President Joe Biden recently embarked on a trip to the Midwest, specifically the Wisconsin-Minnesota border, to promote infrastructure projects and take subtle jabs at his predecessor, former President Donald Trump.
Bridging the Gap
Visiting a brewery in Superior, Wisconsin, Biden highlighted the importance of road and bridge improvements in the region. He specifically mentioned the planned $1 billion project to replace the aging Blatnik Bridge, which connects Superior to Duluth, Minnesota. This project not only aims to enhance transportation but also benefits local businesses like the brewery, which rely on a functional bridge to serve customers and facilitate workers.
Making Progress
As the 2024 presidential race looms, Biden’s visit to the Midwest serves as a reminder of the progress he has made since taking office. The funding for the bridge project is a result of the infrastructure spending package he signed in 2021. The outdated design and safety concerns of the Blatnik Bridge have long been recognized, but it is only now, under Biden’s leadership, that action is being taken to address these issues.
Infrastructure Decade
Taking a swipe at Trump, Biden highlighted the stark contrast between their approaches to infrastructure. Mocking Trump’s failed “infrastructure weeks,” Biden emphasized that under his administration, America is experiencing an “infrastructure decade.” He proudly shared that the bridge project in Wisconsin is part of a larger $12 billion investment in infrastructure in Minnesota and Wisconsin combined.
Relaxed and Ready
Biden’s appearance at the brewery was marked by a more casual and relaxed look, with a blue half-zip pullover over a collared shirt. This sartorial choice aimed to allay concerns about his age and vigor, with some of his advisers suggesting that a more laid-back image could resonate with the public.
Protesters and Political Swipes
While the event itself had a small audience of invited guests and no protesters managed to disrupt it, demonstrators outside the brewery expressed their opposition to Israel’s military offensive in Gaza. In his speech, Biden took the opportunity to criticize Trump further, referencing an interview in which Trump expressed hope for an economic crash during Biden’s presidency.
Overall, Biden’s trip to the Midwest served as a platform to showcase his commitment to infrastructure projects and remind voters of his accomplishments. By addressing the crucial issue of infrastructure in key states like Wisconsin and Minnesota, Biden aims to solidify his support in the region and set the stage for the upcoming election.