The White House In Action: January 10

Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, January 10, 2024

President Biden has declared his intention to nominate six individuals for federal district courts in his forty-fourth round of judicial nominees. These nominees are characterized as highly qualified, seasoned, and dedicated to upholding the rule of law and the Constitution. The President aims to maintain diversity in the nation’s courts, taking into account both personal and professional backgrounds. The total count of federal judicial nominees announced by President Biden has now reached 215. The nominees for the United States District Courts are as follows:

Amir H. Ali: Nominee for the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. He currently serves as the President and Executive Director of the MacArthur Justice Center and as Director of the Criminal Justice Appellate Clinic at Harvard Law School.
Judge Melissa R. DuBose: Nominee for the United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island. She has served as an associate judge on the Rhode Island District Court and has a diverse background as in-house counsel, prosecutor, and high school teacher.
Judge Sunil R. Harjani: Candidate for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Currently a United States Magistrate Judge, Judge Harjani has prior experience as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and Deputy Chief of the Securities and Commodities Fraud Section.
Judge Rebecca S. Kanter: Nominee for the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. She has served as a judge on the San Diego County Superior Court and previously worked as an Assistant United States Attorney.
Robert J. White: Nominee for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. He has worked as an Assistant United States Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.
Jasmine H. Yoon: Nominee for the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia. Currently serving as the Vice President of Corporate Integrity, Ethics, and Investigations at Capital One Financial Corporation, Ms. Yoon has prior experience as Interim University Counsel and Associate University Counsel, as well as an Assistant United States Attorney.

These nominees bring diverse legal backgrounds and a wealth of experiences to their respective nominations.

The President celebrated a significant milestone in healthcare, announcing that a record-breaking 20 million Americans have enrolled in health coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces. Emphasizing the popularity and increased affordability of ACA coverage, he highlighted his administration’s efforts, which have annually saved Americans hundreds or thousands of dollars on health insurance premiums. Despite this progress, President Biden voiced concern about opposition from extreme Republicans seeking to repeal the ACA, potentially raising costs for millions and eliminating coverage for enrolled individuals. He underscored the importance of building on current achievements and making lower healthcare premiums a permanent fixture. The President urged Americans to sign up for health coverage by visiting HealthCare.gov before January 16th.

During a White House press briefing, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre underscored President Biden’s announcement of a historic milestone, with 20 million Americans enrolling in healthcare coverage through the Affordable Care Act. She highlighted the administration’s commitment to reducing healthcare costs and expanding access.

Jean-Pierre also delved into the Inflation Reduction Act’s impact, which targeted concerns about soaring pharmaceutical costs. Measures included capping insulin expenses for seniors, enabling Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices, and generating substantial savings on health insurance.

The briefing addressed the somber anniversary of Tyre Nichols’s murder, prompting the Department of Justice to issue guidelines for states and localities to ensure accountability in specialized crime units. The administration remains dedicated to advocating for the passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to bolster law enforcement accountability.

Admiral John Kirby provided an update on recent developments in the Middle East, specifically addressing an attack by Iran-backed Houthis in the Red Sea. The intricate assault utilized drones, missiles, and ballistic missiles. Fortunately, no injuries or damages were reported, credited to the exceptional work of naval personnel. Kirby emphasized the threats posed by such attacks to lives, freedom of navigation, and global trade in the Red Sea. The United States is collaborating with an international naval coalition to counter these assaults, seeking a resolution in the U.N. Security Council to demand an end to Houthi attacks and uphold navigational rights in the Red Sea. The administration aims for safe and secure passage for international commerce, pledging close coordination with allies on future steps.

Admiral Kirby and Ms. Jean-Pierre subsequently fielded questions from the press.

Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer convened a meeting with China’s Minister of the International Liaison Department, Liu Jianchao, in Washington, D.C. The objective of the discussion was to foster transparent communication and prudently handle the competitive dynamics between the two nations. The participants delved into significant outcomes arising from the summit between Presidents Biden and Xi, which encompassed the recommencement of military collaboration and joint initiatives to counter illicit drug activities. The dialogue also addressed global and regional security concerns, such as challenges in the Middle East, Russia’s conflict with Ukraine, and issues related to the Taiwan Strait. Both sides underscored the significance of maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, affirming their commitment to sustained high-level diplomatic engagement between the United States and China.

