What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
October 16, 2024 Recap
Fox News host Bret Baier and Vice President Harris sat down to discuss immigration policy, border security, and the administration's handling of these issues since taking office. Baier opened by addressing immigration as a major voter concern, pressing Harris to estimate the number of undocumented immigrants who had been released into the country under the Biden administration. When asked for a specific number, Harris emphasized the systemic issues of the U.S. immigration system, calling it broken and in need of comprehensive reform. She pointed out that upon taking office, the administration's first legislative effort was to propose the U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021, aimed at overhauling immigration laws, before working on other initiatives like infrastructure and the Inflation Reduction Act.
Baier challenged Harris on the administration’s reversal of the "Remain in Mexico" policy, which had required asylum seekers to wait in Mexico during their U.S. court proceedings. He suggested that the policy change led to releasing individuals who later committed crimes, asking if Harris regretted ending the policy. Harris responded by highlighting the administration’s broader approach to reform, which included increasing resources for border enforcement, enhancing the asylum system, and collaborating with Congress to strengthen border security. She defended their efforts to increase the number of judges for processing cases, tighten penalties for illegal crossings, and improve border operations, emphasizing that the administration had worked across party lines to find solutions.
The discussion turned to specific cases where individuals released into the U.S. were involved in crimes, with Baier citing tragic incidents and questioning whether the administration owed an apology to the families of the victims. Harris expressed empathy for the families’ losses, acknowledging the tragedies while arguing that more robust border security legislation could have helped prevent further incidents. She criticized former President Donald Trump for allegedly opposing a bipartisan border security bill, suggesting he preferred to use the issue for political leverage rather than addressing it.
Harris and Baier also discussed her changing stance on immigration since her 2019 presidential campaign. Baier pointed out that Harris previously supported policies such as providing undocumented immigrants driver's licenses, free tuition, and healthcare. Harris noted that her role as Vice President requires adherence to federal law and clarified that she would maintain that stance as President. Baier also referenced criticisms from the Border Patrol union, which recently endorsed Trump, labeling the Biden-Harris administration a failure on border security. Harris acknowledged the frustration of border agents, reiterating that their concerns underscored the need for more support and resources, which the administration had tried to provide through legislative efforts.
The interview expanded beyond immigration, touching on economic issues and campaign dynamics. Harris defended her economic plans, arguing that her policies, backed by various analysts and experts, would strengthen the U.S. economy. In contrast, Trump’s plans would primarily benefit the wealthy and increase the national deficit. Baier pressed her on why many voters support Trump despite her criticisms of his leadership and policies. Harris suggested that voters were ready for a new direction that focused on unity and practical solutions rather than divisive rhetoric. She positioned herself as a candidate who could offer fresh ideas and a break from the last decade's political climate, which she associated with Trump’s influence.
Harris also faced questions about her relationship with President Biden and what would change under a potential Harris presidency. Baier noted that while she described herself as different from both Biden and Trump, she had not identified any specific policies she would handle differently from Biden. Harris emphasized that her leadership would bring new perspectives and experiences, focusing on practical solutions for issues like housing affordability and support for small businesses. She pointed to her career outside of Washington as evidence of her fresh approach.
Towards the end of the interview, the conversation shifted to foreign policy, specifically Harris's statement that Iran is the greatest adversary to the United States. Baier contrasted this with the FBI’s focus on China as a significant threat and questioned the administration’s actions regarding sanctions on Iran. Harris defended the administration's stance, emphasizing its support for Israel and efforts to counter Iran’s influence in the region. She criticized Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal, suggesting it undermined long-term efforts to contain Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Baier frequently pressed Harris throughout the interview on her policy record and accountability for the administration’s decisions. At the same time, Harris aimed to present a broader vision of her leadership style and the direction she wants to take the country. The conversation was marked by interruptions and moments of tension, reflecting the high-stakes nature of the upcoming election and the differences in their perspectives on the issues at hand. Harris sought to frame the election as a choice between continuing Trump’s divisive approach and turning a new page, focusing on unity and solutions. At the same time, Baier challenged her on the tangible outcomes of her time in office.
