What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
September 25, 2024 Recap
In a conversation on ABC’s The View, President Biden discussed his decision to step aside from seeking re-election and pass the leadership torch to Vice President Kamala Harris. He highlighted that his choice was motivated by a desire to prioritize his country over personal ambition and praised Harris for her intelligence, resilience, and shared optimistic vision for America. Biden reflected on his administration's accomplishments, especially in diversifying leadership and promoting middle-class growth, while reaffirming his belief in America's potential to tackle any challenge.
The conversation also covered various topics, including Biden's ongoing relationship with Speaker Nancy Pelosi, his views on international diplomacy, and the importance of representation in leadership. He defended his administration’s progress in foreign policy, middle-class development, and climate action while acknowledging the challenges posed by global conflicts and domestic political dynamics. Additionally, Biden expressed pride in the passage of the Violence Against Women Act, emphasizing its significance as one of his most consequential accomplishments.
The hosts also engaged in light-hearted exchanges with Biden, touching on his affable personality, age, and optimism for America's future. They focused on his commitment to honest service and public trust. The segment ended with the hosts expressing admiration for Biden’s leadership, legacy, and dedication to the country.
In her speech at the Economic Club of Pittsburgh, Kamala Harris outlined a comprehensive vision for rebuilding and strengthening America’s middle class through an “opportunity economy.” She began by highlighting the progress made during the Biden administration, noting key achievements such as a significant reduction in inflation, near-record-low unemployment, and the creation of almost 740,000 manufacturing jobs. Harris also mentioned the Federal Reserve’s recent interest rate cut, which she said will help families by making it easier to buy homes and cars and manage debt. Despite these advances, she acknowledged that the cost of living remains too high for many Americans, especially regarding housing, healthcare, and prescription drugs.
Harris’s primary focus was on making life more affordable for middle-class families. She proposed cutting taxes for over 100 million Americans, with additional financial relief for new parents. She also emphasized the need to lower the cost of child and elder care and provide paid leave, recognizing the immense pressure on families caring for children and aging parents. To help Americans achieve home ownership, she called for measures to cut red tape and build three million new homes, providing $25,000 in down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers. She aims to empower middle-class families to survive and thrive, building generational wealth and economic security.
In stark contrast, Harris criticized Donald Trump’s economic agenda, accusing him of focusing only on benefiting the wealthy while raising taxes on the middle class and undermining social safety nets like Social Security and Medicare. She accused Trump of favoring big corporations and billionaires with massive tax cuts while neglecting the needs of working families and small businesses. She also pointed out that Trump’s presidency saw an increase in offshoring jobs and a decline in manufacturing, positioning him as ineffective in supporting the industries he promised to revitalize.
A key element of Harris’s plan is fostering American innovation and entrepreneurship. She emphasized the critical role of small businesses in driving the economy and committed to making it easier for entrepreneurs to access capital. Harris proposed increasing the tax deduction for startup costs from $5,000 to $50,000 and offering small businesses low—or no-interest loans. She set a goal of 25 million new small business applications by the end of her first term, underscoring her belief that a thriving small business sector strengthens local communities and the middle class.
Harris also pledged to invest heavily in industries that will define the future, such as biomanufacturing, clean energy, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. She linked this to America’s historic industrial strength, drawing comparisons to pivotal moments in U.S. history, such as the construction of the interstate highway system and the space race. She called for tax credits to boost good-paying union jobs in sectors like steel and iron manufacturing, particularly in industrial towns that have been left behind.
Harris emphasized the need for efficiency in building and infrastructure projects, arguing that America cannot afford the slow pace at which projects currently proceed if it is to remain competitive with countries like China. She vowed to work across party lines to cut red tape and speed up the permitting process for new developments.
Harris closed her remarks by positioning her vision as one that values fairness, dignity, and opportunity for all Americans. She reiterated her commitment to pragmatic, evidence-based policies prioritizing workers, strengthening unions, and ensuring that America leads the global economy in innovation and industrial might. She invoked Pittsburgh’s rich industrial history to symbolize the country’s potential to harness its people’s ambitions and invent a prosperous future for all.
