What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
March 14 Recap
The Biden-Harris Administration announced a critical step in their commitment to environmental justice and the ambitious goals of the Cancer Moonshot initiative, aiming to cut the cancer death rate by half by 2047. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a final rule to significantly update Clean Air Act standards by reducing ethylene oxide (EtO) emissions, a potent carcinogen, by over 90% from commercial sterilizing facilities. This action targets facilities that use EtO for medical device sterilization, balancing the protection of public health and the security of America's medical supply chains.
To manage potential risks to medical device supplies, the EPA collaborated with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), designing the rule to minimize disruptions while ensuring safety. The administration has also provided a compliance exemption of up to two years, if necessary, based on national security interests and the availability of technology required for compliance.
This rule reflects the administration's efforts to prevent cancer by limiting exposure to harmful pollutants and securing essential medical devices for healthcare. It demonstrates a comprehensive approach to health, environment, and national security. Further details on compliance exemptions will be provided in the coming months, highlighting the government's proactive steps towards environmental justice and health security.
On March 13, 2024, President Biden delivered remarks at the Pieper-Hillside Boys & Girls Club in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, highlighting the impact of his administration's investments in rebuilding communities and creating good-paying jobs. He expressed gratitude to local leaders and community members for their resilience and contributions, particularly noting the historical and ongoing challenges faced by communities due to past infrastructure decisions like the interstate highway system, which often divided and disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Biden announced a significant investment of $3.3 billion across 132 projects in 42 states to rectify historical injustices and promote environmental justice by reconnecting disadvantaged communities to opportunities. This includes a $36 million federal funding initiative to rebuild Sixth Street in Milwaukee, enhancing pedestrian and bike safety, improving public transportation, and revitalizing the area while ensuring local job creation and the use of American-made materials.
The president credited these initiatives to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, emphasizing their roles in modernizing infrastructure, combating climate change, and delivering clean water and affordable internet access. He contrasted his administration's accomplishments with the lack of progress during his predecessor's term and criticized opposition from Republican lawmakers, particularly Senator Ron Johnson, for voting against these transformative policies.
Biden also touched on broader economic and social issues, including efforts to reduce child poverty, lower healthcare costs, and protect Social Security and Medicare from cuts proposed by Republicans. He reaffirmed his commitment to building an inclusive economy and expressed optimism about America's future, urging unity and collective action to overcome challenges and seize the opportunities ahead.
Throughout his speech, Biden connected these initiatives to the broader goal of ensuring that every American can participate fully in the nation's prosperity, emphasizing justice, opportunity, and community investment as central themes of his administration's agenda.
The White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP) hosted a virtual briefing with nearly 300 leaders from around the country, including state and local leaders, public safety officials, and violence intervention organizations, to discuss President Biden's budget proposals designed to reduce gun violence and violent crime. Deputy Directors Gregory Jackson and Rob Wilcox outlined the key components of the budget proposal, which aims to enhance community safety through various funding initiatives:
$7.3 billion for the Crime Victims Fund to support survivors and families affected by gun violence.
$5 billion over ten years to expand Community Violence Intervention programs via the CDC and DOJ.
$17.7 billion for DOJ law enforcement, with $2 billion allocated to the ATF to implement the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), marking a more than 30% increase since 2021.
$800 million in additional funding for Violence Against Women Act programs to address gender-based violence.
$10.9 billion to support the recruitment, training, hiring, and support of 100,000 additional police officers for community policing.
$1.2 billion over five years for a new Violent Crime Reduction and Prevention Fund to assist law enforcement in focusing on violent crime.
$60 million to broaden research on gun violence causes, impacts, and solutions.
$51 million to aid the FBI in implementing enhanced background checks for firearm buyers under 21, as mandated by the BSCA.
The briefing also highlighted the positive effects of President Biden's strategy on reducing crime and gun violence nationwide, citing historic declines in violent crime and a 12% drop in homicides from 2022 to 2023. This contrasts with the significant increase in murders recorded in 2020, the last year of the previous administration. Notably, the BSCA's provisions, including enhanced background checks and the introduction of federal gun trafficking and straw purchasing laws, are beginning to yield results in protecting communities from gun violence.
President Biden issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Nex Benedict, emphasizing the fundamental rights and freedoms every young person should enjoy, including safety and support in their communities and schools. He highlighted the bravery of nonbinary and transgender individuals and called for an end to discrimination and efforts to address the suicide crisis among nonbinary and transgender youth. The statement condemned bullying, urged parents and schools to take it seriously, and extended prayers to Nex's loved ones.
The President reassured the LGBTQI+ community of his support and reminded LGBTQI+ youth that they are loved as they are, directing those feeling overwhelmed or alone to the National Crisis Hotline for specialized support.
President Biden announced his intent to nominate several key leaders to serve in his Administration, showcasing a diverse range of expertise and background in international relations, transportation safety, and diplomatic engagements. The nominees include:
Jennifer Lynn Homendy for Chair and Member of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Homendy has an extensive background in transportation safety. She has served as the NTSB’s 44th Board Member since 2018 and previously worked in various capacities related to transportation and labor. She is the fourth woman to serve as Chair of the NTSB and is currently pursuing a Master of Transportation Safety Administration degree.
Kelly Adams-Smith for Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Moldova. Adams-Smith is a seasoned diplomat with a career in the Senior Foreign Service. Her experience includes roles within the U.S. Mission to the European Union, the Office of the Vice President, and various embassies around the world. She is a recipient of a Presidential Distinguished Service Award.
Jeremey Neitzke for Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Lesotho. Neitzke's career in the Senior Foreign Service includes positions in Mozambique, Malawi, Argentina, and Barbados, among others. His experience extends to conflict and stabilization operations, and he is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish.
