What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
Janury 25 Recap
President Biden has announced nearly $5 billion in funding for major transportation projects across the United States as part of his Investing in America agenda. The investment includes $1 billion to replace the deteriorating Blatnik Bridge connecting Wisconsin and Minnesota. The current bridge is predicted to close by 2030, and the funding aims to expand its weight capacity, improve safety, and increase accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists. During his visit to Superior, Wisconsin, the President highlighted the impact on communities, small businesses, and job creation.
Other key projects in the announcement include replacing the I-5 Bridge over the Columbia River, improving I-10 in Arizona, making multimodal improvements in the I-376 corridor in Pittsburgh, and reconnecting communities divided by the Cross Bronx Expressway in New York. Half of the funding, nearly $2.8 billion, is allocated to projects in rural areas. The overall goal is to create jobs, enhance safety, and promote economic opportunity nationwide. The funding builds on previous investments, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act.
Some notable projects funded include replacing the Sagamore Bridge in Massachusetts, the Humboldt Offshore Wind Project in California, and the Louisiana International Terminal Project on the Gulf Coast. The funding will also support Oregon, Washington, New York, Arizona, Montana, Nevada, and Georgia projects. The President emphasized these infrastructure investments' positive impact on various communities, citing examples of ongoing projects and their milestones.
In summary, the announced funding supports 37 transportation projects nationwide, ranging from bridge replacements and road improvements to offshore wind and rail corridor enhancements. The investment addresses critical infrastructure needs, creates jobs, and stimulates economic growth.
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced new executive actions to promote the safe storage of firearms, addressing the leading cause of death for children in America: gun violence. With approximately 4.6 million children living in homes with unsecured firearms, the administration aims to reduce risks through safe storage practices. The actions include initiatives by the U.S. Department of Education to communicate the importance of safe storage to school principals and provide a template for engaging with parents. The U.S. Department of Justice will also release a comprehensive guide on safe firearm storage. The announcement emphasizes the role of local leaders in promoting gun violence prevention. These actions build on previous efforts, including initiatives focused on military and veteran suicide prevention, ATF rules for firearms dealers, grant funds for schools and law enforcement, and collaboration with states on safe storage laws. The administration calls on Congress to pass a national safe storage law, and ongoing efforts include the Safer States Initiative and unprecedented funding for safe, healthy learning environments and mental health services.
President Biden expressed satisfaction with the U.S. economic performance, citing a 3.1 percent growth over the past year, the addition of 2.7 million jobs, and a decline in core inflation. He emphasized the positive impact on wages, wealth, and employment, stating that these indicators are now higher than pre-pandemic levels. Despite the progress, Biden acknowledged the need to address ongoing challenges, pledging to fight for lower costs through legislation targeting prescription drugs, health insurance premiums, and clean energy. He also vowed to combat hidden fees and ensure corporations pass on savings to consumers. The President asserted his commitment to preventing Republicans from favoring the wealthy at the expense of social programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.
In the wake of the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the White House, represented by Jennifer Klein and Tom Perez, held a meeting with state leaders actively involved in defending reproductive rights. The meeting featured discussions with Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Pennsylvania Speaker Joanna McClinton, Florida Leader Fentrice Driskell, and Texas Leader Carol Alvarado, who shared insights on combating dangerous abortion bans and protecting access to reproductive health care. President Biden and Vice President Harris reaffirmed their support for the right to choose, emphasizing the importance of state leaders as allies in the Administration's efforts to defend reproductive freedom. This meeting builds on previous engagements, including a June 2023 in-person gathering of over 80 state legislators from 41 states and ongoing collaboration with governors. The meeting coincided with Vice President Harris' Fight for Reproductive Freedoms tour, underscoring the administration's commitment to the issue.
President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will host Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and Mrs. Kishida Yuko of Japan for an Official Visit to the United States, which will include a state dinner, on April 10, 2024. The visit will underscore the enduring strength of our Alliance partnership, the unwavering U.S. commitment to Japan, and Japan’s increasing global leadership role. President Biden and Prime Minister Kishida will discuss efforts to strengthen our political, security, economic, and people-to-people ties so that our Alliance is postured to address evolving challenges and advance our shared vision for a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region and world.
The Biden-Harris Administration convened a Workforce Hub in Phoenix, Arizona, to announce commitments supporting talent pipelines into good jobs in semiconductor manufacturing. The Phoenix Workforce Hub is part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda, with significant private and public investments aimed at creating pathways into high-demand industries. The announcements include a $5 million private sector commitment for a semiconductor technician Registered Apprenticeship program, a $5 million philanthropic commitment for supportive services, partnerships between unions and community colleges, and more.
Since the start of the Biden-Harris Administration, Arizona has seen over $77 billion in private investment in sectors like semiconductors, electric vehicles, clean energy, and biomanufacturing. The state is rapidly expanding workforce pathways to meet the demand for talent in these critical sectors. Notable initiatives include a semiconductor technician apprenticeship program by TSMC Arizona, a $5 million philanthropic fund by the Arizona Community Foundation, and collaborations between Maricopa Community College, Arizona State University, and various industry partners to build talent pipelines.
Key partnerships include the Maricopa Community College System and Arizona Building Trades Council expanding enrollment in construction trades apprenticeship programs, the Phoenix Union School District and Western Maricopa Education Center enabling high school students to access advanced manufacturing credentials, and a $10 million investment in wrap-around services training efforts at Maricopa Community Colleges.
