Category: Press Releases

The White House In Action: January 22

Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, January 22, 2024

President Biden commemorated the 51st Anniversary of Roe v. Wade, noting the Supreme Court’s recognition of a woman’s constitutional right to make personal decisions about her health. He expressed concern over the Court’s decision a year and a half ago to overturn Roe, leading to restrictive abortion bans in several states. Biden criticized Republican officials for endangering women’s health and lives, citing instances of denied emergency care and the need for court permission for medical attention. He asserted his commitment, along with Vice President Harris, to safeguard women’s reproductive freedom and urged Congress to reinstate Roe’s protections in federal law.

The White House Task Force on Reproductive Healthcare Access has announced new actions on the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade. The Biden-Harris Administration aims to strengthen access to contraception, protect access to medication abortion, and ensure patients receive emergency medical care. The task force will address ongoing implementation of executive orders and a presidential memorandum. The actions include:

  1. Strengthening Contraception Access: New guidance from the Departments of Treasury, Labor, and HHS to expand coverage of FDA-approved contraceptives at no cost under the Affordable Care Act. The Office of Personnel Management will also enhance contraception access for federal workers.
  2. Reinforcing Obligations to Cover Contraception: HHS will issue a letter to private health insurers, Medicaid, and Medicare plans, emphasizing their obligations to cover contraception. This includes actions to improve payment for contraceptives for Medicare beneficiaries.
  3. Educating on Emergency Medical Care: A comprehensive plan to educate patients and healthcare providers on their rights and obligations for emergency medical care, including abortion care when necessary.
  4. Protecting Access to Medication Abortion: Departments of HHS, Justice, and Homeland Security will report on the implementation of a Presidential Memorandum supporting legal access to medication abortion.

The administration also highlights previous efforts, such as defending FDA approval of medication abortion, supporting abortion access in court, partnering with state leaders, ensuring access to emergency medical care, providing reproductive health care for veterans, and supporting service members’ access to reproductive health care.

The actions aim to counter challenges posed by state abortion bans and uphold reproductive rights. The administration emphasizes defending access to abortion, promoting contraception access, safeguarding patient privacy, reinforcing nondiscrimination protections, and providing accurate information and legal resources. Additionally, efforts to promote research and data collection on the impact of overturning Roe v. Wade are underway.

President Biden expressed his condolences and mourning for the tragic deaths of two U.S. Navy SEALs who were lost at sea during a mission off the coast of East Africa. The statement acknowledges the extensive search and rescue mission conducted by the United States military over ten days. Recovery efforts are ongoing as the nation grieves the loss of these SEALs, described as representing the best of the country and dedicated to protecting fellow Americans. President Biden extends sympathy to the families, loved ones, friends, and shipmates of the deceased SEALs, emphasizing the country’s solidarity with them and the commitment to honoring the service, legacy, and sacrifice of the fallen soldiers.

National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard delivered remarks at The Brookings Institution, focusing on place-based growth as a key element of economic development. The speech highlighted the importance of uplifting communities for overall economic growth and contrasted this approach with trickle-down economics, resulting in widening inequality and deteriorating infrastructure.

Brainard discussed the challenges faced by communities, such as the loss of manufacturing jobs and the impact of the China Shock. The speech emphasized the Biden administration’s commitment to a bottom-up, middle-out economic approach to invest in and revitalize communities left behind by previous policies.

Key points of the economic agenda include:

  1. Investing in Local Infrastructure: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) aims to create strong economic foundations by investing in local infrastructure, including high-speed internet, roads, bridges, airports, ports, and rail.
  2. Unlocking Private Investment: Special incentives, such as tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), are designed to encourage private investment in communities that suffer from disinvestment, particularly in clean energy manufacturing.
  3. Connecting Neighborhoods to Opportunity: Programs like the Department of Transportation’s Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program and the Department of Commerce’s Recompete focus on connecting left-behind communities to nearby areas of economic opportunity.
  4. Multiplying Innovation Clusters: Efforts like the CHIPS and Science Act Regional Technology and Innovation Hub Program support science and innovation clusters nationwide, aiming to distribute growth beyond major metro areas.
  5. Communities in the Lead: Many programs are designed to prioritize local community engagement and ownership, encouraging communities to form coalitions for competitive grant-based programs.
  6. Stacking Federal Resources: The whole-of-government approach involves stacking investments to provide comprehensive support for workers, small businesses, and new industries, creating a synergistic effect.