The White House In Action: January 9

Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, January 9, 2024

Vice President Kamala Harris addressed a roundtable on voting rights and protections in Atlanta, Georgia, underscoring the state’s historical significance in the struggle for voting rights, paying tribute to key figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis. Harris expressed apprehension regarding anti-voter laws in Georgia, citing concerns about limitations on drop boxes and providing food and water to voters waiting in line. She highlighted the importance of acknowledging and combatting the intimidation and harassment faced by election workers, commending their unwavering dedication.

The Vice President delved into broader issues, including gerrymandering, widespread challenges to voter eligibility, and national instances of voter intimidation. Harris emphasized the critical need for free and fair elections and urged the passage of the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act. Grateful for the efforts of Georgia representatives, she recognized the broader national challenges in safeguarding fundamental freedoms and rights. Harris concluded her remarks by praising the resilience of the people of Georgia in surmounting obstacles and exercising their right to vote.

Vice President Kamala Harris held a meeting in Atlanta with leaders in voting rights to address ongoing challenges to ballot access. She condemned extremists for impeding the freedom to vote, highlighting the introduction of over 300 anti-voter bills the previous year. The Vice President outlined the initiatives of the Biden-Harris Administration, such as providing voter registration information in 17 languages on vote.gov. Harris called on Congress to pass the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. During the discussions, voting rights leaders raised concerns about misinformation, voter intimidation, and difficulties faced by poll workers. Harris expressed gratitude, reiterated support, and announced the next gathering in February. The Biden-Harris Administration remains committed to safeguarding voting rights, engaging diverse communities, and advocating for federal legislation. The meeting attendees included Congress representatives, advocacy groups, and community organizations.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Republic of Korea’s National Security Office Director Chang Hojin conducted an initial call to discuss evolving situations related to North Korea. During the conversation, they explored the escalating military cooperation between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Russia, expressing condemnation for the transfer of ballistic missiles from DPRK to Russia. The officials strongly criticized Russia’s deployment of these missiles against Ukraine, highlighting the breach of UN Security Council resolutions and its adverse effects on worldwide non-proliferation endeavors. In light of the increasing DPRK-Russia collaboration, both officials committed to close cooperation to support Ukraine and address mutual security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and globally.

The White House In Action: January 8

Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, January 8, 2024

President Biden expressed gratitude for Mitch Landrieu’s service as his Senior Advisor, underscoring Landrieu’s pivotal role in executing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Biden spotlighted Landrieu’s rich background, encompassing his tenure as a former Mayor and Lieutenant Governor actively involved in the revitalization of New Orleans. The President commended Landrieu for prioritizing cooperation over political divides, citing his instrumental efforts in overseeing a substantial investment in American infrastructure.

The accomplishments highlighted by Biden encompassed the announcement of over 40,000 projects, the extension of high-speed internet access to 22 million individuals, and the initiation of enhancements to 135,000 miles of roads. Recognizing Landrieu’s extensive travels and engagement with diverse stakeholders, including communities, governors, mayors, Congress members, labor, and private sector representatives, Biden expressed appreciation for Landrieu’s leadership.

In acknowledging Landrieu’s decades of dedicated service, the President conveyed that he would miss Landrieu’s valuable counsel. Biden also extended thanks to Landrieu’s family for their support and willingness to share him with the nation.

The President has introduced his chosen nominees for crucial roles within his administration. Jennifer D. Gavito is proposed as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the State of Libya. A seasoned member of the Senior Foreign Service, she possesses extensive experience in Middle Eastern affairs and has previously served in various diplomatic capacities.

Vanesa Soledad Simon is nominated for the position of Member of the National Council on the Arts. An entrepreneur and artist, Simon is recognized for leveraging the arts to promote health and well-being. She is the founder of Healing Through the Arts, a program dedicated to bringing diverse art modalities to communities grappling with health, environmental, and historical traumas.

Furthermore, the White House intends to resubmit the nominations of candidates whose appointments were returned at the conclusion of the first session of the 118th Congress. The expectation is that the Senate will promptly review and act upon these nominations. The initial group comprises 25 renominations, with more to follow in the ensuing weeks.

