What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
December 2, 2024 Recap
President Biden issued a heartfelt statement mourning the death of Omer Neutra, a 21-year-old American citizen and tank commander in the Israel Defense Forces, who was killed during Hamas's terrorist attack on October 7 and whose body was held by Hamas. Biden expressed deep sorrow and outrage, highlighting Omer's bravery in risking his life to save others and his aspirations to return to the U.S. for college to work toward peace.
Biden also reflected on meeting Omer’s parents at the White House, where they shared the story of their family’s resilience, rooted in their grandparents' survival of the Holocaust. The President reaffirmed his commitment to bringing home all hostages and expressed solidarity with grieving families.
President Biden met with Cabo Verdean President Ulisses Correia e Silva in Sal, Cabo Verde, to discuss the strong U.S.-Cabo Verde relationship, democratic values, human rights, and climate resilience. Biden acknowledged Cabo Verde’s support for Ukraine amid Russian aggression and praised cooperation on security and law enforcement. He also reiterated his support for expanding the UN Security Council to include two permanent seats for African countries to enhance global representation.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby held a press gaggle aboard Air Force One En Route Luanda, Angola. They covered two primary topics: President Biden's trip to Angola and his pardon of his son, Hunter Biden. The Angola visit marks a historic moment as the first U.S. presidential visit to the country, emphasizing Biden's commitment to strengthening U.S.-Africa relations. Central to the visit is the Lobito Corridor project, which aims to connect the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, enhance global supply chains, and create economic opportunities across Africa and beyond. Biden will meet with Angola’s President Lourenço, leaders from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Tanzania, and various advisory councils. His remarks will address the shared history of slavery and outline a future of deeper collaboration between the U.S. and Africa. The trip aligns with the administration’s broader strategy to promote clean energy, global health, and infrastructure investment, building on the 2022 Africa Leaders Summit and over $80 billion in investments mobilized for the continent.
The discussion also turned to President Biden’s controversial pardon of his son, Hunter Biden. Biden explained that the decision, made after considerable reflection over the weekend, stemmed from his belief that Hunter was unfairly targeted due to his last name. The President cited political interference in the justice process and the unraveling of a plea deal as evidence of systemic bias. Legal experts have supported Biden’s claim, arguing that similar cases would not have been prosecuted. Biden emphasized that the pardon was motivated by his father's role and his commitment to justice. While reaffirming his belief in the Department of Justice, he maintained that politics infected the handling of Hunter’s case, leading to a miscarriage of justice.
Additionally, the gaggle touched on other foreign policy matters, including ongoing U.S. efforts to monitor and facilitate deconfliction in Lebanon and push for a ceasefire in Gaza. Discussions also highlighted Biden’s broader legacy of international engagement and the administration’s commitment to a peaceful transition of power. Despite limited time left in office, the administration aims to solidify its initiatives, such as the Lobito Corridor, ensuring lasting impacts on U.S.-Africa relations and global development.
The U.S. is intensifying its security assistance to Ukraine as part of a broader effort to support its defense and independence. President Biden has authorized a $725 million aid package, including artillery, rockets, and air defense systems, with rapid delivery planned. Additional measures include prioritizing air defense exports, supplying non-persistent anti-personnel land mines, and adjusting permissions for Ukraine’s use of U.S.-provided long-range missiles in response to North Korea's involvement in the conflict. The U.S. has also imposed significant sanctions on Russia’s financial sector, with more to follow. These actions aim to bolster Ukraine's position in its fight for freedom.
The President signed into law:
H.R. 1505, the “No Stolen Trademarks Honored in America Act of 2023,” which modifies the prohibition on recognition by United States courts of certain rights relating to certain marks, trade names, or commercial names.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden has announced the 2024 White House holiday theme, “A Season of Peace and Light,” reflecting unity, faith, family, and community values. As the Bidens prepare to celebrate their final holiday season in the White House, they express gratitude for the opportunity to serve the nation, sharing their hope for peace and connection across the country. The White House will welcome over 100,000 visitors this holiday season, with intricate décor showcasing 83 Christmas trees, nearly 10,000 feet of ribbon, 28,125 ornaments, and 165,075 lights. For those unable to visit in person, interactive digital experiences will be available online.
Each space in the White House is adorned with decorations that embrace peace and light. Visitors begin their tour in the East Wing, greeted by lush greenery, garlands, and rotating starlight. The Gold Star Tree display honors fallen service members and their families, while the Library features vintage ceramic Christmas trees alongside a collection of children’s books added by the First Lady. The Vermeil Room highlights floral arrangements, and the China Room celebrates the warmth of baking with displays of artisanal breads. The Blue Room showcases the official 18½-foot Christmas tree, decorated with a whimsical carousel featuring the names of every state and territory. Military families in the State Dining Room contributed colorful paper garlands and ornaments crafted by children to emphasize inclusivity.
Special dedications enhance the holiday experience. National Guard families were the first to see the decorations as part of the First Lady’s Joining Forces initiative. The Diplomatic Reception Room, now open to public tours, highlights the importance of hospitality and diplomacy. The official White House Menorah, crafted from historical wood, is displayed in Cross Hall. Throughout the season, the East Room, Green Room, Red Room, and other spaces celebrate the holidays with themes of reflection, inclusion, and hope.
The Bidens have extended their gratitude to the Executive Residence staff, over 300 volunteers, and creative teams led by Bryan Rafanelli for transforming the White House into a festive display. With messages of fellowship, faith, and gratitude, the First Lady hopes the 2024 holiday theme inspires the nation to embrace peace and light in their lives.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden welcomed National Guard families to the White House, expressing gratitude for their service and sacrifices. Drawing on her experience as a Guard mother, she highlighted the unique challenges Guard families face, balancing civilian life with military responsibilities.
She reflected on her efforts through the Joining Forces initiative, which supports military families in education, career opportunities for spouses, and health care. She emphasized her ongoing commitment to making life easier for National Guard families.
As part of the White House holiday tradition, she invited National Guard families to be the first to experience the festive decorations. She wished them peace, strength, and joy during the holiday season and concluded with heartfelt thanks for their service.
President Biden meets with Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva of the Republic of Cabo Verde
