also addresses domestic issues such as reproductive rights and healthcare.
🔨 Legislative Achievements and Future Goals
The President recounts the legislative achievements under his administration, particularly in infrastructure and public welfare. He outlines future goals, emphasizing the need for continued investment in America's future, focusing on education, healthcare, and economic growth.
🛡️ National Security and Immigration Reform
The President discusses national security concerns, including border security and immigration reform. He presents a vision for a balanced approach that ensures security while upholding American values, inviting bipartisan cooperation to achieve these goals.
🇺🇸 Upholding American Values and Democracy
The President reflects on America's history and the ongoing struggle between progress and regression. He calls for a commitment to democracy, equality, and forward-looking policies that embrace the nation's diversity and potential for growth.
🗳️ Protecting Voting Rights and Embracing Diversity
The President emphasizes the importance of protecting voting rights and embracing diversity as core American values. He calls for legislative action to safeguard these principles and acknowledges individuals who have contributed to the fight for equality and justice.
🏫 Education Initiatives and Gun Control Measures
The President proposes education reforms to enhance learning opportunities and addresses the need for gun control measures. He shares personal stories to illustrate the impact of gun violence and calls for action to prevent future tragedies.
🌍 International Relations and Domestic Policy
The President covers a range of topics, from international relations, especially the situation in Gaza and the Middle East, to domestic policies on health care and veterans' support. He emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to foreign policy and the importance of domestic reforms.
🇺🇸 Vision for America's Future
The President outlines his vision for America's future, focusing on fairness, opportunity, and unity. He reflects on his life experiences and career, emphasizing the enduring American values that guide his vision for the country.
🎉 Closing Remarks: Optimism for America
The President concludes his speech with a message of optimism, emphasizing his belief in the American people and the country's potential. He reiterates his commitment to being a president for all Americans and calls for collective action to build a brighter future.
Mindmap
Keywords
💡democracy
💡freedom
💡Ukraine
💡assault weapons
💡climate crisis
💡healthcare
💡economic recovery
💡education
💡foreign policy
💡immigration
Highlights
The President addresses the nation, highlighting the unprecedented moment in history and the assault on freedom and democracy both at home and overseas.
The President's assertion that Putin's aggression will not stop at Ukraine and the importance of supporting Ukraine with weapons to defend itself.
The call for the Bipartisan National Security Bill to stand up to Putin and the emphasis on the critical role of NATO.
The President criticizes his predecessor for advising Putin to 'Do whatever the hell you want,' describing it as dangerous and unacceptable.
The announcement of Sweden joining NATO and the emphasis on NATO's strength as a military alliance.
The President recalls the January 6th insurrection as a dark day for American democracy and the need to defend democracy.
Highlighting the impact of the Supreme Court decision on IVF treatments and the call to guarantee the right to IVF nationwide.
The commitment to restoring Roe v. Wade as the law of the land and the emphasis on women's reproductive rights.
The President outlines the economic recovery and job creation achievements since taking office, emphasizing the move away from trickle-down economics.
The push for legislation to make healthcare and prescription drugs more affordable for Americans.
The call to action for passing the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act in honor of civil rights legacy.
Emphasizing the importance of addressing the climate crisis and the steps taken to reduce carbon emissions and create clean energy jobs.
The President's firm stance on protecting Social Security and Medicare against cuts.
The announcement of a temporary pier in Gaza for humanitarian aid and the call for an immediate ceasefire in the conflict.
The vision for America's future focused on democracy, fairness, and inclusivity, with a strong belief in the American people and optimism for the future.
Transcripts
Female Speaker: Mr. Speaker, the President's Cabinet.
(Applause)
(inaudible background discussion)
Male Speaker: Mr. Speaker, the President of the United States
(Applause)
(Chanting: "Four more years")
(Applause)
(inaudible background discussion)
(Applause)
The President: Good evening. Good evening.
If I were smart, I'd go home now.
(Laughter)
(Cheers)
Mr. Speaker. Madam Vice President.
Members of Congress. My Fellow Americans.
In January 1941, President Franklin Roosevelt
came to this chamber to speak to the nation.
He said, "I address you at a moment
unprecedented in the history of the Union."
Hitler was on the march. War was raging in Europe.
President Roosevelt’s purpose was to wake up the Congress
and alert the American people that this was no ordinary time.
Freedom and democracy were under assault in the world.
Tonight I come to the same chamber to address the nation.
Now it is we who face an unprecedented moment
in the history of the Union.
And yes, my purpose tonight is to wake up this Congress,
and alert the American people
that this is no ordinary moment either.
Not since President Lincoln and the Civil War have freedom
and democracy been under assault here at home as they are today.
What makes our moment rare is that freedom
and democracy are under attack, both at home and overseas,
at the very same time.
Overseas, Putin of Russia is on the march,
invading Ukraine
and sowing chaos throughout Europe and beyond.
If anybody in this room thinks Putin will stop at Ukraine,
I assure you, he will not.
(Applause)
Ukraine can stop Putin if we stand with Ukraine
and provide the weapons it needs to defend itself.
(Applause)
That is all Ukraine is asking.
They are not asking for American soldiers.
In fact, there are no American soldiers at war in Ukraine.
And I am determined to keep it that way.
But now assistance for Ukraine is being blocked
by those who want us to walk away from our world leadership.
