What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
December 19, 2024 Recap
Under President Biden's leadership, the U.S. government has announced a new nationally determined contribution (NDC) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 61–66% by 2035 relative to 2005 levels. This ambitious target aligns with the nation's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and limiting global warming to 1.5°C. Highlighting a whole-of-government and society approach, the strategy decarbonizes all economic sectors, including power, transportation, buildings, agriculture, industry, and forestry. Federal initiatives such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act have catalyzed over $450 billion in private investment, fostering a clean energy boom, creating jobs, and strengthening economic competitiveness.
Technological advancements play a pivotal role, with the U.S. ramping up the deployment of clean energy solutions, including solar, wind, nuclear, and battery technologies, while prioritizing domestic manufacturing. Climate-smart agriculture has engaged over 80,000 farmers and 75 million acres in sustainable practices. Methane reduction is a critical component of the plan, with a commitment to cut methane emissions by at least 35% by 2035. These efforts reflect a blend of fiscal incentives, regulatory frameworks, and public-private collaboration designed to ensure progress across all government and private sector levels.
The administration underscored the resilience of U.S. climate action, emphasizing the significant role of state, local, and tribal efforts in sustaining progress, even during political shifts. Bipartisan achievements, such as the AIM Act and the ratification of the Kigali Amendment, exemplify the enduring nature of climate policies across administrations. The NDC also reinforces the U.S.’s position as a global climate leader, inspiring enhanced commitments from countries like Japan, South Korea, and Brazil. Diplomatic engagement with nations like China seeks to align climate goals with global temperature targets.
Acknowledging the challenges of fluctuating federal leadership, officials expressed confidence in achieving these ambitious targets through technological innovation, subnational action, and private sector leadership. While strong federal leadership could accelerate progress, analysis suggests that the outlined goals remain feasible even in a politically uncertain landscape. The new NDC serves as a guidepost for domestic and international efforts, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to a sustainable future while delivering economic growth, energy security, and environmental benefits.
The United States has announced an updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 61-66% below 2005 levels by 2035, to achieve net-zero emissions economy-wide by 2050. This new target builds on the 50-52% reduction target set for 2030 and represents a significant step toward addressing climate change. The plan includes a commitment to cutting methane emissions by at least 35% from 2005 levels by 2035, recognizing the urgency of reducing near-term warming. Landmark policies, including the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), support this ambitious strategy, providing funding and regulatory certainty to mobilize clean energy investments nationwide.
Since 2021, the U.S. has made substantial progress, leveraging over $450 billion in private-sector investments in clean energy and manufacturing projects. States like Arizona, California, Georgia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin have added hundreds of thousands of jobs and attracted billions of dollars in investments in technologies such as solar panels, battery manufacturing, and large-scale renewable energy projects. These investments, combined with advances in clean energy technologies like solar, wind, battery storage, and hydrogen production, have made clean energy increasingly cost-competitive with fossil fuels, reinforcing the country’s transition to a sustainable energy future.
Key innovations include a dramatic reduction in the cost of battery storage, expanded use of energy-efficient technologies such as heat pumps, and the adoption of clean manufacturing processes for steel and concrete. Transportation is also transforming, with record sales of electric vehicles (EVs), falling EV component costs, and strengthened pollution standards to catalyze further adoption. Federal sustainability efforts, such as improving energy efficiency in government buildings and transitioning to clean vehicle fleets, further complement the private sector's progress.
Subnational and Tribal governments are integral to this strategy, implementing renewable energy standards, building codes, and transportation policies that reduce emissions. Initiatives like New York's congestion pricing and California’s market-based emissions reduction programs provide models for other jurisdictions. Additionally, federal grants and the Federal-State Buy Clean Partnership are spurring investment in low-carbon infrastructure materials and clean energy technologies.
This comprehensive climate agenda aligns environmental goals with economic growth, creating millions of clean energy jobs while advancing environmental justice and reducing energy costs for Americans. By leveraging technological innovation, private investment, and collaboration across all levels of government, the United States is solidifying its leadership in the global fight against climate change and positioning itself as a hub for the clean energy economy.
