Biden's House Moment: Facing Challenges and Opportunities
The U.S. House of Representatives provides a significant platform for President Joe Biden, where world leaders are expected to gather for his State of the Union address. During a time of numerous challenges, Biden needs to present a compelling vision to the nation.
Despite Biden's approval rating dropping since the botched Afghanistan withdrawal, only 41% of Americans support his work, according to CNN polls. Moreover, Americans remain divided over COVID-19 guidelines, rising gas and food prices, and the Democrats' inability to pass key aspects of Biden's agenda, which creates an impression of drift from the president.
However, the ongoing situation presents Biden an opportunity to turn the tide, displaying strength, stability, confidence, and competence to the American people. Events like Russia's invasion in Ukraine have expanded Biden's time frame, providing him with opportunities to showcase his leadership.
Russia's Invasion and Sanctions
While Russia's invasion of Ukraine is a vital issue, Biden and his team have displayed stability and strength. Announcing sanctions meant to inflict "significant damage" on Russia's economy, Biden pushed for harder measures in his State of the Union address. This approach aligns with the bipartisan support for Russia's punishment while pushing for tougher sanctions from a selective group of Putin supporters within Congress.
Supreme Court Nomination for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson
Biden nominating Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson from the D.C. Circuit Court for the U.S. Supreme Court is a transformative moment. Her outstanding qualifications and impressive background make her an ideal candidate for the position. Her nomination echoes a campaign promise, drawing praise from millions of young Americans. If her confirmation is successful, she will be the third-ever Black justice and the first Black female justice on the Court.
Judge Jackson's statements in her confirmation hearing reaffirmed the crucial part of faith in her achievements: "My life has been incredibly blessed, and I know that success comes from belief." Emphasizing her unwavering belief in a higher power and her family's support, Judge Jackson touched the hearts of many Americans.
Changes in the Economy
The Russian president's voice may echo the cries of inflation, but it is not the root cause. Instead, it is Biden's role to remind Americans of JFK's exhortation to protect democracy at any cost. The sacrifices and losses submitted by U.S. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan are a stark reminder of the grim consequences of conflict.
Americans still grapple with inflation, a chaotic supply chain, and temporary price fluctuations, yet condemning these challenges makes it simple to forget the pain experienced at the gas pump. Biden must provide a concrete plan to address these issues, while addressing inflation's root causes and seeking bipartisan support to move forward.
Moving Beyond Approval Ratings
As a former Bill Clinton aide, Biden understands the American people’s passion for redemption stories. Biden must embrace this sentiment by acknowledging his mistakes and continuing to champion issues that garner bi-partisan support. His belief in democracy, coupled with a commitment to addressing key issues, could provide the much-needed boost in approval ratings.
Without overshadowing the core message, Biden should mention aspects like the Cancer Moonshot, supporting advanced research, and combating the opioid crisis. Each of these initiatives has garnered a degree of Republican support, demonstrating his focus on nationwide concerns and expanding across party lines.
Conclusion
Joe Biden faces a plethora of challenges in his first term. However, events like Russia's invasion and inspiring nominations like Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson offer him a unique chance to turn the national narrative. Moving forward, he must tackle inflation, reminding Americans of why they value democracy and addressing climate change with a bipartisan approach.
