What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
May 8, 2024 Recap
President Biden stated that the U.S. will not provide Israel with offensive weapons that could be used in a potential assault on Rafah, a major area in Gaza, due to concerns about civilian safety. While reaffirming the U.S.'s commitment to Israel's defense by continuing to supply defensive weaponry like the Iron Dome interceptors, The President expressed caution regarding actions in Rafah that might endanger over a million civilians.
This decision represents a significant moment in U.S.-Israel relations, reflecting growing tensions between the Biden administration and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, especially following the paused shipment of heavy bombs intended for Israel. These developments occur amid President Biden's broader reassessment of military aid to Israel as its government considers an offensive in Rafah.
The U.S. concern centers around the potential use of large bombs in densely populated areas, which could lead to high civilian casualties. This cautious approach also aligns with the upcoming U.S. review on whether Israel's actions in Gaza violate international and U.S. laws aimed at protecting civilians in conflict zones.
The situation remains dynamic, and the appropriate types of military support are being evaluated based on the unfolding situation in Gaza.
Source: Associated Press
President Biden highlighted a $3.3 billion investment by Microsoft in Racine, Wisconsin, marking a significant shift from a previously unsuccessful $10 billion investment by Foxconn under the prior administration. This investment aims to establish a new artificial intelligence (AI) data center, promising to create 2,300 union construction jobs and 2,000 permanent jobs over time, with additional skilling opportunities for thousands in the digital economy.
The initiative is part of The President's broader "Investing in America" agenda, which seeks to rejuvenate the economy through middle-out and bottom-up economic policies, moving away from past trickle-down approaches. This agenda focuses on bringing technological and economic development to historically overlooked areas and integrates significant educational and workforce development initiatives, including a partnership with Gateway Technical College to train 1,000 Wisconsinites for data center and STEM roles by 2030.
Further, the administration has been actively fostering broader economic growth and reducing costs for families in Racine and across Wisconsin through various measures, including infrastructure improvements, investments in clean energy, and healthcare affordability enhancements.
The President contrasted this with the policies of Congressional Republicans, whom he accuses of proposing measures that would increase costs for middle-class families while cutting essential services. This visit to Racine symbolizes a commitment to reversing the economic downturns of previous administrations and investing in the future of American communities and industries.
President Biden's speech at Gateway Technical College in Racine, Wisconsin, discussed his "Investing in America" agenda, emphasizing its impact on the local economy and workforce. He began by reminiscing about his connections to Wisconsin through a personal story about his Catholic school's support for the Green Bay Packers, spurred by a team-drafted teacher.
He highlighted his administration's focus on job creation and infrastructure. However, The President criticized the economic policies of previous administrations, particularly the effects of trickle-down economics, which he claimed hollowed out the middle class. He juxtaposed this with the failed promises of the Trump administration, notably a botched investment with Foxconn that promised thousands of jobs but resulted in none.
President Biden detailed the achievements under his leadership, including significant job growth in Wisconsin, driven by large-scale investments like Microsoft's $3.3 billion to build a data center in Racine. This project is expected to generate thousands of jobs and includes educational partnerships with local institutions to train workers in high-demand tech sectors.
He defended his policies against critics from the right and highlighted endorsements from business leaders. The President reinforced his commitment to American manufacturing and innovation, emphasizing the importance of community colleges and vocational training to prepare the workforce for technological advancements such as AI.
President Biden concluded his speech by expressing optimism about America's future and its ability to achieve great things through collective effort. He invoked national pride and highlighted the historical resilience of American industry and innovation.
President Biden has announced his forty-ninth round of judicial nominations, including Judge Embry J. Kidd for the Eleventh Circuit and three nominees for district courts: Judge Adam B. Abelson for Maryland, Judge Joseph F. Saporito, Jr. for Pennsylvania, and Judge Meredith A. Vacca for New York. These nominations emphasize Biden's commitment to diversity and bring his total federal judicial nominees to 240. Each nominee brings a wealth of experience from various legal backgrounds, aligning with the administration's goal to reflect the nation's diversity in the judiciary.
During a press gaggle aboard Air Force One en route to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre discussed President Biden's forthcoming announcement in Racine, Wisconsin. This announcement will detail a $3.3 billion investment by Microsoft for a new AI data center, expected to create 2,300 union construction jobs and 2,000 permanent positions, contrasting sharply with a previously failed investment by Foxconn in the same location under the prior administration. Jean-Pierre highlighted that this investment represents a commitment to infrastructure and community and economic development through job training and the creation of an AI ecosystem.
Jean-Pierre addressed questions about U.S. relations with Israel, particularly concerning recent reports of paused arms shipments. She reiterated the administration's unwavering support for Israel's security and declined to comment on specifics, maintaining a focus on ongoing diplomatic dialogues aimed at operational and humanitarian concerns. The discussions also ventured into the possibilities of a ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing U.S. efforts to bridge gaps between conflicting sides to secure a ceasefire that facilitates humanitarian aid and the release of hostages.
Domestically, Jean-Pierre touched on regulatory issues under review, such as tariff policies and marijuana rescheduling, without providing detailed updates. She underscored the administration's commitment to comprehensive immigration reform, noting the necessity of legislative action to mend the broken system despite considering executive actions. Throughout the gaggle, Jean-Pierre conveyed the administration's proactive stance on addressing domestic and international challenges through strategic investments and diplomatic engagement, aiming to foster security, economic growth, and social welfare.
