What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
October 18, 2024 Recap
President Biden met with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at Bellevue Palace to reinforce the strong U.S.-German relationship deeply rooted in shared democratic values. During their discussions, the two leaders focused on several global issues of mutual concern. They coordinated efforts to continue supporting Ukraine as it defends itself against Russian aggression, emphasizing the importance of standing together in the face of such challenges to international peace and security. Additionally, they addressed the growing need to combat antisemitism and other forms of hate, both within their respective countries and globally.
The leaders also exchanged views on the escalating tensions in the Middle East, focusing on ways to de-escalate conflicts and prioritize the protection of civilians in conflict zones. These discussions highlighted both nations' role in promoting stability and peace in the region. President Biden’s visit was particularly timely, as it came just before the 35th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. This historic event symbolizes the shared commitment of the U.S. and Germany to freedom and democracy. President Biden underscored the importance of the U.S.-German diplomatic, economic, and military partnership, reaffirming the close cooperation between the two nations across these key areas.
President Biden also met with Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany at the Chancellery, where they discussed the strong and enduring U.S.-German relationship built on shared democratic values. A key focus of their meeting was coordinating support for Ukraine in its ongoing defense against Russian aggression. Both leaders emphasized their continued commitment to helping Ukraine uphold its sovereignty and security. They also addressed global concerns, such as efforts to counter antisemitism and other forms of hate, domestically and internationally, and discussed the situation in the Middle East alongside other pressing global issues.
The President expressed deep appreciation for Chancellor Scholz’s leadership in bolstering Germany’s investment in NATO’s collective defense, which is crucial for ensuring the alliance's security. He also commended Scholz for his efforts in securing the release of wrongfully detained Americans, as well as other human rights activists and political dissidents held in Russian prisons earlier this year. The discussion underscored the importance of these diplomatic efforts in advancing human rights and upholding justice. Biden reinforced the United States' commitment to working closely with Germany to address the complex challenges of today and the future, ensuring that both nations continue to deliver positive outcomes for their citizens.
The remarks from President Biden and President Steinmeier at the Order of Merit Ceremony in Berlin celebrated the strong relationship between the United States and Germany, emphasizing the long-standing transatlantic alliance. President Steinmeier highlighted Biden's consistent support for Germany, his leadership during the Ukraine crisis, and his dedication to democracy, particularly in times of global tension. Steinmeier bestowed the Grand Cross special class of the Order of Merit on Biden, recognizing his leadership and moral example. Biden, in turn, reflected on the historical journey of the two nations and their shared values, stressing the importance of continued unity and support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. Both leaders underscored the deep ties between their countries, built on democratic principles, shared responsibility, and a commitment to a peaceful future.
In their meeting in Berlin, the leaders of France, Germany, the UK, and the US strongly condemned Russia’s continued war of aggression against Ukraine. They emphasized their ongoing commitment to providing Ukraine with additional security and economic and humanitarian support. This includes leveraging immobilized Russian sovereign assets, a decision made at the recent G7 Summit, to aid Ukraine's efforts. The leaders also reviewed President Zelenskyy's Victory Plan, reaffirming their collective determination to support Ukraine in its pursuit of a just and lasting peace. This peace, they stressed, must be based on international law, particularly the United Nations Charter, and must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Turning to the Middle East, the leaders discussed the broader implications of the recent death of Yahya Sinwar, who was held responsible for the bloodshed during the October 7th terrorist attack. They emphasized the urgent need to bring hostages back to their families and to work toward ending the war in Gaza, ensuring that humanitarian aid reaches affected civilians. The leaders collectively condemned Iran’s escalatory attack on Israel, focusing on coordinated international efforts to hold Iran accountable and to prevent further conflict in the region. They also addressed the ongoing situation in Lebanon, agreeing on the necessity of fully implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. They highlighted the importance of finding a diplomatic solution allowing civilians on both sides of the Blue Line to return to their homes safely.
President Biden fielded some questions from the press before departing from Schönefeld, Germany. He highlighted key discussions from his meetings with the Quad. He emphasized that there was strong unanimity on continuing support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. The discussions also touched on the Middle East, where leaders acknowledged that achieving peace would be difficult but shared optimism about potential paths forward. Biden hinted at efforts to work towards a ceasefire in Lebanon and the challenges in Gaza while also suggesting that Israel and Iran could reach a temporary resolution to their conflict.
