What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
March 4 Recap
President Biden issued an Executive Order terminating the national emergency regarding Zimbabwe initially declared in Executive Order 13288 on March 6, 2003. This original order, along with subsequent orders in 2005 (Executive Order 13391) and 2008 (Executive Order 13469), were aimed at addressing the undermining of democratic processes and human rights abuses in Zimbabwe by certain government members and other individuals. President Biden acknowledges ongoing concerns about violence, human rights abuses, and public corruption in Zimbabwe but deems the national emergency declaration no longer necessary. As a result, the mentioned executive orders are revoked.
The termination of this national emergency will not affect any pending actions or proceedings or not concluded as of the date of this new order, nor will it affect any rights, duties, or penalties that arose before the date of this order. The order clarifies that it should not impact the legal authority of executive departments or agencies or the functions of the Office of Management and Budget. Additionally, it states that this order does not create any enforceable rights or benefits against the U.S., its departments, agencies, or any other entity or individual. The implementation of this order is subject to applicable law and the availability of appropriations.
National Security Council Spokesperson Adrienne Watson issued a statement addressing the United States' response to ongoing corruption, human rights abuses, and political repression in Zimbabwe. Highlighting the exploitation and impoverishment of communities within Zimbabwe and beyond due to a network of illicit activities such as bribery, smuggling, and money laundering, the U.S. aims to hold accountable those responsible. This includes high-ranking officials and entities, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, and businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, through implementing the Global Magnitsky sanctions program. The U.S. Department of the Treasury is designating three entities and eleven individuals for their involvement in serious human rights abuses or corruption. These actions, which build upon previous U.S. government measures and the pausing of U.S. participation in certain dialogues, aim to promote accountability strategically without imposing sanctions on Zimbabwe or its public. The U.S. reaffirms its commitment to supporting civil society, human rights defenders, and independent media in Zimbabwe. It promotes democratic freedoms and good governance as outlined in the Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic Recovery Act of 2001.
President Biden has announced a significant step forward in reducing prescription drug costs for seniors, emphasizing it as a top priority. For the first time, Medicare has leveraged its newly granted power to negotiate drug prices directly with pharmaceutical companies. Ten drugs have been selected for these initial negotiations, with Medicare sending offers to the manufacturers last month. All manufacturers of these drugs have submitted counteroffers, marking a key milestone in efforts to lower healthcare costs for families and improve deals for seniors. This progress occurs amid opposition from both the pharmaceutical industry and some Republican members of Congress, who have criticized the Inflation Reduction Act's provisions aimed at reducing drug prices. President Biden plans to address further his administration's strategies to decrease healthcare costs and counteract Big Pharma's influence in his upcoming State of the Union address.
President Biden announced the continuation of the national emergency regarding Ukraine, initially declared on March 6, 2014, by Executive Order 13660. This emergency was declared in response to the threat posed by the actions and policies of individuals undermining Ukraine's democratic processes, sovereignty, and territorial integrity and contributing to the misappropriation of its assets. Subsequent Executive Orders expanded the scope of this emergency, particularly in response to the actions of the Russian Federation, including its annexation of Crimea and destabilizing activities in Ukraine. The most recent expansion, Executive Order 14065, issued on February 21, 2022, addresses Russia's recognition of certain regions of Ukraine in violation of the Minsk agreements. The continuation of this national emergency beyond March 6, 2024, is deemed necessary due to the ongoing unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States posed by these issues. President Joseph R. Biden Jr. has extended the emergency for another year, as outlined in the National Emergencies Act, and this decision will be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to Congress.
Vice President Harris addressed the press at the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill, discussing her upcoming meeting with Benny Gantz. She outlined the United States' priorities, which include securing a hostage deal, delivering aid, and establishing a six-week ceasefire. Emphasizing Israel's right to self-defense and the importance of protecting innocent civilians, The Vice President highlighted the urgency of rescuing hostages and the alignment of her stance with President Biden's.
Despite her recent remarks that were perceived as sharply critical of Israel, she reaffirmed their united position on Israel's defense rights, the need to protect Palestinian civilians, increase aid, and resolve the hostage situation. Vice President Harris underscored the critical timing for achieving a hostage deal and the collective desire for a swift end to the conflict, emphasizing the significance of how it concludes.