It wasn’t that long ago when a Republican President,
Ronald Reagan, thundered,
"Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall."
(Applause)
Now, my predecessor, a former Republican President,
tells Putin, "Do whatever the hell you want."
That's a quote.
A former American President actually said that,
bowing down to a Russian leader.
It’s outrageous. It’s dangerous. It’s unacceptable.
(Applause)
America is a founding member of NATO
the military alliance of democratic nations
created after World War II to prevent war and keep the peace.
Today, we’ve made NATO stronger than ever.
We welcomed Finland to the Alliance last year,
and just this morning,
Sweden officially join and their Prime Minister
is here tonight. Stand up.
(Applause)
Welcome. Welcome, welcome, welcome.
And they know how to fight.
Mr. Prime Minister, welcome to NATO,
the strongest military alliance the world has ever seen.
I say this to Congress: we must stand up to Putin.
Send me the Bipartisan National Security Bill.
History is literally watching. History's watching.
If the United States walks away now,
it will put Ukraine at risk.
Europe at risk. The free world at risk,
emboldening others who wish to do us harm.
My message to President Putin,
who've I've know for a long time is simple.
We will not walk away.
(Applause)
We will not bow down.
I will not bow down.
(Applause)
In a literal sence, history is watching.
History is watching just like history
watched three years ago on January 6th.
Insurrectionists stormed this very Capitol and placed a dagger
at the throat of American democracy.
Many of you were here on that darkest of days.
We all saw with our own eyes
these insurrectionists were not patriots.
They had come to stop the peaceful transfer of power
and to overturn the will of the people.
January 6th lies about the 2020 election,
and the plots to steal the election,
posed the gravest threat to our democracy since the Civil War.
But they failed. America stood.
(Applause)
America stood strong and democracy prevailed.
But we must be honest the threat remains and democracy
must be defended.
My predecessor and some of you here
seek to bury the truth of January 6th.
I will not do that.
This is a moment to speak the truth and bury the lies.
And here’s the simplest truth.
You can’t love your country only when you win.
(Applause)
As I’ve done ever since being elected to office,
I ask you all, without regard to party,
to join together and defend our democracy.
Remember your oath of office
to defend against all threats foreign and domestic.
Respect free and fair elections!
Restore trust in our institutions!
And make clear –political violence
has absolutely no place, no place in America. Zero place.
(Applause)
Again. It's not hyperbole to suggest history is watching.
We're watching. Your children and grandchildren
will read about this day and what we do.
And history is watching another assault on freedom.
Joining us tonight is Latorya Beasley,
a social worker from Birmingham, Alabama.
14 months ago, 14 months ago she and her husband welcomed
a baby girl thanks to the miracle of IVF.
She scheduled treatments to have a second child,
but the Alabama Supreme Court shut down
IVF treatments across the state,
unleashed by the Supreme Court decision overturning
Roe v. Wade.
She was told her dream would have to wait.
What her family has gone through should never have happened.
And unless Congress acts, it could happen again.
So tonight, let’s stand up for families like hers!
To my friends across the aisle,
don’t keep families waiting any longer.
Guarantee the right to IVF. Guarantee it nationwide!
(Applause)
Like most Americans, I believe Roe v. Wade
got it right.
And I thank Vice President Harris
for being an incredible leader,
defending reproductive freedom and so much more.
(Applause)
But my predecessor came to office determined to see Roe v.
Wade overturned.
He’s the reason it was overturned.
In fact, he brags about it.
Look at the chaos that has resulted.
Joining us tonight is Kate Cox, a wife and mother from Dallas.
When she became pregnant again, the fetus had a fatal condition.
Her doctors told Kate that her own life
and her ability to have children in the future
were at risk if she didn’t act.
Because Texas law banned abortion,
Kate and her husband had to leave the state
to get the care she needed.
What her family has gone through
should never have happened as well.
But it is happening to so many others.
There are state laws banning the freedom to choose,
criminalizing doctors,
and forcing survivors of rape and incest to leave their states
as well to get the care they need.
Many of you in this Chamber and my predecessor
are promising to pass a national ban on reproductive freedom.
My God, what freedoms will you take away next?
Looks in its decision to overturn Roe v.
Wade the Supreme Court majority wrote the following --
and will all due respect, Justices.
"Women are not without electoral power --
excuse me -- electoral or political power."
You're about to realize just how much you
(inaudible).
(Applause)
Clearly --
(Applause)
Clearly, those bragging about overturning Roe v.
Wade have no clue about the power of women in America.
But they found out when reproductive freedom
was on the ballot and won in 2022, 2023,
and they will find out again, in 2024.
(Applause)
If you the American people send me a Congress
that supports the right to choose,
I promise you, I will restore Roe v.
Wade as the law of the land again!
(Applause)
Folks, America cannot go back.
I am here tonight to show what I believe the way forward.
Because I know how far we’ve come.
Four years ago next week, before I came to office,
the country was hit by the worst pandemic
and the worst economic crisis in a century.
Remember the fear. Record job losses.
Remember the spike in crime. And the murder rate.
A raging virus that would take more than
1 million American lives of loved ones,
millions of loved ones behind.
A mental health crisis of isolation and loneliness.
A president, my predecessor, failed the most basic duty.
Any President owes the American people the duty to care.
