The most disappointing part of the State of the Union was that John Boehner was not wearing his signature orange tie to bring out the beautiful glow in his face. The most exciting part was not knowing what Joe Biden might do next. It was hard to look away from everyone's favorite pair, Orange John and Crazy Uncle Joe. When you did, you realized the most powerful man in the world was trying to say something.
The State of the Union is one of my least favorite traditions, no matter what president is behind that podium. It means so little, but everyone cares so much. We all knew exactly what President Obama was going to say days before the speech happened. Regardless of my complaining, I, of course, did watch the event.
What's most important to realize is that we all have the exact same goals. I want the income gap to tighten, women to find equality, and to bring back the American dream of equal opportunity. In the midst of intense bipartisanship, it is always important to realize that. What we don't agree on is how to get there.
President Obama faces a tough few years. I like to hope that we can find common ground and accomplish our goals, but I'm too much of a realist for that. What scares me, though, is that this stalemate is going to lead to executive orders. A lot of Republicans have been critiquing Obama for this and I agree with them. I will say, though, I hate executive orders even when I agree with the President, a sentiment not wholly shared with my party.
Ted Cruz wrote an editorial in the WSJ about Obama's Imperial Presidency. That is not the problem. The problem is THE imperial presidency. Since the days of FDR, every president has expanded its powers in ways contrary to our constitution and system of checks and balances. This is something people on all sides should be freaking out about! Yes, Congress is annoying and slow, but that is our best chance. With executive orders, one guy and his unelected cabinet are making decisions for this nation. George W. was one of the worst abusers of these powers. That is not okay. The fact that Obama wants to expand this power is beyond worrisome. I desperately hope Obama (and Republicans in Congress) will recognize this and some how work together just a little bit more.
After the speech, we were graced with a fire site chat from Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers. The setting of the event got some criticism, which is fine because it was exceptionally awkward. I do think McMorris Rodgers did her job, but what bothered me was that job did not include any substance. I am all for saying everything the Democrats do is wrong, but we look horrible when that statement is not followed with actual policy. What is our solution to healthcare? What do we want to do for women and families? How will we fix income inequality. The Democrats are wrong, but why are we right? Until we fix the way we approach criticism our party will remain unsuccessful.
This State of the Union, like all others will be remembered as inconsequential. When we do this in a year we will all tune in for the same reason, the John & Joe show.
