With just a year left in his tenure, President Obama avoided the traditional policy proposals in his State of the Union speech Tuesday night in Washington.

The president is applauded as he gives his final State of the Union address.

Before his final State of the Union address, President Obama shakes hands with Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, who attended the State of the Union for the first time as House speaker.

With his speech in front of him, President Obama gives his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress.

"It's easier to be cynical, to accept that change isn't possible and politics is hopeless," Obama said in his final State of the Union address. "But if we give up now, then we forsake a better future."

President Obama delivers his State of the Union address. Obama called out critics who have challenged his economic and national security stewardship, calling it "political hot air."

Some in the audience stand as President Obama delivers his address Tuesday night.