In her interview with Stephanie Ruhle on MSNBC, Vice President Kamala Harris outlined her vision for an "opportunity economy" to ensure that middle-class families can do more than survive—they can thrive. She emphasized that hardworking Americans, regardless of their starting point, should have the opportunity to achieve their ambitions. Drawing on her upbringing in a middle-class family, Harris highlighted challenges like homeownership, which has become increasingly elusive. Her economic plan focuses on practical solutions like affordable housing, aiming to create 3 million new housing units by the end of her first term through partnerships with the private sector and cutting bureaucratic red tape.
Harris also directly addressed the economic comparisons between her policies and those of Donald Trump. While polling indicates some voters view Trump as better suited to handle the economy, Harris countered by pointing to what she described as Trump’s legacy of economic mismanagement. She argued that his policies, such as tax cuts benefiting billionaires and corporations and broad tariffs that would raise consumer costs, have hurt the middle class. By contrast, her plan focuses on growing the economy through investments in new industries, small businesses, and middle-class families. She stressed that her administration would ensure that no one earning under $400,000 would see a tax increase while pushing for corporations and the wealthy to pay their fair share.
Harris highlighted her work with CEOs and the private sector, arguing that many business leaders understand the need for equitable growth and support her focus on middle-class investment. She discussed the necessity of raising corporate taxes to fund programs like tax credits for young families and first-time homebuyers, emphasizing that investments in the middle class will strengthen the economy overall. She also addressed the importance of American manufacturing, particularly in the steel industry, linking it to economic growth and national security.
In response to questions about inflation, Harris condemned corporate price gouging and promised to take action against companies that exploit consumer desperation. She pointed out that her broader plan includes measures to lower the cost of living, particularly in areas like housing and everyday necessities. Harris acknowledged that the immigration system is broken and needs comprehensive reform. She criticized Trump for prioritizing political posturing over practical solutions, pledging to bring back legislation that would bolster border security and create a pathway to citizenship.
Harris also touched on the connection between reproductive rights and economic stability, pushing back against Trump’s claim that overturning Roe v. Wade had benefited women. She argued that women need the freedom to make decisions about their bodies and futures, emphasizing that Trump’s approach punishes women and undermines their autonomy. In closing, Harris expressed her commitment to always putting the needs of the American people first, acknowledging that while she is not perfect, her priorities will always be centered on improving the lives of working families.
The White House released a fact sheet highlighting the importance of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for small business owners and entrepreneurs in the U.S. According to a new Treasury Department report, 4.2 million entrepreneurs now get health insurance through ACA Marketplaces, an increase from 3.3 million in 2022. President Biden and Vice President Harris emphasize that these protections are critical for small businesses and that repealing the ACA, as some Congressional Republicans have proposed, would devastate millions of small business owners.
Key points include:
The Biden-Harris administration has lowered the uninsured rate to its lowest point in history.
Millions of small business owners benefit from ACA coverage, including 618,590 in Florida, 450,010 in California, and 423,790 in Texas.
Entrepreneurs are three times more likely than other Americans to use Marketplace coverage, with 82% receiving premium tax credits that reduce healthcare costs by an average of $700 annually.
The ACA has been instrumental in providing reliable health insurance for people who don't get coverage through their jobs, fostering entrepreneurship.
Congressional Republicans have voted over 50 times to repeal the ACA, which would raise taxes and health care costs for small business owners.
The Biden-Harris administration has committed to preserving the ACA and extending premium tax credits to help small businesses thrive.
This report underscores the ACA’s role in supporting entrepreneurship and the broader small business boom under the Biden administration.
