What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
January 16 Recap
Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a speech at the NAACP South Carolina State Conference on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. She expressed gratitude for the warm welcome, acknowledged local leaders, and celebrated the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Harris highlighted the importance of freedom in America, emphasizing that it is under threat. She criticized the attack on voting rights in various states, particularly citing restrictions on drop boxes, early voting, and absentee ballots. Harris also addressed challenges to women's reproductive rights, gun violence issues, LGBTQ rights, and attempts to control historical narratives through book bans. She stressed the impact of these challenges on the younger generation and their determination to fight for their rights. Harris invoked Dr. King's legacy, urging continued commitment to the fight for freedom and justice. She concluded with a call to action, emphasizing the need to roll up our sleeves and fight for freedom with faith, hope, and optimism.
Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff will travel to Davos, Switzerland, from January 17 to January 20 to attend the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024. During his visit, he will emphasize the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to countering global Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and hate in general. Additionally, Emhoff will participate in events focused on promoting gender equity and safeguarding women's rights. The trip aims to strengthen international collaboration by engaging with foreign government officials and private sector leaders to address these issues, reflecting Emhoff's leadership in combating hate and addressing gender inequality.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan discussed efforts to release remaining hostages held by Hamas, including American citizens, in a meeting with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani in Davos, Switzerland. They also addressed initiatives for increased humanitarian assistance access to Gaza.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan also met with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani of Iraq in Davos, Switzerland. They addressed various issues, including Iran's recent ballistic missile attacks on Erbil, emphasizing the need for a strong bilateral partnership under the Strategic Framework Agreement. The discussions also focused on preventing attacks on U.S. personnel in Iraq and Syria, with a commitment to enhancing long-term security cooperation. Sullivan reiterated U.S. support for Iraqi sovereignty, emphasizing collaboration for stability and prosperity in economics, commerce, and energy. Additionally, President Biden invited Prime Minister Sudani to visit the White House soon.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan held a meeting with Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of Iraq's Kurdistan region in Davos, Switzerland. During the meeting, Sullivan condemned Iran's recent ballistic missile attacks in Erbil, the capital city of the Kurdistan region. He offered condolences for the tragic deaths of four civilians, including an infant, in these attacks. The discussion also covered the importance of resuming oil exports and maintaining financial flows from federal Iraq to the Kurdistan region to support stability and livelihoods. Sullivan expressed appreciation for the Kurdistan region's strong partnership with the United States and reaffirmed U.S. support.
President Biden has announced a Presidential Delegation to attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Félix Tshisekedi in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on January 20, 2024. The delegation will be led by Scott Nathan, CEO of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, and includes members such as Lucy Tamlyn (U.S. Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo), Mary Catherine Phee (Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of African Affairs), Monde Muyangwa (Assistant Administrator of the Bureau for Africa, U.S. Agency for International Development), and Chidi Blyden (Deputy CEO, Millennium Challenge Corporation).
President Joe Biden spoke with Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany by phone, and they discussed their countries' support for Ukraine against Russia's aggression. They reaffirmed their support for Israel's right to self-defense, emphasizing the protection of civilians in Gaza and the importance of ensuring the free flow of humanitarian aid to those in need.
The U.S. and UK have established a new Strategic Dialogue on Biological Security, building upon previous agreements. Announced during a launch event, this dialogue is rooted in the UK Biological Security Strategy and the U.S. National Biodefense Strategy. The focus is on enhancing health and economic resilience against various biological threats. Key collaboration areas include understanding research and development needs during disease outbreaks, adopting a One Health approach to biosurveillance, developing tools for microbial forensics, promoting responsible innovation in biotechnology, and coordinating efforts to counter biological threats, including compliance with the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention. The initiative aligns with global efforts to strengthen surveillance capabilities and advance vaccines and therapeutics.
In a press briefing via teleconference, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre provided updates on President Biden's schedule, including hosting congressional leaders to discuss national security and the President's visit to North Carolina to highlight achievements under the Bidenomics agenda. Admiral John Kirby, NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications, discussed recent developments in the Middle East, emphasizing ongoing efforts to support Ukraine, address hostage situations involving Hamas, and prepare for lower-intensity operations in Gaza. The focus remains on reducing civilian casualties, providing humanitarian aid, and encouraging precision in military operations.
First Lady Jill Biden delivered remarks at an event celebrating educators and emphasizing the importance of educator wellness in West Valley City, UT. She expressed gratitude to First Lady Cox, recognizing their shared connection as teachers, and commended educators for their tireless work. The First Lady highlighted the optimistic nature of education and the profound impact teachers have on shaping the future. Jill Biden conveyed President Biden's commitment to supporting educators, addressing mental health and academic needs, bipartisan gun safety laws, and loan forgiveness for public servants. She acknowledged the challenges faced by teachers and emphasized the collective responsibility in supporting education. The First Lady concluded by expressing gratitude for the work of educators and encouraging them to recognize their power and worth.
President Biden congratulated Elton John on winning an Emmy Award, securing his place in the EGOT winners club. In a social media post, Biden praised John's impact on people's lives and highlighted his impressive achievements, including six Grammy Awards, two Oscars, one Tony, and now, one Emmy. The 76-year-old singer achieved EGOT status by winning an Emmy in the Best Variety Special (Live) category for his documentary "Farewell From Dodger Stadium" at the recent awards show in Los Angeles. The post included a smiling photo of Biden and John at the White House, where the British music star had previously performed in 2022.
President Biden and Sir Elton John
