Guest Author - Nicole Collins

In the concluding address of his incumbency, President Bush discussed nearly every topic making recent headlines, some controversial and some indisputable.

The President began his speech by touching on some of the “hard decisions” the nation has faced with regard to war, the economy, and healthcare. “These issues call for vigorous debate, and I think it's fair to say we've answered that call. Yet history will record that amid our differences, we acted with purpose. And together, we showed the world the power and resilience of American self-government,” he said.

Despite low expectations from many pundits and journalists due to the crucial nature of issues facing our country, Bush garnered many positive reactions following the speech. He explained how non-partisanship is critical at this juncture and how Congress needs to continue to work together to achieve what is best for America. “The actions of the 110th Congress will affect the security and prosperity of our nation long after this session has ended,” he explained. In this election year, let us show our fellow Americans that we recognize our responsibilities and are determined to meet them. And let us show them that Republicans and Democrats can compete for votes and cooperate for results at the same time.”

The first issue the President brought up was the economy, and the ability of American people to empower themselves. Despite what you may have read job growth has been consistent for over three years. Bush said that workers’ wages are higher, but so is the cost of living. Therefore, he warned Congress that if a bill proposing a raise in taxes comes to his desk, he will veto it. In usual affable manner, Bush said, “Most Americans think their taxes are high enough. Others have said they would personally be happy to pay higher taxes. I welcome their enthusiasm, and I am pleased to report that the IRS accepts both checks and money orders.”

Finally, the President promised to cut earmarks for the rest of his term. He again warned Congress that if any appropriations bill makes it to his desk “that does not cut the number and cost of earmarks in half,” he will send it back with a veto.

Quickly President Bush touched on the housing market and his administration’s creation of the HOPE NOW alliance, which is helping families avoid foreclosure. On healthcare, Bush suggested that everyone wants it to be affordable. But the best way to make it so is to increase consumer choice, not to give control to the government. Regarding education, Bush reiterated the success of the No Child Left Behind Act and beseeched Congress to work to strengthen the law.

Next Bush addressed the issue of trade. He emphasized the importance of letting American workers compete in the global marketplace. Free trade brings opportunities and lower prices, but can also cost American jobs. He pleaded with Congress to “reauthorize and reform trade adjustment assistance” to help the victims of job loss get further education and new jobs.

Bush discussed other current issues including energy security, science and life, judicial nominees, charity and public service, and entitlement spending before addressing one of the hottest issues of his presidency: immigration. He stressed the urgency of securing our borders. “We are increasing worksite enforcement, we are deploying fences and advanced technologies to stop illegal crossings, we have effectively ended the policy of "catch and release" at the border, and by the end of this year, we will have doubled the number of border patrol agents.”

However, his next remarks have been a point of contention throughout the past year of his term. He spoke of his intent to allow foreign workers to come here and support our economy, as well as how to deal with illegal immigrants already in the U.S. Recently a bill in Congress was voted down that opponents believed was amnesty in disguised. But supporters, including the President, believed it would help minimize the influx of illegal immigrants into the country.

Finally, as expected, nearly the entire second half of the speech regarded foreign policy, especially our current strategy in Iraq. He stressed the importance and necessity of democracy and heralded citizens of Georgia, Ukraine, Afghanistan and Burma for standing up for their freedom and demanding fair elections. He accentuated the idea that we need to stay the course in Iraq because Islamic extremists intend to stay their course of terrorism. They despise what our country stands for and the values we fight for.

Bush focused on the success of the troop surge last year, and made it very clear that we are now on a path of “return on success.” Because of the progress that has been made, troops that were sent over for the surge are now being brought back home.

Bush also recognized the sacrifices of our military families. “They endure sleepless nights and the daily struggle of providing for children while a loved one is serving far from home,” he said. He asked for Congress’ help in expanding childcare for families, creating hiring preferences for military spouses, and transferring unused education benefits to spouses.

The President concluded by driving home the idea that the true excellence and strength of America is its people, not its government. “And so long as we continue to trust the people, our Nation will prosper, our liberty will be secure, and the State of our Union will remain strong. So tonight, with confidence in freedom's power, and trust in the people, let us set forth to do their business.”