Since taking office in 2021, the Biden Administration has prioritized strengthening and securing America’s supply chains, addressing disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical events such as Russia’s war on Ukraine. The Administration implemented several initiatives to bolster resilience, including the creation of the Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force, which improved the flow of goods and reduced port congestion, lowering ocean shipping costs by over 70%. Significant investments in infrastructure and manufacturing, totaling over $1 trillion in private-sector commitments, have supported new factories and created jobs across the country. The Administration also addressed unfair trade practices by raising tariffs and safeguarding domestic industries, particularly in critical sectors like semiconductors and energy.
Sector-specific achievements highlight the breadth of these efforts. In energy, the Administration allocated $6 billion in tax credits to expand clean energy supply chains and improve risk assessments for energy technologies. For critical minerals, geological mapping and updated data have strengthened understanding and security in key industries. Investments in agriculture included $517 million to boost domestic fertilizer production, stabilizing prices for farmers and creating rural jobs. In the medical sector, $26 million was invested to expand sterilization capacity alongside a strategic action plan to address drug shortages. The Administration also directed $26 billion to semiconductor production, ensuring the U.S. hosts all five leading-edge chip manufacturers while reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
Looking ahead, the Administration aims to build on this foundation by fostering public-private partnerships, leveraging innovation, and enhancing global collaboration. Initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework and G7 partnerships focus on diversifying supply chains, promoting labor rights, and reducing dependence on adversaries for critical materials. Emerging technology efforts include assessing risks in AI data center supply chains and advancing policies for critical chemicals. With a strategic, multi-pronged approach, the Administration seeks to ensure resilient supply chains, safeguard national economic security, and lower costs for American families.
President Joseph R. Biden Jr. issued an executive order directing the closure of all federal executive departments and agencies on December 24, 2024, the day before Christmas. Key provisions include:
Federal Closure: Federal government employees are excused from duty on December 24, 2024.
Exceptions: Heads of departments may require certain offices or employees to remain operational for reasons such as national security or public need.
Pay and Leave: The closure aligns with existing statutes and policies related to federal employee pay and leave.
Implementation: The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is tasked with implementing the order.
Legal Scope: The order does not impair existing legal authorities or create enforceable legal rights.
The order is to be implemented in accordance with existing laws and available funding.
Over the past four years, the Biden-Harris Administration has implemented significant initiatives to support and revitalize rural America, focusing on infrastructure, healthcare, energy, and economic development. Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, $65 billion has been allocated to expand affordable high-speed internet access, with $2 billion dedicated to Tribal lands. The USDA’s ReConnect Program has provided $4 billion to improve broadband in 46 states. In addition, $4.1 billion has been invested in Rural Area Formula Grants to enhance rural transit systems, while $2 billion supports rural surface transportation projects. To address wildfire risks, $8.25 billion has been allocated for mitigation efforts, including firefighter pay raises and forest conservation programs.
Clean water access and pollution control are also priorities, with $50 billion invested to replace lead pipes, improve wastewater systems, and combat drought. Tribal communities received $3.5 billion for water infrastructure and $320 million for safe drinking water initiatives. Environmental restoration efforts include $4.7 billion to plug orphaned oil wells and $11.3 billion to reclaim abandoned mine lands. Additionally, the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program is investing $9.7 billion in clean energy projects. In comparison, $19.5 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act supports climate-smart agriculture, benefiting over 180,000 farms and 225 million acres.
Healthcare access has been enhanced through lower drug costs under the Inflation Reduction Act, including a $35 cap on insulin and a $2,000 Medicare out-of-pocket limit starting in 2025. Medicaid expansion in four states has benefited rural hospitals, and investments in healthcare workforce training and rural residency programs aim to address provider shortages. For veterans, the PACT Act expanded healthcare and benefits for those exposed to toxins, while telehealth and residency programs are improving care delivery in rural areas.
The administration has made strides in strengthening agricultural markets and local food systems. Over $1.4 billion has been invested in small and medium-sized meat processing facilities, while $320 million has been allocated to expand domestic fertilizer production. USDA has also supported local food systems through the establishment of 12 Regional Food Business Centers. To improve rural housing, USDA provided $48 billion for single-family loans and $5.996 billion in rental assistance, alongside expanded affordable housing initiatives, including investments in manufactured housing.
