What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
September 4, 2024 Recap
President Biden issued a statement mourning the loss of lives due to the shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. He expressed sorrow for the victims and empathy for the survivors whose lives have been irreversibly changed by this act of gun violence. Biden lamented that what should have been a celebratory back-to-school period has instead become a somber reminder of the ongoing gun violence epidemic tearing communities apart. He underscored the grim reality that students across the nation are learning how to protect themselves from shootings rather than focusing on their education, emphasizing that this cannot continue to be accepted as normal.
Biden highlighted the coordinated efforts of federal, state, and local officials in responding to the incident and commended the first responders who apprehended the suspect and prevented further casualties. He stressed that ending gun violence is a deeply personal mission, pointing to his administration’s efforts, including signing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which he described as the most significant gun safety legislation in decades. Additionally, Biden noted the creation of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, led by Vice President Harris, as part of his commitment to combating this crisis.
Despite these steps, Biden acknowledged that more action is needed. He called on Republicans in Congress to join Democrats in passing common-sense gun safety laws. Biden advocated for measures such as banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, implementing universal background checks, requiring the safe storage of firearms, and ending immunity for gun manufacturers. He emphasized that while these measures will not bring back the lives lost in this tragedy, they are crucial steps toward preventing future incidents of gun violence and protecting families from further heartbreak.
President Joe Biden condemned the recent Russian missile attack on a military training facility and hospital in Poltava, Ukraine, which killed over 50 people and injured many others. He described the attack as a tragic reminder of Putin’s ongoing efforts to undermine Ukraine’s resolve. Biden reaffirmed the United States' unwavering support for Ukraine, including providing air defense systems. He emphasized that Russia will not succeed in this war and expressed solidarity with the Ukrainian people, vowing continued support.
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced new measures to boost academic success for students, focusing on strengthening public education as the cornerstone of democracy and opportunity. Key initiatives include significant investments in literacy and assessment programs, with $149 million allocated to support states in implementing evidence-based reading interventions, particularly benefiting underserved students. An additional $30 million will enhance comprehensive assessment systems to better inform teaching practices. To further support student achievement, the Administration is releasing new guidance on school improvement practices emphasizing evidence-based strategies, such as addressing chronic absenteeism and providing high-quality tutoring.
Addressing chronic absenteeism is a central focus, calling states to develop student data systems that track attendance and target interventions. The Administration has also launched the Student Attendance and Engagement Solutions Network, which brings together school districts and state agencies to share strategies for improving attendance and engagement. Other supportive initiatives include improving transportation options for students, promoting the benefits of healthy school meals, and engaging youth in finding solutions to absenteeism through the "Attendance Champions Challenge."
These efforts are underpinned by the Administration's historic educational investments, including the American Rescue Plan (ARP), which provided $130 billion for public education. This funding has been used to enhance school safety, expand tutoring, and support summer and after-school programs. The Administration emphasizes the importance of evidence-based interventions, collaboration among federal, state, and local entities, and community engagement to ensure all students have the resources and support needed to succeed academically.
Vice President Kamala Harris spoke at a campaign event in North Hampton, New Hampshire, addressing various critical issues facing the country. She began by acknowledging a recent tragic shooting in Georgia, expressing her condolences to the victims and their families, and criticizing the epidemic of gun violence in the United States. Harris condemned the frequency of such incidents and called for stronger gun safety laws, highlighting the impact on young students who now regularly endure active shooter drills in schools. She stressed the need to end gun violence and restore a sense of safety in communities.
Harris emphasized the importance of the upcoming election, noting that there are only 62 days left and describing the race as tightly contested. She encouraged supporters not to be swayed by poll numbers, as the campaign runs as the underdog. Harris reminded the audience of the hard work ahead, urging them to focus on the shared values that unite Americans. She framed the election as a fight for the promise of America, where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
A significant portion of her speech was dedicated to her vision for building what she called an "opportunity economy." Harris outlined her commitment to supporting small businesses, which she described as the backbone of the American economy. She praised small business owners as community leaders who provide essential services, hire locally, and contribute to the fabric of society. Harris announced a goal of 25 million new small business applications to support these entrepreneurs by the end of her first term. She proposed expanding the current tax deduction for startups from $5,000 to $50,000, aiming to lower the financial barriers to starting a business.
Harris also detailed her plan to help existing small businesses grow, including providing low and no-interest loans and cutting red tape to make starting and expanding businesses easier. She suggested simplifying the tax filing process for small businesses, drawing a comparison to the straightforward 1040EZ form used by individuals in the past. Additionally, she promised to increase federal contracts with small businesses, particularly in rural areas, and expand access to venture capital and innovation hubs.
She contrasted her economic plans with those of former President Donald Trump, criticizing his proposals to cut federal programs that support small businesses and provide massive tax cuts for billionaires and corporations. Harris warned that Trump’s economic policies would significantly increase the national debt while providing little benefit to working families and small businesses. She also noted Trump's intention to end the Affordable Care Act, which would raise healthcare costs for small businesses and strip protections for people with pre-existing conditions.