During a press gaggle aboard Air Force One en route to Charleston, South Carolina, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby discussed President Biden’s agenda, highlighting his upcoming visits to South Carolina and Dallas. Kirby provided an update on the humanitarian aid situation in Gaza, underscoring the U.S. commitment to preventing the escalation or broadening of the conflict. Queries arose regarding Secretary Austin’s health, with Kirby emphasizing the ongoing focus on his recovery. Despite acknowledging challenges in transparency regarding Austin’s hospitalization, Kirby affirmed that there are no plans for his removal, and the administration remains dedicated to openness about the president’s health. A forthcoming assessment of procedures for communicating such information is anticipated.

Vice President Kamala Harris held discussions with President Isaac Herzog of Israel via telephone, confirming steadfast support for Israel’s right to self-defense against Hamas threats. Harris denounced Hamas as a terrorist organization, highlighting a specific massacre on October 7 and allegations of severe sexual violence. The conversation focused on preventing the expansion of the Gaza conflict, securing hostage releases, safeguarding civilian lives, and increasing humanitarian aid. The leaders also addressed transitioning to lower-intensity operations in Gaza, planning for post-conflict Gaza, and emphasizing U.S. positions on Israel’s security, avoiding forced displacement of Palestinians, and promoting a positive political outlook. Harris reiterated the U.S. aspiration for a more integrated, connected, and prosperous Middle East.

Vice President Harris also engaged in a dialogue by phone with Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, addressing the situation in Gaza with a specific focus on safeguarding civilians and increasing humanitarian assistance. Both leaders underscored the importance of stabilizing the Middle East and emphasized collaborative efforts to bolster regional deterrence. They condemned Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, branding them as threats to global trade and navigation. The Vice President highlighted the illegality and recklessness of actions by Iranian-backed Houthi forces, echoing international condemnation expressed by entities such as the UN Security Council and Operation Prosperity Guardian.

The conversation also delved into the recent joint warning against Houthi attacks, endorsed by 14 countries. The leaders reiterated the robust bilateral relationship between the United States and Bahrain, underscoring cooperation in security, defense, intelligence, and economic ties. This collaboration includes the implementation of the “Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement” signed in the previous year.

The following nominations have been sent to the Senate:

Seth Robert Aframe: To be United States Circuit Judge for the First Circuit.
Irving W. Bailey II: To be a Member of the Board of Directors of the United States International Development Finance Corporation.
Amy M. Baggio: To be United States District Judge for the District of Oregon.
Jacqueline Becerra: To be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Florida.
Nicole G. Berner: To be United States Circuit Judge for the Fourth Circuit.
Ron Borzekowski: To be Director, Office of Financial Research, Department of the Treasury.
Carol Moseley Braun: To be a Member of the Board of Directors of the African Development Foundation.
Cristal C. Brisco: To be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Indiana.
Derek H. Chollet: To be Under Secretary of Defense for Policy.
Melissa Griffin Dalton: To be Under Secretary of the Air Force.
Melissa Damian: To be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Florida.
Hampton Y. Dellinger: To be Special Counsel, Office of Special Counsel.
Jennifer D. Gavito: To be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the State of Libya.
Rebecca Lee Haffajee: To be an Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services.
Cathy Ann Harris: To be Chairman of the Merit Systems Protection Board.
Jon M. Holladay: To be Chief Financial Officer, Department of Agriculture.
Mustafa Taher Kasubhai: To be United States District Judge for the District of Oregon.
Ronald T. Keohane: To be an Assistant Secretary of Defense.
Henry J. Kerner: To be a Member of the Merit Systems Protection Board.
Edward Sunyol Kiel: To be United States District Judge for the District of New Jersey.
Colleen Duffy Kiko: To be a Member of the Federal Labor Relations Authority.
Joshua Paul Kolar: To be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.
Joseph Albert Laroski, Jr.: To be a Judge of the United States Court of International Trade.
Eumi K. Lee: To be United States District Judge for the Northern District of California.
David Seymour Leibowitz: To be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Florida.
Gretchen S. Lund: To be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Indiana.
Adeel Abdullah Mangi: To be United States Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit.
Ramona Villagomez Manglona: To be Judge for the District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands.
Vivek Hallegere Murthy: To be Representative of the United States on the Executive Board of the World Health Organization.
Jeff Rezmovic: To be Chief Financial Officer, Department of Homeland Security.
Deborah Robinson: To be Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator, Executive Office of the President.
Marjorie A. Rollinson: To be Chief Counsel for the Internal Revenue Service and an Assistant General Counsel in the Department of the Treasury.
Sarah French Russell: To be United States District Judge for the District of Connecticut.
Dorothy Camille Shea: To be Representative of the United States of America to the Sessions of the General Assembly of the United Nations and Deputy Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations.
Kirk Edward Sherriff: To be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of California.
Elizabeth Shortino: To be United States Executive Director of the International Monetary Fund.
Vanesa Soledad Simon: To be a Member of the National Council on the Arts.
Julie Simone Sneed: To be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Florida.
Julie A. Su: To be Secretary of Labor.
Suzanne Elizabeth Summerlin: To be General Counsel of the Federal Labor Relations Authority.
Lisa W. Wang: To be a Judge of the United States Court of International Trade.
Richard L.A. Weiner: To be United States Director of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
Erik John Woodhouse: To be Head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination.
Janet Louise Yellen: To be United States Governor of the Inter-American Development Bank, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the International Monetary Fund, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