Education and workforce development have been supported through programs like the WORC Initiative, which allocated $49 million to rural workforce projects and $44.5 million to improve postsecondary education access in rural areas. Rural K-12 schools benefited from increased funding, and Full-Service Community Schools were expanded fivefold, enhancing educational services and community support. Childcare access has also been bolstered, with American Rescue Plan funds helping 30,000 rural childcare programs stay open and new policies targeting underserved areas.
Economic development efforts include the Rural Partners Network, which has driven $8.5 billion in federal investments to rural communities. Programs such as Tech Hubs and place-based economic initiatives under the CHIPS and Science Act are fostering innovation and job creation in rural areas. Overall, the Biden-Harris Administration's initiatives have sought to address the unique challenges faced by rural communities, focusing on sustainable development, improved quality of life, and economic resilience.
President Biden had a conversation with Pope Francis focused on advancing global peace efforts during the holiday season. During the discussion, President Biden expressed his appreciation for the Pope’s ongoing dedication to alleviating suffering worldwide. He specifically acknowledged the Pope's work in advocating for human rights and protecting religious freedoms. Additionally, Pope Francis extended an invitation to President Biden to visit the Vatican in the coming month, an offer the President graciously accepted.
The United States has long been a leader in combating infectious diseases and continues to play a critical role in responding to the global mpox outbreaks. During the 2022 mpox outbreak, the Biden-Harris Administration mounted a robust response by providing vaccines, tests, and treatments domestically and internationally. In 2024, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is experiencing its largest mpox outbreak ever recorded, with over 50,000 suspected cases. Neighboring countries are also reporting widespread outbreaks and travel-related cases have been detected outside the Africa region. In response, President Biden announced a $500 million commitment and a donation of over one million vaccine doses to support affected African countries. Of these, 305,000 doses have already been allocated through WHO and Africa CDC mechanisms, with 50,000 doses delivered to DRC and 10,000 to Nigeria. The U.S. has also provided 65,000 mpox tests, laboratory supplies, and protective equipment while training healthcare workers in surveillance and case management.
Financially, the U.S. has allocated $57 million directly to mpox-specific response efforts, including surveillance, diagnostics, and vaccination campaigns, with an additional $487 million supporting global health security programs in affected regions. Research efforts include improving understanding of clade-specific transmission, optimizing treatments, and accelerating the development of vaccines and diagnostics. Key advancements include the identification of clade-specific characteristics and the development of JYNNEOS, a widely used mpox vaccine. Collaborative efforts with over 50 countries have strengthened outbreak preparedness through initiatives like deploying mobile labs, training health workers, and delivering diagnostic kits. For example, the U.S. supported Rwanda in training rapid response teams and Angola in acquiring essential testing kits to confirm mpox cases.
Domestically, the U.S. has focused on early detection, surveillance, and vaccination. Wastewater monitoring and robust testing capacities have enhanced early outbreak warnings, while vaccines are widely available in clinics and pharmacies. The CDC has issued multiple health alerts to educate clinicians and the public, alongside travel advisories recommending enhanced precautions for travelers to affected regions. Modeling indicates that the risk to the general U.S. public remains low, though targeted vaccination efforts have been deployed in areas with lower immunity. Access to advanced healthcare and investigational treatments, such as the antiviral TPOXX, has significantly improved patient outcomes.
In summary, the U.S. has met 90% of global mpox response financing needs and continues to invest in strengthening global health security. By collaborating with international partners, advancing research, and addressing gaps in preparedness, the United States aims to ensure readiness for future outbreaks while protecting global and domestic public health.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre issued a statement criticizing Republicans for prioritizing tax breaks for billionaires over supporting hardworking Americans. It accuses them of reneging on a bipartisan agreement aimed at reducing prescription drug costs and preventing offshoring jobs to China. Instead, Republicans are allegedly proposing a bill that benefits billionaires while cutting essential programs like Social Security and Head Start. The statement emphasizes President Biden's support for the bipartisan agreement, which focuses on keeping the government open, aiding disaster recovery, and reducing costs for Americans, rejecting the Republicans' late-stage proposal.
