A presidential historian at the University of Indianapolis says President Barack Obama played it safe with his State of the Union Address on Tuesday, appealing to populist concerns about economic disparity while also seeking common ground with his opponents and setting his re-election agenda.

“I’m not sure any of the lines will resonate in the long term, but he did clearly set an agenda of activist government like that of the Progressive Era, looking out for the common good,” said Edward “Ted” Frantz, Ph.D., associate professor of history. “In that respect, he really resonated with speeches that would have been uttered by Democrats and Republicans 100 years ago.

“And yet, many of his statements were about accountability, American exceptionalism and a pro-business agenda that would show anyone who actually takes the time to listen just how much of a centrist position he tries to occupy.”

As for Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels’ response to the president’s speech, Frantz offered a similar assessment.

“Although the delivery was solid, the governor didn’t provide much red meat for those who want him to run for president,” he said. “Plus, he seemed more negative than usual for him, and that surprised me.”

Frantz, author of “The Door of Hope: Republican Presidents and the First Southern Strategy, 1877–1933,” is available for interview. Contact him at (317) 460-0272 or UIndy media relations at (317) 371-5240.

Source: University of Indianapolis