President Biden delivered a speech at the Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, covering a range of topics. He expressed appreciation for the warm welcome, reflected on the community’s resilience, and acknowledged the church’s significant role in both joyful and painful moments.

Addressing the tragic events of June 17, 2015, when a hate crime claimed nine lives in the church, the President highlighted the remarkable forgiveness and grace demonstrated by the congregation. He credited the community for removing the Confederate flag in South Carolina and condemned the harmful influence of white supremacy.

The President delved into various policy matters, including the importance of accessible healthcare, efforts to lower prescription drug prices, and the necessity of addressing racial and economic disparities. He committed to advancing gun control measures, with a focus on banning assault weapons and implementing universal background checks.

The speech extended to broader themes of democracy, truth, and national challenges, including the aftermath of the January 6th Capitol attack. President Biden stressed the rejection of political violence and the imperative for equal justice under the law.

Highlighting his administration’s achievements, such as groundbreaking appointments and initiatives targeting racial and economic inequalities, the President concluded by invoking the nation’s guiding principle – the belief that all individuals are created equal and deserve fair treatment.

The audience expressed support and enthusiasm, chanting, “Four more years,” and the President concluded with a call for unity and a blessing for the nation and its troops.

The White House In Action: January 5

Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, January 5, 2024

President Biden delivered his first speech of his presidential re-election campaign, emphasizing the importance of democracy and the challenges it faces. He drew parallels with the historic struggles of the Continental Army at Valley Forge and highlighted the resilience of American democracy. The speech addressed the events of January 6, 2021, when the Capitol was attacked, and Biden criticized Donald Trump’s role in inciting the violence. He condemned Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results and stressed the significance of defending democracy in the face of ongoing threats. Biden called for unity, emphasizing the need to uphold democratic values and reject political violence. The speech outlined the contrast between Trump’s approach, focused on personal gain, and Biden’s commitment to preserving and strengthening American democracy. Biden also touched on foreign relations, warning against the erosion of democratic principles seen in other countries. The president expressed optimism about the future, urging citizens to remember the nation’s strength and capacity to overcome challenges together.

In his statement on the December Jobs Report, President Joe Biden celebrates the positive economic trends in 2023, citing the creation of 2.7 million new jobs and consistently low unemployment rates below 4 percent throughout the year. Despite these achievements, the President acknowledges the challenge of high prices for certain goods and services. He underscores his commitment to ongoing efforts aimed at reducing everyday costs for Americans, including lowering prices for insulin, prescription drugs, and energy, addressing hidden fees, and urging corporations to pass on savings to consumers. Furthermore, President Biden expresses his determination to resist Republican initiatives that could adversely affect Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security while advocating for policies that benefit American workers and families.

President Biden announced a significant achievement in the battle against gun violence, citing the success of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act in preventing over 500 illegal gun purchases by individuals under 21 through enhanced background checks. The legislation is credited with keeping firearms out of the hands of young people with criminal histories or identified as potential threats. Biden underscores the positive outcomes, including the prevention of suicides, domestic violence, and mass shootings, and highlights the legislation’s contribution to his broader public safety plan. He notes a notable decrease in crime in 2023 and expresses pride in his extensive executive actions against gun violence. Additionally, Biden calls for further legislative measures, such as universal background checks, assault weapons bans, and a national red flag law, to address the ongoing epidemic and prevent more empty seats around family tables.