The speech highlighted success stories in places like Allentown, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where targeted investments have led to economic growth, increased small business applications, and improved employment outcomes. The overall message is that the administration’s approach is contributing to the comeback of previously left-behind communities.

President Biden had a conversation via telephone with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, addressing Iranian-backed Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to freedom of navigation and the defense of mariners against unjustifiable attacks. They also discussed the need for increased humanitarian aid in Gaza, civilian protections, and efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Furthermore, the leaders reiterated their support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s continuing aggression.

President Biden spoke before a meeting with his task force on reproductive healthcare access, addressing the impact of recent changes in abortion laws. He emphasized the importance of protecting a woman’s right to choose, expressing disagreement with the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade. Biden highlighted instances where women faced obstacles in accessing healthcare due to restrictive laws, including having to travel long distances and facing legal battles. He criticized extreme Republican proposals for additional abortion bans and emphasized the need for a nationwide law codifying Roe v. Wade. The President outlined his administration’s actions to support women’s healthcare and privacy, including creating a task force. He urged Americans to voice their concerns and emphasized the ongoing fight to reinstate reproductive rights.

President Biden’s Special Advisor for the Americas, Christopher Dodd, and SOUTHCOM Commander, General Laura Richardson, recently met with Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa and other senior government officials. The discussions centered around U.S. support for Ecuador in response to a surge in violence, emphasizing a commitment to democratic values and the rule of law. The focus areas for bilateral cooperation include security, counter-drug efforts, migration, and economic development.

As part of the support, the United States is facilitating the delivery of over 20,000 bulletproof vests and more than $1 million worth of security and emergency response equipment. The FBI will increase personnel in Ecuador to assist the National Police and Attorney General’s Office, while the Department of Homeland Security will deploy personnel for police and prosecutor training, digital forensics, and analysis targeting criminal networks. USAID is enhancing support for municipal security programs, including crisis communications. The initiative aligns with the Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity launched by President Biden in June 2022, aiming to provide economic opportunities in Ecuador and address the root causes of insecurity, criminality, and migration.

The White House In Action: January 19

Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, January 19, 2024

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced new actions aimed at reducing electric vehicle (EV) costs for Americans and expanding the EV charging network in the United States. Since President Biden took office, EV sales have quadrupled, with over four and a half million EVs on the road. The administration has made progress in making EV ownership more affordable, with prices down over 20% from a year ago. There has also been a significant increase in publicly available charging ports.

To further these efforts, the Department of Treasury and the Department of Energy are releasing definitions for eligible census tracts, confirming the availability of a 30C EV charging tax credit to about two-thirds of Americans. This tax credit provides up to 30% off the charger cost for individuals and businesses in low-income communities, encouraging the installation of EV charging infrastructure.

The Departments of Transportation and Energy are announcing $325 million in new investments to enhance the reliability and resilience of publicly accessible chargers, advance EV technologies, and support workforce development for EV charging deployment and maintenance. This includes repairing and replacing non-operational chargers, reducing costs for deploying charging in underserved communities, and cutting battery costs.

The administration’s historic investments in EV technologies have also spurred private companies to invest in the U.S. EV charging network. Over $25 billion in investment, including $10 billion from the private sector, has been announced. The U.S. EV charging manufacturing footprint has grown significantly under President Biden’s leadership.

Despite these efforts, the administration highlights opposition from Republicans in Congress, who are attempting to pass a measure that would eliminate domestic manufacturing standards for EV chargers. The President has pledged to veto this resolution.

The announcement also includes details on lower costs for installing EV chargers, strengthening the foundation for the EV charging industry, increasing EV charging reliability and accessibility, advancing EV technologies through research and development, opening federally funded EV charging stations, delivering grants for school districts to purchase clean buses, and deploying chargers in communities to fill gaps in the national network. The overall goal is to make EVs more affordable and accessible while supporting American workers and families.