President Biden issued a memorandum titled "Presidential Determination Pursuant to Section 1245(d)(4)(B) and (C) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012.” It was directed to the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, and the Secretary of Energy. President Biden asserted his authority under the Constitution and relevant U.S. laws in this document. After reviewing the April 2024 report from the Energy Information Administration and considering factors such as global economic conditions, spare petroleum capacity, and strategic reserves, he determined that there was a sufficient global supply of petroleum products from sources other than Iran. This supply was adequate to significantly reduce foreign financial institutions' purchases of petroleum and petroleum products from Iran. The President committed to ongoing monitoring of this situation and directed the Secretary of State to publish this determination in the Federal Register.
The U.S. has extended the national emergency concerning Syria, initially declared in 2004, to address ongoing threats from Syria's support for terrorism, use of chemical weapons, and other destabilizing activities. This extension continues past May 11, 2024, reflecting ongoing U.S. concerns over Syria's actions, compromising U.S. national security and foreign policy interests. President Biden reaffirmed the need for Syria to cease violence, enable humanitarian aid, and pursue a political resolution according to UN Security Council Resolution 2254. The decision to maintain or terminate this emergency will depend on Syria's future actions.
President Biden has extended a national emergency originally declared on May 15, 2019, to address threats to U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economy from unrestricted acquisition and use of certain information and communications technologies and services by foreign adversaries. This was enacted through Executive Order 13873 under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The order details concerns that such foreign-controlled technologies could lead to significant vulnerabilities with potentially catastrophic outcomes. Due to the ongoing risk, this national emergency will be extended beyond its original expiry on May 15, 2024, for another year, as confirmed in a notice that will be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to Congress.
President Biden announced the continuation of the national emergency concerning the Central African Republic (CAR), initially declared on May 12, 2014, by Executive Order 13667. This extension is in response to the ongoing and significant threats to U.S. national security and foreign policy posed by the situation in CAR, characterized by lawlessness, intersectarian tensions, and the extensive use of child soldiers. The notice highlights continued violence and atrocities, notably by Kremlin-linked groups like the Wagner Group, which also jeopardize the stability of CAR and surrounding regions. Consequently, the national emergency will extend beyond May 12, 2024, for another year, as mandated by the National Emergencies Act, and the decision will be officially published in the Federal Register and communicated to Congress.
At a White House event today, key figures like U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and others announced new initiatives highlighting women's contributions to American history. This includes actions from philanthropic organizations like the Mellon Foundation, which has committed $1.3 million to help the National Park Service (NPS) develop a Women’s History Theme Study. Additionally, the National Park Foundation has pledged $2 million to support more inclusive storytelling at national parks.
The announcements build on previous efforts, such as the designation of the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument and investments in sites important to women's history. Over $19 million has been invested in parks commemorating women, and $2.1 million in Historic Preservation Fund grants have been awarded for similar purposes.
The event gathered administration officials, historians, museum and conservation leaders, and members of Congress to discuss and promote the integration of women's history into national narratives. This initiative represents an ongoing commitment to acknowledge and preserve the diverse histories of women who have shaped and continue to shape, the United States.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden spoke at a virtual appreciation event at The White House in honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week, emphasizing the vital role of educators as more than just a job but a calling. She reassured teachers that they have a significant support system, highlighting the essential support from unions and union leaders who unify educators nationwide. Dr. Biden acknowledged the challenging yet rewarding nature of the school year's end, recognizing the transformation and growth in students and the lasting impact teachers have on their lives. She expressed deep gratitude on behalf of herself and President Biden for the dedication and hope that teachers bring to their profession, looking forward to the possibilities they see in their students and the enduring inspiration they provide.
Vice President Harris addressed the EMILY's List We Are EMILY National Gala, praising individuals like Amanda for their courage in advocating for reproductive freedom. She condemned the recent assault on reproductive rights, attributing it to former President Trump's Supreme Court appointments. Harris stressed the importance of supporting pro-choice candidates in upcoming elections and expressed confidence in President Biden's commitment to restore Roe v. Wade. She closed with a call to action, urging the audience to fight for reproductive freedoms with the conviction that unity leads to victory.
In a conversation moderated by Sheryl Lee Ralph, Vice President Harris discussed reproductive freedoms, emphasizing the importance of healthcare autonomy and the impact of recent restrictive laws on women's rights. The Vice President highlighted the negative consequences of these laws, including the criminalization of healthcare providers and restrictions without exceptions for rape or incest. She linked these issues to broader societal freedoms and historical struggles for rights. The discussion also touched on systemic issues affecting healthcare, particularly maternal health among Black and Native women, exacerbated by restrictive laws. Vice President Harris stressed the importance of voting and civic engagement as tools for change. The conversation, filled with personal anecdotes and strong appeals for action, reinforced the administration's commitment to fighting for women's rights and healthcare access amidst ongoing challenges.
President Biden gives remarks regarding a $3.3 billion investment by Microsoft in Racine, Wisconsin, as part of his “Investing In America” agenda
I hope that this is the beginning of President Biden’s willingness to give Netanyahu an ultimatum. Allies or not, too many people see what is happening in Gaza as a crime against humanity. I am a staunch supporter of Israel and the Jewish people, but Netanyahu has crossed a line.