President Obama Officially Kicks Off Second Term
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The president's speech on Monday will be more than just about making a memorable statement for the history books. (Creative Commons)
Before he gives his State of the Union address on Feb. 12, the president will use Monday's speech to call for Americans to unite and send the message that "people here in Washington need to seek common ground," according to Obama adviser David Plouffe. The president's second term agenda includes debt reduction, a gun-control package, an immigration bill and the complete withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan.
SEE ALSO: Obama's To-Do List For The Next Four Years
More from USA Today:
One other thing to expect in Monday's address: references to his first inaugural address four years ago.
Over the decades, re-elected presidents have used their second inaugurations to reaffirm goals they set for their first term and suggest how they might apply in the four years that lie ahead. In Obama's case, that would include references to the bad economy and the two wars he inherited in 2009 and how he has addressed them.
"The second inaugural looks back to the first," said Kathleen Hall Jamieson, co-author of Presidents Creating the Presidency: Deeds Done in Words.
Obama's ability to work with Republicans could determine his legacy. The president has been using a more combative tone against GOP lawmakers, suggesting that he might pursue a more aggressive tactic when it comes to negotiating with political opponents during his second term, according to Reuters.
SEE ALSO: Obama's Second Term: What To Expect
The president opens his second term in the middle of an intense debate with congressional Republicans over taxes and spending, but the two sides will likely butt heads over several other issues.
More from Reuters:
His top policy goals for the first year, so far, include tightening gun regulations in response to the massacre of 20 children and six adults at a Connecticut elementary school a month ago. Obama is also seeking an overhaul of immigration laws and tax reform.
Abroad, he is facing a challenge from a resurgence of Islamist extremists in North Africa exemplified by the recent hostage-taking that turned deadly at an oil facility in Algeria. He is also winding down the war in Afghanistan and dealing with Iran's nuclear ambitions.
Monday's festivities will include an inaugural parade and the president's speech scheduled to take place on West Front of the Capitol after ceremonially taking the oath of office, according to CNN.
Read more Neon Tommy stories on Inauguration 2013 here.
