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).
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.
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.
