What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
September 13, 2024 Recap
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced new measures to protect American consumers, workers, and businesses by addressing the misuse of the de minimis exemption, which allows imports valued at $800 or less to enter the U.S. without duties, taxes, or extensive data requirements. These shipments have dramatically increased from 140 million to over one billion annually in the last decade, with a significant portion coming from China-based e-commerce platforms. This surge has led to heightened risks associated with unsafe, illegal, and unfairly traded products entering the U.S. market.
To combat these issues, the administration is introducing several actions. Firstly, new rules will exclude products covered by specific tariffs, such as textiles and apparel from China, from benefiting under the de minimis exemption. This aims to prevent these goods from exploiting the loophole and bypassing tariffs. Enhanced enforcement measures will also require additional data for de minimis shipments to increase transparency and accountability, enabling better detection and control of unsafe and illegal imports. Additionally, a final rule will mandate electronic filing of Certificates of Compliance for consumer products, including de minimis shipments, to prevent unsafe goods from circumventing U.S. safety standards.
The administration is also pushing for legislative reforms, urging Congress to implement comprehensive changes to the de minimis exemption. Proposed reforms include excluding import-sensitive products from the exemption and strengthening measures against shipments that attempt to evade trade laws. These changes are intended to enhance trade enforcement, protect consumers, and ensure fair competition. Furthermore, the administration will explore expanding the procurement of U.S.-made textiles and apparel and intensify enforcement against illegal imports to support domestic manufacturers facing unfair competition. These efforts collectively aim to curb the abuse of the de minimis exemption, safeguard American interests, and maintain consistent application of trade enforcement laws.
President Biden issued proclamations for National Farm Safety and Health Week, National Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Week, and National Hispanic Heritage Month, highlighting the administration’s commitment to supporting key communities across the United States.
In the proclamation for National Farm Safety and Health Week, 2024, President Biden emphasizes the vital role of farmers, farmworkers, and ranchers in feeding the nation and sustaining the economy. He acknowledges the hazardous nature of agricultural work, further complicated by extreme weather and limited access to healthcare in rural areas. The proclamation outlines the administration’s investments in rural healthcare, emergency services, mental health resources, and telehealth. Additionally, it highlights proposed safety standards to protect workers from workplace hazards like excessive heat. President Biden reaffirms his support for farming communities through initiatives aimed at improving safety and well-being, urging Americans to recognize and appreciate the essential work of farmworkers.
In the proclamation for National Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Week, 2024, President Biden honors the legacy and enduring contributions of HBCUs, providing quality education and opportunities to Black students for over 180 years. Despite historical funding inequities, HBCUs have produced a significant number of Black professionals across various fields. The Biden administration has invested over $16 billion in HBCUs to enhance campus infrastructure, expand STEM programs, and increase federal funding opportunities. The proclamation also addresses the ongoing security threats facing HBCUs, condemning hate crimes and other violent acts. Additionally, it highlights efforts to make higher education more accessible through increased Pell Grants and student loan relief. President Biden calls on the nation to celebrate the achievements of HBCUs and to continue supporting these vital institutions.
For National Hispanic Heritage Month, 2024, President Biden celebrates the Latino community's contributions to the nation’s cultural, economic, and social fabric. He recognizes the impact of Latino leaders in various fields and their ongoing pursuit of the American Dream. The proclamation outlines the administration’s efforts to support Latino communities through job creation, assistance for Latino-owned businesses, educational funding, and improved healthcare access. It also addresses immigration reform, emphasizing support for Dreamers, family reunifications, and a more humane immigration system. President Biden calls on Americans to honor the contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities through events and activities that recognize their achievements and ongoing impact.
Over the past four years, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken significant steps to support Black Americans across various sectors, including the economy, education, health, and justice. Economically, the administration achieved the lowest Black unemployment rate on record, creating 2.4 million jobs for Black workers. They lifted 400,000 Black children out of poverty through increased benefits and ongoing advocacy for expanding the Child Tax Credit, which had previously cut Black child poverty in half. Black business ownership grew at the fastest rate in over three decades, supported by a tripling of Small Business Administration (SBA) loans to Black-owned businesses and a record $10 billion in federal contracts awarded to these businesses. The administration also invested over $16 billion in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and increased Pell Grant awards, making significant strides in educational access. Additionally, nearly $170 billion in student loan debt cancellation has greatly benefited Black borrowers who are disproportionately burdened by student debt.