During a bilateral meeting in New York, President Joe Biden and Vietnam's General Secretary Tô Lâm reflected on the growing relationship between the United States and Vietnam. President Biden highlighted key areas of progress over the past year, noting historic investments in semiconductors and supply chains driven by the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act. He also emphasized the two nations' unprecedented cooperation on cybersecurity and their shared commitment to ensuring a free and secure Indian Ocean, focusing on freedom of navigation and the rule of law. Additionally, Biden underscored the ongoing efforts to address the lingering impacts of the Vietnam War, with the U.S. pledging $215 million for toxin remediation.
General Secretary Lâm expressed his appreciation for Biden's condolences following the passing of Vietnam's former General Secretary Nguyễn Phú Trọng and acknowledged Biden’s role in strengthening Vietnam-U.S. ties. He noted that the relationship, elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership, owes much to Biden’s contributions. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration, reflecting on the significant milestones achieved in their diplomatic partnership.
In his remarks at the Yale Club, National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi highlighted the Biden-Harris administration's progress in clean manufacturing. He emphasized the administration's success in creating jobs, rebuilding infrastructure, and reclaiming America's leadership in clean energy. Zaidi discussed the significant challenge of decarbonizing the industrial sector, particularly in steel, aluminum, and cement production, which are major contributors to climate pollution.
To address these issues, the administration invests in innovative, clean manufacturing technologies, such as using clean hydrogen for steel production and building a new aluminum smelter that emits 75% less carbon. He also highlighted the "Buy Clean" initiative, which ensures government purchases prioritize low-emission materials, stimulating demand for clean manufacturing.
A major focus was creating a U.S. emissions intensity measurement system, crucial for tracking progress and ensuring competitiveness in clean manufacturing. Zaidi also spoke about leveling the playing field in international trade by addressing climate loopholes and fostering global cooperation on emissions standards.
Finally, he underscored the administration's commitment to building a low-carbon economy that supports American workers, reduces emissions, and strengthens the U.S. position in global clean energy markets.
President Biden met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine. During their conversation, President Biden announced that he had directed a significant increase in U.S. security assistance to Ukraine. This new wave of aid, set to be publicly disclosed the following day, is intended to bolster Ukraine's efforts in its war against Russia and help ensure Ukraine’s success. President Zelenskyy also presented his strategic plan for achieving victory, which both leaders agreed to explore further during an upcoming bilateral meeting at the White House.
Following their private discussion in New York, President Biden organized a landmark event to rally international support for Ukraine. At this event, the leaders of over 30 countries came together and committed to signing a Joint Declaration of Support aimed at helping Ukraine in its recovery and reconstruction efforts. This commitment from the global community signifies a strong collective stance in favor of Ukraine’s post-war rebuilding and long-term stabilization.
The Joint Declaration of Support for Recovery and Reconstruction of Ukraine by the G7 leaders emphasizes their unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine during and after Russia's war of aggression. Key points include:
Support for Ukraine's Recovery: The G7 pledges long-term military, budgetary, humanitarian, and reconstruction support, reaffirming their resolve to counter Russia’s attempts to damage Ukraine economically.
Russia's Accountability: The declaration stresses Russia’s responsibility under international law to pay for the damages caused by its aggression. Russian sovereign assets in G7 jurisdictions will remain frozen until Russia ends the war and compensates Ukraine.
Economic Assistance for Ukraine: The G7 commits to ensuring Ukraine’s financial stability, infrastructure repair (especially energy), and economic growth. Support will also help Ukraine implement reforms in business, justice, and anti-corruption efforts in line with EU accession goals.
Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) Loans: The G7 will provide approximately $50 billion in additional funding through loans repaid by immobilized Russian assets. Part of this funding will go towards military aid.
Donor Coordination: Support for Ukraine will be coordinated through the Ukraine Donor Platform, which will encourage private sector participation and align international funding efforts with Ukraine's recovery and reform agenda.
Humanitarian and Social Support: The G7 emphasizes the importance of addressing the needs of women, children, and vulnerable populations impacted by the war and emphasizing an inclusive recovery.
