Title: Congress Highlights Divisive Issues Ahead of Biden’s State of the Union Address
Introduction:
As President Joe Biden prepares to deliver his State of the Union address, members of Congress have chosen to invite guests that underscore contentious issues within the nation. From abortion and in vitro fertilization (IVF) to border security and foreign policy, lawmakers are using their guests to draw attention to their points of disagreement. Amidst critical debates over the southern border, abortion laws, and aid to Israel and Ukraine, the State of the Union address is set to showcase the deep divisions within the American political landscape.
Highlighting Abortion, IVF, and Border Security:
Members of Congress have invited guests that reflect their stance on contentious issues. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) will host former Israeli hostage Mia Schem, emphasizing the need for the release of all hostages held by Hamas. Meanwhile, Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) is bringing the fathers of two Americans still held captive in Gaza, shedding light on the ongoing crisis. Republican senators Ted Budd and Thom Tillis of North Carolina are inviting the family of current hostage Keith Siegel, highlighting the urgency of securing his freedom.
On the other side of the spectrum, Sens. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) are using their guests to support IVF. Duckworth invited fertility doctor Dr. Amanda Adeleye, stressing the importance of protecting access to IVF services nationwide. Kaine, on the other hand, will be accompanied by Elizabeth Carr, the first baby conceived through IVF in the U.S., raising concerns about recent rulings limiting access to IVF treatments.
Foreign Policy and National Security:
Lawmakers are also using their guests to address foreign policy matters. House Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) invited the mother-in-law of Marine Sgt. Nicole Gee, who lost her life in an ISIS-K terrorist attack during the chaotic Afghanistan evacuation. The invitation aims to urge President Biden and the American people to demand accountability for the tragedy.
Additionally, Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla.) is bringing Rosa Maria Paya, the opposition leader from Cuba, to shed light on the ongoing brutality and human rights violations under the Cuban regime. The choice seeks to emphasize the need for freedom and justice in the region.
Critiquing Biden’s Policies:
Republicans have also invited guests that criticize President Biden’s policies. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) is inviting Butte County Sheriff Fred Lamphere to draw attention to the challenges faced by law enforcement due to the current border crisis. Similarly, Rep. Mike Collins (R-Ga.) intended to invite the parents of Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing student killed by an illegal immigrant, to emphasize the need for stronger border policies.
Conclusion:
As President Biden prepares to deliver his State of the Union address, Congress has seized the opportunity to highlight contentious issues. The choice of guests reflects the deep divisions within the nation, with lawmakers using the platform to draw attention to their concerns regarding abortion, IVF, border security, and foreign policy. The State of the Union address is expected to showcase the ongoing debates and challenges faced by the American government and its citizens.