The Arizona Commerce Authority is investing over $80 million from the American Rescue Plan in university partnerships focusing on infrastructure and workforce development, including centers at Arizona State University and the University of Arizona. Other initiatives like BuilditAZ Apprenticeship and Future48 Workforce Accelerator aim to double the number of construction apprentices and build a talent pipeline for semiconductor and advanced manufacturing industries.
Additionally, Governor Katie Hobbs is conducting a child care needs study in collaboration with various organizations to address child care needs across industries, including semiconductors, to support the successful implementation of initiatives like the CHIPS Act.
The President sent a letter to the Speaker of the House and President pro tempore of the Senate, reporting on recent U.S. military strikes against facilities in Iraq used by Iran-affiliated militia groups. The strikes were conducted in response to a series of attacks on U.S. personnel and facilities by these militia groups. The president asserts that the strikes were necessary to protect U.S. citizens, personnel, and assets, consistent with his constitutional authority as Commander in Chief. The action is reported in accordance with the War Powers Resolution, and the president expresses readiness to take further action if needed.
Note: The letter focuses on the president's decision to conduct military strikes and its rationale, emphasizing the protection of U.S. interests.
President Biden has announced key nominees for leadership positions in his administration. Tracey Ann Jacobson is nominated to be the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Iraq. She is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, with previous roles including U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Kosovo. Patrick J. Fuchs is nominated to be a Member of the Surface Transportation Board. He has been serving in this capacity since January 2019, focusing on transportation policies and railroad transactions. Fuchs has a background in surface transportation and maritime issues, having worked for the United States Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. The White House also plans to renominate candidates whose nominations were returned at the end of the first session of the 118th Congress.
A press gaggle aboard Air Force One en route to Duluth, Minnesota. Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton and NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby provided updates. Dalton highlighted President Biden's visit to the Blatnik Bridge in Superior, Wisconsin, emphasizing the billion-dollar investment in infrastructure, including 36 other mega projects across the country. Additionally, Dalton mentioned a White House town hall addressing gun violence, where the Education Department collaborates with principals to promote safe gun storage.
John Kirby shared foreign policy news, announcing a state visit on April 10th for Prime Minister Kishida of Japan, underscoring the importance of the U.S.-Japan alliance. He also noted Treasury Department sanctions on four Houthis linked to Red Sea attacks, with the UK joining in these measures to hold the Houthis accountable.
NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:
Patrick John Fuchs, of Wisconsin, to be a Member of the Surface Transportation Board for a term expiring January 14, 2029. (Reappointment)
Tracey Ann Jacobson, of Virginia, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Career Minister, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Iraq.
Almo J. Carter, of the District of Columbia, to be a Commissioner of the United States Parole Commission for a term of six years, vice J. Patricia Wilson Smoot, term expired.
Liliana Ayalde, of Florida, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for a term expiring June 26, 2026, vice Juan Carlos Iturregui, term expired.
Marcela Escobari, of Massachusetts, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for a term expiring September 20, 2026, vice Adolfo A. Franco, term expired.
Julio Guity-Guevara, of Maryland, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for a term expiring October 6, 2028, vice Eduardo Arriola, term expired.
Maria Fabiana Jorge, of the District of Columbia, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for a term expiring September 20, 2028, vice Hector E. Morales, term expired.
Brian A. Nichols, of Rhode Island, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for a term expiring September 20, 2024, vice J. Kelly Ryan, term expired.
Samuel E. Lathem, of Delaware, to be a Director of the Amtrak Board of Directors for a term of five years, vice Albert DiClemente, term expired.
John W. Leslie, Jr., of Connecticut, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the African Development Foundation for a term expiring September 22, 2025. (Reappointment)
Monde Muyangwa, of Maryland, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the African Development Foundation for a term expiring September 22, 2027, vice Linda I. Etim, term expired.
Patrice J. Robinson, of Tennessee, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a term expiring May 18, 2028, vice William B. Kilbride, term expired.
President Biden delivered remarks in Superior, Wisconsin, discussing the progress in investing in America and the impact of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. He emphasized the positive economic indicators, such as strong growth and record business applications, highlighting the administration's focus on rebuilding the economy from the middle out.
The President specifically addressed the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, noting the $6.1 billion investment in Wisconsin and $5.7 billion in Minnesota. He announced a $1 billion allocation from the law to build a new bridge connecting Minnesota and Wisconsin, emphasizing its importance for transportation and the local economy.
President Biden also discussed broader infrastructure initiatives, including investments in high-speed Internet, clean water, and the replacement of lead pipes. He highlighted the creation of jobs and the emphasis on using American materials for these projects.
The President touched on tax reforms, advocating for a fairer tax code and the billionaire minimum tax to fund crucial programs. He discussed efforts to lower prescription drug costs and address issues in the pharmaceutical industry.
President Biden concluded his speech by expressing optimism about the future, emphasizing the United States' resilience, and calling for unity and collaboration to address challenges collectively.
First Lady Jill Biden spoke at a Gun Violence Prevention Event, acknowledging the efforts of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention and expressing gratitude to its team. She shared poignant stories of young lives lost to gun violence, emphasizing the lasting impact on survivors like Ava Olsen. The First Lady highlighted the need for preventive measures, mentioning secured guns as a potential solution and addressing the role of educators in fostering a safer environment. Jill Biden called for collective action to end the prevalence of gun violence among children, emphasizing the emotional toll on parents, students, and educators. She stressed President Biden's commitment to addressing this issue and concluded by urging everyone to work towards protecting children from gun violence. The speech aimed to evoke a sense of urgency and collective responsibility in the fight against gun violence.
President Biden at the Blatnik Bridge connecting Minnesota and Wisconsin to announce over $1 billion in infrastructure funding
