State of the Union Address: Preview

The annual State of the Union address is coming up in a few weeks. I have been asked to give an analysis of it the day after. When the subject came up, I said I would be happy to give my analysis now. Someone taken off guard, the question was put on how I could do such a thing without hearing it.

I related a story how many years ago I was asked to draft a response for a U.S. Senator to the State of the Union. I was told it had to be ready the afternoon the speech was given. I asked how could I do this without seeing an advanced copy or actually listening? I receive a very cold stare and then a laugh. That was all I needed. Pencil in hand, still use pencil and yellow pads, I whipped out a sterling retort.

I have not watched a State of the Union for many years. As I like to say, since Hoover was President. Democrat or Republican makes no difference. I have been right every time, no need to watch. It is a meaningless gathering full of equally meaningless rhetoric. Every cause gets its sop with no surprises.

Mr. Obama will take the podium to some enthusiastic applause, some respectful “to the office” clapping, some less than half hearted and polite acknowledgement.  There will be cheers and some voices silent. He will wind it up, touting this and that accomplishment, successes (not sure what they are), and the problems in Washington, which are not his fault. Yes, the Affordable Care Act will work.

The theme will be everything can be better if things are done the President’s way, if those who disagree will yield. Look for the virtues of government, the evils of inequality, the selfishness of the nonbelievers.  Of course, there is the how far we have come for where we were. The finished is achievement and vision, the vision of largesse, more control, and more redistribution.

On national security matters, look for the government to keep spying on all us. Made big strides with Iran (wait until the first nuclear test) Stopped the Syrians from killing each other (oops, that is still going on I think), achieved stability in Egypt. The new manta is talk a lot and carry a big loath. 

I have colleagues who pour over the text of the speech to gains some clues, some nuances about policy or directions. They read what they want into some minor passage. It is mostly nonsense. I have read this book before. The country has seen Mr. Obama bag of tricks. If you have read the book, no need to see the movie.

I have read the book and seen the movie so I will pass again.