That is unforgivable.
I came to office determined to get us through
one of the toughest periods in our nation’s history.
We have. It doesn’t make the news
but in thousands of cities and towns the American people
are writing the greatest comeback story never told.
(Applause)
So let’s tell the story here, tell it here and now.
America’s comeback is building
a future of American possibilities,
building an economy from the middle out
and the bottom up, not the top down,
investing in all of America, in all Americans
to make sure everyone has a fair shot
and we leave no one, no one behind!
The pandemic no longer controls our lives.
The vaccines that saved us from COVID
are now being used to help beat cancer.
Turning setback into comeback.
That’s what America does! That's what America does.
(Applause)
Folks, I inherited an economy that was on the brink.
Now our economy is the envy of the world!
15 million new jobs in just three years – a record!
A record.
Unemployment at 50-year lows.
A record 16 million Americans are starting small businesses
and each one is an act of hope.
With historic job growth and small business growth
for Black, Hispanic, and Asian-Americans.
800,000 new manufacturing jobs in America and counting.
Where is it writing we can't be
the manufacturing capital of the world?
We are. We will.
More people have health insurance today
than ever before.
The racial wealth gap is the smallest it’s been in 20 years.
Wages keep going up and inflation keeps coming down!
Inflation has dropped from 9 percent to 3 percent –
the lowest in the world!
And trending lower.
(Applause)
That landing is and will be soft.
And now instead of importing foreign products
and exporting American jobs,
we’re exporting American products
and creating American jobs –
right here in America where they belong!
(Applause)
And it takes time,
but the American people are beginning to feel it.
Consumer studies show consumer confidence is soaring.
Buy America has been the law of the land since the 1930s.
Past administrations including my predecessor,
including some Democrats as well in the past,
failed to Buy American.
Not any more.
On my watch, federal projects that you fund like helping
to build American roads, bridges,
and highways will be made with American products
built by American workers.
(Applause)
Creating good-paying American jobs!
Thanks to our Chips and Science Act the United States
is investing more in research and development
than ever before.
During the pandemic a shortage of semiconductor chips
drove up prices for everything from cell phones to automobiles.
And by the way, we invented those chips
right here in America.
Well instead of having to import them private companies
are now investing billions of dollars
to build new chip factories here in America!
Creating tens of thousands of jobs
many of those jobs paying over $100,000 a year
and don’t require a college degree.
(Applause)
In fact my policies have attracted $650 Billion
in private sector investments in clean energy
and advanced manufacturing
creating tens of thousands of jobs here in America!
(Applause)
And thanks to our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,
46,000 new projects have been announced
across your communities – and by the way,
I noticed some of you strongly voted against it,
but they're cheering on that money coming in.
I like it. I'm with you.
(Applause)
If any of you don't want that money in your district
just let me know.
Modernizing our roads and bridges,
ports and airports, and public transit systems.
Removing poisonous lead pipes so every child
can drink clean water without risk of brain damage.
(Applause)
Providing affordable high speed internet
for every American no matter where you live.
Urban, suburban, and rural communities --
in red states and blue states.
Record investments in tribal communities.
Because of my investments,
family farms led by my Secretary of Agriculture,
knows more about this than anybody I know,
we are better be able to stay in the family and children
and grandchildren won’t have to leave,
leave home to make a living.
It’s transformative.
A great comeback story is Belvidere, Illinois.
Home to an auto plant for nearly 60 years.
Before I came to office the plant
was on its way to shutting down.
Thousands of workers feared for their livelihoods.
Hope was fading.
Then I was elected to office and we raised Belvidere
repeatedly with the auto company
knowing unions make all the difference.
The UAW worked like hell to keep the plant open
and get those jobs back. And together, we succeeded!
Instead of an auto factory shutting down an auto factory
is re-opening and a new state-of-the art battery factory
is being built to power those cars.
(Applause)
Folks, to the folks of Belvidere,
I say instead of a town being left behind your community
moving forward again!
Because instead of watching auto jobs of the future
go overseas 4,000 union jobs with higher wages
are building that future, in Belvidere,
right here in America!
Here tonight is UAW President, Shawn Fain, a great friend,
and a great labor leader. Shawn, where are you? Stand up.
(Applause)
And Dawn Simms,
a third generation UAW worker in Belvidere.
Shawn, I was proud to be the first
President to stand in the a picket line.
And today Dawn has a job in her hometown
providing stability for her family and pride
and dignity as well.
Showing once again,
Wall Street didn’t build this America -- they're not bad guys.
They didn't build it though.
The middle class built this country!
And unions built the middle class!
(Applause)
I say to the American people,
when Americans gets knocked down, we get back up!
We keep going!
That’s America!
(Applause)
That’s you, the American people!
It’s because of you America is coming back!
It’s because of you, our future is brighter!
It’s because of you that tonight we can proudly say
the State of our Union is strong and getting stronger!
(Applause)
(Chanting "Four more years")
Tonight I want to talk about the future of possibilities
that we can build together.
A future where the days of trickle-down economics
are over and the wealthy and biggest corporations
no longer get all the tax breaks.
And by the way, I understand corporations.
I come from a state that has more corporation
than everyone of yours states in the United States combined.
And I represented them for 36 years.
I'm not anticorporation. But I grew up in a home
where not a lot trickled down on my Dad’s kitchen table.