Since taking office, the Biden-Harris Administration has prioritized countering corruption as a critical national security interest, implementing a comprehensive strategy. This effort addresses the entrenched corruption issue globally, emphasizing accountability, transparency, and support for reformers. Key actions include issuing the United States Strategy on Countering Corruption, curbing illicit finance, and enhancing legal frameworks. With a focus on international collaboration, the Administration has seized opportunities for reform in various countries, supporting anti-corruption efforts through USAID and other initiatives. Measures like the Corporate Transparency Act and new visa restrictions target enablers of corruption, while the administration’s broader approach includes strengthening global partnerships and advocating for reforms through multilateral platforms. This effort has produced notable progress, such as recovering stolen assets, improved prosecution of corrupt actors, and increased support for investigative journalism.
The Biden-Harris Administration is actively supporting recovery efforts in the Southeast and Appalachia after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, with nearly 8,000 federal personnel on-site. Over $1.8 billion in aid has been approved, covering temporary housing, food, water, and the restoration of infrastructure like roads and schools. North Carolina alone has received over $100 million for more than 77,000 survivors. Additional investments include over $600 million for energy resilience in the Southeast.
FEMA has approved over $911 million for Hurricane Helene, with $581 million for individual and community assistance and $330 million for public infrastructure. Florida, South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia are among the states receiving substantial aid. Over $620 million has been allocated for Hurricane Milton, with $16 million for individuals and $604 million for public assistance.
The SBA has approved over $48 million in disaster loans, while multiple Disaster Recovery Centers and Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are aiding survivors on the ground. Centers offering in-person assistance have opened in Florida, North Carolina, Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
The USDA has also announced that residents affected by Helene in Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee may qualify for food aid through the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP), benefiting nearly 1.2 million households. Moreover, $233 million in indemnities will support agriculture producers impacted by the hurricane, with the largest amounts allocated to Georgia.
President Joe Biden spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to reaffirm the United States' commitment to supporting Ukraine in its ongoing defense against Russian aggression. During the conversation, President Biden provided updates on his administration's efforts to enhance security assistance for Ukraine, emphasizing the intention to continue support throughout the remainder of his term. A significant part of this assistance is a newly announced $425 million package. This package includes vital air defense capabilities, air-to-ground munitions, armored vehicles, and other essential munitions to meet Ukraine’s urgent needs on the battlefield.
In addition to this immediate aid, the U.S. is preparing to deliver broader capabilities over the coming months. This includes hundreds of air defense interceptors, multiple tactical air defense systems, additional artillery units, and significant quantities of ammunition. Moreover, the package will also include hundreds of armored personnel carriers, infantry fighting vehicles, and thousands of other armored vehicles. These resources are intended to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities and strengthen its ability to effectively resist and counter Russian forces.
During the discussion, President Zelenskyy outlined his plan for victory over Russia, highlighting Ukraine's strategic approach and military needs. Both leaders agreed to maintain close communication between their teams to align on the next steps. They emphasized the importance of continued coordination with international partners to ensure Ukraine has the necessary equipment and support to succeed.
President Biden announced that he will host a virtual leader-level meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in November 2024 to facilitate this international cooperation. This gathering aims to unite key global allies to coordinate additional assistance and ensure a streamlined approach to supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts. Through this meeting, the United States and its partners hope to solidify a unified strategy to strengthen Ukraine's military capabilities further and sustain its efforts in the ongoing conflict.
In her remarks at the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Vice President Harris criticized former President Donald Trump for calling himself the "father of IVF." She highlighted how his actions, including his support for Supreme Court justices who overturned Roe v. Wade, have negatively impacted access to IVF treatments and women's rights. Harris emphasized the harm caused to women and families, particularly those in states with strict abortion bans. She also addressed comments from former President Obama about Black men's voting preferences, stating her commitment to earning every vote. Additionally, she expressed concerns over Trump's stability and fitness for office and reiterated her support for Taiwan's right to self-defense under the One China policy. Harris declined to discuss specific legal actions related to military aid and voting positions on California's Proposition 36.
