What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
Weekend Recap: July 20-21, 2024
President Biden issued a statement to the nation, highlighting significant achievements during his term, including a strong economy, historic investments in infrastructure, healthcare, climate legislation, and notable appointments and laws. He acknowledged the collective effort of the American people in overcoming major crises and strengthening democracy and global alliances.
While initially intended to seek reelection, he decided to focus on his current duties and not run for another term. He expressed gratitude to his supporters and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee, urging the party to unite and defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming election.
President Biden honored the late Representative Sheila Jackson Lee in a statement, highlighting her nearly 30 years of dedicated service in Congress. He praised her relentless leadership on racial justice and economic support for working people. Biden described her as fearless, always speaking truth to power and representing her Houston district with dignity and grace. He noted her significant contributions, including her efforts to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act, make Juneteenth a federal holiday, and reintroduce the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. He also commended her unwavering spirit, particularly in her battle against cancer. Biden offered condolences to her family, constituents, and colleagues, especially those in the Congressional Black Caucus, and expressed his gratitude for her patriotism and service.
Vice President Harris acknowledged Congresswoman Lee as a passionate advocate for justice and the people of Houston. Jackson Lee's extensive public service career included roles as a judge, Houston City Council member, and U.S. Congress member, where she improved millions of lives. In Congress, she was known for her dedication, legislative skills, and community service, securing vital funding and disaster relief and supporting COVID-19 measures. Harris, a close friend and colleague, praised Jackson Lee's relentless pursuit of progress and her significant impact. Harris expressed her condolences to Jackson Lee's family, acknowledging her profound legacy.
President Biden spoke with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to congratulate her on her re-election. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a strong U.S.-EU relationship and to tackling the world’s biggest challenges together. They also discussed support for Ukraine and efforts to hold Russia to account for its aggression.
Key White House officials, including Jennifer Klein, Jon Finer, and Geeta Rao Gupta, met with Israeli and Palestinian women leaders to discuss peace and security efforts. The participants addressed the impact of the current conflict and humanitarian crisis on women and girls, emphasizing the crucial role of women leaders in resolving conflicts and sustaining peace. The meeting underscored the Biden-Harris Administration’s dedication to ending the Gaza conflict through a ceasefire and hostage release deal, advocating for women's rights and their involvement in peace processes for more effective policies and enhanced stability.
Additionally, the White House recently held a meeting on June 17 focused on conflict-related sexual violence, particularly addressing the atrocities committed by Hamas since October 7.
Kevin C. O'Connor, D.O., FAAFP, Physician to the President, provided an update on President Biden's COVID-19 condition. President Biden completed his eighth dose of PAXLOVID this morning, and his symptoms have significantly improved. His vital signs, including pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature, remain normal, and his oxygen saturation is excellent on room air, with clear lungs. Dr. O'Connor corrected a previous update, noting that the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) KP.2.3 variant accounts for approximately 12.8% of new cases in the United States, not 33.3% as previously stated. President Biden tolerates the treatment without difficulty and performs all his presidential duties. Further updates on his condition or treatment plan will be provided as necessary.
Vice President Kamala Harris
Thank you so much for providing this fact based, daily glimpse of the life of our President. I truly appreciate the calm delivery.