The Biden Administration has approved the cancellation of nearly $5 billion in student debt for 74,000 borrowers nationwide. This brings the total number of individuals who have had their student debt canceled under Biden’s Administration to over 3.7 million. Among the approved borrowers, around 44,000 are teachers, nurses, firefighters, and others who earned forgiveness after 10 years of public service, while nearly 30,000 have been in repayment for at least 20 years without relief through income-driven repayment plans. The Administration attributes its ability to provide relief to fixes made to broken student loan programs. The announcement builds upon previous achievements, such as increased Pell Grants, improvements to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, and the creation of the SAVE plan, the most generous Income-Driven Repayment plan in history. Borrowers can apply at studentaid.gov, and alternative paths are being pursued for broader student debt relief following a Supreme Court decision. President Biden emphasizes his commitment to improving the student loan system for greater opportunity and prosperity, pledging to use all available tools to relieve borrowers.

The President signed into law:

H.R. 2872, the “Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024,” provides fiscal year 2024 appropriations to Federal agencies for continuing projects and activities funded in four of the 12 annual appropriations bills through March 1, 2024. The CR provides funding through March 8, 2024, for the remaining eight annual appropriations bills.

President Biden spoke by telephone with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, addressing ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. They discussed the situation in Gaza, emphasizing targeted operations to allow increased humanitarian assistance while maintaining military pressure on Hamas. The President welcomed Israel’s decision to permit the shipment of flour for Palestinians through Ashdod port and explored options for direct maritime delivery to Gaza. They also discussed progress in ensuring Palestinian Authority revenues for salaries and emphasized Israel’s responsibility to minimize civilian harm. The President shared his vision for durable peace, regional integration, and a two-state solution with Israel’s security guaranteed.

President Biden has announced a Presidential Delegation to attend the Inauguration of Joseph Boakai in Liberia on January 22, 2024. Led by Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Representative of the United States to the UN, the delegation includes Catherine Rodriguez, Stephen K. Benjamin, Isobel Coleman, and Judd Devermont in various roles.

The White House held a roundtable on supporting survivors of stalking during National Stalking Awareness Month. Jennifer Klein, Catherine Powell, and Rosie Hidalgo from the Biden-Harris Administration met with stalking survivors to gather experiences and recommendations. Stalking affects a significant number of individuals, with discussions emphasizing the impact of technology on stalking. Participants addressed the Administration’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and stalking through initiatives like the U.S. National Plan to End Gender-Based Violence and the White House Task Force on Online Harassment. The focus was on supporting survivors through increased access to training, resources, justice, and safety.

In a press briefing held in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room at The White House, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre highlighted evidence of President Biden’s economic plan delivering positive results, such as increased consumer sentiment and significant economic improvements. President Biden signed a continuing resolution to prevent a government shutdown, and the administration announced the cancellation of student debt for 74,000 borrowers. The briefing also covered the President’s meeting with mayors to discuss investments in infrastructure and other key issues.

Additionally, NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby provided information on President Biden’s call with Prime Minister Netanyahu, addressing efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, the situation in Gaza, and ongoing operations. The President emphasized the need for Israel to reduce civilian harm and protect civilians while maintaining military pressure on Hamas. Admiral Kirby also mentioned U.S. self-defense strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.

Ms. Jean-Pierre and Admiral Kirby then fielded questions from reporters.

The White House In Action: January 18

Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, January 18, 2024

The United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea have launched a trilateral quantum partnership involving the University of Tokyo, Seoul National University, and the University of Chicago. The collaboration aims to train a quantum workforce and enhance collective competitiveness in the global economy. National Security Advisors from the three nations congratulate the universities for this initiative, emphasizing its significance in advancing scientific cooperation. This partnership builds on a Trilateral Framework signed in December, showcasing a commitment to trilateral cooperation in various domains. The collaboration reflects a shared purpose to leverage the strengths of leading academic institutions for progress in quantum research and technology, aligning with the nations’ focus on innovation and development.

