What Went Down During Joe Biden’s Inauguration

Sarah, I think Biden’s background on Capitol Hill and relationships with people like soon-to-be Senate Minority Leader McConnell could enable some bits of unity and progress. But on big moves, it’s going to be like pulling teeth because of how far apart the parties are. So I don’t expect many big things to happen with bipartisan support.

I think one big initial test for Biden, Sarah, is the sweeping coronavirus relief bill he’s said will be one of his first priorities. Over the past year, Congress has been in a pretty much constant state of deadlock over relief measures that economists and public health experts say are necessary to keep the country afloat in a time of crisis. Biden’s relief package is certainly bold, but he could really struggle to get Republicans on board with the $1.9 trillion price tag. And of course, it looks like the Senate could be juggling a second impeachment trial for Trump at the same time.

Given Trump’s continued refusal to concede the election until the very end of his presidency and the ongoing danger posed by the coronavirus pandemic, it’s safe to say that this inauguration was never going to be normal. But what do people make of Biden’s speech so far. Is he delivering on his promise of unity? What will you be looking for in the first 100 days as a benchmark in assessing whether he meets that goal?