That’s why I’m determined to turn things around
so the middle class does well.
When they do well the poor have a way up
and the wealthy still does well.
We all do well.
And there’s more to do to make sure
you’re feeling the benefits of all we’re doing.
Americans pay more for prescription drugs
than anywhere in the world.
It’s wrong and I’m ending it.
(Applause)
With a law I proposed and signed and not one Republican buddies
voted for it we finally beat Big Pharma!
Instead of paying $400 a month or thereabouts for insulin
with diabetes it only cost $10 bucks to make,
they only get paid 35 a month and still make a healthy profit.
(Applause)
What to do next?
I want to cap the cost of insulin
at $35 a month for every American who needs it!
Everyone.
(Applause)
For years people have talked about it
but I finally got it done and gave Medicare the power
to negotiate lower prices for prescription drugs
just like the VA is able to do for our veterans.
That’s not just saving seniors money.
It’s saving taxpayers money cutting the federal deficit
by $160 billion
because Medicare will no longer
have to pay exorbitant prices to Big Pharma.
This year Medicare is negotiating lower prices
for some of the costliest drugs on the market
that treat everything from heart disease to arthritis.
Now it’s time to go further and give Medicare the power
to negotiate lower prices for 500 different drugs
over the next decade.
(Applause)
They're making a lot of money, guys.
And they'll still be extremely profitable.
That will not only save lives
it will save taxpayers another $200 Billion!
Starting next year that same law caps total prescription
drug costs for seniors on Medicare at $2,000 a year
even for expensive cancer drugs that can cost $10,000,
$12,000, $15,000.
Now I want to cap prescription drug costs
at $2,000 a year for everyone!
(Applause)
Folks, I'm going to get in trouble for saying it,
but anyone want to get into AirForce One
we can fly to Toronto, Berlin, Moscow --
I mean, excuse me -- well, even Moscow probably.
And bring your prescription with you and I promise you
I'll get if for you for 40 percent
the cost you're paying now.
Same company, same drug, same place.
Folks, the Affordable Care Act,
Obamacare is still a very big deal.
(Applause)
Over one hundred million of you
can no longer be denied health insurance
because of pre-existing conditions.
But my predecessor and many in this chamber
want to take that protection away
by repealing the Affordable Care Act.
I'm not going to let that happen!
We stopped you 50 times before and we will stop you again!
In fact I am protecting it and expanding it.
I enacted tax credits that save $800 per person per year
reducing health care
premiums for millions of working families.
Those tax credits expire next year.
I want to make those savings permanent!
(Applause)
To state the obvious, women are more than half of our population
but research on women’s health has always been underfunded.
That’s why we’re launching the first-ever White House
Initiative on Women’s Health Research,
led by Jill who is doing an incredible job as First Lady.
(Applause)
Pass my plan for $12 Billion
to transform women’s health research
and benefit millions of lives across America!
I know the cost of housing is so important to you.
If inflation keeps coming down mortgage rates
will come down as well and the Fed acknowledges that.
But I’m not waiting.
I want to provide an annual tax credit
that will give Americans $400 a month for the next two years
as mortgage rates come down to put toward their mortgage
when they buy a first home
or trade up for a little more space.
That's for two years.
(Applause)
My Administration is also eliminating title insurance
federally backed mortgages.
When you refinance your home,
you can save you $1,000 or more as a consequence.
For millions of renters,
we’re cracking down on big landlords
who break antitrust laws by price-fixing
and driving up rents.
We’ve cut red tape so more builders
can get federal financing, which is already helping build
a record 1.7 million new housing units nationwide.
Now pass and build and renovate 2 million affordable homes
and bring those rents down!
(Applause)
To remain the strongest economy in the world
we need to have the best education system in the world.
(Applause)
And I, like I suspect all of you,
want to give a child, every child,
a good start by providing access to pre-school for 3-
and 4-year-olds.
You know, I think I pointed out last year --
I think I pointed out last year that children
coming from broken homes where there's no books,
they're not read to, not spoken to very often,
start school kindergarten or first grade hearing
having heard a million fewer words spoken,
Well, studies show,
that children who go to pre-school
are nearly 50 percent more likely to finish high school
and go on to earn a 2-
or 4-year degree no matter their background is.
(Applause)
I met a year and a half ago
with the leaders of the business roundtable,
they were mad, angry as they were discussing
why I wanted to spend money on education.
I pointed out to them, as Vice President,
I met with over --
I think it was 182 -- don't know the exact number.
And I asked them what they need most, the COs.
And you've had the same experience,
both sides of the aisle.
They say a better educated work force, right?
So I looked at them. I said I come from Deleware.
Dupont used to be the eighth largest corporation
in the world.
And every new enterprise they bought
they educated the workforce to that enterprise.
But none of you do that anymore.
Why are you angry with me providing you the opportunity
for the best educated workforce in the world.
And they all looked at me and said,
"I think you're right."
I want to expand high-quality tutoring
and summer learning to see to it
that every child learns to read by third grade.
(Applause)
I’m also connecting local businesses and high schools
so students get hands-on experience
and a path to a good-paying job
whether or not they go to college.
And I want to make college more affordable.
Let’s continue increasing Pell Grants to working-
and middle-class families
and increase our record investments in HBCUs
and and Minority-serving Institutions,
including Hispanic institutions.
