What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
February 19 Recap
Vice President Kamala Harris announced the Department of Commerce's preliminary agreement with GlobalFoundries, enabled by the CHIPS and Science Act. This $1.5 billion investment will expand domestic semiconductor production, strengthen U.S. supply chains, and create thousands of good-paying jobs in America. The agreement follows Harris's efforts in Singapore to address global supply chain issues and includes the construction of a new semiconductor facility in Malta, NY, and expanding operations in New York and Vermont. The semiconductors produced are vital for various industries, including automotive and national defense. This initiative is expected to generate over 10,000 jobs over the next decade, support economic growth, and reinforce the Biden administration's commitment to enhancing the U.S. economy and job opportunities nationwide.
President Biden issued a statement on the Day of Remembrance of Japanese American Incarceration, reflecting on the historical injustice of Executive Order 9066, which led to the incarceration of over 120,000 Japanese Americans during World War II. Biden honors the 33,000 Japanese Americans who served in the U.S. military and civil rights leaders who fought for justice. He emphasizes his commitment to confronting racism and preserving democracy, reaffirming the Federal Government's apology to Japanese Americans and pledging to ensure such injustices never happen again.
President Biden gave remarks on the White House South Lawn, where he expressed willingness to meet with Speaker Johnson to discuss aid negotiation and refrained from blaming House Republicans directly for Aleksey Navalny's situation. He criticized their stance towards Russia, NATO, and obligations, describing it as shocking and unprecedented.
The President hopes Navalny's death might influence House Republicans to reconsider Ukraine aid but is skeptical of change. He confirmed existing sanctions against Russia and the consideration of additional measures.
President Biden emphasized the critical importance of supporting Ukraine and NATO during remarks in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. He detailed his conversation with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, promising financial support to prevent Russia from overrunning Ukraine. The President stressed the essential role of NATO in global security and the historical significance of the alliance, highlighting that NATO's Article 5 was only invoked in response to the 9/11 attacks. He criticized the idea of reducing support to Ukraine as absurd and unethical, underscoring the bravery of the Ukrainian people in their fight against Russian aggression.
Additionally, President Biden commented on the death of Russian opposition leader Navalny, holding Putin responsible either directly or for the circumstances leading to Navalny's demise. His remarks strongly defended the NATO alliance and underscored the United States' commitment to maintaining peace and security in Europe and upholding international commitments.
President Biden has declared a major disaster in California due to severe storms and flooding from January 21 to January 23, 2024. This declaration enables federal aid for recovery efforts in San Diego County, including grants for housing repairs and loans for uninsured losses. Statewide hazard mitigation funding is also available. FEMA's N. Allison Pfaendler is coordinating the federal recovery. Affected individuals and business owners can apply for assistance through various platforms. Additional support may be provided following further assessments.