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President Biden announced a preliminary agreement with Intel under the CHIPS & Science Act, providing up to $8.5 billion in funding and $11 billion in loans to expand semiconductor facilities in Arizona, Ohio, New Mexico, and Oregon. This initiative aims to create nearly 30,000 jobs and stimulate $100 billion in private investment from Intel. It's part of efforts to boost U.S. semiconductor production, currently less than 10% of the world's output, to about 20% by the decade's end. The investment includes commitments to worker training, union jobs, and environmental sustainability, with Intel planning to use 100% renewable electricity and aiming for net-positive water use and zero waste by 2030.
In Chandler, Arizona, at Intel's Ocotillo Campus, President Biden delivered remarks emphasizing the significant role of unions in building the middle class and highlighting a major agreement with Intel as part of the CHIPS and Science Act. He praised various leaders and acknowledged the presence of Intel's CEO and other dignitaries, emphasizing the importance of semiconductor technology and its role in modern devices and national security. The President outlined the journey from learning about supply chain vulnerabilities during the pandemic to making substantial investments to revitalize semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S., including a landmark agreement with Intel for up to $8.5 billion investment, complemented by Intel's $100 billion commitment across multiple states.
This initiative aims to create thousands of jobs, boost manufacturing of advanced chips in the U.S., and significantly contribute to the economy and technological advancements. The plan also involves partnerships for workforce training, emphasizing the importance of inclusive growth and opportunities for people without college degrees. President Biden contrasted his administration's focus on investing in America and its people with previous policies, advocating for a middle-out economic strategy and criticizing the opposition for favoring wealthier sectors and outsourcing jobs.
President Biden's vision includes transforming the U.S. into a manufacturing hub again, leveraging legislative achievements to strengthen the economy, reduce inflation, and improve healthcare affordability. He highlighted his administration's achievements in job creation, infrastructure, clean energy, and education, positioning these efforts as part of a broader strategy to ensure America's competitiveness and resilience. The speech concluded with a call to remember America's potential for innovation and cooperation, underlining optimism for the country's future.
A fact sheet released by the White House discussed the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to democracy globally, with a focus on human rights, anti-corruption, and democratic resilience. At the third Summit for Democracy, hosted by South Korea, the U.S., led by Secretary Blinken, highlighted efforts including:
An $11.8 billion request for Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance assistance, with significant actions against the misuse of commercial spyware.
Over $46 million was allocated to support anti-censorship technology and nearly $9 million in grants to independent media.
Leadership in combating corruption and promoting democratic reforms, with over $53 million allocated to support democratic development.
Initiatives to strengthen election integrity and new commitments to combat the proliferation of commercial spyware and support civil society.
Launch of the Advancing Digital Democracy Academy and efforts to counter online harassment and abuse, especially against women and human rights defenders.
The second National Action Plan on Responsible Business Conduct to promote responsible business practices and human rights.
These steps underscore the Administration's dedication to reinforcing democratic principles and human rights globally.
During a Women's History Month Reception on March 18, 2024, Vice President Harris highlighted the administration's commitment to women's rights and achievements. She shared her personal journey, influenced by her mother, a scientist who faced gender and racial barriers. The Vice President emphasized the administration's efforts to improve women's economic status and healthcare access and fight against regressive policies on women's reproductive rights.
Maria Shriver, introduced by Vice Presiden Harris, celebrated an executive order signed by President Biden aimed at transforming federal approaches to women’s health. This order focuses on comprehensive research and treatment across various women's health issues, including menopause and midlife health. Shriver called it a historic moment, urging collective action to secure a proposed $12 billion for women's health research.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, recalling her experiences and systemic biases in medical research, emphasized the executive order's significance in comprehensively addressing women's health needs. President Biden concluded the event by outlining his administration's achievements and future commitments towards gender equality, economic empowerment, and healthcare, underscoring the fundamental role of democracy and individual freedoms in advancing society.
During a campaign event at El Portal Mexican Restaurant in Phoenix, Arizona, President Biden emphasized his commitment to Latino voters, highlighting his administration's historic investments in Hispanic-serving institutions, including a $15 billion allocation. He credited small businesses and Latino communities for their vital roles in America's social fabric and economic growth. The President underscored the significance of Latino voters in the upcoming election, stressing Arizona's role as a key battleground state. He outlined his administration's accomplishments, including lowering unemployment rates and poverty among Latinos, enhancing healthcare affordability, and supporting small businesses.
President Biden criticized Donald Trump's negative portrayal of Latinos and his policies favoring the wealthy, contrasting it with his own approach focused on middle-class growth and fair taxation. He proposed raising the tax rate on billionaires to ensure they pay their fair share, which would fund social programs and reduce the deficit. The President concluded with a call to remember America's resilience and potential, asserting that unity and collective effort can overcome any challenge.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan visited Kyiv, Ukraine, to meet with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other high-ranking officials, reiterating the United States' strong support for Ukraine amid Russia's invasion. During the visit, Sullivan highlighted the U.S.'s continued assistance following a productive Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting. He emphasized the critical need for the U.S. House of Representatives to approve additional national security funds to support Ukraine's defense efforts. Sullivan also discussed international efforts to hold Russia responsible for its actions, address the global economic effects of the conflict, and progress on anti-corruption and reforms for Ukraine's integration into Euro-Atlantic structures.