President Biden announced $82 million in new investments from the American Rescue Plan’s Capital Projects Fund to connect an additional 16,000 homes and businesses in North Carolina to high-speed internet. This was part of the administration’s broader initiative to invest over $3 billion in North Carolina, aiming to lower costs and expand internet access. The investments supported job creation in manufacturing and construction, focusing on Made-in-America fiber-optic cable production. The Affordable Connectivity Program had already saved 885,000 households in North Carolina money on their internet bills. The Biden-Harris Administration addressed the digital divide, with a goal to connect all remaining homes, businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and libraries in North Carolina to high-speed internet by the end of 2029. Private sector investments in fiber manufacturing were also highlighted, contributing to job growth. President Biden discussed progress towards the 2030 goal of connecting every American to high-speed internet, emphasizing historic investments and manufacturing capacity expansion. The Affordable Connectivity Program had resulted in savings for over 22 million households nationwide.

President Joe Biden issued a statement in response to the Justice Department’s report on the Uvalde School Shooting. The report highlighted failures in establishing a clear command structure, recognizing the incident as an active shooter situation, and the need for detailed plans in the school district. Biden expressed a commitment to implementing policy changes with the Justice Department and Department of Education to enhance responses to future incidents. He acknowledged the pain of the Uvalde community and praised their advocacy for the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. Biden urged Congress to pass gun safety laws, including universal background checks, a national red flag law, and a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, emphasizing the need to prevent mass shootings.

President Biden made remarks before departing on Marine One. Here is a summary of the key points:

  1. Iran-Pakistan Attacks: President Biden acknowledged tensions between Iran and Pakistan, stating that Iran is not well-liked in the region. He mentioned ongoing efforts to address the situation.
  2. Meeting and Border Agreement: He described the previous day’s meeting as going well and stated that there are no remaining sticking points in the border agreement discussions.
  3. Airstrikes in Yemen: President Biden noted that airstrikes in Yemen are not stopping the Houthis but acknowledged that they are expected to continue.
  4. Aid for Ukraine: He expressed confidence in the majority of Congress supporting aid for Ukraine and voiced concern about a potential minority holding it up.
  5. Arab American Votes: Responding to a question about Arab American votes, he highlighted the former President’s proposed ban on Arabs entering the country and emphasized the ongoing efforts to address the situation in Gaza.
  6. Iowa and Election: President Biden downplayed the significance of Iowa in the election and responded to a question about Arab American votes, expressing a commitment to understanding and addressing the concerns of the Arab population.
  7. March for Life: He acknowledged the upcoming March for Life in Washington, D.C., and simply said, “March.”
  8. Inflation: President Biden did not provide a specific timeline for when prices might come down in response to a question about inflation.
  9. Uvalde Shooting Report: He mentioned that a report on the Uvalde shooting would be released that day, expressed a commitment to implementing Justice Department recommendations, and stated that he had not read the full report.
  10. Briefing on Uvalde Shooting: President Biden indicated that he was briefed by his staff on the Uvalde shooting report and thanked the press before departing.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan held a meeting with Nigerian National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to discuss bilateral security cooperation, counterterrorism efforts in West Africa, and the importance of human rights, democratic institutions, and good governance. Sullivan reaffirmed President Biden’s commitment to Africa, emphasized the strong U.S.-Nigerian relationship, and praised Nigeria’s leadership of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). They identified shared interests in supporting peace and stability in countries undergoing political transitions, expressing a commitment to close coordination and deepening the partnership for mutual benefit.

President Biden has announced key appointments to various boards and commissions. The appointees and their roles are as follows:

