What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
January 4 Recap
A statement was released by National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard that provided an update on the CHIPS & Science Act.
President Biden signed the CHIPS & Science Act in August 2022 to restore America's semiconductor manufacturing leadership and ensure reliable chip access for consumers, businesses, and the military. The Act addresses the global supply chain stress and semiconductor shortages experienced during the pandemic. The Department of Commerce announced a preliminary memorandum of terms for a $162 million award to Microchip Technology, a crucial player in semiconductor fabrication. The investment, combined with private funding from Microchip, is set to triple production, create over 700 jobs, and advance the goal of domestic semiconductor manufacturing. The Biden-Harris administration sees this as a vital step in enhancing technology supply chains, creating jobs, and bolstering national security.
A background press call took place late afternoon on January 3rd. The discussion revolved around recent attacks in the Red Sea by the Houthi rebels. The senior administration official provided information about the attacks, the coalition's response, diplomatic efforts, and the global impact. Key points included the use of anti-ship ballistic missiles, the formation of Operation Prosperity Guardian, and the joint statement issued by 13 countries condemning Houthi actions. The official emphasized the seriousness of the situation, the need to protect international shipping lanes, and the coalition's commitment to a diplomatic resolution while maintaining a strong deterrent posture in the region. The official also addressed questions regarding rules of engagement, private warnings to the Houthis, Iranian support for the Houthis, and the broader regional context, including events related to Hezbollah and the Yemeni civil war.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan congratulated Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah on his appointment as Prime Minister of Kuwait by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The statement emphasized the longstanding U.S.-Kuwait relationship, highlighting their Major Non-NATO Ally status. Sullivan expressed commitment to strengthening economic, cultural, political, security, and people-to-people ties between the two nations, underscoring the importance of their historic partnership in addressing shared challenges and fostering a more prosperous future.
A press briefing was held by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and NSC Coordinator For Strategic Communications John Kirby. The briefing addressed the tragic school shooting at Perry Middle and High School in Iowa. The President expressed condolences and called for more action to address gun violence. The briefing also provided information on Russia's involvement in the conflict in Ukraine, revealing that North Korea supplied ballistic missile launchers and missiles to Russia. The U.S. government outlined steps, including raising the issue at the U.N. Security Council, imposing additional sanctions, and seeking support from Congress to provide Ukraine with necessary military equipment. Mr. Kirby and Ms. Jean-Pierre then took questions from the press.