What To Know For Biden’s State Of The Union Amid COVID, Russian Invasion Of Ukraine

President Joe Biden will deliver his first State of the Union address on Tuesday amid loosening COVID-19 restrictions, a new Supreme Court nominee, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

When?

The speech will start at 9 p.m. EST and be broadcast live on multiple new channels and streamed online for free.

Congress will be present and wearing masks. They may not bring guests.

Previously, there were questions about whether there would be a full attendance at the event, with events during the pandemic requiring fewer people in attendance. However, with the loosening of restrictions, full attendance is expected on Tuesday.

What To Expect About The Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Since all eyes are on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Biden is expected to talk extensively about the U.S. response to the war and to reassure Americans during an immensely stressful international crisis.

He will likely address the potential effects that extensive sanctions placed on Russia and key Russian oligarchs and officials, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, will have on the global economy.

While there has been speculation as to whether the U.S. will send troops to the region, NATO has made it clear that they will not seek help to protect Ukraine in the conflict.

What To Expect About US Policies

Biden also has a lot to address domestically, particularly the economy. He expected to discuss rising inflation, the continuing effects of COVID-19 on the U.S. population as restrictions and mandates are being dropped or loosened.

Biden will also likely touch on his Supreme Court pick Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. On the campaign trail, Biden said he would nominate a Black woman to the high court.

Climate change also remains a top issue for the Biden administration. At the start of his term, Biden fulfilled his promise to rejoin the Paris Agreement.

His speech also comes as his approval ratings continue to dip.