  1. Doreen Patricia Greenwald
    • Role: Member, Federal Salary Council
    • Background: Elected National President of the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) in August 2023. With 35 years of federal service, she previously worked at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
  2. Juan A. Sabater
    • Role: Member, Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico
    • Background: Partner and Co-President of Valor Equity Partners. Sabater has a diverse background in private equity, investment banking, and leadership roles in various organizations, including charitable and professional boards.
  3. Timothy D. Murray
    • Role: Member, National Museum and Library Services Board
    • Background: Served as a Special Collections Librarian for over 40 years, specializing in 20th-century literary collections. Actively involved in library and archival associations, he was inducted as a fellow of the Society of American Archivists in 2011.
  4. Gregory C. Simon
    • Role: Member, President’s Commission on White House Fellowships
    • Background: Started government service as General Counsel and Staff Director of the House Science, Space and Technology Subcommittee. Served as Vice President Biden’s Chief Domestic Policy Advisor and later as Executive Director of the White House Cancer Moonshot Task Force.
  5. Daniel Mathews
    • Role: Member, Public Buildings Reform Board
    • Background: Currently President of Mathews Associates LLC, advising companies on real estate issues. Previously served as Commissioner of the U.S. General Services Administration’s Public Buildings Service and Staff Director of the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Economic Development.

These appointments cover a range of expertise and experience, contributing to advisory roles in areas such as federal employee pay, financial oversight for Puerto Rico, museum and library services, White House fellowships, and public buildings reform.

In a press gaggle on board Air Force One en route to Morrisville, North Carolina, Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton and NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby discussed President Biden’s upcoming announcement of $82 million in investments from the American Rescue Plan’s Capital Project Fund to expand high-speed Internet access in North Carolina. They highlighted the significance for rural areas, the economic impact, and the involvement of local fiber-optic cable production. Additionally, John Kirby provided updates on U.S. actions in response to Houthi missile threats, tensions between Pakistan and Iran, and a meeting with families of American hostages held by Hamas. The discussion also touched on issues like the Israel-Palestine conflict, Iraq, and border talks. The press secretary addressed concerns about former President Trump’s influence on border negotiations and emphasized the urgency of aid to Ukraine. The briefing concluded with remarks on electric vehicles, a DOJ report on the Uvalde shooting, and the status of congressional talks.

President Biden delivered remarks in Raleigh, North Carolina, at the Abbott’s Creek Community Center. He discussed the importance of investing in America and highlighted progress in various areas, including the expansion of high-speed internet access. The President mentioned the Rural Electrification Act from the 1930s and drew parallels to the current need for affordable high-speed internet, emphasizing its necessity in today’s world. Biden outlined actions taken, such as the American Rescue Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to invest in high-speed internet infrastructure.

He announced additional investments, including $82 million to connect 16,000 homes and businesses in North Carolina with high-speed internet. The President reiterated the goal of achieving universal high-speed internet access in the state by the end of the decade. Biden also discussed the Affordable Connectivity Program, aimed at reducing internet prices for those struggling with payments.

The President highlighted job creation through infrastructure projects, including the manufacturing of fiber-optic cable by American companies like CommScope and Corning. He emphasized the importance of bringing manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. and mentioned the positive economic indicators during his presidency, such as job creation, low unemployment rates, and private investments.

Biden touched on various infrastructure projects in North Carolina, including a new rail line and the replacement of the Alligator River Bridge. He discussed the positive impact of these projects on job creation, travel efficiency, and economic growth.

The President criticized trickle-down economics and expressed his commitment to building the economy from the middle class outwards. He called for fair taxation, mentioning the low tax rates of billionaires and the need for them to pay their fair share.

Biden concluded by expressing optimism about America’s prospects and praised the efforts of American workers and communities in bringing about positive change. He thanked the audience, emphasized the resilience of the United States throughout crises, and concluded with blessings for the audience and protection for the troops.

The White House In Action: January 17

Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, January 17, 2024

President Biden announced new actions aimed at curbing overdraft fees imposed by banks. The proposed rule is designed to end excessive overdraft charges, which can take a significant toll on hardworking families. The President criticized the practice of banks charging exorbitant fees, often impacting vulnerable Americans the most, while benefiting the banks’ financial interests. The proposal seeks to cut the average overdraft fee by more than half, potentially saving the typical American family $150 per year and totaling $3.5 billion in annual savings for families. President Biden emphasized this initiative as part of a broader plan to reduce costs for hardworking families and counteract Republican support for what he views as exploitative fees.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan issued a statement regarding the terrorist designation of the Houthi group in Yemen. The decision comes in response to the group’s attacks on U.S. military forces and international vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which are deemed as acts of terrorism. The designation aims to impede terrorist funding to the Houthis, restrict their access to financial markets, and hold them accountable. The United States emphasizes that the designation will be reevaluated if Houthi attacks cease, and it will take effect in 30 days with humanitarian carve-outs to mitigate impacts on the people of Yemen. The statement also assures that commercial shipments for food, medicine, and fuel to Yemeni ports will continue unaffected by sanctions, reiterating the commitment to protecting people and international commerce.

