What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
January 12 Recap
President Biden visited Allentown, Pennsylvania, to showcase the economic recovery in the region. Under his administration's Investing in America agenda, the first three years saw a record number of new business applications, with nearly 16 million filed. The small business boom contributed to job growth, particularly benefiting Black and Hispanic business ownership. Allentown, once impacted by failed trickle-down economics, experienced a comeback marked by historic employment growth, small business creation, and investments.
Key points of Allentown's recovery included a 3.9% unemployment rate (20-year low), increased personal income, and significant job gains. Notable investments, such as Pratt Industries' $500 million and Schless Bottles' $7.5 million, reflected renewed confidence in the region. President Biden's commitment to Pennsylvania included $14.2 billion in public infrastructure and clean energy investments, $3 billion in private sector investments, and support for local businesses through initiatives like the American Rescue Plan.
In the Allentown area, various federal agencies awarded funds for infrastructure projects, educational programs, and climate action plans. These initiatives aimed to boost economic development, create jobs, and improve the overall well-being of the community. President Biden's focus on leaving no community behind was evident in the targeted investments and support provided to Allentown and other areas across the country.
President Biden announced the early implementation of a key provision in the SAVE plan, a student loan initiative aimed at providing relief. Borrowers enrolled in SAVE, who have repaid for 10 years and took out less than $12,000 in loans, will have their remaining debt canceled starting next month. This move, occurring six months ahead of schedule, particularly benefits community college and low-income borrowers. Biden encourages eligible borrowers to sign up for the SAVE plan, emphasizing the administration's commitment to easing the burden of student loan debt and highlighting past achievements in student loan relief, Pell Grants, and accountability measures for colleges. Additionally, efforts are ongoing to explore alternative paths for widespread student debt relief.
In a background press call, senior U.S. administration and military officials provided information on joint strikes against Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. The action aimed to disrupt Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. The U.S. and UK, with support from other nations, targeted Houthi missile, radar, and UAV capabilities. The move followed a significant Houthi attack on U.S. ships, and the officials emphasized the need to protect global trade and navigation. The U.N. Security Council condemned Houthi attacks, and the U.S. President directed the response. The officials addressed potential Houthi retaliation, Iran's role, and emphasized the action's focus on degrading Houthi capabilities. They mentioned consultations with allies and expressed readiness for further measures if needed. The call covered military details, diplomatic efforts, and the broader context of tensions in the Middle East.
President Biden has announced a Presidential Trade and Investment Mission to Manila, Philippines on March 11-12, 2024. The mission aims to enhance U.S. companies' contributions to the Philippines' innovation economy, connective infrastructure, clean energy transition, critical minerals sector, and food security. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo will lead the mission, reinforcing the Philippines as a crucial hub for regional supply chains and high-quality investment. The announcement aligns with President Biden's commitment to strengthen U.S.-Philippines economic ties and support internationally recognized labor rights, as communicated to Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The President has proclaimed January 16, 2024, as Religious Freedom Day. In the proclamation, he emphasizes the constitutional right to practice faith peacefully, expressing the importance of protecting this right for people of all faiths or beliefs. The President mentions efforts to counter Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of bias within the United States, as well as initiatives to enhance the physical security of non-profits, including places of worship. The administration is also working on a national strategy to counter Islamophobia. Globally, efforts include providing financial support for religious freedom and humanitarian assistance to those facing religious repression. The proclamation acknowledges the ongoing work needed to protect religious freedom and calls for unity in ensuring dignity and respect for people of all religions or no religion.
In a proclamation on Martin Luther King, Jr., Federal Holiday, 2024, President Biden reflected on Dr. King's life and legacy, emphasizing his moral vision for national redemption. The proclamation highlighted Dr. King's commitment to justice, equality, and the idea that all people are created equal. It acknowledged the progress made with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 but underscored that the work was not yet finished.
President Biden urged the nation to continue Dr. King's mission, emphasizing the ongoing battle for the soul of the country between hope and fear, kindness and cruelty, and justice and injustice. He called for a commitment to perfecting the union, seeing each other as neighbors, and defending democracy. The proclamation encouraged Americans to observe Martin Luther King, Jr., Federal Holiday on January 15, 2024, with civic, community, and service projects in honor of Dr. King's legacy.
Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates and NSC Coordinator John Kirby provided updates during a press gaggle aboard Air Force One en route to Allentown, PA. They discussed President Biden's visit to small businesses, the success of Bidenomics in promoting economic growth and creating jobs, and the implementation of the SAVE plan for student debt cancellation. Admiral Kirby addressed questions about the recent strikes on Houthi targets, emphasizing the legitimate military nature of the targets and the ongoing assessment of damage. He stated that the U.S. is not seeking war with Yemen, but aims to deter Houthi attacks. The press also inquired about Secretary Austin's involvement, the timing of the strikes, and the administration's strategy regarding Iran's role. Kirby highlighted the administration's focus on diplomacy and efforts to disrupt Houthi capabilities. The discussion touched on various topics, including Taiwan elections, oil prices, and the death penalty for the Buffalo supermarket shooter. The White House urged House Republicans to honor funding agreements to avoid a government shutdown. Lastly, they emphasized the administration's commitment to Bidenomics and opposition to MAGAnomics.
President Biden issued a Letter to the Speaker of the House and President pro tempore of the Senate consistent with the War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148). The letter, addressed to the Speaker of the House and President pro tempore of the Senate, outlines recent attacks by Yemen-based Houthi militants against U.S. military forces and commercial shipping in the Red Sea region. The letter mentions a significant attack on January 9, 2024, prompting a multinational military operation on January 11, 2024. The operation targeted facilities in Yemen associated with Houthi attacks, aiming to deter and degrade their capacity for future attacks. The decision is justified as necessary for protecting U.S. personnel and assets, defending national security interests, and aligning with international law and the United Nations Charter. The letter is submitted in accordance with the War Powers Resolution to keep Congress informed, expressing gratitude for congressional support in the matter.
President Biden, during a tour of Nowhere Coffee Co. in Emmaus, PA, addressed questions on Iran and the recent strikes against the Houthis. He delivered a message to Iran, stating they know not to take any provocative actions. When asked about a potential proxy war with Iran, he denied it. Regarding continued strikes on the Houthis, he mentioned a response if their behavior persists. The President expressed confidence in Secretary Austin but acknowledged a lapse in judgment for not being informed earlier. He affirmed that Iran does not want a war with the U.S. and referred to the Houthis as a terrorist group. The recent strike was deemed successful with no civilian casualties. The President offered to buy coffee for those present and mentioned further discussions after a visit to the fire station. The tour continued with a lighthearted mention of being almost in Scranton.
President Biden tours the Nowhere Coffee Company in Emmaus, PA
