What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
August 5, 2024 Recap
President Biden and King Abdullah II of Jordan spoke by teleconference and focused on ongoing efforts to reduce regional tensions. They discussed the importance of an immediate ceasefire and the potential for a hostage release deal as part of these de-escalation efforts. President Biden expressed his gratitude to King Abdullah for his continued friendship and emphasized the strong and unwavering support of the United States for Jordan, recognizing its critical role as a partner and ally in promoting regional peace and security. Additionally, President Biden took the opportunity to offer personal congratulations to King Abdullah, Crown Prince Hussein, and Princess Rajwa on the recent birth of a baby girl named Iman, celebrating this joyous occasion within the royal family.
President Biden issued a statement praising Gene Sperling, who joined his administration as the American Rescue Plan Coordinator. Biden highlighted Sperling's extensive experience, noting his previous role as the only person to have directed the National Economic Council under two presidents. Sperling played a key role in executing a recovery plan that led to a resilient economic recovery, providing significant relief to millions of families, renters, and small businesses. Biden also acknowledged Sperling's involvement in critical economic issues, including negotiations with the Big 3 automakers and the UAW. Finally, Biden expressed gratitude to Sperling's family for supporting his work, emphasizing the positive impact of Sperling's efforts on the nation.
President Biden issued two memorandums. The first, titled Presidential Determination No. 2024-09, addresses a proposed agreement for cooperation related to naval nuclear propulsion among the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom. President Biden reviewed and agreed with recommendations from the Secretaries of Defense and Energy, highlighting that this agreement will enhance mutual defense and security among the three nations under existing treaties, including AUKUS. The memorandum approves the agreement, confirms it poses no unreasonable risk to common defense and security, and authorizes its execution by the U.S. government.
The second memorandum delegates specific functions and authorities to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) under the United States-Taiwan Initiative on the 21st-Century Trade First Agreement Implementation Act. Specifically, it authorizes the USTR to perform duties originally vested in the President by section 6(a)-(c) of the Act, including making and submitting required certifications to Congress, consulting with congressional committees, and submitting necessary reports. The memorandum also extends this delegation to any future laws with similar provisions. The USTR is instructed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.
President Biden declared an emergency in South Carolina due to the conditions caused by Hurricane Debby, which started on August 4, 2024. This declaration authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate disaster relief efforts. The relief efforts will focus on alleviating hardship and providing assistance for emergency protective measures, such as evacuation and shelter support. These efforts will be funded at 75% by the federal government. The declaration covers specific counties across South Carolina, with varying levels of support depending on the region.
President Biden and Vice President Harris are briefed in the Situation Room on developments in the Middle East
Thank you President Biden for all that you do for our country.