What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
June 26, 2024 Recap
Vice President Kamala Harris announced a new initiative to lower housing costs and boost housing supply by allocating $85 million in PRO Housing funds to 21 communities. This funding, part of HUD's Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) grant competition, aims to support local planning, infrastructure, and development efforts to build and preserve affordable housing.
Despite recent progress, housing costs remain high. The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to reducing these costs by increasing the housing supply. The grants will help communities overcome barriers like high land costs, aging housing stock, and outdated policies. Demand for these funds has been substantial, with requests far exceeding availability.
Additionally, $100 million more in PRO Housing funds will be released this summer. The Administration’s FY25 Budget proposes $258 billion in housing investments, including a $20 billion Innovation Fund. Other efforts include converting commercial properties to residential use, providing low-cost capital for housing, and making affordable housing more energy-efficient.
This initiative is part of the Administration’s broader Housing Supply Action Plan, demonstrating its commitment to ensuring affordable housing for all Americans.
President Biden announced the use of his clemency authority to pardon many former LGBTQI+ service members who were wrongfully convicted due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. He emphasized the bravery and sacrifice of these individuals, acknowledging the unjust court-martials and lifelong burdens they endured. Biden reiterated his commitment to maintaining a respected and safe military force, reflecting values of dignity and decency. He underscored the nation's obligation to prepare, equip, and care for all service members, including LGBTQI+ individuals, as a step towards progress.
The proclamation directs the Military, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Justice to provide information and publicize application procedures for obtaining a certificate of pardon. Those who receive a certificate are encouraged to apply for an upgrade of their military discharge.
The Biden-Harris Administration has opened applications for the Spring 2025 White House Internship Program from June 26, 2024, to July 26, 2024. Starting in January 2025, the program offers paid internships in the President's Executive Office. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and meet one of the following: currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an accredited degree program or a veteran who served in the past two years.
National Security Advisor to the Vice President, Dr. Phil Gordon, visited Israel and the West Bank from June 23-25. He spoke at the Herzliya Conference in Israel and met with several Israeli officials, including President Isaac Herzog and National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi. They discussed Israeli operations in Gaza, reconstruction, security, governance, and the importance of the ceasefire deal and releasing hostages. Dr. Gordon also emphasized improving Gaza's humanitarian situation and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to Israel's security against Iranian-backed groups, including Hezbollah. They talked about de-escalation efforts along the Blue Line and a diplomatic resolution for Israeli and Lebanese families.
Dr. Gordon met with Palestinian officials in the West Bank, including PLO Secretary General Hussein al-Sheikh and Prime Minister Muhammad Mustafa. They discussed the conflict in Gaza, humanitarian aid, and concerns about settler violence and settlement expansion, which could destabilize the West Bank and undermine peace efforts. Dr. Gordon welcomed the new Palestinian Authority cabinet and discussed the need for reforms to benefit the Palestinian people.
Vice President Kamala Harris announced new actions by the Biden administration to increase access to affordable, high-speed internet across the United States. Emphasizing the importance of internet access for all, regardless of location or income, Harris highlighted a historic $90 billion investment to overcome barriers to internet access. This includes the Affordable Connectivity Program, which helps 23 million families reduce their monthly bills. Despite opposition from Congressional Republicans, the administration is moving forward with initiatives such as finalizing a rule to allow schools and libraries in low-income and rural areas to use Federal Communications Commission’s E-Rate program funds for Wi-Fi hotspots. Additionally, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration will allocate over $9 million to Nevada to implement its Digital Equity Plan. This is the first award under the $1.4 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, designed to help families access fast, affordable, and reliable internet. Harris reiterated the administration's commitment to ensuring internet access for educational, professional, and business needs, marking today's actions as significant progress toward this goal.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant at the White House to discuss a ceasefire deal and the release of hostages. Minister Gallant confirmed Israel's support for the agreement, backed by President Biden, the UN Security Council, the G7, and other nations. Sullivan reiterated the U.S. commitment to Israel's security, addressing threats from Iranian-backed groups like Hezbollah. They discussed U.S. efforts for de-escalation and diplomatic solutions in Lebanon and Biden's support for Israel post-Hamas attacks on October 7th. They also covered the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need for sustained aid, Gallant's leadership in these efforts, and the importance of easing tensions in the West Bank, including transferring clearance revenues to the Palestinian Authority.
