Obama makes bid for re-election in Union address

President Barack Obama has made a rallying call against inequality in his third State of the Union address. With millions tuning in, this was his opportunity to reach his widest audience before the Democratic Convention in September and his bid for re-election. Making tax reform a central theme he castigated the system which allows the wealthy to pay a lower rate than middle Class Americans. "We can either settle for a country where a shrinking number of people do really well, while a growing number of Americans barely get by. Or we can restore an economy where everyone gets a fair shot, everyone does their fair share, and everyone plays by the same set of rules", - rallied President Obama.

Foreign policy was dominated by Iran. While the situation is Syria was mentioned it was Tehran’s nuclear programme which fell under the spotlight. "The regime is more isolated than ever before, - said the president. - Its leaders are faced with crippling sanctions. And as long as they shirk their responsibilities, this pressure will not relent. And let there be no doubt, America is determined to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon".

Creating jobs and clean energy were also included in what amounted to a manifesto for a second term. Obama knows most of his proposals will face stiff Republican resistance limiting the chance for making much headway before the November 6 election.