Significant Actions By The Biden Administration, December 28, 2023
President Biden offered his condolences on the passing of former U.S. Senator Herb Kohl, describing him as one of the most outstanding individuals he has served with. Biden highlighted Kohl’s character, integrity, and dedication to public service, emphasizing his role as a successful businessman who epitomized the American Dream. The President acknowledged Kohl’s contributions as the owner of the Milwaukee Bucks, his Senate work, and their joint efforts on issues such as gun safety, community policing, and juvenile justice. Biden praised Kohl’s advocacy for workers, farmers, and various social issues, underscoring his humility and commitment to the common good. The President extended condolences to Kohl’s family, friends, and the people of Wisconsin, portraying Herb Kohl as an embodiment of the finest American qualities.
President Biden has issued a proclamation adjusting imports of steel into the United States. The proclamation extends the tariff-rate quota for steel imports from the European Union (EU) until December 31, 2025, based on successful discussions and actions addressing national security concerns. Specific volumes of eligible steel articles from the EU are excluded from tariffs, subject to quotas and certain conditions. Ongoing U.S.-EU discussions aim to tackle excess capacity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the steel industry. The proclamation emphasizes the President’s authority to adjust tariffs based on national security considerations and outlines modifications to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). It also specifies the renewal of exclusions for certain steel products from the EU, with a focus on monitoring and revisiting determinations as needed. The proclamation seeks a balanced approach to steel imports, taking into account trade relationships and domestic industry interests.
President Biden has issued a proclamation adjusting aluminum imports into the United States based on Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. The proclamation reflects ongoing discussions with the European Union (EU) concerning aluminum imports and outlines measures to address national security concerns. In coordination with the EU, the President has established a tariff-rate quota restricting aluminum imports from the EU, with specified volumes of eligible aluminum articles excluded from tariffs until December 31, 2025. The agreement with the EU includes actions to address non-market excess capacity and reduce carbon intensity. The proclamation also underscores ongoing efforts to reach global steel and aluminum arrangements. These adjustments align with the original investigation’s recommendations, aiming to support the domestic aluminum industry while strengthening the U.S.-EU partnership. The modifications take effect on January 1, 2024, superseding inconsistent provisions from previous proclamations and Executive Orders.
President Biden issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragic deaths of Judy Weinstein and her husband, Gad Haggai, believed to have been killed by Hamas on October 7. The President conveyed condolences and support to their four children, seven grandchildren, and other loved ones. He emphasized the ongoing commitment to bring home Americans still held hostage in Gaza, denouncing the ordeal these families are enduring and pledging relentless efforts for their safe return.
Mexico and the United States have reiterated their commitment to an orderly, humane, and regular migration process. President López Obrador of Mexico welcomed a U.S. delegation led by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, including Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas. The countries affirmed their joint efforts to address the root causes of migration, combat human smuggling and trafficking, and promote legal migration pathways. President López Obrador emphasized President Biden’s commitment to secure migration and stressed the importance of diplomatic engagement and development programs in the Americas. Both nations also discussed the regularization of long-term undocumented Hispanic migrants and DACA recipients. The delegations plan to meet again in Washington in January 2024 to continue collaboration on migration management.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan issued a statement expressing concern about Paul Whelan, who has been wrongfully detained in Russia for five years. Sullivan called on Russia to release Whelan immediately and emphasized ongoing efforts to bring him back to his loved ones. The statement conveyed solidarity with Whelan and his family during this challenging time.