What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
April 25, 2024 Recap
The Biden-Harris Administration has launched comprehensive initiatives to enhance America's electric grid and promote clean energy, aiming to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution from fossil fuel power plants. The EPA's new standards are expected to prevent 1.38 billion metric tons of carbon emissions by 2047, alongside substantial health benefits. The Department of Energy (DOE) is investing up to $331 million in a new transmission line from Idaho to Nevada as part of a broader $30 billion grid enhancement strategy. This includes streamlined permitting processes and an ambitious goal to upgrade 100,000 miles of transmission lines using modern technologies to boost capacity and lower energy costs. Incentives from recent legislation have spurred nearly $80 billion in clean energy manufacturing investments across the U.S., fostering job creation and strengthening domestic supply chains. Additionally, the Administration is focused on ensuring equitable access to these benefits, particularly for low-income and historically overburdened communities, by deploying clean energy solutions and transforming energy communities. These efforts reflect a significant push by the Biden-Harris Administration to tackle the climate crisis and advance environmental justice.
President Biden has announced a preliminary agreement with Micron to provide up to $6.14 billion in funding under the CHIPS and Science Act. This investment is part of a larger plan involving a $125 billion private investment from Micron to build a leading-edge memory semiconductor ecosystem in New York and Idaho. The project aims to create over 70,000 jobs, including 20,000 direct jobs and is part of a broader initiative to revitalize semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S.
The investment supports constructing two fabrication facilities (fabs) in Clay, New York, and one in Boise, Idaho, with significant cleanroom spaces. These efforts align with President Biden’s agenda to rebuild the economy from the middle out and boost U.S. national security by regaining leadership in semiconductor manufacturing.
The announcement also includes initiatives for workforce development, such as $40 million for training and the creation of Investing in America Workforce Hubs to connect workers with new jobs. Micron’s commitment extends to sustainability, worker's rights, and community support, with plans to meet net-zero emissions by 2050 and investments in local infrastructure and services.
On World Malaria Day, President Joe Biden reaffirmed the United States' commitment to eradicating malaria globally. Highlighting the disease's severity and the historical achievements in combating it, The President noted that the U.S. eradicated malaria in 1951 and has since played a leading role in the global fight against it. Despite significant progress, including saving nearly 12 million lives and preventing over two billion infections since 2000, nearly half the world's population remains at risk. Recent cases in the U.S. underscore the ongoing threat and the need for continued efforts in prevention and treatment. President Biden's administration has expanded the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative to 30 countries. It has been instrumental in raising funds and supporting the deployment of the first-ever malaria vaccine, aiming to end the disease worldwide.
President Biden unveiled four new Workforce Hubs designed to connect Americans to job opportunities arising from his Investing in America agenda. These initiatives build on past investments, including the American Rescue Plan and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The hubs will be located in Upstate New York, Philadelphia, Milwaukee, and Michigan, targeting industries like semiconductor manufacturing, electric vehicle production, and clean water infrastructure. These regions have seen substantial private and federal investment, with promises of creating thousands of good jobs that don't necessarily require a college degree.
These hubs are part of an expansion following the success of the initial five hubs announced by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. Efforts include creating new job pipelines, enhancing workforce training, and ensuring equitable access to these opportunities across various demographics. The approach integrates various federal departments to support job training and placement, focusing on sustainable and innovative industries. Additionally, the administration has made significant strides in funding workforce development, apprenticeships, and other training programs to prepare the American workforce for future demands, reflecting a comprehensive strategy to improve job quality and labor participation rates across the country.
The leaders of 18 countries, including the United States, Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Spain, Thailand, and the United Kingdom, issued a joint statement demanding the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. The statement highlights the plight of the hostages, who have been detained for over 200 days, emphasizing the international concern for their well-being and that of the civilian population in Gaza, which is protected under international law. It discusses a proposed deal that promises a ceasefire in Gaza, the provision of humanitarian assistance, and the end of hostilities. The leaders express their strong support for ongoing mediation efforts to resolve the crisis and urge Hamas to release the hostages to facilitate peace and stability in the region.
