In the early hours of March 8, 2024, Democrats found some relief and expressed confidence in President Joe Biden’s capabilities following his State of the Union address.
Democrats Laud Biden’s Vision and Energy in State of the Union Address
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, left, talks with Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi before President Joe Biden delivers the State of the Union address.
Shawn Thew/Pool/AP
Many Democrats praised President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address, while acknowledging that more could have been done on certain issues.
Here is a summary of their reactions to the speech:
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer commended Biden for presenting a “bold vision” for the future.
“What the American people heard tonight was a leader who spoke directly to them, acknowledging their needs and shared in their hopes for the future, reminding us why America is a beacon of hope to the rest of the world and the work that must be done to maintain that status,” Schumer stated. “President Biden laid out a bold vision to the American people that shows Democrats are working for a safe, stable, strong America – one that prioritizes the needs of working families and leaves no one behind.”
Sen. Joe Manchin supported Biden’s speech, noting that political attacks were expected in a political season.
“It’s a political season,” Manchin said. “What do you expect?”
Manchin remarked that Biden still had energy and determination.
Sen. Mark Warner praised Biden for his energy throughout the address.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also commended Biden for his focused and energetic delivery.
“I think he had a lot of energy. I think he was focused and delivered a very certain message to the American people,” Ocasio-Cortez told CNN.
“He reset the narrative. This speech will energize Democrats, reassure nervous Democrats, and have positive political after-effects. The question remains whether this momentum will be sustained,” Connolly remarked.
Rep. Jamaal Bowman expressed a desire for Biden to address the conflict in Gaza more directly but appreciated his criticism of Israel.
“I’m happy that he’s very critical of Israel. I think that’s the first time I’ve seen a president be that critical,” Bowman stated.
Rep. Delia Ramirez expressed shock at Biden’s use of the term and emphasized the importance of language in public discourse.
“That was really discouraging,” Ramirez said. “We can’t use words like that because words matter. It was really unfortunate. He got flustered, yes, but those words should never come out of a President.”
Rep. Chuy Garcia voiced disappointment in Biden’s use of the word “illegal” in his speech.
Senate Foreign Relations Chairman Ben Cardin hoped Biden’s focus on Ukraine would lead to the passage of supplemental funding for Kyiv.
“It’s our belief that the support is there to pass the supplemental if Speaker Johnson will only let it be voted upon,” Cardin stated.
Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin defended Biden’s stamina and ideas, highlighting his strong delivery during the address.
“He came on strong – not only strengthened his voice but strengthened his ideas,” Durbin added.
This article has been updated with additional Democratic reactions to Biden’s address.
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