What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
March 8 Recap
The European Commission, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, the Republic of Cyprus, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States, have announced plans to establish a maritime corridor for delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, addressing the severe needs of its population. This initiative, named the Amalthea Initiative, led by Cyprus, aims to transport aid from Cyprus to Gaza by sea securely. This effort is in collaboration with Sigrid Kaag, the UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, under UN Security Council Resolution 2720, ensuring the aid's secure and verified delivery. The UAE is poised to send an initial shipment of food by sea.
In addition to the maritime corridor, the United States plans to set up a temporary pier in Gaza with the U.S. military's help to facilitate large quantities of aid delivery by sea. This initiative will complement existing land and air routes from Egypt and Jordan, with coordination efforts including the Government of Israel to ensure smooth operations.
The partners acknowledge the complexity of delivering aid by sea and commit to continuous assessment and adjustment of their efforts to maximize effectiveness. They aim to enhance humanitarian aid and commercial commodity flow into Gaza through all possible routes, working with Israel to increase land deliveries by opening more crossings. The initiative underscores the importance of protecting civilian lives in accordance with international humanitarian law and commits to intensifying efforts to ensure that aid reaches those in dire need.
President Biden issued a Proclamation on U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, emphasizing the U.S. commitment to bringing home Americans held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad. Highlighting the administration's efforts since its inception, it notes the return of over 60 Americans from various countries. The proclamation outlines significant actions, including an Executive Order in 2022 to impose severe consequences on those detaining Americans illegally and the use of sanctions against such actors for the first time, particularly in Russia and Iran. It also mentions preventive measures like endorsing the Declaration Against Arbitrary Detention with international partners and introducing a Department of State travel risk indicator for wrongful detention threats. President Biden reaffirms his dedication to the safety of Americans abroad, leveraging resources to punish and deter wrongful detention practices. The proclamation designates March 9, 2024, as U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, calling for observation through relevant programs and activities, and confirms the flying of the Hostage and Wrongful Detainee flag at the White House in recognition of this day.
President Joe Biden issued a statement on the February Jobs Report highlighting the ongoing economic recovery in the United States. He emphasizes the contrast between the economy he inherited, which was on the brink of collapse, and its current state, which he describes as the envy of the world. Under his administration, the U.S. has added nearly 15 million jobs, maintaining an unemployment rate under 4% for the longest period in over 50 years.
The President attributes these successes to policies aimed at building the economy from the middle out and the bottom up, ensuring the middle class has a fair chance and leaving no one behind. He mentions his efforts to lower costs for Americans, including taking on Big Pharma, eliminating hidden fees, and making housing more affordable. His statement concludes by declaring the end of trickle-down economics, framing the current economic progress as part of the "greatest comeback story never told."
The White House released a Fact Sheet outlining President Biden's Unity Agenda, emphasizing bipartisan efforts to address significant challenges: the opioid epidemic, mental health crisis, Big Tech accountability, veterans' care, and cancer. Key initiatives include:
Beating the Opioid Epidemic: Biden aims to combat opioid-related deaths by enhancing border security to prevent fentanyl importation, promoting international cooperation to tackle drug trafficking, and increasing access to life-saving medications. He emphasizes the necessity of bipartisan support to further these goals.
Tackling the Mental Health Crisis: The administration focuses on making mental health care more accessible and affordable, including expanding coverage and support for Americans and integrating mental health services in schools and for veterans.
Holding Big Tech Accountable: Biden calls for legislation to protect privacy and safety online, especially for children, and to hold tech companies responsible for the harm they cause. This includes reforming Section 230, addressing data privacy, and ensuring AI is safe and trustworthy.
Supporting Veterans: The administration has enacted legislation to expand healthcare and benefits for veterans, including those exposed to toxins. Initiatives aim to improve mental health services, housing, and support for families and caregivers.
Ending Cancer as We Know It: Through the Cancer Moonshot initiative and ARPA-H establishment, the administration seeks to halve the cancer death rate and improve patient experiences. This includes funding for research, expanding access to care, and tackling cancer-causing environmental factors.
President Biden's Unity Agenda reflects a comprehensive approach to solving critical national issues through bipartisan cooperation and substantial legislative efforts.
In a meeting held at The White House, Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer, Director of the Gender Policy Council Jennifer Klein, Principal Deputy National Security Advisor to the Vice President Dr. Rebecca Lissner, and other officials from the National Security Council and Gender Policy Council convened with Pramila Patten, the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict. The discussion centered on Patten's mission to Israel and the West Bank from January 29 to February 14, focusing on her findings and the methodology employed during her visit.
Patten shared insights into the egregious instances of sexual violence reported on October 7, attributed to Hamas terrorists, along with ongoing gender-based violence against captives. The White House expressed President Biden and Vice President Harris's grave concerns regarding these reports, emphasizing the necessity for thorough investigations into these credible allegations and ensuring accountability for those found responsible.
The meeting also touched on the broader implications of the conflict, particularly the impact on Israeli and Palestinian civilians. The officials voiced their distress over the loss of innocent lives and the alarming reports of sexual violence within this context. Furthermore, the White House highlighted the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to preventing conflict-related sexual violence globally, citing President Biden’s November 2022 Memorandum on Promoting Accountability for such acts as a key measure in their approach to address these issues.