President Biden issued a memorandum delegating authority to the Secretary of State under section 614(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. It allows the Secretary to determine if providing up to $14 million in assistance to Ukraine is important for U.S. security interests, even if it bypasses other legal provisions under the specified section. The Secretary is instructed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.
Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer visited Port-au-Prince, Haiti, meeting with senior Haitian officials, the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, and the Haitian National Police (HNP). His visit aimed to advance security and governance efforts. Finer, joined by a U.S. delegation, expressed condolences for the recent gang-led massacre in Pont-Sondé and reaffirmed U.S. support for Haiti's security and election efforts. He praised the recent presidential transition to Leslie Voltaire and emphasized unity among Haitian leaders.
In discussions with MSS and HNP, Finer highlighted U.S. support for the mission, making it the largest contributor. He also backed Haiti's request for a potential future UN peacekeeping mission. The U.S. continues to be the leading provider of humanitarian aid and supports the renewal of trade preferences to boost Haiti's economy.
President Biden declared a major disaster in Alaska due to flooding from August 5 to 6, 2024. This declaration allows federal assistance to support state, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the affected areas, specifically in the City and Borough of Juneau. The aid includes temporary housing and home repair grants, low-interest loans for uninsured property damage, and other recovery support for individuals and businesses. Additionally, federal funds will assist state, tribal, and local governments and eligible non-profits for emergency work and repairs. Hazard mitigation funding is also available statewide. Lance E. Davis of FEMA will coordinate the federal recovery efforts. Further assistance may be provided if additional damage assessments justify it.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre held a press briefing starting with the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to assist communities affected by Hurricanes Helen and Milton. She highlighted that federal assistance has surpassed $18 billion, with President Biden personally visiting Florida to survey the damage and meet with families and officials. However, the Small Business Administration's disaster loan program has run out of funds, prompting the administration to urge Congress to provide additional resources to support small businesses and homeowners still needing assistance.
Internationally, President Biden's upcoming trip to Germany aims to reinforce the strong relationship between the U.S. and Germany. His discussions with German leaders will focus on supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression and addressing broader global issues. Alongside this, a new security assistance package for Ukraine is being prepared, with details expected following President Biden's recent conversation with Ukrainian President Zelensky. The President also has plans to visit Angola in December, seeking to deepen ties with the country and enhance collaboration on security, health, and economic partnerships.
The briefing also touched on the U.S.'s humanitarian concerns regarding Israel's aid to Gaza. Following a reduction in humanitarian aid to the region, a letter was sent to Israel, similar to a previous communication in April. The U.S. hopes for a constructive response from Israel. The administration emphasized the importance of balancing military operations with humanitarian needs.
Addressing concerns about the strain on the Secret Service due to heightened security needs, Jean-Pierre confirmed that President Biden remains committed to his scheduled international engagements, including the trip to Germany. Meanwhile, the President has expressed his confidence in Vice President Kamala Harris, emphasizing her ability to "cut her own path" as a leader and praising her loyalty and significant contributions to the administration’s efforts.
Jean-Pierre also responded to questions about U.S. military aid to Israel, stressing the administration's balanced approach to supporting Israel’s security needs while addressing humanitarian considerations in the region. The discussion included the situation in the Korean Peninsula, with the White House monitoring rising tensions and reports of North Korean support to Russia in the Ukraine conflict. The administration continues to engage closely with South Korean allies to ensure regional stability.
Domestically, the briefing addressed concerns about potential job relocations to Mexico by the automaker Stellantis. The administration emphasized the importance of the company honoring commitments made to American workers. Throughout the briefing, Jean-Pierre reiterated the administration's commitment to disaster recovery, maintaining strong international partnerships, and addressing domestic and global challenges.
Vice President Harris answers questions from Fox News host Bret Baier
