Biden's State of the Union takeaways

(CNN) ⸻ Joe Biden's State of the Union address was an apt illustration of his presidency and a useful preview of his likely 2024 candidacy. Biden claimed credit for progress made during his first two years in office while stressing the job isn't finished. The speech carried a strain of populism rooted in strengthening the middle class – vintage Biden, but delivered at a pivotal moment for his political future. Vice President Joe Biden set the record for the third year in a row for being the oldest president to address a joint session of Congress. His jousting with House Republicans was a glimpse of how he'll approach his candidacy for president in 2024. White House officials were thrilled by the off-script back and forth between the two parties. Aides set up a podium, microphone, lights and teleprompter for Joe Biden to practice his speech at Camp David this weekend. White House aides were focused on the message – but also the language, ensuring the speech lent itself to a vigorous presentation. Tuesday's speech was salted with riffs and lines that appear nearly every time he speaks: inherited wisdoms from his father and anecdotes about inequality. His focus on specific issues – like eliminating "junk fees" for consumers or reining in tech companies – are areas the White House believes will resonate with Americans outside Washington. Sarah Huckabee Sanders delivered the GOP's response to Joe Biden's State of the Union address. At 40 years old, she is the nation's youngest governor. Her speech was a somewhat dark warning against Democratic policies she deemed "crazy". It was also an appeal for generational change – one that could apply to both Democrats and Republicans.