Obama reflects on progress during his presidency

{mosads}Obama said the policies of his administration resulted in significant improvements in the auto industry, income levels, and financial security.

“Poverty is falling. Incomes are rising. In fact, last year, folks’ typical household income rose by $2,800, that’s the single biggest increase on record, and folks at the bottom and middle saw bigger gains than those at the top,” he said.

 

The president also praised his cornerstone Affordable Care Act, improvements in education, and the U.S. mission to locate and kill Osama bin Laden.

“Twenty million more Americans know the financial security of health insurance. Our kids’ high school graduation rate is at an all-time high. We’ve brought 165,000 troops from Iraq and Afghanistan, and took out Osama bin Laden,” the president said.

 

In his address, Obama also mentioned some key international achievements of his presidency, including a change in dialogue with Cuba, the Iran deal, and the climate change agreement. 

 

However, despite his review of major international milestones, the president did not comment on the ongoing geopolitical standoff between U.S. and Russia.

“Through diplomacy, we shut down Iran’s nuclear weapons program, opened up a new chapter with the people of Cuba, and brought nearly 200 nations together around a climate agreement that could save this planet for our kids,” Obama said. 

 

“Almost every country on Earth sees America as stronger and more respected today than they did eight years ago.  And marriage equality is finally a reality from coast to coast.”