DEMOCRATS in the US are on a downward trajectory. The US mid-term poll was a blow to President Barack Obama. The House of Representatives already had a Republican majority and in November, 2014, the Senate also had the Democrats buckling under. Yet, Obama’s State of the Union address was on a defiant note. It was his penultimate and first address to Congress fully controlled by Republicans. One reason for his defiance may be that he will not run a campaign again. He does not have to worry about the vulnerable red-state Democrats. His confidence stems from some tangible factors as well. The economy is looking up with unemployment having fallen to 5.6% and gas prices plummeting significantly. President Obama has preoccupations abroad but his focus has been on domestic issues. He has been advocating raising taxes on the rich in the teeth of Republican opposition. He vetoed legislation against major policies including imposition of fresh sanctions on Iran. He stresses the need for equality of opportunity. Proceeds from higher taxes are to be used for free community college education, child care and double-worker households. He campaigned for climate change, cyber security and consumer protection. Finally, he sought Congressional support for use of force against ISIS.
Obama’s State of the Union address laid greater emphasis on principles rather than on policies. It was because Democrats lack strength in Capitol Hill. His proposal for higher taxes on the rich is not likely to be passed by Congress with a Republican majority. For the campaign for the Presidential election in 2016, he has already presented the “middle class economics” card. Democrats and Republicans agree on few issues. The most important is pushing for trade deals with Europe and Asia-Pacific. Obama’s visit to India on its Republic Day also has the full backing of both parties.