(Applause)
When I was told I couldn't universally just change the way
in which we deal with student loans,
I fixed two student loan programs
that already existed to reduce the burden of student debt
for nearly 4 million Americans including nurses, firefighters,
and others in public service like Keenan Jones
a public-school educator in Minnesota
who’s here with us tonight.
Keenan, where are you? Keenan, thank you.
He’s educated hundreds of students
so they can go to college now
he can help his own daughter get his own daughter to college.
And folks look, such relief is good for the economy
because folks are now able to buy a home start a business,
start a family.
While we’re at it I want to give public school teachers a raise!
(Applause)
And by the way, the first couple years, we cut the deficit.
Now let me speak to a question of fundamental fairness
for all Americans.
I’ve been delivering real results
in a fiscally responsible way.
I’ve already cut the federal deficit
by over one trillion dollars.
I signed a bipartisan budget deal
that will cut another trillion dollars over the next decade.
It’s my goal to cut the federal deficit $3 trillion
more by making big corporations
and the very wealthy finally pay their fair share.
(Applause)
Look, I’m a capitalist.
If you want to make a million bucks that's great!
Just pay your fair share in taxes.
A fair tax code is how we invest in the things
that make a country great,
health care, education, defense, and so much more.
But here’s the deal.
The last administration enacted a $2 Trillion tax
cut that overwhelmingly benefit the top one percent,
the very wealthy and the biggest corporations
and exploded the federal deficit.
They added more to the national debt
than in any presidential term in American history.
Check the numbers.
For folks at home does anybody really think
the tax code is fair?
Audience: No!
The President: Do you really think the wealthy
and big corporations
need another $2 trillion in tax breaks?
Audience: No!
The President: I sure don’t.
I’m going to keep fighting like hell to make it fair!
Under my plan nobody earning less than $400,000
will pay an additional penny in federal taxes.
Nobody. Not one penny. And they haven't yet.
In fact the Child Tax Credit
I passed during the pandemic cut taxes
for millions of working families and cut child poverty in half.
Restore the Child Tax Credit
because no child should go hungry in this country!
The way to make the tax code fair is to make big corporations
and the very wealthy finally pay their share.
In 2020, 55 of the biggest companies in America
made $40 Billion in profits
and paid zero in federal income taxes.
Zero.
Not any more!
Thanks to the law I wrote and signed big companies
now have to pay a minimum of 15 percent.
But that’s still less than working people
pay in federal taxes.
It’s time to raise the corporate minimum tax
to at least 21 percent.
(Applause)
So every big corporation finally begins to pay their fair share.
I also want to end the tax breaks for Big Pharma,
Big Oil, private jets, and massive executive pay!
It's only supposed to be a million dollars
that can be deducted.
They can pay them 20 million if they want,
but deduct a million.
End it now!
There are 1,000 billionaires in America.
You know what the average federal tax rate
for these billionaires is? No.
They've making great sacrifices. 8.2 percent!
That’s far less than the vast majority of Americans pay.
No billionaire should pay a lower tax rate
than a teacher, a sanitation worker, a nurse!
(Applause)
That’s why I’ve proposed a minimum tax
for billionaires of 25% for billionaires.
Just 25 percent.
You know what that would raise $500 billion
over the next 10 years.
Imagine what that could do for America.
Imagine a future with affordable child care,
millions of families can get the care they need
and still go to work and help grow the economy.
Imagine a future with paid leave
because no one should have to choose between working
and taking care of yourself or a sick family member.
Imagine a future with home care and elder care
and people living with disabilities
can stay in their homes and family caregivers
get they pay they deserve!
Tonight, let’s all agree once again to stand up for seniors!
Many of my friends on the other side of the aisle
want to put Social Security on the chopping block.
If anyone here tries to cut Social Security or Medicare
or raise the retirement age I will stop you!
(Applause)
The working people who built this country
pay more into Social Security
than millionaires and billionaires do.
It’s not fair.
We have two ways to go.
Republicans will cut Social Security
and give more tax cuts to the wealthy.
That's the proposal.
Audience: Boo!
The President: Oh no.
You guys don't want another $2 trillion tax cut?
I kind of thought that's what your plan was.
Well, that's good to hear.
You're not going to cut another $2 trillion
for the super wealthy? That's good to hear.
I will protect and strengthen Social Security
and make the wealthy pay their fair share!
(Applause)
Too many corporations raise their prices
to pad their profits
charging you more and more for less and less.
That’s why we’re cracking down on corporations
that engage in price gouging or deceptive pricing from food
to health care to housing.
In fact, snack companies think you won’t notice
if they charge you just as much for the same size bag
and put a hell of a lot fewer --
same size bag, put fewer chips in it.
No, I'm not joking. It's called shrinkflation.
Pass Bob Casey’s bill and stop this!
I really mean it.
You probably all saw that commercial on Snikers bars.
You get to charge the same amount and you got about,
I don't know 10 percent fewer Snikers in it.
I’m also getting rid of junk fees those hidden fees
added at the end of your bills without your knowledge.
My administration just announced we’re cutting credit card
late fees from $32 to just $8.
(Applause)
The banks and credit card companies are allowed to charge
what it costs them to instigate the collection.
And that's more hell of a lot like $8 than $30 some dollars.
