Constitutional Goals in the State of the Union Address

The goals of the constitution were all based on governmental reform; the formation of a perfect union, the establishment of justice, insurance of domestic tranquility, providing for the common defense, promoting general welfare, and securing the blessings of liberty. Once the constitution was reinstated, and most of the important amendments were made, little was changed to the constitution, the last amendment being in 1992; and one which held little importance anyways. The state of the union no longer focused on improving the government, but factors that the people would see, and therefore appreciate. This move made sure that the people saw the toils of the president and made sure his popularity was given a boost as well for something the people actually recognized.

The formation of a more perfect union was the use of democracy in itself. It has proven a success so far - it grants many freedoms to its people while staying secure in power. Once the bill of rights and certain other key amendments were made, this status was certainly achieved, and it is never commented upon in the address. Instead, tax reductions are mentioned, and foreign aid considered. In fact, much more is said about the state of other countries and their lack of democracy than the state of our own democracy. It is simply assumed infallible and untouchable. The establishment of justice was mostly provided by the bill of rights. Little has been changed to this system, and it is certainly never mentioned in the State of the Union address, instead, there is budget cleanups, and plans for the economy. Read between the lines, and all that is said is a list of things that the current president has done for the country and how much he has helped the current state of affairs.

The insurance of domestic stability has not been a major problem since the civil war, and this age is far from being in a civil war. Crime in the United States is only commented upon in about one line and how the current president has pressed for stricter punishments. Providing for the common defense is one of the only two issues that are mentioned significantly in the address. The proposals for bigger armies and navies are relentless. Even these are brought up only to appease the nation's citizens. A powerful military creates national pride that can be linked to the success of the current president, thereby elevating his position and making him popular. Promoting the general welfare is the other goal that is significantly mentioned in the address. This one is by far the most popular,