President Biden issued a statement on the First Quarter 2024 GDP emphasizing the American economy's strength and steady growth, highlighting a 3% growth over the past year and an unemployment rate below 4% for over two years. Despite these positive trends, The President acknowledged challenges such as high costs for working families and outlined his efforts to address them, including combating high prescription drug and healthcare costs, eliminating hidden fees in air travel and banking, and proposing to build 1 million new homes to lower housing costs. He criticizes Congressional Republicans for lacking a plan to reduce costs and for supporting policies that favor the wealthy and big corporations at the expense of social programs. Biden advocates for economic growth that benefits the middle class and ensures no one is left behind, contrasting his approach with the Republicans' top-down economic strategy.
In his remarks before departing on Marine One, President Biden briefly discussed his recent meeting with a little girl named Abigail Idan, who had previously been held hostage by Hamas. The President mentioned that the meeting went well and shared a touching anecdote that Abigail expressed her affection for him by saying, "I love Joe Biden," while riding home. He described their time together, noting that Abigail played a lot, including swinging around in the Oval Office. Additionally, when asked about a video involving another hostage, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who is missing an arm, President Biden acknowledged he was aware of the situation but had not seen the video himself.
Vice President Kamala Harris is set to begin a nationwide Economic Opportunity Tour to promote investments in communities and wealth-building across the United States. The tour will start with an event in Atlanta, GA, on April 29, followed by another in Detroit, MI, the next week, with more dates to be announced. The tour aims to showcase the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts in enhancing economic opportunities through initiatives like increasing access to capital, supporting small businesses, making housing more affordable, and forgiving student loans. Vice President Harris plans to highlight the administration's achievements in creating jobs, boosting infrastructure, reducing healthcare costs, and increasing family wealth. She will be joined by various administration officials, Congress members, local leaders, and other guests. This tour underscores The Vice President’s ongoing commitment to community support and economic development, especially in underserved areas, evidenced by her recent visits and initiatives in places like Black Wall Street and Las Vegas.
During a press gaggle en route to Syracuse, New York, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre discussed President Biden's announcement regarding a significant investment in semiconductor manufacturing under the CHIPS and Science Act. This includes up to $6 billion in funding for Micron to build facilities in New York and Idaho, which is expected to trigger $50 billion in private investments by 2030. The projects will create high-quality jobs and support workers' rights to organize and bargain collectively. Jean-Pierre highlighted the overall private-sector investments in manufacturing and clean energy since Biden took office, underscoring his commitment to economic growth from the middle out.
National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby addressed various foreign policy issues, including U.S. support for Haiti's transition to a stable governance structure and nonlethal aid to the Haitian National Police. He mentioned the ongoing U.S. commitments in Ukraine. He clarified the U.S.'s stance on not negotiating with Hamas for a Palestinian state, advocating instead for direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Kirby did not confirm discussions regarding a specific visit by President Erdoğan or any upcoming detailed agenda for meetings in Saudi Arabia.
The Biden-Harris Administration commemorated Second Chance Month by announcing new measures to enhance public safety, support rehabilitation efforts, and successfully reintegrate formerly incarcerated individuals. These initiatives are rooted in the belief that supporting reentry significantly reduces crime rates and benefits communities. Key actions include removing barriers to Small Business Administration loans for those on probation or parole and issuing 11 pardons and five commutations by President Biden for non-violent drug offenses. The administration also focuses on creating job opportunities, especially for those with criminal records, through grant programs and expanding access to higher education and healthcare for incarcerated and reentering individuals. Moreover, efforts are underway to reduce reliance on criminal history in federal employment and reform unjust fines and fee practices. Other ongoing actions aim to improve access to ID cards post-release, address marijuana possession charges, and implement the First Step Act to enhance rehabilitation and reduce federal prison populations. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to justice reform and improving reintegration outcomes.
