US President Barack Obama vigorously defended his legacy while striking an optimistic tone for the future his final State of the Union address.
He pushed back against the negative tone of the current presidential race, arguing the US has the "strongest, most durable economy in the world".
His focus was on cementing his legacy rather than unveiling new policies.
The speech highlighted his team's accomplishments such health reform and rapprochement with Cuba.
"For my final address to this chamber, I don't want to talk just about the next year," he said. "I want to focus on our future."
Mr Obama focused tackling income inequity, using technology to combat climate change and how to maintain national security while not becoming mired in far-flung conflicts.
Finally, he talked at length about improving the state of politics and debate.
"Democracy does require basic bonds of trust between its citizens," he said.
He called on voters and members of Congress to change the divisive tone of politics and to "change the system to reflect our better selves".
Mr Obama took indirect aim to Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump who has been criticised for his comments about Muslims and immigrants.
"When politicians insult Muslims, when a mosque is vandalized, or a kid bullied, that doesn't make us safer," he said.
"That's not telling it like it is. It's just wrong. ... And it betrays who we are as a country."