What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
August 22, 2024 Recap
Editor’s note: President Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden are spending this week in Santa Ynez, CA, with no official activities on their schedule until they return to the White House on August 25th.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris both expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr., who served New Jersey in the U.S. House of Representatives for 27 years. President Biden reflected on his long friendship and professional collaboration with Pascrell, praising him as a devoted patriot, a compassionate leader, and a tireless advocate for working-class Americans. Biden emphasized Pascrell's dedication to public service, which spanned decades and included significant contributions to veterans' care, tax fairness, and labor unions. He fondly remembered Pascrell's humble beginnings, military service, and lifelong commitment to improving the lives of others, extending heartfelt condolences to Pascrell's family.
Vice President Harris also paid tribute to Pascrell's unwavering commitment to public service, noting his strong advocacy for healthcare, environmental protection, and support for first responders and veterans. She highlighted his leadership on economic issues, particularly his efforts on the House Ways and Means Committee to benefit middle-class families. Harris underscored Pascrell's deep connection to his hometown of Paterson, NJ, where he championed local historical preservation projects. She extended her condolences to his family, recognizing that his legacy of service and dedication to his community will endure for generations. Both leaders celebrated Pascrell's lifetime of service and his profound impact on the people he represented.
Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a passionate and personal speech as she accepted the Democratic nomination for President of the United States at the convention in Chicago, IL. She sincerely thanks President Joe Biden for his leadership and partnership, highlighting their shared journey and commitment to the country. She also extended heartfelt thanks to her husband, Doug, celebrating their marriage and his support as a father to their children, Cole and Ella.
Harris then reflected on her family's history, sharing the story of her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, who immigrated from India to California with the dream of becoming a scientist. She spoke of the values instilled in her by her parents, including the importance of community, resilience, and the fight for justice. Harris recounted her childhood experiences, moving frequently and growing up in a working-class neighborhood where a robust and supportive community surrounded her. She credited her mother for teaching her and her sister to never complain about injustice but to work to change it actively.
In discussing her career, Harris detailed how her experiences shaped her decision to become a prosecutor, driven by a desire to protect the vulnerable and ensure justice for all. She recalled her early days in the courtroom, where she represented the people, not just victims, and emphasized her commitment to fighting for those who could not fight for themselves. Her career, she noted, was marked by challenging fights, from taking on big banks as California’s Attorney General to defending workers and veterans from exploitation.
Harris then addressed the current political climate, framing the 2024 election as one of the most critical in American history. She issued a stark warning against the potential return of Donald Trump to the White House, describing the former president as a serious threat to democracy. She highlighted Trump’s actions during his presidency, including the Capitol insurrection, and warned of the dangers of his agenda, which she described as regressive and harmful to the nation’s future.
Looking ahead, Harris outlined her vision for America, emphasizing the need to build a strong and growing middle class. She proposed creating an “opportunity economy” where everyone, regardless of their background, has the chance to succeed. Her plans include lowering the cost of living, expanding access to healthcare, and protecting Social Security and Medicare. Harris also spoke passionately about defending reproductive rights, vowing to sign legislation that restores reproductive freedom if elected.
On national security, Harris underscored her experience as Vice President in confronting global threats and strengthening alliances. She pledged to maintain America’s military strength, support Ukraine against Russian aggression, and work towards a peaceful resolution in Gaza. Harris criticized Trump’s foreign policy, particularly his approach to autocrats and dictators, and promised to stand firm in defense of American values and security.
Harris returned to themes of unity, optimism, and the American spirit of resilience throughout her speech. She called on the nation to reject the divisive politics of the past and to come together to write the next chapter in America’s story. Harris concluded with a powerful call to action, urging Americans to fight for the ideals of freedom, opportunity, and justice and to vote in the upcoming election to secure the country's future.
Vice President Harris officially accepts her party’s nomination for President of the United States at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, IL