The Biden-Harris Administration has introduced the Improving Student Achievement Agenda for 2024, focusing on evidence-based strategies to enhance academic performance. The key strategies include increasing student attendance, providing high-dosage tutoring, and expanding summer learning and extended/afterschool programs. The administration encourages states to commit to these strategies and emphasizes compliance with the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Technical assistance, guidance, and continued funding from pandemic relief sources are outlined to support these efforts. The National Partnership for Student Success (NPSS) is promoted, and several organizations commit to philanthropic support. The administration underscores its historic investments, including $130 billion from the American Rescue Plan, to address challenges posed by COVID-19 and support students’ academic and mental health needs. The agenda aims to accelerate learning recovery, address achievement gaps, and provide comprehensive support for students’ academic success.

President Biden held a meeting with Congressional leaders and key committee members to address the pressing need for continued support to Ukraine in the face of Russia’s invasion. The President emphasized the importance of providing Ukraine with necessary resources, such as air defense and artillery capabilities, to defend itself. He underscored the strategic consequences of inaction, stating that the failure of Congress to act jeopardizes U.S. national security, the NATO Alliance, and the global community. President Biden urged Congress to promptly allocate additional funding for Ukraine, emphasizing the need for a strong signal of U.S. resolve. Additionally, he highlighted the need for swift action on border challenges and expressed optimism about bipartisan negotiations in the Senate. The President called on Congress to pass his national security supplemental swiftly.

President Biden has announced the formation of a Presidential Delegation to attend the Inauguration of Her Excellency Hilda Heine in the Republic of the Marshall Islands on January 22, 2024. The delegation, led by Chantale Wong, United States Executive Director of the Asia Development Bank, includes Henry Hand (Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., U.S. Embassy Majuro), Erika Moritsugu (Deputy Assistant to the President and Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Senior Liaison at The White House), and Carmen G. Cantor (Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs, Department of the Interior).

President Biden And DNC Close Out 2023 Raising Nearly $100 Million

Historic Fundraising Haul Sets Pace For Upcoming Presidential Election

President Joe Biden and the Democratic National Committee reported a fundraising success, raising over $97 million in the final three months of the previous year. The campaign’s total funds since its April launch until the end of 2023 amounted to $235 million, with $117 million in cash on hand, the highest for any Democratic candidate at this stage. The quarter saw contributions from more than 520,000 donors.

Biden’s campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, emphasized the significance of grassroots enthusiasm and the message that the American people understand the crucial stakes for democracy in the 2024 election. Biden has consistently focused on defending democracy in his reelection bid, expressing concerns about Donald Trump and the “Make America Great Again” movement. As the GOP primary begins, with Trump as the early front-runner, the Biden campaign noted significant financial commitments from Trump and other primary competitors, including a $100 million advertising expenditure in Iowa alone.

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.

The White House In Action: December 26

Significant Actions, December 26, 2023

President Biden signed into law several bills:

  1. H.R. 1722, the “Grand Ronde Reservation Act Amendment of 2023”: This amendment clarifies that the land claim settlement under the Grand Ronde Reservation Act extinguishes the Tribe’s claims for a specified parcel of land.
  2. H.R. 2839: This bill amends the Siletz Reservation Act to define the Tribe’s hunting, fishing, trapping, and gathering rights.
  3. H.R. 6503, the “Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2023, Part II”: This legislation extends Federal Aviation Administration authorities and related revenue authorities through March 8, 2024.

President Biden spoke with Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar, discussing efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, including American citizens. They also talked about facilitating increased and sustained humanitarian aid flows into Gaza.