President Biden announced a series of appointments to significant roles in various boards and commissions. The appointees and their designated positions are as follows:
J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board: Denise Grant and Lynn Tincher-Ladner were appointed as members. This board oversees the Fulbright Program, selecting participants for educational exchange programs. It operates under policies set by a 12-member board appointed by the President and meets quarterly in Washington, D.C.
United States Holocaust Memorial Council: Several individuals were appointed, including Marsha Borin, David Cicilline, Paul R. Fine, Susan E. Lowenberg, Judith Schocken, Cynthia Simon Skjodt, Samantha Vinograd, and Mark Wilf. This council leads the nation in commemorating the Holocaust. It acts as the governing board of trustees for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, supporting its operations through a public-private partnership with some federal funding.
The backgrounds of the appointees reflect a diverse array of experiences and expertise:
Denise Grant is recognized for her strategic counsel to executives and boards. Her career spans business, legal, and policy fields.
Lynn Tincher-Ladner, with over 30 years in higher education, currently serves as President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa, advocating for community colleges and their students.
Marsha Borin has a history of legal practice and involvement in arts and Holocaust education initiatives.
David Cicilline, who has a distinguished career in public service, including 12 years in Congress, has also been engaged in Holocaust education efforts.
Paul R. Fine is noted for his philanthropy and service in education and community organizations.
Susan E. Lowenberg brings experience from the real estate industry and previous service on the Holocaust Memorial Council.
Judith Schocken shares her family's Holocaust survival story, contributing to education and community philanthropy.
Cynthia Simon Skjodt has dedicated herself to community service and philanthropy in Indiana, having previously served on the Holocaust Memorial Council.
Samantha Vinograd, who has worked in public service and national security, is deeply committed to Holocaust education and combating antisemitism.
Mark Wilf, an advocate for Holocaust education and Jewish community support, has a real estate and professional sports background.
These appointments reflect President Biden's commitment to cultural, educational, and memorial initiatives through the inclusion of experienced individuals from various backgrounds.
The President signed into law:
H.R. 7454, the “Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2024,” which extends through May 10, 2024, Federal Aviation Administration authorities and related revenue authorities and extends through May 11, 2024, the authority of the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice to mitigate credible threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems to covered facilities and assets.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre held a press gaggle on board Air Force One en route to Philadelphia, PA. Ms. Jean-Pierre highlighted the positive reception of President Biden's State Of The Union address, noting endorsements from various figures and publications that praised its vision for the economy, freedoms, and security. The speech was described as a contrast to visions based on regress, extremism, and authoritarianism.
Ms. Jean-Pierre also outlined the administration's plans to promote the President's agenda across the country, with visits to several states for official and political events, including discussions on lowering costs for American families, strengthening bilateral relations with Poland, and highlighting infrastructure investments.
Regarding a query about Biden's use of the term "illegal" during a response to Marjorie Taylor Greene, Jean-Pierre emphasized the President's stance on humane immigration policies and his reaction to the specific situation discussed during the State of the Union. She reiterated the need for bipartisan cooperation on border security and immigration reform without politicizing the issues.
Questions about internal Democratic reactions to the speech, particularly from progressive members and about Senator Kyrsten Sinema's resignation, were addressed, focusing on the President's efforts in bipartisan achievements and his stance on issues like the Gaza humanitarian crisis. The briefing concluded abruptly due to the need to prepare for landing.
President Biden answered questions from the press before he departed from Joint Base Andrews in Maryland:
President Biden indicated that his commitment to a debate with former President Trump would depend on Trump's behavior.
Regarding a question about a "come to Jesus" meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Biden denied making such a statement in his speech, attributing it to eavesdropping.
He expressed that Prime Minister Netanyahu needs to do more regarding humanitarian aid.
President Biden briefly commented on Senator Britt’s rebuttal, acknowledging her talent but noting confusion over her connections.
On TikTok, Biden said he would sign a bill banning it if passed.
He confirmed that Israel would provide security for a port planned to aid Gaza.
Lastly, Biden did not directly express concern over Trump's meetings with Viktor Orbán but hinted that it could concern others.
Administration officials from The White House held a meeting with RSV immunization manufacturers, including Sanofi and AstraZeneca, focusing on the recent success of Nirsevimab in significantly reducing infant hospitalization rates. The discussions also covered ongoing updates on the safety and effectiveness of RSV immunizations and efforts to ensure their availability in the US for the remainder of the season.
Following the Administration's push and in response to high demand, manufacturers have made an additional 307,000 doses available, increasing supply and expanding distribution. Moreover, efforts are underway to secure the availability of RSV doses for infants for the upcoming 2024-2025 respiratory season.
President Biden held a brief press gaggle in Rose Valley, Pennsylvania, while attending a campaign event at a private residence. He reflected on his experience meeting with a family that reminded him of his upbringing. He mentioned a personal connection, noting that the family's older brother attended school with his son Hunter back in Delaware. Biden expressed his enjoyment of the visit, highlighting the family's closeness and the nostalgia it brought him, albeit acknowledging that the family's circumstances seemed a bit more upscale than his background.
When asked about his purpose for the visit, Biden humorously remarked on wanting to connect with people reminiscent of those from his upbringing, praising the family's warmth and hospitality. Regarding concerns about a potential ceasefire by Ramadan and the situation in East Jerusalem, Biden acknowledged the challenges ahead and expressed his concerns about the possibility of violence in the absence of a ceasefire.
President Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden meet with the Cunicelli family, who own a small business in Pennsylvania and were beneficiaries of the Small Business Relief enacted into law by The President