Commitment to Reforms: Ukraine is committed to reforms in judiciary, anti-corruption, defense, and public administration, which are necessary for long-term recovery.
The G7 remains committed to a free, sovereign Ukraine and invites other countries to join the declaration to support Ukraine's reconstruction and ensure Russia's failure.
Section 506(a)(1): The Secretary of State is authorized to direct a drawdown of up to $375 million in defense articles, services, military education, and training from the Department of Defense to provide assistance to Ukraine. The Secretary is also tasked with making the necessary determinations to enable this action.
Section 614(a)(1): The Secretary is granted authority to provide up to $103 million in additional assistance to Ukraine, bypassing any legal provisions that would normally restrict this, if it's determined to be important to U.S. security interests.
Finally, the Secretary is instructed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.
President Biden expressed gratitude for the bipartisan passage of a continuing resolution in Congress, which prevents a government shutdown and extends funding through mid-December. He thanked specific senators and representatives for their efforts and emphasized that this resolution allows Congress to pass full-year funding bills. Biden highlighted his administration's commitment to working with Congress to prioritize national defense, veterans, seniors, children, working families, and disaster recovery. He also pledged to oppose any IRS funding cuts that could hinder efforts to ensure wealthy individuals and corporations pay their fair share in taxes.
President Biden and France’s President Emmanuel Macron issued a joint statement emphasizing the urgent need for a settlement along the Israel-Lebanon border that prioritizes the safety and security of civilians. They highlighted that the ongoing exchange of fire, which has intensified since October 7, poses a significant threat to regional stability and risks escalating into a much broader conflict. Both leaders expressed particular concern about the potential harm to civilians, many of whom have been displaced due to the violence.
In response to the growing tensions, Biden and Macron announced that they have recently worked closely together to propose a joint call for a temporary ceasefire. This ceasefire aims to give diplomacy a chance to succeed, reduce hostilities, and prevent further escalation of violence across the border. The statement they negotiated has gained widespread international support, with endorsements from the United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Qatar.
Biden and Macron called for broader international endorsement of their proposal and urged the immediate backing of the Israeli and Lebanese governments. They stressed that such a ceasefire is crucial to facilitating civilians' return to their homes and ensuring long-term security in the region.
A joint statement was issued by the United States, Australia, Canada, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Qatar, addressing the ongoing conflict between Lebanon and Israel since October 8, 2023. It calls the situation intolerable and dangerous, with a risk of broader regional escalation, which benefits neither Israelis nor Lebanese civilians. The statement emphasizes the need for a diplomatic settlement to ensure the safety of civilians but asserts that diplomacy cannot succeed amidst escalating violence.
To facilitate negotiations, the statement urges an immediate 21-day ceasefire across the Lebanon-Israel border, aligned with UN Security Council Resolutions 1701 and 2735 (regarding a ceasefire in Gaza). The governments of Israel and Lebanon are called upon to endorse the ceasefire to allow space for diplomacy, with the involved nations pledging full support for reaching a lasting agreement within this period to resolve the crisis.
In their remarks at the United Nations General Assembly Leaders' Reception, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of diplomacy, unity, and optimism in facing global challenges. Jill Biden highlighted her husband's long history of building personal relationships with world leaders and his commitment to diplomacy. She also acknowledged that this would be their final UN General Assembly as President and First Lady, celebrating the partnerships Joe Biden has fostered.
President Biden reinforced his message from the UN, stressing the need to remain resilient in crises such as war, poverty, climate change, and pandemics. Drawing from personal anecdotes, including his interactions with world leaders like China's Xi Jinping, Biden emphasized America's belief in "possibilities" and the power of collective action to achieve positive change. He cited examples from his career, such as the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of apartheid, to illustrate the importance of perseverance and collaboration.
Biden concluded with a message of hope and optimism and a call to continue spreading faith in what can be accomplished when the world works together.
President Biden speaks with the hosts of ABC’s The View
