JSU students react to State of the Union

Alexis Neely
Staff Writer

Jan. 15, 2015 marked one of the last two State of the Union addresses President Barack Hussein Obama would give to the United States of America.

The president’s optimistic view on the state of affairs in the country had many viewers surprised to hear just how much growth that the United States has made.  For the first time, the President will face a republican dominated congress and many believe that he has a tough road ahead as a “lame duck president”.

Arron Mitchell, a freshman mass communications major from Aurora, Ill. said, “I think that he said a lot of things that really surprised people. What really surprised me was the fact that the dropout rate was lower than it’s ever been.”

Justin Roach, a freshman industrial technology major from Jackson, Miss. said, “I feel like he really trying to help the middle class people out before he gets out of office. He trying to do all he can because he knows once he leaves office this U.S. is going to be in trouble. He’s just looking out for us in the long run.”

The topics discussed in the speech ranged from the economic and educational gains that America has made within the last year, and other advancements the country is pursuing. One particular plan he elaborated on was his plan to make community college tuition free for students across the country.

“Forty percent of our college students choose community college. Some are young and starting out. Some are older and are looking for a better job. Some are veterans and single parents trying to transition back into the job market. Whoever you are, this plan is your chance to graduate ready for the new economy without a load of debt,” said President Obama.

Obama is well known for his promotion of freedom of choice, whether it is a woman who wants to exercise those rights over her own body or a member of the LGBT community who wishes to express his/her sexual orientation and lifestyle choices without oppression or discrimination.

The president’s address was also loaded with allusions to the morals and principles he stands for, specifically in his declaration.

“I want our actions to tell every child, in every neighborhood: your life matters,” he declared.

Many students at Jackson State were inspired by the President’s address.

“I believe that President Obama’s address was a remarkable testament of how he has helped the United States grow as a country through education, finance, and philanthropy,” said Christopher Johnston, a sophomore music education major from Little Rock, Ark.

Tatiyana Blood, a junior English major from Birmingham, Ala. said, “I really appreciated the honesty that Obama shared with us. He was very entertaining and that was the most interesting State of the Union address.”

Mike Gorden, a junior mass communication major from Stone Mountain Ga. said, “I think Obama held his composure as usual, and that he was able to really express how he felt on certain issues because he was not concerned about running again.”