Biden came out swinging in his State of the Union address, unleashing barrage after barrage on his most likely 2024 rival, Donald Trump.
Taking repeated sly digs at his “predecessor,” Biden accused Trump of appeasing Putin and trying to bury the truth about the Capitol riot. The digs drew cheers and jeers from a rowdy crowd.
But this fiery display was about more than scoring political points – it was Biden plotting his re-election course. With sagging polls and concerns over his age, he must convince voters he’s fit to go another round with Trump.
On policy, Biden touted economic gains and unveiled new spending plans. But immigration saw a stumble as he misnamed a slain student, risking Latino backlash.
Biden also walked a tightrope on Gaza, voicing “heartbreak” but backing Israel. The liberal flank wants bolder action for peace.
While Biden survived without major slip-ups, the real test is whether this forceful performance sways middle-of-the-road Americans come November. The campaign clash with Trump is well and truly on.