 

The White House In Action: December 23-25 2023

Significant Actions, December 23-25 2023

  1. First Lady Jill Biden at Fort Campbell, KY:
    • Expressed gratitude and solidarity with military families during a holiday celebration.
    • Acknowledged sacrifices and resilience of military families.
    • Recognized Major Quiros and others for their service.
    • Thanked organizations like Armed Services YMCA, Toys for Tots, and Mission Barbeque for contributions.
    • Emphasized the importance of seeking and accepting help.
    • Conveyed the Bidens’ support for the military community.
    • Brought Santa as a special guest to lift spirits.
  2. President Biden’s Call with Prime Minister Netanyahu:
    • Discussed Israel’s military activities in Gaza, focusing on goals and progression.
    • Emphasized the necessity of safeguarding civilians and enabling safe relocation.
    • Discussed securing the release of remaining hostages.
    • Agreed to uphold regular communication between the two leaders.
  3. President Biden’s Declaration of Disaster in Utah:
    • Authorized Federal assistance for flood-impacted regions from May 1 to May 27, 2023.
    • Federal financial support for emergency interventions, facility restoration, and hazard mitigation.
    • Jon K. Huss from FEMA designated to coordinate Federal recovery operations.
  4. President Biden’s Press Interaction:
    • Answered questions before boarding Marine One on December 23, 2023.
    • Discussed a private conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.
    • Expressed optimism about the economy and urged accurate reporting.
    • Addressed questions about presidential immunity, ceasefire request, and Africa collaboration.
    • Wished everyone a Merry Christmas.
  5. Biden Family Christmas Plans:
    • President Biden, with family, chose Camp David for Christmas holiday.
    • First Lady Jill Biden joined the family after visiting military families.
    • Spent Christmas Day speaking with military personnel as part of an annual tradition.
    • Scheduled to return to Washington on Tuesday and celebrate New Year’s in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands.
  6.  Drone Targets Military Personnel In Iraq:
  • Casualties:
    • Three U.S. service-members were wounded in the attack.
    • One service-member is in critical condition.
  • Claim of Responsibility:
    • Kataib Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militia, claimed responsibility for the attack.
  • Presidential Response:
    • President Biden was briefed on the situation.
    • He ordered the Department of Defense to prepare response options.
  • Counterstrikes:
    • Strikes were directed against three locations associated with Kataib Hezbollah’s unmanned aerial drone activities.
  • Priority of Protection:
    • The President emphasized the priority of protecting American personnel.
  • Warning and Future Action:
    • President Biden warned of further U.S. action if such attacks persist.

Bidens To Spend Holidays At Camp David, St Croix

December 24, 2023

U.S. President Joe Biden and his family, including daughter Ashley Biden,

President and First Lady Biden visit Children's National Hospital in Washington DC
President and First Lady Biden visit Children’s National Hospital in Washington DC

son Hunter Biden, and grandson Beau Biden, have gone to Camp David for the Christmas holiday.

The Biden’s visited the Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. earlier, continuing a tradition First Lady Bess Truman started over 70 years ago.

First lady Jill Biden spent part of the day at Fort Campbell in Kentucky on Saturday, December 23rd, participating in a holiday celebration with local military families and volunteers. She later joined the rest of the family at Camp David. Continue reading “Bidens To Spend Holidays At Camp David, St Croix”

President Biden and First Gentleman Doug Emhoff Host Hanukkah Ceremony At The White House

December 11, 2023

President Joe Biden hosted a White House gathering on Monday evening to

President Joe Biden and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff host Hanukkah ceremony at The White House December 11, 2023
President Joe Biden and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff host Hanukkah ceremony at The White House

observe Hanukkah, commemorating the festival of lights. During the event, he reiterated his condemnation of the increasing antisemitism in the United States and worldwide, particularly in the context of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Joined by the first lady, Jill Biden, and second gentleman, Doug Emhoff, the reception included around 800 guests, such as Holocaust survivors, members of Congress, state and local officials, entertainers, and leaders from various Jewish denominations. Continue reading “President Biden and First Gentleman Doug Emhoff Host Hanukkah Ceremony At The White House”