US Audio: Scott Lucas with BBC "Obama's State of the Union: Competence, Command, Control"

I spoke to BBC West Midlands this afternoon about President Obama's State of the Union speech. The BBC focused on Obama's calculations in presenting tax rises on the wealthy; I wanted to get further with the politics. The take-away line? Obama, in a "safe" speech, put out message, "I killed Osama. I saved the economy. I am Competence, Control, and Command."

The discussion starts just after the 1:26.00 mark.

US Video and Transcript: President Obama's 2012 State of the Union Address

THE PRESIDENT:  Mr. Speaker, Mr. Vice President, members of Congress, distinguished guests, and fellow Americans:

Last month, I went to Andrews Air Force Base and welcomed home some of our last troops to serve in Iraq.  Together, we offered a final, proud salute to the colors under which more than a million of our fellow citizens fought — and several thousand gave their lives.

We gather tonight knowing that this generation of heroes has made the United States safer and more respected around the world.  (Applause.)  For the first time in nine years, there are no Americans fighting in Iraq.  (Applause.)  For the first time in two decades, Osama bin Laden is not a threat to this country.  (Applause.)  Most of al Qaeda’s top lieutenants have been defeated.  The Taliban’s momentum has been broken, and some troops in Afghanistan have begun to come home.

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