They don’t like it. The credit card companies don't like it.
But I'm saving American families $20 billion a year
with all of the junk fees I’m eliminating.
Folks at home, that's why the banks are so mad,
is 20 billion dollars in profit.
And I’m not stopping there.
My Administration has proposed rules to make cable,
travel, utilities, and online ticket sellers
tell you the total price upfront so there are no surprises.
It matters. It matters.
And so does this.
In November, my team began serious negotiations
with a bipartisan group of Senators.
The result was a bipartisan bill with the toughest set
of border security reforms we’ve ever seen.
Oh you don't think so?
Oh, you don't like that bill, huh?
The conservatives got together and said it was good bill?
I'll be darned. That's amazing.
That bipartisan deal would hire
1,500 more border security agents and officers.
100 more immigration judges to help tackle
a backload of 2 million cases.
4,300 more asylum officers and new policies
so they can resolve cases in 6 months instead of 6 years now.
(Applause)
100 more high-tech drug detection machines
to significantly increase the ability to screen
and stop vehicles from smuggling fentanyl into America
that's killing thousands of children.
This bill would save lives and bring order to the border.
It would also give me and any new President
new emergency authority
to temporarily shut down the border
when the number of migrants at the border is overwhelming.
The Border Patrol Union endorsed the bill.
The Federal Chamber of Commerce had -- yeah, yeah.
You're say no. Look at the facts.
I know -- I know you now how to read. .
I believe that given the opportunity
a majority of the House and Senate
would endorse the bill as well. The majority right now.
But unfortunately, politics have derailed this bill so far.
I’m told my predecessor called members of Congress
and the Senate to demand they block the bill.
He feels it would be a political win for me
and a political loser for him.
It’s not about him or me.
It’d be a winner --
Audience Member: (Inaudible).
The President: Lincoln Riley,
and innocent young woman who was killed by an illegal.
That's right, but how many thousands of people
are being killed by illegals.
To her parents, I say -- my heart goes out to you,
having lost children myself. I understand.
But look, if we change the dynamic at the border,
people pay these smugglers 8,000 bucks to get across the border,
because they know if they get by,
if they get by and let into the country
it's six to eight years before they have a hearing.
And it's worth them taking the change at $8,000.
But if it's only six weeks,
the idea is that it's highly unlikely
that people pay that money and come all that way knowing
that they'll be kicked out quickly.
Folks, I would respectively suggest my Republican friends
owe it to the American people to get this bill done.
We need to act now.
(Applause)
And if my predecessor is watching
instead of playing politics and pressuring members of Congress
to block this bill, join me in telling Congress to pass it!
We can do it together. But that's apparently
(inaudible) what he will not do.
I will not demonize immigrants saying they
"poison the blood of our country"
as he said in his own words.
I will not separate families.
I will not ban people because of their faith.
Unlike my predecessor, on my first day in office
I introduced a comprehensive bill
to fix our immigration system --
take a look at it. It has all these and more.
Secure the border, and provide a pathway
to citizenship for Dreamers and so much more.
Because unlike my predecessor, I know who we are as Americans.
We are the only nation in the world
with a heart and soul that draws from old and new.
Home to Native Americans
whose ancestors have been here for thousands of years.
Home to people from every place on Earth.
They came freely.
Some came in chains.
Some came when famine struck,
like my ancestral family in Ireland.
Some to flee persecution.
To chase dreams that are impossible
anywhere but here in America.
That’s America, where we all come from somewhere,
but we are all Americans.
(Applause)
Looks folks, we have a simple choice.
We can fight about the border, or we can fix it.
I’m ready to fix it.
Send me the border bill now!
(Applause)
A transformational moment in our history happened
59 years ago today in Selma, Alabama.
Hundreds of foot soldiers for justice marched
across the Edmund Pettus Bridge,
named after a Grand Dragon of the KKK,
to claim their fundamental right to vote.
They were beaten, they were bloodied and left for dead.
Our late friend and former colleague
John Lewis was on that march.
We miss him.
(Applause)
Joining us tonight are other marchers,
both in the gallery and on the floor,
including Betty May Fikes, known as the "Voice of Selma".
A daughter of gospel singers and preachers,
she sang songs of prayer and protest on that
Bloody Sunday, to help shake the nation’s conscience.
Five months later, the Voting Rights Act was signed into law.
(Applause)
Thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
(Applause)
But 59 years later, there are forces taking us back in time.
Voter suppression. Election subversion.
Unlimited dark money. Extreme gerrymandering.
John Lewis was a great friend to many of us here.
But if you truly want to honor him
and all the heroes who marched with him,
then it’s time for more than just talk.
Pass the Freedom to Vote Act,
the John Lewis Voting Rights Act!
(Applause)
And stop denying another core value of America
our diversity across American life.
Banning books.
It’s wrong!
Instead of erasing history, let’s make history!
I want to protect other fundamental rights!
Pass the Equality Act,
and my message to transgender Americans:
I have your back!
Pass the PRO Act for workers rights!
And raise the federal minimum wage
because every worker has the right to earn a decent
living more than seven bucks and hour.
We are also making history by confronting the climate crisis,
not denying it. I don't think any of you think
there's no longer a climate crisis.
At least I hope you don't.
I’m taking the most significant action ever on climate
ever in the history of the world.
