What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
Weekend Recap: May 11 & 12, 2024
In her commencement speech at Mesa Community College, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden shared her personal journey of overcoming discouragement from a high school guidance counselor who told her she wasn't "college material." Despite this, she pursued higher education vigorously, eventually earning multiple advanced degrees while balancing family and work commitments and addressing the graduates’ resilience and determination, particularly highlighting those who were the first in their families to attend college or return to education later in life. Dr. Biden emphasized the strength and hope embodied by the students and the supportive community at the college that helped them succeed. She advocated freeing community colleges, reflecting on their crucial role in providing flexible and accessible education. She congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to dismiss naysayers, embrace life's challenges, and pursue their dreams with courage.
President Biden expressed deep sadness over the loss of life and devastation caused by the flooding in Brazil. He and his wife, Jill, sent their thoughts and prayers to those affected and commended the efforts of first responders. Biden stated that his administration is coordinating with Brazilian partners to provide necessary assistance and affirmed the United States' support for Brazil during this challenging time.
President Biden has increased federal funding for the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians in response to severe storms and flooding from February 14-15, 2019. Originally, federal funding covered 75% of eligible Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation costs under a major disaster declaration issued on April 8, 2019. Today's amendment raises the federal contribution for Public Assistance projects to 90% of the eligible costs.
U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke by phone with his Israeli counterpart, Tzachi Hanegbi. Sullivan expressed condolences for those lost in the Hamas attacks on Israel's Memorial Day and discussed the U.S.'s strong commitment to Israel's security. He also voiced concerns about a potential large-scale military operation into Rafah and discussed alternative strategies to address Hamas in Gaza. They agreed to continue their discussions through further in-person meetings of the Strategic Consultative Group.
At a campaign reception in Medina, WA, President Biden expressed gratitude to his hosts and supporters, highlighting the Seattle Art Museum's beauty and the importance of friendships and collaborations supporting his campaign. He acknowledged the environmental leadership of the governor of Washington and playfully warned that if elected, he might recruit the governor to work in Washington, D.C.
He praised various congressional delegation members for their integrity and dedication, particularly Senator Maria Cantwell's truthfulness and integrity. The President humorously noted Suzan DelBene's efforts in running the DNC and commended Representative Jayapal for her courage and stamina.
Addressing current events, President Biden mentioned a possible ceasefire in a conflict if a militant group released hostages, emphasizing the situation's complexity without delving too deeply.
President Biden reflected on the state of his re-election campaign, noting close polling but remaining optimistic due to the strong performance in the primaries and substantial grassroots funding and support. He criticized former President Trump’s political approach, accusing him of seeking revenge rather than leading constructively. Biden emphasized Trump's dangerous rhetoric and undemocratic tendencies, which he argued posed a significant threat to both U.S. and global democratic stability.
The President reinforced his commitment to advancing major policy areas like healthcare, gun safety, and climate change, highlighting past achievements and future goals. He reiterated the existential stakes of the election, portraying it as a battle to uphold democratic values and maintain U.S. leadership on the global stage. Biden closed by affirming his optimism and dedication to not letting his supporters or the international community down, underlining the unique nature of American democracy.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken appeared on "Face the Nation" (CBS) with Margaret Brennan, where the discussion focused on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, especially concerning the humanitarian situation and Israel's military operations. Secretary Blinken highlighted the complexity of the battlefield, Israel's right to self-defense following Hamas' October 7 attack, and the significant concerns over the Palestinian civilian death toll. He acknowledged both the strategic complications of targeting an enemy like Hamas, which embeds itself within civilian infrastructures and the ongoing investigations into potential breaches of international humanitarian law by Israel.
The U.S.'s stance on weapon supplies was also discussed. President Biden was noted for his direct involvement in supporting Israel, including visiting during the conflict and organizing international defense collaborations against attacks from Iran. However, Blinken stated the U.S. had concerns about large-scale military operations in densely populated areas like Rafah, emphasizing the need for a credible plan to protect civilians, which Israel had not provided. The U.S. has paused the delivery of certain weapons, specifically large payload bombs, pending further assessments and discussions about their use in populated areas.
Overall, Blinken stressed the need for comprehensive plans for ongoing military actions, post-conflict governance, and rebuilding to prevent Hamas from regaining control and establishing lasting peace and security in the region.