President Biden has announced his forty-seventh round of judicial nominees, including one for a federal circuit court, four for federal district courts, and two for the District of Columbia Superior Court. He emphasizes their qualifications and the diversity they bring to the bench. This brings his total federal judicial nominees to 229. Additionally, he intends to nominate one individual to serve as a U.S. Marshal, marking 28 nominees for U.S. Marshals positions under his administration.
Kevin G. Ritz is nominated for the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. He has served in various capacities at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee since 2005.
Brian E. Murphy, with a legal career starting as a public defender to becoming a partner at Murphy & Rudolf LLP, is nominated for the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts.
Judge Rebecca L. Pennell, from public defender to judge at the Washington Court of Appeals, is nominated for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Washington.
Detra Shaw-Wilder, a longtime attorney at Kozyak Tropin & Throckmorton, is nominated for the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida.
Jeannette Vargas, with significant experience in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, is nominated for the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.
Judge Rahkel Bouchet, who has served in the District of Columbia Superior Court since 2016, is nominated for the same court.
John Cuong Truong, Deputy Chief in the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, is also nominated for the District of Columbia Superior Court.
Bobby Jack Woods, with a long career in law enforcement including as Sheriff of Boyd County, Kentucky, is nominated for United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Kentucky.
During a press conference in Kyiv, Ukraine, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak addressed the ongoing support from the United States to Ukraine amidst the Russian invasion. Sullivan emphasized the unwavering support of the U.S. for Ukraine, stating admiration for the bravery and resilience of the Ukrainian people. He reiterated the commitment to helping Ukraine prevail and build a brighter future with a strong democracy and the capability to repel future aggressions. Sullivan mentioned the U.S.'s provision of substantial aid, including a recent package of $300 million for immediate needs, and expressed confidence in continuing support despite delays in additional funding from Congress.
The U.S. sees Ukraine's fight as crucial not only for its sovereignty but also for global security. Sullivan outlined the vision of Ukraine emerging victorious as a sovereign, independent, and secure nation with a vibrant democracy and growing economy. He acknowledged the broad international coalition supporting Ukraine and the comprehensive U.S. efforts encompassing military, intelligence, economic, and diplomatic support.
Despite not commenting on specific military aid questions, such as the provision of long-range ATACMS missiles, Sullivan was optimistic about securing a bipartisan aid package from Congress. Sullivan and Yermak highlighted the close and frequent communication between the U.S. and Ukraine, underlining their partnership's strategic and multifaceted nature in addressing military, economic, and diplomatic challenges. The conference underscored a strong bilateral relationship and the U.S.'s commitment to support Ukraine until it prevails against Russian aggression.
The Pittsburgh-based United Steelworkers Union has endorsed President Biden, signaling support from another significant labor union. This endorsement comes shortly after President Biden expressed opposition to the proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel by Nippon Steel of Japan, emphasizing the importance of U.S. Steel remaining under American ownership and operation. The USW, representing 850,000 workers across various industries, praised The President for his commitment to retirement security, affordable healthcare, and pro-worker legislation. This move aligns the USW with other unions like the AFL-CIO and the United Auto Workers, which have also endorsed President Biden in his electoral race against Republican nominee Donald Trump.
Source: Associated Press
President Biden declared a major disaster in Maine due to severe storms and flooding from January 9 to January 13, 2024. This declaration enables federal assistance to complement state, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the affected areas, specifically in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington, and York counties.
Federal assistance available includes grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans for uninsured property losses, and other recovery programs for individuals and business owners. Additionally, federal funding is provided to state, tribal, and eligible local governments, as well as certain private nonprofit organizations, for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by severe weather. This funding is on a cost-sharing basis.
Statewide, federal funding is also available for hazard mitigation measures aimed at reducing future disaster risks. Robert V. Fogel of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is appointed to coordinate the federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations and assistance will be considered if the state requests it and further damage assessments warrant it.
During a moderated conversation with Senator Cory Booker at the League of Conservation Voters Capital Dinner in Washington, D.C., Vice President Kamala Harris emphasized the Biden administration's unprecedented investments in infrastructure, science, technology, and especially in environmental efforts. Senator Booker and Vice President Harris discussed their shared background as "Blerds" (Black nerds) and lauded the administration for its contributions to environmental justice, climate change, and the promotion of clean energy. They highlighted the importance of partnership and leadership in driving change, not only within the United States but also on a global scale, including efforts in Africa and in international forums like the Munich Security Conference.
Vice President Harris pointed out the administration's achievements in environmental policy, infrastructure development, electric vehicle promotion, and public health improvements through initiatives like lead pipe replacement and investments in clean energy. The conversation also touched on the broader impacts of these policies on job creation, technological advancement, and community pride, particularly in areas long overlooked.
The Vice President underscored the critical role of environmental justice in the administration's agenda, discussing the significance of equity, inclusion, and diversity in environmental policymaking. She praised efforts to remove lead pipes and the importance of ensuring clean water for all communities.
Both Harris and Booker criticized attacks on rights and freedoms in the U.S., connecting environmental justice to broader struggles for democracy, equality, and human dignity. They emphasized the importance of coalition-building and collective action in facing these challenges.
The event concluded with a call to action, urging attendees and viewers to recognize the urgency of the upcoming elections and the impact of their choices on the country's direction. It also emphasized environmental, democratic, and social justice issues.
President Biden gives remarks at Intel's Ocotillo Campus