I am cutting our carbon emissions in half by 2030.
Creating tens of thousands of clean-energy jobs,
like the IBEW workers building and installing
500,000 electric vehicle charging stations.
(Applause)
Conserving 30 percent of America’s lands
and waters by 2030.
Taking historic action on environmental justice
for fence-line communities
smothered by the legacy of pollution.
And patterned after the Peace Corps and Ameri Corps,
I’ve launched a Climate Corps to put 20,000 young people
to work in the forefront of our clean energy future.
I’ll triple that number this decade.
(Applause)
To state the obvious,
all Americans deserve the freedom to be safe,
and America is safer today than when I took office.
The year before I took office, murders rats went up 30 percent,
30 percent they went up, the biggest increase in history.
It was then through my American Rescue Plan,
which every Republican voted against,
I’ve made the largest investment in public safety ever.
Last year, the murder rate
saw the sharpest decrease in history,
and violent crime fell to one of the lowest levels
in more than 50 years.
But we have more to do.
Help cities invest in more community police officers,
more mental health workers,
and more community violence intervention.
Give communities the tools to crack down on gun crime,
retail crime, and carjacking.
Keep building public trust,
as I’ve been doing by taking executive action
on police reform,
and calling for it to be the law of the land,
directing my Cabinet
to review the federal classification of marijuana,
and expunging thousands of convictions for mere possession,
because no one should be jailed for using
or have it on their record!
To take on crimes of domestic violence,
I am ramping up federal enforcement
of the Violence Against Women Act,
that I proudly wrote when I was a Senator,
so we can finally end the scourge of violence
against women in America!
(Applause)
And there’s another kind of violence I want to stop.
With us tonight is Jasmine, whose 9-year-old sister
Jackie was murdered with 21 classmates and teachers
at her elementary school in Uvalde, Texas.
Very soon after it happened,
Jill and I went to Uvalde for a couple days.
We spent hours and hours with the families.
We heard their message, so should everyone in this room,
in this chamber could hear the same message.
(inaudible)
meeting with every family.
They said, "Do something! Do something!"
Well, I did do something
by establishing the first-ever Office of Gun Violence
Prevention in the White House that Vice President Harris
is leading the charge. Thank you for doing it.
(Applause)
Meanwhile, my predecessor told the NRA
he’s proud he did nothing on guns when he was President.
After another school shooting in Iowa, recently he said,
when asked what to do about it, he said "just get over it."
That's his quote. "Just get over it."
I say we stop it! Stop it, stop it, stop it!
(Applause)
I’m proud we beat the NRA when I signed
the most significant gun safety law
in nearly 30 years because of this Congress.
Now we must beat the NRA again!
I’m demanding a ban on assault weapons
and high-capacity magazines!
Pass universal background checks!
None of this, none of this --
I taught the Second Amendment for 12 years --
none of this violates the Second Amendment
or vilifies responsible gun owners.
You know, as we manage challenges at home,
we’re also managing crises abroad
including in the Middle East.
I know the last five months have been gut-wrenching
for so many people, for the Israeli people,
the Palestinian people, and so many here in America.
This crisis began on October 7th with a massacre
by the terrorist group Hamas as you all know.
1,200 innocent people women and girls men and boys slaughtered,
many enduring sexual violence.
The deadliest day for the Jewish people
since the Holocaust and 250 hostages taken.
Here in the chamber tonight are American families
whose loved ones are still being held by Hamas.
I pledge to all the families that we will not rest
until we bring every one of your loved ones home.
(Applause)
We will also work around the clock
to bring home Evan and Paul,
Americans being unjustly detained
by the Russians and others around the world.
Israel has a right to go after Hamas.
Hamas could end this conflict today
by releasing the hostages, laying down arms,
could end it by releasing hostages, laying down arms
and surrendering those responsible for October 7th.
Israel has an added burden because Hamas hides and operates
among the civilian population like cowards under hospitals,
daycare centers and all the like.
Israel also has a fundamental responsibility
though to protect innocent civilians in Gaza.
(Applause)
This war has taken a greater toll on innocent
civilians than all previous wars in Gaza combined.
More than 30,000 Palestinians have been killed.
Most of whom are not Hamas.
Thousands and thousands are innocent women and children.
Girls and boys also orphaned.
Nearly 2 million more Palestinians
under bombardment or displacement.
Homes destroyed, neighborhoods in rubble,
cities in ruin.
Families without food, water, medicine.
It’s heartbreaking.
I’ve been working non-stop to establish an immediate ceasefire
that would last for at least six weeks
to get all the prisoners released,
all the hostages released.
It would get the hostages home,
ease the intolerable humanitarian crisis,
and build toward something more enduring.
The United States has been leading international efforts
to get more humanitarian assistance into Gaza.
Tonight, I’m directing the U.S. military
to lead an emergency mission to establish a temporary pier
in the Mediterranean on the coast of Gaza
that can receive large ships carrying food,
water, medicine and temporary shelters.
No U.S. boots will be on the ground.
This temporary pier would enable a massive increase
in the amount of humanitarian assistance
getting into Gaza every day.
(Applause)
And Israel must also do its part.
Israel must allow more aid into Gaza
and ensure that humanitarian workers
aren’t caught in the cross fire.
They're announcing they're going to --
a crossing in northern Gaza.
