What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
Weekend Recap
President Biden expressed strong support for the restoration of the Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly at Stormont, praising the political leaders of Northern Ireland for their efforts to reinstate these crucial institutions. Reflecting on his visit to Belfast for the 25th anniversary of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, Biden underscored the importance of these democratic institutions for Northern Ireland's future. He emphasized the potential benefits of a government capable of collaboratively solving difficult issues, including enhanced opportunities for Northern Ireland. Biden expressed optimism about a power-sharing government's stability and positive impact, highlighting its role in strengthening the peace dividend, restoring public services, and building on the progress made over recent decades. He stated that this development is a significant step forward and expressed confidence that continued dialogue and cooperation with the United Kingdom and Ireland will promote the essential North-South and East-West relations stipulated by the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement. Biden concluded by envisioning a vibrant and dynamic Northern Ireland, offering limitless opportunities for its residents.
NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:
Amir H. Ali, of the District of Columbia, to be United States District Judge for the District of Columbia, vice Beryl Alaine Howell, retiring.
Melissa R. DuBose, of Rhode Island, to be United States District Judge for the District of Rhode Island, vice William E. Smith, retiring.
Sunil R. Harjani, of Illinois, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois, vice Thomas M. Durkin, retired.
Robert J. White, of Michigan, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Michigan, vice Paul D. Borman, retired.
Jasmine Hyejung Yoon, of Virginia, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Virginia, vice Michael Francis Urbanski, retiring.
Rebecca Suzanne Kanter, of California, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of California, vice William Q. Hayes, retired.
Rose E. Jenkins, of the District of Columbia, to be a Judge of the United States Tax Court for a term of fifteen years, vice Elizabeth Crewson Paris, term expired.
Adam B. Landy, of South Carolina, to be a Judge of the United States Tax Court for a term of fifteen years, vice David Gustafson, term expired.
Kashi Way, of Maryland, to be a Judge of the United States Tax Court for a term of fifteen years, vice Mark Van Dyke Holmes, term expired.
A productive conversation between President Joe Biden of the United States and President Andrés Manuel López Obrador of Mexico occurred by phone on Saturday, focusing on several key issues of mutual interest and concern. Here's a detailed breakdown and analysis of the points discussed:
Strong Partnership: The call underscores the strong partnership between the United States and Mexico, indicating a continued desire to work closely on mutual concerns and to strengthen bilateral relations.
Shared Border Challenges: Both leaders discussed the challenges they face at their shared border, which encompasses security, migration, and trade issues. Their commitment to continue working together suggests an ongoing dialogue to address these complex challenges.
Irregular Migration: President Biden expressed appreciation for Mexico's efforts to deter irregular migration and for its operational support. This includes Mexico's role in managing migration flows, possibly through enforcement actions and the provision of lawful pathways for migrants, highlighting a collaborative approach to migration management.
Countering Transnational Crime: The conversation also covered their shared commitment to counter transnational criminal organizations, which are involved in the trafficking of drugs, guns, and people. This point emphasizes the security aspect of their partnership, focusing on combating organized crime that affects both nations.
Bilateral Cooperation: The agreement to continue close cooperation signals an ongoing commitment to work together on border issues and improving people's lives in both countries. This cooperation extends to advancing opportunities throughout the Western Hemisphere, suggesting a broader regional approach to their partnership.
Improving Lives and Advancing Opportunities: The leaders’ commitment to improving the lives of Americans and Mexicans and advancing opportunities in the Western Hemisphere indicates a holistic approach to their partnership. It suggests efforts to enhance economic, social, and security conditions, benefiting their own countries and potentially influencing wider regional development and stability.
Overall, the call between President Biden and President López Obrador reflects a continuation of the collaborative spirit between the U.S. and Mexico. It highlights the multifaceted nature of their relationship, encompassing immigration, security, and broader regional cooperation, all aimed at addressing immediate bilateral issues and contributing to the prosperity and stability of the Western Hemisphere.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre released a statement criticizing a recent bill introduced by House Republicans. It contrasted the administration's efforts, which involved bipartisan collaboration with Senators on a national security agreement aimed at securing the border and supporting Ukraine and Israel, with the House Republicans' actions, described as a cynical political maneuver. The administration opposed the bill, arguing it failed to enhance border security, support Ukraine against Russian aggression, or assist Palestinian civilians—actions that even Israel supported. The statement concluded by urging House Republicans to adopt a bipartisan approach to address these critical national security concerns.
President Biden expressed his and Jill Biden's deepest condolences to First Lady Monica Geingos and the people of Namibia on the passing of President Hage Geingob. He remembered Geingob as a fearless leader who played a significant role in Namibia's fight for independence and the drafting of its constitution and served as prime minister and president. Praising Geingob's advocacy for Namibia and Africa, The President affirmed the intention to continue building on his legacy to strengthen partnerships and mutual support. He also highlighted Geingob's educational ties to the United States, including his studies at Temple University, Fordham University, and The New School. He mentioned his regret at losing the opportunity to work with him. The President committed to further strengthening the relationship with Namibia, honoring Geingob’s vision for his country and its people.
A formal communication from President Biden was sent to the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate, informing them of military actions taken by the United States in response to attacks by Iran-affiliated militia groups against U.S. personnel and facilities in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan. The President reports that these actions, including targeted strikes in Iraq and Syria against facilities used by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and affiliated groups, were taken to deter further attacks and protect U.S. forces. The strikes were conducted in accordance with the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force, the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq, and international law, specifically Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. The letter emphasizes the President's commitment to keeping Congress informed in line with the War Powers Resolution and underscores the actions as necessary for U.S. national security and self-defense.
Weekly Recap In Photos
President Biden in the White House Situation Room as he is briefed on the latest developments regarding the attack on U.S. service members in northeastern Jordan
Vice President Harris gives remarks at a campaign stop in Los Gatos, CA
President Biden delivers remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C.
Vice President Kamala Harris meets with faith leaders in Orangeburg, South Carolina
