Washington, D.C. – President Biden’s fourth State of the Union address on Thursday night did not escape moments of contention, particularly when discussing the southern border and Republican tax cuts. Despite these tense moments, the address proceeded without the major disruptions that have characterized previous years.
Throughout the evening, Biden engaged in back-and-forth exchanges with lawmakers, seizing on interruptions to pivot into Democratic talking points. In one particularly tense exchange, Biden condemned Republicans for rejecting a bipartisan bill that included border security provisions, which former President Donald Trump opposed.
Amidst the contention, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia interjected by shouting, “Say her name!” in reference to Laken Riley, a young woman killed by an undocumented migrant in Georgia. As Biden acknowledged Riley’s tragic death and called for bipartisan action on border security, tensions in the chamber simmered.
The address also saw moments of political theater, with House Republicans passing a bill named for Riley earlier in the day. Democrats and Republicans clashed on various issues, from heckling during discussions on tax cuts to interruptions over healthcare policy and military action in Afghanistan.
President Biden actively engaged with the interruptions, at one point addressing Trump directly and calling for unity in passing legislation. Lawmakers from both parties, including notable figures like Rep. Boebert and Sen. Lankford, reacted to the address in different ways, underscoring the divided political climate in Congress.
As the night unfolded, guests of lawmakers also added to the drama, with one guest escorted out for shouting about U.S. Marines during the speech. Democrats, too, used the platform to send messages to Biden, advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza and changes in foreign policy.
The address highlighted the polarized nature of politics in the current landscape, with disruptions and clashes underscoring deep divisions on key issues. Despite the tumultuous moments, Biden’s address ultimately aimed to rally support for his administration’s policies and initiatives in the face of intense opposition.