To the leadership of Israel I say this.
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
is a two-state solution over time.
(Applause)
And I say this as a lifelong supporter of Israel,
my entire career --
no one has a stronger record with this than I do.
I challenge any of you hear.
I'm the only American president to visit Israel in wartime.
There is no other path
that guarantees Israel’s security and democracy.
There is no other path that guarantees Palestinians
can live with peace and dignity.
There is no other path that guarantees peace
between Israel and all of its neighbors,
including Saudi Arabia, with whom I’m talking.
Creating stability in the Middle East
also means containing the threat posed by Iran.
That’s why I built a coalition of more than a dozen countries
to defend international shipping and freedom
of navigation in the Red Sea.
I’ve ordered strikes to degrade Houthi capabilities
and defend U.S. Forces in the region.
As Commander in Chief,
I will not hesitate to direct further measures
to protect our people and military personnel.
(Applause)
For years, all I’ve heard
from my Republican and Democratic friends
say that China’s on the rise and America is falling behind.
They’ve got it backwards.
I've been saying it for over four years,
even when I wasn't President.
America is rising.
We have the best economy in the world.
Since I’ve come to office, our GDP is up.
And our trade deficit with China
is down to the lowest point in over a decade.
We’re standing up against China’s unfair
economic practices.
We're standing up for peace and stability
across the Taiwan Strait.
I’ve revitalized our partnerships
and alliances in the Pacific.
India, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Pacific Islands.
I’ve made sure that the most advanced
American technologies can’t be used in China,
not allowing to trade them there.
Frankly for all his tough talk on China,
it never occurred to my predecessor to do any that.
We want competition with China, but not conflict.
And we’re in a stronger position to win the competition
for the 21st Century against China
or anyone else for that matter. Than any time as well.
Here at home I’ve signed over 400 bipartisan bills.
But there’s more to do to pass my Unity Agenda.
Strengthen penalties on fentanyl trafficking.
You don’t want to do that, huh?
Pass bipartisan privacy legislation
to protect our children online.
Harness the promise of A.I. and protect us from its peril.
Ban A.I. voice impersonations and more!
And keep our one truly sacred obligation,
to train and equip those we send into harm’s way
and care for them and their families when they come home,
and when they don’t.
(Applause)
That’s why with the strong support
and help from Dennis at the VA, I signed the PACT Act,
one of the most significant laws ever,
helping millions of veterans who were exposed to toxins
and who now are battling more than 100 different cancers.
Many of them didn’t come home.
We owe them and their families support.
And we owe it to ourselves to keep supporting
our new health research agency called ARPA-H and remind us
that we can do big things like end cancer as we know it!
And we will.
(Applause)
Let me close with this.
Audience: (Cheers)
The President: Yay!
I know you don't want hear any more Lindsay,
but I got to say a few more things.
I know I may not look like it, but I’ve been around a while.
And when you get to be my age certain things
become clearer than ever before.
I know the American story.
Again and again I’ve seen the contest
between competing forces in the battle
for the soul of our nation.
Between those who want to pull America back to the past
and those who want to move America into the future.
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 harbor.
Now other people my age see it differently.
An American story of resentment, revenge, and retribution.
That’s not me.
I was born amid World War II
when America stood for freedom in the world.
I grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania and Claymont,
Delaware among working people who built this country.
I watched in horror as two of my heroes,
like many of you did, Dr. King and Bobby Kennedy,
were assassinated and their legacies inspired me
to pursue a career in service.
I left a law firm, became a public defender
because my city of Wilmington was the only city in America
occupied by the National Guard after Dr. King was assassinate
because of the rights.
I became a count county councilman almost by accident.
I got elected to the United States
when I had no intention of running at age 29,
then Vice President, to our first Black President,
now President to first woman Vice President.
(Applause)
In my career I’ve been told I’m too young --
by the way, they didn't let me on the Senate elevators
for vote sometimes.
Not a joke. And I've been told I’m too old.
Whether young or old, I’ve always known what endures.
I've known our North Star.
The very idea of America, that we are all created equal
and deserve to be treated equally throughout our lives.
We’ve never fully lived up to that idea,
but we’ve never walked away from it either.
And I won’t walk away from it now.
I’m optimistic. I really am. I’m optimistic, Nancy.
My fellow Americans the issue facing our nation
isn’t how old we are it’s how old our ideas are?
Hate, anger, revenge,
retribution are the oldest of ideas.
But you can’t lead America with ancient ideas
that only take us back.
To lead America, the land of possibilities,
you need a vision for the future of what America can
and should be.
Tonight you’ve heard mine.
I see a future where defending democracy,
you don't diminish it.
I see a future where we restore the right
to choose and protect other freedoms not take them away.
I see a future where the middle class finally
has a fair shot and the wealthy
finally have to pay their fair share in taxes.
I see a future where we save the planet
from the climate crisis and our country from gun violence.
Above all, I see a future for all Americans!
I see a country for all Americans!
And I will always be a president for all Americans!
Because I believe in America!
I believe in you the American people.
You’re the reason I’ve never been more optimistic
about our future than I am now.
So let’s build that future together!
Let’s remember who we are!
We are the United States of America.
There is nothing,
nothing beyond our capacity when we act together!
May God bless you all.
And may God protect our troops.
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
(Applause)
(background discussion)
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