Peter W. Lord for Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Senegal and concurrently to the Republic of Guinea-Bissau. Lord has a rich diplomatic history, having served in East Africa, the African Union, and various other locations, including Malawi, Syria, Iraq, and the United Kingdom. His educational background includes a B.A. in philosophy and French literature and a Master of Strategic Studies.
President Biden issued a statement emphasizing the importance of supporting robust American steel companies and their workforce, asserting his commitment to backing steelworkers. He highlighted the significance of U.S. Steel, a company with over a century of history, maintaining its status as an American domestically owned and operated entity.
The President of the United States sent a communication to the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate. It outlines a deployment of U.S. military personnel to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, aimed at bolstering the security of the U.S. Embassy and its supporting facilities there. The decision for this deployment was made on March 12, 2024, prompted by ongoing security concerns in Haiti, despite some efforts towards stabilizing the situation.
The letter emphasizes that the deployed security force is equipped for combat. Still, it clarifies that their presence in Haiti is strictly for precautionary measures to protect U.S. diplomatic staff and facilities. The duration of their stay is linked to the demands of the security environment in Haiti.
The President cites the protection of U.S. diplomatic missions abroad, alongside U.S. national security and foreign policy interests, as the basis for this action. This move is justified under the President's constitutional authority as Commander in Chief and Chief Executive and their role in conducting U.S. foreign relations.
Furthermore, the letter mentions compliance with the War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148), highlighting the President's intention to keep Congress fully informed about such military actions, reflecting a gesture of respect towards Congressional support for these measures.
An on-the-record press gaggle was held via teleconference with White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby, covering several key topics related to current international affairs and U.S. foreign policy:
Israeli Politics and Netanyahu: There was a question about whether the President agreed with Senator Schumer's remarks that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has lost his way and whether it's time for new elections in Israel. Kirby emphasized the U.S. focus on Israel's self-defense and efforts to avoid civilian casualties without directly addressing Schumer's comments.
TikTok National Security Concerns: Kirby mentioned ongoing legislative processes concerning TikTok and national security concerns, highlighting the White House's focus on providing technical support to Congress without providing specifics on the emerging efforts by Steve Mnuchin or other solutions.
Afghan SIV Issue: Kirby highlighted the administration's request to Congress for an increase in Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) for Afghans, noting the commitment to those who helped the U.S. during its involvement in Afghanistan.
Hostage Negotiations and Hamas: Kirby stated that while discussions are ongoing, there has been no tangible progress in negotiations with Hamas regarding hostages.
West Bank Settlement Activity Sanctions: The U.S. imposed sanctions on individuals related to extremist settler violence in the West Bank, underscoring concerns over increasing violence affecting peace and stability.
IDF Attack on UNRWA Facility: The administration expressed concern over an Israeli Defense Forces attack on a UNRWA facility in Rafah, calling for a swift Israeli investigation into the incident and emphasizing the importance of protecting civilians and humanitarian workers.
Iran and Regional Security: Kirby briefly mentioned U.S. channels for communication with Iran, focusing on concerns over regional security and Iran's support for destabilizing groups.
Support for Israel: Kirby reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel's defense needs amidst ongoing conflicts without specifying the speed of ammunition supplies.
U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel Transaction: Kirby did not provide details on discussions with Japan regarding the President's opposition to the sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel, emphasizing the strength of the U.S.-Japan alliance.
Navalny Associate Attack and Political Developments in the Netherlands: Kirby expressed concern over an attack on a Navalny associate and refrained from commenting on Dutch political matters.
Aid to Gaza and Humanitarian Efforts: Kirby discussed efforts to improve the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, including using additional crossings and constructing a temporary pier, while acknowledging challenges in distribution and security.
Haiti and Multinational Security Support: Kirby touched on the situation in Haiti, highlighting U.S. and international support for a Multinational Security Support Mission and additional humanitarian assistance.
The gaggle also covered a range of other topics, including diplomatic efforts in Lebanon, the situation in Afghanistan, and internal political developments in Israel. Kirby emphasized the U.S. commitment to addressing national security concerns, supporting allies, and humanitarian efforts in conflict zones.
During their tour of a Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Paul, Minnesota, Vice President Harris and Dr. Sarah Traxler discussed the critical state of reproductive freedoms in the U.S. The Vice President highlighted the healthcare crisis following the Supreme Court's decision to revoke recognized constitutional rights related to reproductive health. She pointed out the detrimental impact of extremist laws that have restricted access to essential healthcare services, including emergency care and abortion services. Vice President Harris praised Minnesota's leadership for providing a model of accessible healthcare and emphasized the importance of dignity and respect in healthcare services.
Dr. Sarah Traxler, Chief Medical Officer at Planned Parenthood North Central States, shared her experience and the increase in abortion services demand in Minnesota post-Roe v. Wade. She stressed the nationwide significance of abortion rights and recounted the challenges patients face due to restrictive laws in other states, emphasizing the hardships and dangers of accessing necessary healthcare.
Both speakers underscored the importance of access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare. They advocated for the protection and expansion of these rights, reflecting on the personal and societal implications of the current landscape. They called for restoring protections under Roe v. Wade to ensure everyone has the right to make decisions about their bodies and access essential healthcare services, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.
The National Security Council (NSC) spokesperson, Adrienne Watson, issued a statement welcoming Dr. Mohammed Mustafa's appointment as the Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority. The statement emphasized the U.S.'s expectation for the new government to form a cabinet focused on reform quickly. It highlighted the importance of implementing credible and extensive reforms, stating that a reformed Palestinian Authority is crucial for providing results to the Palestinian people and ensuring stability in the West Bank and Gaza.
Vice President Harris introduces Dr. Sarah Traxler at a Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Paul, Minnesota
