BSU Community Offers its Take on Biden's State of the Union Address

By Percival Parlade Jr.
Spectrum Staff Writer

President Joe Biden tackled numerous topics important to many Americans, including IVF, the health of the economy and immigration, during his State of the Union address on March 7.

The address delivered before a joint session of Congress examined the many aspects of the current political state of America and laid out the administration’s accomplishments.

Just like Biden’s wide-ranging speech, so were the opinions of the Bowie State University community on the state of American democracy, Big Pharma, reproductive rights and the economy.

“I’m glad he mentioned the Jan. 6 attack,” said BSU student Marcus Clark. “President Biden said something on the lines of how the insurrection put a knife to American democracy. Honestly, I still can’t believe it happened.”

In addition to the insurrection, Biden also took jabs at his predecessor. “I can’t believe he was really addressing what Trump did in the past with the taxes,” said BSU alumnus Dwayne Bibb. “It’s been four years, but I get it with the election coming up.”

Still, others focused on the money that is circulating within the United States. Rolando Gonzales said, “He talked about Big Pharma and tax breaks. I honestly didn’t know he had so much success in fixing those issues but then again, it could be just inflating the numbers.”

Beyond the economy, an important topic that caught the attention of students was about the Roe v. Wade decision of the Supreme Court. “If he keeps his promise about bringing back Roe v. Wade, I’ll be very glad,” said Krisha Marie. “It was a good message he made telling the story about the lady who had to stop IVF treatment in Alabama. It’s sad to see.”

There were many in support of the president’s message, but there were a few skeptics. Nonetheless, the State of the Union Address is an important and monumental occasion for America. Even more so, this event lights a fire among those considering voting in November. With the many different thoughts and engagements, the address serves as an important reminder that people can affect change.