David Axelrod Warns Biden: You Can’t ‘Jawbone Americans’ Into Believing Things Are Better

David Axelrod, one of Barack Obama’s key advisors on his 2008 campaign trail and confidante during his presidency, has some advice for President Joe Biden: Be humble during your upcoming State of the Union address.

In an opinion column for The New York Times, Axelrod pleaded with Biden to tone down his rhetoric during the speech by painting things as they really are in America while acknowledging the pains and anxieties caused by inflation, COVID-19 restrictions, and violent crime — amongst other woes.

“The speech will command the largest television audience the president is likely to enjoy this year, and the temptation will be, as it always is, to herald his achievements and declare that we have navigated the storm,” Axelrod noted.

“But, Mr. President, proceed with caution.” he warned.