While the economy received a strong emphasis during Tuesday's State of the Union speech, education, immigration, terrorism and cyber security were addressed -- albeit briefly.

Economy and Education:

President Barack Obama was quick to note the state of the U.S. economy. His second paragraph recognized the U.S. has been creating jobs at a faster rate not seen since 1999, adding more than 11 million jobs that were created during the last five years. The country's unemployment rate -- 5.6 percent -- is lower than before the financial crisis. He also mentioned the two-thirds reduction of the country's deficit and a stock market that has doubled its points.

Obama announced he will submit a budget plan to Congress. During his explanation of the budget plan, he noted three aspects. The first aspect of the budget plan is to lower taxes for working families while "putting thousands of dollars back into their pockets each year." This aspect involves health, primarily calling for Congress or states to adopt paid sick leave or paid maternity leave coverage for workers in addition to raising the minimum wage. The second aspect includes the free community college program for people who want to upgrade their skills. The third aspect is improved training opportunities.

According to Obama, more people are graduating than ever before, notably from high school, which is at an all-time high. The president said young American students have earned the highest math and reading scores on record.

Immigration:

There was not a heavy emphasis on immigration during the State of the Union despite the presence of a recipient of Obama's Deferred Action of Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which he created through an executive action in June 2012. Obama mentioned there is still a passionate debate on immigration but hoped everyone would agree the removal of a parent from their child has no benefits.

"I've talked to Republicans and Democrats about that. That's something that we can share," said Obama.

While Obama did not indulge on immigration, he did say he'll veto legislation that would infringe on his Nov. 20 immigration executive actions.

Foreign Policy and Terrorism:

Obama acknowledged the end of the U.S.-Afghanistan war. He noted approximately 180,000 American troopers were serving in Afghanistan and Iraq, and the aforementioned rate has since declined to less than 15,000 troops.

The president reaffirmed the commitment to combat terrorist and its networks, including the Islamic State militant group in Iraq and Syria. While the U.S. has a coalition -- including Arab countries -- to address IS, Obama acknowledged such efforts will take time and requires focus. He called for Congress to pass legislation to authorize the use of force against IS.

On sanctions, he touted the progress made against Russia and recognized the country's falling economy due to President Vladimir Putin's "aggression." He also discouraged Congress from passing sanctions on Iran since diplomatic negotiations about the country's nuclear energy program are still ongoing. Obama further called on Congress to lift the embargo on Cuba.

"When what you're doing doesn't work for 50 years, it's time to try something new," said Obama. "And our shift in Cuba policy has the potential to end a legacy of mistrust in our hemisphere. It removes a phony excuse for restrictions in Cuba. It stands up for democratic values, and extends the hand of friendship to the Cuban people. And this year, Congress should begin the work of ending the embargo."

Climate Change:

The president recognized 2014 as Earth's warmest year on record. Obama said no challenge poses a greater threat to future generations than climate change. He also cited the Pentagon, stating climate change also risks the U.S.' national security.

Obama acknowledged the agreement with China to reduce carbon pollution. He noted more public lands and waters have been protected than any previous administration. Obama said he will not allow Congress to endanger the children's health for inaction on climate change and will therefore ensure that "American leadership drives international action."

Cyber Security:

"No foreign nation, no hacker, should be able to shut down our networks, steal our trade secrets, or invade the privacy of American families, especially our kids," said Obama.

The president said efforts are being made for the federal government to integrate intelligence to combat cyber threats. He called on Congress to pass legislation addressing the "evolving" threat of cyber attacks, identity theft and protection of children's information. He said failure to act against cyber threats could leave the U.S. and its economy vulnerable.

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For the latest updates, follow Latin Post's Michael Oleaga on Twitter: @EditorMikeO or contact via email: m.oleaga@latinpost.com.

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