President Joe Biden gave his State of the Union address at the capitol building on Tuesday, February 22nd. Much of his speech focused on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict
Biden announced additional measures against Russia for its actions in Ukraine, including banning Russian flights from American Air Space, joining much of Europe in their ban against Russian flights. He also announced that the United States would sanction wealthy Russian oligarchs who own Yachts and other property in the United States.
Amid record near record low approval ratings early in his presidency, Biden touted his achievements such as the infrastructure law that passed last year, his appointment of Judge Kentanji Brown to the Supreme Court, the first black women to be appointed to the high court, and economic resurgence from the Covid-19. He also announced plans to lower drug costs, provide free childcare, improve housing availability and to promote the return of manufacturing to the US.
Biden also addressed America’s inflation problem, saying “Too many families are struggling to keep up with their bills. Inflation is robbing them of gains they would otherwise be able to feel.” Despite Biden’s promise to tamper inflation by increasing jobs and competition, sanctions against Russia are likely to increase gas prices, worsening inflation.