In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate, President Biden detailed recent military engagements in accordance with the War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148). The President justified the use of military force by highlighting the imperative to safeguard U.S. citizens and national security interests, asserting constitutional authority as the Commander in Chief, and citing the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force and the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq. Emphasis was placed on the operation’s adherence to international law, notably Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. President Biden conveyed preparedness for subsequent actions if deemed necessary, including the provision of additional classified information in an attached annex. The letter concluded with the President expressing appreciation for the support of Congress.

The President issued a statement expressing concern and disapproval of Idaho’s Supreme Court’s decision to reinstate that state’s abortion ban. He contended that the stringent abortion restrictions stemming from the reversal of Roe v. Wade put women’s well-being at risk, compelling them to seek healthcare in other states and impeding doctors from delivering vital services. The President stressed the importance of healthcare choices being a private matter between women and their physicians rather than being influenced by political figures. He committed to safeguarding women’s access to emergency care as mandated by federal law and urged Congress to swiftly reinstate the safeguards provided by Roe v. Wade, ensuring widespread access to essential healthcare services for women across the nation.

The White House In Action: January 4

Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, January 4, 2024

National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard issued an update on the CHIPS & Science Act. President Biden announced in August 2022 that the legislation aims to restore America’s leadership in semiconductor manufacturing, ensuring reliable chip access for consumers, businesses, and the military. Addressing global supply chain challenges and semiconductor shortages during the pandemic, the Department of Commerce announced a preliminary memorandum outlining a $162 million award to Microchip Technology, a key player in semiconductor fabrication. This investment, coupled with private funding, is expected to triple production, generate over 700 jobs, and advance domestic semiconductor manufacturing goals. The Biden-Harris administration views this as crucial in fortifying technology supply chains, job creation, and national security.

A background press call on January 3rd was released today and delved into recent Red Sea attacks by Houthi rebels. A senior administration official detailed the attacks, the coalition’s response, diplomatic efforts, and the global impact. Highlights included the use of anti-ship ballistic missiles, the establishment of Operation Prosperity Guardian, and a joint statement by 13 countries condemning Houthi actions. Emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the need to protect international shipping lanes, the official outlined the coalition’s commitment to a diplomatic resolution while maintaining a robust deterrent posture in the region. The call also addressed questions on rules of engagement, private warnings to the Houthis, Iranian support for them, and the broader regional context, encompassing events related to Hezbollah and the Yemeni civil war.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan extended congratulations to Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah on his appointment as Prime Minister of Kuwait by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The statement underscored the enduring U.S.-Kuwait relationship, emphasizing their Major Non-NATO Ally status. Sullivan pledged commitment to strengthening economic, cultural, political, security, and people-to-people ties, highlighting the significance of their historic partnership in addressing shared challenges and fostering a more prosperous future.

Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby conducted a press briefing addressing the tragic school shooting at Perry Middle and High School in Iowa. The President extended condolences and called for increased action to combat gun violence. The briefing also revealed Russia’s involvement in the conflict in Ukraine, disclosing that North Korea supplied ballistic missile launchers and missiles to Russia. The U.S. government outlined steps, including raising the issue at the U.N. Security Council, imposing additional sanctions, and seeking support from Congress to provide Ukraine with necessary military equipment. Mr. Kirby and Ms. Jean-Pierre then fielded questions from the press.

The White House In Action: January 3

Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, January 3, 2024

A joint statement from the governments of the United States, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, and the United Kingdom condemns Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea. Referencing global consensus and a UN Security Council statement, the nations warn the Houthis against further attacks, declaring them illegal, unacceptable, and destabilizing. The attacks, involving missiles, small boats, and attempted hijackings, pose a direct threat to global trade and the freedom of navigation. The statement calls for an immediate end to these illegal actions, the release of detained vessels and crews, and warns of consequences if the attacks persist. The signatory nations express commitment to the international rules-based order and emphasize their determination to hold malign actors accountable for unlawful seizures and attacks.

The first press briefing of the new year took place in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room and covered various topics. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre highlighted the imminent government shutdown, criticizing House Republicans for prioritizing baseless impeachment stunts instead of addressing crucial issues.

Admiral John Kirby then discussed recent attacks by the Houthis in the Middle East, emphasizing U.S. efforts to work with partners, defend Israel, and maintain a significant military presence in the region. The U.S. condemns Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, releasing a joint statement with 13 nations to hold malign actors accountable. They both answered questions from the press.