Today, President Biden announced his intent to appoint the following individuals to serve in key roles:
Jane Harman, to be a Member of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board
Arthur J. Gonzalez, to be a Member of the Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico
Betty A. Rosa, to be a Member of the Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico
Luis Ubiñas, to be a Member of the Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico
Mohamed Elsanousi, to be a Commissioner of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom
Peter Joseph Marshall Bober, to be a Member of the Board of Visitors to the Coast Guard Academy
Judith Barnett, to be a Member of the President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts
Sheldon Pang, to be a Member of the President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts
White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby held a press gaggle where he addressed several critical issues. Concerning the evolving situation in Nairobi, Kirby emphasized that the U.S. condemns the violence and upholds the right to peaceful assembly, urging Kenyan authorities to exercise restraint and proper use of force. Shifting the focus to Haiti, Kirby highlighted the arrival of the Multinational Security Support Mission, led by Kenya, with substantial U.S. support. This mission, composed of 2,500 multinational personnel, aims to bolster the Haitian National Police in enhancing public safety and ensuring the distribution of humanitarian aid.
Kirby announced the appointment of Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte as the next Secretary General of NATO, expressing President Biden's confidence in Rutte's leadership. He also extended gratitude to the outgoing Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg for his decade of service. In a significant update, Kirby condemned the ongoing trial of journalist Evan Gershkovich in Russia, calling it a sham and reaffirming the U.S. commitment to securing the release of Gershkovich and fellow American Paul Whelan.
Addressing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, Kirby underscored the U.S.'s diplomatic efforts to prevent a second front in the conflict and reiterated unwavering support for Israel's right to self-defense. He clarified that the White House had no involvement in the Julian Assange case, which remains under the jurisdiction of the Department of Justice. Kirby also provided insights into National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's meeting with Israeli Defense Minister Gallant, covering topics such as Israeli operations in Gaza, preventing escalation with Lebanon, and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Regarding the protests in Kenya, Kirby condemned the excessive use of force against demonstrators and confirmed ongoing communication with Kenyan authorities. He assured that U.S. military assistance to Israel continues despite some reported delays, emphasizing the administration's commitment to Israel's defense needs. Kirby addressed the threat posed by Houthi attacks on merchant ships, detailing U.S. efforts to degrade the Houthis' capabilities and counteract their support from Iran.
On the situation in Lebanon, Kirby stated that the safety of U.S. citizens is a top priority and that efforts are underway to prevent an escalation of the conflict involving Israel. He reaffirmed the U.S. stance on supporting Ukraine's right to negotiate from a position of strength, rejecting any plans that would force Ukraine into an unfavorable ceasefire. Kirby also discussed the challenges of delivering humanitarian aid in Gaza, noting the impact of criminal gangs on aid convoys and the need for a ceasefire to ensure safe and effective distribution.
Finally, Kirby addressed the Philippines' willingness to allow U.S. military bases to defend Taiwan, highlighting the strong alliance between the U.S. and the Philippines. He reiterated the U.S. commitment to preventing conflicts in the Indo-Pacific region and maintaining stability through diplomatic and strategic partnerships.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden gave remarks at the White House Pride Month Celebration. She highlighted the accomplishments of her daughter Ashley and the support from various members of Congress, Governor Polis, and officials like Secretary Buttigieg. She thanked the Gill Foundation and DJ TRYFE for their contributions to the event. Dr. Biden emphasized the importance of family, community, and feeling at home, recognizing that home is not just a physical place but the bonds and love shared among people.
She acknowledged the challenges and attacks faced by the LGBTQ community, particularly from certain states passing discriminatory laws. Despite these challenges, she stressed the importance of pride as a celebration and a declaration of resilience and solidarity. The First Lady highlighted key victories, such as the legalization of same-sex marriage and policy changes under President Biden, including the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, and the recent pardons for LGBTQ service members.
Dr. Biden celebrated the progress and small triumphs in everyday life, like accepting chosen names and pronouns. She encouraged attendees to enjoy the celebration, reminding them they are loved, belong, and are never alone. She conveyed love from herself and President Biden, wishing everyone a happy Pride.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden gives remarks at the White House Pride Month celebration