Vice President Kamala Harris and Israeli War Cabinet Member Benny Gantz held a meeting at the White House. The Vice President condemned the October 7th terrorist attack by Hamas and the taking of hostages, including Americans. She reiterated the U.S.'s support for Israel's right to self-defense against Hamas threats and affirmed the commitment to Israel's security.
The Vice President expressed concern about the humanitarian conditions in Gaza and the tragedy around a northern Gaza aid convoy. She emphasized the importance of achieving a hostage deal, acknowledging Israel's positive approach to the talks and urging Hamas to accept the proposed terms for a six-week ceasefire and a surge in humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The discussions also covered the Rafah situation and the necessity of a credible humanitarian plan before any major military action, highlighting the importance of protecting civilians. In cooperation with the U.S. and international partners, the Vice President advocated for increased humanitarian assistance to Gaza to ensure its safe distribution to those in need.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden gave a speech at the 18th Annual International Women of Courage Awards Ceremony highlighting the importance of amplifying women's voices and the role of women and men in advancing gender equality. She thanked Secretary Blinken and Second Gentleman Emhoff for their contributions to gender issues, Jen Klein and the White House Gender Policy Council, and Ambassador Gupta's team at the State Department’s Office of Global Women’s Issues. Biden acknowledged the presence of the diplomatic community and the family of former Secretary Albright, emphasizing the legacy of advocacy and leadership.
Dr. Biden's address focused on the pervasive silence surrounding the struggles of women, children, and men affected by war, violence, and oppression. It celebrated the honorees for breaking that silence through their courage and advocacy. She spoke of the inner strength of the awardees, their refusal to be censored or silenced, and their efforts to advocate for change and equality despite risks and challenges.
The First Lady emphasized the collective power of women supporting each other, fostering a community of strength, healing, and lasting change. She highlighted the importance of paving the way for future generations to live without fear, oppression, or limitations on their voices and dreams. Dr. Biden concluded with a message of resilience and solidarity, asserting that women's and allies' collective efforts and voices can overcome any forces seeking to suppress them, embodying a shared fight for justice and freedom.
White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby held an on-the-record press gaggle, discussing several key points regarding the U.S. and international efforts in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the security situation in Haiti.
Humanitarian Aid to Gaza: Kirby highlighted the collaboration between the U.S. Department of Defense and the Jordanian Royal Air Force in airdropping 38,000 ready-to-eat meals into Gaza. This initiative is part of the broader U.S. effort, which remains the largest provider of aid to Gaza, with more than $180 million in humanitarian assistance provided since October 7th. Despite these efforts, Kirby acknowledged that the aid was not sufficient nor fast enough, promising more airdrops and pressing for the opening of additional crossings for aid.
Ceasefire and Hostage Negotiations: The U.S. calls for a temporary ceasefire as part of a deal for the release of hostages held by Hamas, emphasizing the importance of releasing vulnerable hostages to enable a surge of humanitarian assistance. Kirby stated that Israel has agreed to a proposed framework, and the onus is now on Hamas to accept the terms.
Haiti's Security Situation: Kirby expressed grave concern over Haiti's rapidly deteriorating security situation. The U.S. is closely coordinating with Haitian officials and international partners to restore security and support a democratic transition, emphasizing the need for free and fair elections and a peaceful transition of power.
Meetings with Israeli Officials: Benny Gantz, a member of the Israeli war cabinet, is scheduled to meet with U.S. officials, including the Vice President and Secretary Blinken. These meetings are expected to focus on the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the ongoing hostage negotiations.
Russia and Ukraine: Kirby briefly touched on Russia's attempts to sow discord among Western allies, specifically mentioning a leaked audio conversation involving German officials. He reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine and urged for the passage of supplemental funding to aid Ukraine.
The press gaggle covered a wide range of topics, emphasizing the U.S.'s commitment to addressing humanitarian crises, facilitating diplomatic negotiations, and supporting allies in times of conflict.
Vice President Kamala Harris meets with Israeli War Cabinet Member Benny Gantz at the White House
