Thoughts On the State of the Union

Dinner was microwavable, homework got done early, and the kids were told they'd have to watch the Disney Channel on the other teevee because Mom and Dad have a date night with some appointment television. It must be time for the State of the Union address!

I always look forward to the SOTU, no matter who is president. There's just something about seeing our dysfunctional government confined to one, large rectangular room that brings out the geek in me. It's the very best of American political theater, and a refreshing counterpoint to the 12,309th Republican debate. And given the sheer number of GOP debates so far, I feel like I exaggerate only slightly. What!? The Republicans are having another debate? Tonight? Why? They just debated two days ago! Where are they this time?

Anyway, I thought the president gave a great and very optimistic speech. Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels...what was up with the profile side eye? Is his right side his best side? I couldn't focus on his run-for-the-hills-everything-is-falling-apart GOP response because his head movements were so distracting. And who talks about "free-born, mature citizens" in this day and age? The last time I checked, it's not 1820.

Here's the full text of the president's speech.

The economy does seem to be getting better, albeit slowly. It was nice to see the president talk about "insourcing" jobs back to the United States, and I hope it's more than just talk because rampant offshoring hasn't been good for our country. Like a lot of people, I'm still waiting to see some heads roll for the 2008 financial collapse. I want to see some bankers frog marched into courthouses and then sent off to jail for a very long time. I want to see the full reinstatement of the Glass-Steagall Act, whose 1999 repeal was one of President Clinton's biggest mistakes. I want to see more fairness and more fair play. I want to feel like the American Dream is alive and well again. I want a zero-calorie cinnamon roll, but I don't have one.

I'd say it's just me, but I don't think it's just me. I love my country, and I want it to do well. Let's hope more words turn into action this year. Good job, Mr. President.