Let Biden Be Biden

The State of the Union was not significant, but it was also a pivotal moment. It came before the celebration of E. Jean Carroll Day by her supporters on Monday. It showed that Trump's final attempt to avoid the need to secure an appeal bond had failed. The bond is to pay the $83.3 million judgment in Carroll's favor if his appeal fails—a likely outcome.

Trump made legal maneuvers. He asked Judge Lewis Kaplan to extend or reduce the bond. With Judge Kaplan not responding enough to Trump's request, he resubmitted it. Kaplan, but stood firm. He blamed Trump's predicament on his procrastination since the January 26 verdict. He held Trump responsible for his current financial problems.

A Monday deadline is looming. Carroll is ready to start collecting even though the appeal is pending, which showcases her usual insight.

Two prosecutors have joined the Mar-a-Lago case, signaling that Jack Smith may appeal Judge Aileen Cannon's rulings to a higher court. Cannon's following decisions will pave the way for this next phase, especially for classified discovery and the public naming of witnesses.

The update to the judge was about the government's compliance with discovery obligations. It mentioned the fourteenth set of materials. Trump and his co-defendants received them. It included details from a recent interview on March 6, 2024. The interview's specifics remain undisclosed.

Yet, Biden's State of the Union address was the center stage. It outlined key themes for his campaign and gave a spirited rebuttal to Trump's ongoing attacks. Biden highlighted his role as "Vice president to the first Black president. "And president to the first female vice president," he said. He spoke to Republicans who disagreed and turned their disruptions to his advantage. This feat is more impressive because he triumphed over a childhood stutter.

The address had some notable moments. They include Marjorie Taylor Greene's subtle MAGA hat. Biden's commitment to the truth about January 6. Republicans' lack of reaction to denunciations of Putin. Biden's challenge to Republicans on IVF, following Alabama. And his early focus on abortion rights. Biden interacted with Supreme Court Justices. He made bipartisan jests and showed infectious optimism. These actions supported his calls for fair taxes. They also supported his call for a constructive approach to immigration reform.

Biden also addressed the Israel-Hamas conflict. He called for a ceasefire based on concern for the people and a two-state solution, setting a conciliatory tone for a contentious issue.

In contrast to those who do not, Biden asserted his commitment to always speak truthfully regarding January 6: "You can't profess love for your country only in victory." He urged Congress to honor their oaths and safeguard the nation from all threats, emphasizing both foreign and "domestic" ones. Speaker Johnson visibly tensed, appearing distinctly uncomfortable; it seems he did not relish the evening.

As Biden condemned Putin, Republicans remained impassive in their seats. Before Trump, I couldn't have imagined a Republican Speaker of the House and party members sitting stoically instead of rising to applaud the halt to Putin's aggression.

Biden practically challenged Republicans to remain seated, which the majority did, when he advocated for a national guarantee for IVF following events in Alabama. One can anticipate the attack ads targeting Republicans who chose not to stand.

In sum, Biden's address was a testament to his resolve and ability to engage with his audience. It dispelled concerns about his campaign vitality. The message is "Let Biden be Biden." It captures the essence of his address. It resonates with his supporters and sets a high bar for civic engagement.

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