What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
February 13 Recap
President Joe Biden condemned the House GOP's attempt to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas as baseless and politically motivated. The President highlighted Mayorkas' long history of public service, including his journey as a Cuban immigrant and his tenure in various law enforcement and public service roles, praising his integrity and dedication to upholding the rule of law and American values. He criticized the impeachment effort, which previously failed on a bipartisan vote, as an unconstitutional act of partisanship.
President Biden also pointed out the irony in Republicans' actions, noting their rejection of bipartisan border security plans proposed by his administration, including efforts by Secretary Mayorkas. He urged Congress to focus on providing the necessary resources and tools to address border security effectively and called for the passage of the Senate's national security supplemental. The President emphasized the need for real solutions to Americans' challenges rather than engaging in political stunts.
President Biden praised the bipartisan effort in the Senate that led to the passage of a crucial national security supplemental agreement, emphasizing its significance for advancing American national security interests. He highlighted the agreement's role in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, aiding Israel in its defense against Hamas terrorists, and providing humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people, who are largely unaffected by Hamas. The President urged the House of Representatives to act swiftly on the agreement, citing the urgent need and the rising costs of inaction, especially in Ukraine, where reports indicate Ukrainian troops are facing ammunition shortages. He stressed the importance of American leadership and international alliances in countering tyrants and safeguarding national security, urging immediate House action to allow him to sign the bipartisan legislation into law.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre released a statement focusing on the Biden Administration's commitment to reducing healthcare costs for American families, specifically through the Inflation Reduction Act that enables Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. The statement highlights a recent court decision in the Western District of Texas (National Infusion Center Association et al. v. Becerra et al) as a significant victory for the Administration against Big Pharma's efforts to prevent drug price negotiations. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services are proceeding with negotiations for lower prices on ten drugs used by millions of seniors for various conditions, addressing the issue of Americans paying significantly more for prescription drugs than people in other developed countries. President Biden and his Administration aim to continue efforts to lower healthcare costs for seniors and their families.
President Biden issued a statement on the January Consumer Price Index highlighting significant economic achievements and ongoing challenges. He pointed out that the period had seen the strongest wage growth in 50 years, coupled with robust growth and employment. Inflation had been reduced by two-thirds from its peak, indicating progress, yet acknowledging further efforts to lower costs was necessary. The President emphasized his commitment to reducing expenses for middle-class families by addressing the costs of prescription drugs, eliminating hidden fees, and urging corporations to pass savings onto consumers transparently. He also positioned himself against Congressional Republicans' proposals that, according to him, would favor the wealthy and large corporations at the expense of the middle class and potentially cut vital social services.
During the National Association of Counties Legislative Conference, Lael Brainard, the National Economic Advisor, and Tom Perez, Senior Advisor to the President and Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, convened a meeting with county elected officials. The focus was on President Biden's Investing in America agenda, which aims to drive historic investments in clean energy and manufacturing, especially targeting previously neglected communities, thereby fostering economic revival.
The meeting began with White House leadership emphasizing the administration's commitment to supporting areas overlooked by previous economic policies and the importance of partnership with local governments in economic initiatives. A new report by the Brookings Institution and Massachusetts Institute of Technology highlighted the targeted investments in economically distressed counties, aligning with the President’s pledge to include all communities in economic advancements. This report aligns with findings from the U.S. Department of the Treasury regarding clean energy investments catalyzed by the Inflation Reduction Act.
County officials shared insights from their experiences leveraging federal programs and drawing private sector investments. Administration officials outlined available resources designed to mitigate the costs associated with industrial site preparation and project execution. Experts from the private sector discussed strategic considerations for investments in localities, financing roles, and site preparation strategies. The meeting wrapped up by pointing out various support avenues from public, private, and non-profit sectors that county officials can utilize to propel equitable economic growth within their communities.
The participants included White House officials, county executives, and representatives from the private and non-profit sectors, showcasing a collaborative effort to ensure the equitable distribution of economic growth opportunities across the United States.
Vice President Kamala Harris met with King Abdullah II of Jordan at the White House, focusing on the recent developments in Gaza. Harris expressed gratitude to King Abdullah for Jordan's humanitarian assistance to Gaza, notably through eleven airdrops of medical supplies to a field hospital. They also discussed the situation in Rafah, with Harris highlighting the Biden-Harris Administration's stance against military operations there without a plan to ensure the safety of over one million people. The discussions extended to the importance of stability in the West Bank, where Harris thanked King Abdullah for his leadership in addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. She reiterated the administration's commitment to a two-state solution as the best path to peace and security, emphasizing the Palestinians' right to dignity, security, and self-determination.
A press briefing was held at The White House by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby, involving discussions on various topics, including:
Bipartisan Coalition and Supplemental Agreement: The briefing opened with applause for the bipartisan coalition of senators who passed the supplemental agreement, emphasizing its importance for national security interests, support for Ukraine against Russia, aid for Israel to defend against Hamas, and humanitarian assistance globally.
Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program: The administration's victory against Big Pharma was highlighted, focusing on dismissing a case against President Biden’s program for negotiating lower prescription drug prices under the Inflation Reduction Act.
Gun Violence and Safety Measures: The briefing touched on the tragic shootings at Michigan State University and Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School, advocating for gun safety reforms and acknowledging the efforts of young leaders and the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.
Middle East Situation: Admiral John Kirby provided updates on the Middle East, including discussions on combatting human trafficking and ongoing talks in Cairo regarding hostages.
Secretary Austin’s Health and Israel’s Operations: Questions were raised about Secretary Austin's health and updates on Israel's military operations, emphasizing the importance of considering civilian safety in potential operations in Rafah.
Congressional Actions and Funding: The House's need to pass the supplemental agreement for Ukraine and Israel and humanitarian aid was stressed, along with the importance of U.S. leadership on the global stage.
Hostage Negotiations and Support for Ukraine: The briefing covered the administration's efforts in negotiating for hostages held by Hamas and the importance of continued support for Ukraine amidst Russian aggression.
Civilian Casualties in Gaza: There was a discussion on the high number of civilian casualties in Gaza, with the administration expressing concern and urging Israel to take measures to protect civilians.
Venezuela and Indo-Pacific Relations: The detention of a human rights activist in Venezuela and the importance of the upcoming elections in Indonesia for U.S. relations in the Indo-Pacific were mentioned.
Russia-North Korea Relations: Concerns about the defense relationship between Russia and North Korea were addressed.
The briefing covered a wide range of topics, focusing on foreign policy, national security, healthcare, and legislative actions, emphasizing the administration's efforts in these areas.
President Biden urges Congress to act on the Senate bipartisan national security bill