Harris then turned to issues of individual freedoms, highlighting the impact of Trump’s Supreme Court appointments on reproductive rights. She condemned the rollback of Roe v. Wade and the enactment of restrictive abortion laws in multiple states, many without exceptions for rape or incest. Harris vowed to restore reproductive freedoms if elected, pledging to sign a bill into law that would protect a woman’s right to make decisions about her own body.
Throughout her speech, Harris emphasized that the upcoming election is not just a fight against Trump but a fight for the future of fundamental freedoms, including the right to vote, access to healthcare, and safety from gun violence. She called on the audience to recognize the importance of this moment in history, urging them to continue the legacy of past generations who fought for freedom. Harris concluded with a powerful call to action, asking New Hampshire voters if they were ready to stand up for the promise of America and reminding them that when they fight, they win.
Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff delivered heartfelt remarks at the National Vigil for the Hostages at Adas Israel Congregation, expressing deep sorrow and solidarity with the Jewish community. Emhoff acknowledged the pain and raw emotions felt by everyone present, including himself, as he spoke as the Second Gentleman and as a Jewish mourner connected to the community. He reflected on the impact of recent tragic events and the retraumatizing nature of the loss, particularly focusing on Hersh and his family, who have been in his thoughts constantly. Emhoff spoke of his close relationship with the congregation's rabbis, Aaron and Lauren, who have guided him in his faith journey, encouraging him to use his voice in this moment of grief.
Emhoff shared that he and Vice President Kamala Harris had spoken with Hersh’s parents, Rachel and Jon, multiple times, including a recent call that was particularly painful. He described their grace and strength, even in their unimaginable loss. Despite their profound grief, Rachel and Jon have remained focused on the broader cause, urging continued efforts to bring all hostages home and end the suffering in Gaza. Emhoff recounted how they still wore tape on their hearts at Hersh’s funeral, marking the number of days the hostages have been in captivity, a poignant reminder that their fight extends beyond their personal tragedy.
He highlighted the human stories behind the tragedy, including the love and sacrifices of families affected by the violence. Emhoff spoke of the personal nature of Hersh’s loss, which is made even more so because Rachel and Jon have shared their son’s story so widely, planting their love for him in the hearts of others. He emphasized that their commitment and the broader community’s support demonstrate the strength and resilience that define the Jewish people.
Reflecting on the ongoing violence, Emhoff acknowledged the devastating toll of every new tragedy, both in Israel and beyond. He shared that he often discusses these events with Vice President Harris, who deeply understands and shares the community's pain. Both he and Harris are grieving, feeling the loss of Hersh and others as a personal tragedy.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and NSC Coordinator John Kirby held a press briefing to address significant national and international concerns. Jean-Pierre began by expressing condolences for the families affected by a recent school shooting in Georgia, emphasizing the administration's ongoing commitment to reducing gun violence. She called for Congress to enact stricter gun control measures, including universal background checks, banning assault weapons, and implementing a national red flag law. Highlighting the president and vice president’s actions, she underscored the urgency of making schools and communities safer for children and educators.
John Kirby focused on foreign interference in U.S. elections, detailing coordinated actions by the Departments of Justice, Treasury, and State against Russian entities like Russia Today (RT). These organizations have been accused of covertly spreading disinformation to influence U.S. and foreign elections, reduce support for Ukraine, and promote pro-Russian narratives. In response, the administration announced new sanctions, visa restrictions, and a $10 million reward for information on Russian hacking groups. Kirby stressed the importance of protecting democratic processes and urged Americans to be vigilant about the authenticity of their news sources.
The briefing also covered U.S. efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Kirby provided updates on ongoing negotiations and highlighted the complex nature of reaching an agreement, emphasizing that talks continue with regional partners to facilitate a ceasefire deal. He reiterated that while the U.S. actively works to bridge gaps in the negotiation process, achieving peace requires compromise and leadership from all parties involved.
Other topics included concerns about potential foreign influence in other countries’ elections and the U.S.'s ongoing discussions with Israel regarding the ceasefire. The briefing also touched on domestic issues, including the administration’s focus on gun control, upcoming jobs reports, and President Biden’s plans for his remaining time in office. Emphasizing the importance of legislative action, Jean-Pierre highlighted the president’s executive actions to curb gun violence and promote economic recovery, reiterating that Congress needs to act to further these efforts.
The briefing highlighted the administration's ongoing focus on critical domestic and international issues, including gun control, election security, and diplomatic efforts in conflict zones like the Middle East. The administration continues to push for meaningful actions to address these challenges, demonstrating a commitment to national safety and international stability.
Today, the White House released visitor log records generated in May 2024. This set includes 87,040 records, bringing the total number of records posted to 1,562,536
These records were posted pursuant to the White House’s policy to voluntarily disclose visitor log records. This release is consistent with the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to becoming the first administration to post visitor log records from its first full year in office.
Vice President Harris gives remarks at a campaign stop in North Hampton, NH
Where are the main stream papers accenting the White House activities? More Americans need to read what their elected officials are doing to make their lives better and appreciate all who are involved.
Thank you for all your efforts to bridge this huge disconnect. The failure of our news outlets to help advance