When asked about Israel’s potential response to Iran’s October 1st attacks, Biden confirmed he had information but declined to provide details. He also dismissed questions regarding his predecessor and addressed interest from other world leaders in the upcoming American elections. Biden reiterated the U.S.'s commitment to Ukraine but did not commit to changing the stance on long-range weapons for Ukraine or NATO membership.
President Biden issued three proclamations:
National Forest Products Week, 2024
This proclamation highlights the importance of forests to America's economy, environment, and communities. It addresses the threat of climate change to forests and jobs, promoting initiatives like the "America the Beautiful" program and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to conserve forests, create jobs, and prevent wildfires. The week encourages the public to recognize the value of forest products and responsible stewardship.
National Character Counts Week, 2024
The proclamation emphasizes the core American values of decency, honesty, dignity, and equality. It recognizes the contributions of everyday citizens, from educators to first responders. It highlights government efforts to uphold these values through policies like the American Rescue Plan and investments in mental health, safety, and unity.
Minority Enterprise Development Week, 2024
This proclamation celebrates minority-owned businesses as essential to the economy and community. It outlines efforts to support these businesses, including increased access to capital, Federal contracts, and investments through laws like the American Rescue Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. It calls for continued commitment to fostering economic equality and opportunities for minority entrepreneurs.
Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a passionate speech in Grand Rapids, Michigan, emphasizing the high stakes of the upcoming election and the importance of voter participation. She began by acknowledging the significance of Michigan and its leaders, including Governor Gretchen Whitmer and other local officials, for their contributions to the campaign and the nation's future. Harris highlighted that the election is a critical choice between two vastly different visions for America: one that looks forward with optimism and one rooted in the past, represented by former President Donald Trump. She emphasized that her campaign focuses on lowering the cost of living, supporting working families, and ensuring reproductive freedom, in contrast to Trump, whom she described as self-interested and out of touch with the needs of the American people.
Harris outlined her vision for an "opportunity economy" that works for all Americans, particularly through investments in small businesses, affordable housing, and healthcare. She shared personal anecdotes, such as caring for her mother, to highlight the need for Medicare to cover home health care for seniors, allowing families to care for loved ones with dignity. Her plan also includes middle-class tax cuts, expanding American manufacturing, and investing in innovation to ensure that industries like auto manufacturing thrive in the U.S., particularly in states like Michigan. She underscored the importance of unions in securing fair wages and better working conditions, vowing to sign the PRO Act to make it easier for workers to join unions.
In stark contrast, Harris critiqued Trump’s track record, particularly his failure to deliver on promises to protect American manufacturing jobs, including significant losses in Michigan during his presidency. Despite Trump's assurances to the contrary, she highlighted the closure of auto plants in Warren and Detroit. She pointed out his administration's actions that hurt workers, such as discouraging collective bargaining and attacking union efforts. Harris also referenced Trump’s so-called "Project 2025" plan, which she described as a dangerous blueprint that would prioritize the wealthy and corporations at the expense of everyday Americans. She warned that Trump’s return to office would mean cuts to Social Security, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act, threatening healthcare access for millions.
On reproductive rights, Harris reminded the audience of the role Trump played in appointing Supreme Court justices who overturned Roe v. Wade, resulting in severe restrictions on abortion access in many states. She condemned these bans as immoral and pledged to restore nationwide reproductive freedoms by signing legislation to protect them. Harris also spoke about broader assaults on fundamental rights, including the right to vote, form unions, and live free from gun violence, calling these issues essential to the fight for America’s future.
Throughout her speech, Harris rallied the crowd with optimism and a call to action, repeating the refrain "We will win" as she urged Michiganders to vote early and ensure their voices are heard. She framed the election as a fight for the future of democracy and freedom, reminding the audience that Trump’s return to power, particularly with the promise of dictatorship-like control, would have dire consequences for the nation. Harris concluded by reaffirming her commitment to building a more just and equitable America, asking the audience if they were ready to fight for freedom, opportunity, and the promise of the country. She closed on a confident note, asserting that when they fight together, they will win.
President Biden receives The Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany from Germany’s President Frank-Walter Steinmeier
