It was a pivotal point for the President as he aimed to push his “Build Back Better” agenda, with Baltimore as the backdrop.
He was met with protest outside by various interest groups rallying on everything from fossil fuels to immigration.
However, inside in a city the President won in a landslide, it was friendly territory.
Seating inside was limited and questions were submitted in advance, so FOX45 News took questions outside to people on Baltimore’s East side in McElderry Park.
Residents who declined to share their names readily voiced their opinions on the host city.
“What about these neighborhoods? You know, there’s people around here suffering.”
In a neighborhood littered by drug needles, there’s no finger-pointing but instead hope that a Presidential visit will shine light on life for some outside of the Center Stage hall.
“We need help with the drug situation, need help with the housing, we need help with just about everything,” said one man.