Comments and discussion

In your analysis of President Barack Obama's 2015 State of the Union address, it might be useful to include comments on some of his more interesting or potentially controversial statements.

One such statement is related to the Islamic State. At the time, Obama was criticized by most members of Congress (including fellow Democrats) for failing to set explicit goals in relation to ISIL. In the speech, Obama passes the responsibility to Congress: “And tonight, I call on this Congress to show the world that we are united in this mission by passing a resolution to authorize the use of force against ISIL. We need that authority.” (ll. 515-518)

While his statement reminds the audience that Congress should also assume responsibility for a strategy regarding the Islamic State, it can also be interpreted as the President still failing to take a solid position on the matter.

Another statement connected with the Middle East is equally controversial: “We’re also supporting a moderate opposition in Syria that can help us in this effort, and assisting people everywhere who stand up to the bankrupt ideology of violent extremism.” (ll. 509-512)

Syria was in an ongoing civil war, started in 2011, mostly between...