Vice President Harris spoke at a roundtable about Second Chance Month, emphasizing the importance of redemption and supporting individuals with criminal records. She highlighted the significance of second chances in the criminal justice system, reflecting on her career efforts in reducing recidivism, including initiatives like "Back on Track" in San Francisco and later work as California's Attorney General. Harris discussed recent policies, such as making small-business loans accessible to individuals with criminal records and expanding Pell Grants for incarcerated individuals. The conversation also touched on broader actions under the Biden administration, like issuing pardons and addressing sentencing disparities, notably the crack versus powder cocaine sentencing. Harris closed by reiterating the need to invest in people and public safety intelligently, acknowledging the role of redemption in society.
President Biden spoke at the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology in Syracuse, New York, highlighting the impact of the CHIPS and Science Act. He began by paying tribute to local fallen police officers and expressing gratitude to law enforcement and their families. He acknowledged the support of various political and business leaders, including Governor Hochul, Senator Schumer, and Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra.
The President emphasized the significance of the CHIPS and Science Act in revitalizing American manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign semiconductor production. He detailed a landmark agreement involving $6.1 billion in federal funding and $125 billion from Micron to build semiconductor manufacturing facilities in New York and Idaho. These efforts are expected to create over 70,000 jobs, with thousands in manufacturing paying about $100,000 annually without requiring a college degree.
He mentioned new workforce training hubs and partnerships with educational organizations to prepare workers for high-tech jobs. Biden criticized his political opponents for initially opposing the CHIPS Act but noted their change in stance following its success. He stressed the bipartisan nature of its benefits and expressed optimism about America's manufacturing future, ending with a message of unity and resilience.
Vice President Harris welcomed children and their families to the White House for the "Take Your Child to Work Day" event. She expressed gratitude towards the young attendees for allowing their family members to work at the White House, emphasizing their work's significant impact on children's welfare nationwide and globally, including ensuring happiness, safety, and access to clean air and water. Harris reminisced about her experiences visiting her mother at work, encouraging the children to engage with their parents about their jobs. The event was a celebration of both the children's permission for their relatives to serve and the relatives' ongoing contributions to society.
In a campaign event speech in Irvington, NY, President Biden engaged with the audience using humor and personal anecdotes. He referenced his Irish heritage, joking about his potential popularity in Ireland, and shared light moments about relationships and celebrity status. The President also emphasized his accomplishments, such as significant job creation, healthcare expansions, and investments in infrastructure and technology, particularly the microchip industry.
He criticized former President Trump, highlighting Trump's management of the COVID-19 crisis and his alignment with controversial figures and policies. President Biden accused Trump of endangering democracy and undermining women's rights, particularly with regard to abortion laws.
President Biden also discussed his administration's efforts to lower drug prices, enhance gun safety laws, and protect the environment. He also pointed out the disparity in tax rates between billionaires and average citizens and proposed fairer tax legislation.
The President concluded by contrasting his hopeful vision of America with what he described as Trump's vision of anger and retribution. He expressed optimism about America's role on the global stage and its democratic values, calling for unity and collective action to protect democracy and advance his administration's goals.
President Biden expressed his condolences on the passing of U.S. Congressman Donald Payne Jr., praising him as a beloved and effective public servant. Payne, a lifelong Newark, New Jersey resident, began his political career as a highway toll collector before serving as a city councilman and county freeholder. Following his father's death, Congressman Donald Payne Sr., Don Payne reluctantly entered politics, eventually embracing his heritage and winning reelection five times. During his tenure in Congress, he focused on key issues such as healthcare access, clean drinking water, cancer screenings, gun violence prevention, voting rights, and equal pay for women. He was instrumental in passing significant legislation, including the 2013 Violence Against Women Act reauthorization and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. President Biden highlighted Payne's deep connection to Newark and his continuous efforts to serve his community, even while battling diabetes. The President and his wife, Dr. Jill Biden, extended their deepest sympathies to Payne's family and the people of Newark, acknowledging his lasting legacy and impact.
President Biden meets with four-year-old Abigail Idan, who was held hostage by Hamas, at the White House
Love the photo! Love the work of this administration ❤️🇺🇸
Thank you for the updates! 🙏
Biden and Harris working for us!