In health care, the administration increased Affordable Care Act enrollment among Black Americans by 95%, reduced costs for prescription drugs, capped insulin prices, and expanded postpartum Medicaid coverage in 46 states, benefiting 700,000 more women. There has been a targeted focus on addressing health disparities, including investments in mental health services and the prioritization of sickle cell disease in new federal health models. In the realm of justice and safety, the Biden-Harris Administration has implemented significant reforms, such as police reform measures, creating the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, and enacting the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to address gun violence. The administration also pardoned individuals with federal convictions for simple marijuana possession, highlighting their commitment to criminal justice reform.
The Biden-Harris Administration has made historic advancements in civil rights, including signing the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act and the Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act, protecting Black history, and appointing the first Black woman to the Supreme Court. These actions demonstrate a deep commitment to advancing equity, civil rights, and racial justice, working to ensure that the promise of America is accessible to all Black Americans.
President Biden hosted the inaugural White House brunch to honor Black excellence, emphasizing the significant contributions of Black Americans to the nation. He expressed deep gratitude to the Black community, noting their unwavering support throughout his career and highlighting his connections to Black culture and civil rights. Biden shared how his upbringing, from conversations with his family to his involvement in civil rights movements, shaped his understanding of the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans.
He acknowledged key figures present, such as Marsai Martin, Trell Thomas, and Monica. He recognized the diverse makeup of his administration, which he described as the most representative in American history. Biden reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that his administration reflects the full talents of the nation, emphasizing the importance of representation and diversity.
The President underscored the progress made under his leadership, including the creation of over 2 million new jobs for Black Americans and achieving the lowest Black unemployment rate on record. He highlighted significant investments, such as $16 billion allocated to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which he described as pivotal in empowering the next generation of Black leaders. Biden also discussed the impact of his administration’s student debt relief efforts, which have particularly benefited Black borrowers, and initiatives to close the racial wealth gap, now at its smallest in 20 years.
Biden celebrated historic moments during his tenure, including the first Juneteenth concert held on the White House lawn and the appointment of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman on the U.S. Supreme Court. He used these examples to illustrate that Black history and excellence are integral to American identity.
The President also addressed challenges, particularly the attacks on the Haitian American community, calling for unity and respect. He emphasized that there is no place for hate in America and called for an end to discriminatory actions.
Throughout his speech, Biden reiterated that Black Americans' struggles and progress are central to the nation’s story. He called on the audience to continue driving positive change, reminding them of their power to shape the future. He quoted Frederick Douglass, emphasizing that progress comes through struggle and underscoring the need for continued action.
Biden concluded by praising America as the greatest nation, not just because of its history but because of its people who work to improve it daily. He urged everyone to remember their collective strength and capacity for greatness, leaving the audience with a message of hope and determination to keep pushing for a more inclusive and just America.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed several key issues during today's press briefing. She began by discussing a North Dakota judge's decision to strike down the state's near-total abortion ban, which had previously made it a felony for healthcare providers to offer abortion care. The White House condemned the law as extreme and dangerous and emphasized the need for Congress to restore protections similar to those previously provided under Roe v. Wade. The administration is concerned about the broader impact, as over 20 states have enacted abortion bans since the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
Jean-Pierre also highlighted the administration's support for Team USA’s Paralympians, celebrating their performance in the Paris Paralympics, where athletes won 105 medals, including 36 golds. She expressed pride in their resilience and achievements, reflecting the administration’s broader commitment to supporting American athletes. Additionally, the briefing covered President Biden's celebration of Black Excellence, with a brunch on the South Lawn and upcoming events focused on the triumphs and legacies of Black Americans, including the Phoenix Awards Dinner and an address at an HBCU conference.
On domestic security, Jean-Pierre discussed the recent evacuations in Springfield, Ohio, where the administration is closely monitoring the situation. She dismissed conspiracy theories about migrants in Springfield. She reiterated that federal support has been provided, emphasizing the need for Congress to pass further funding to assist communities facing similar challenges. The briefing also touched on the ongoing Boeing workers' strike, with the administration in contact with both Boeing and union representatives, urging them to negotiate in good faith to minimize disruptions to production and operations.
Addressing economic matters, the White House announced new tariffs on Chinese goods aimed at protecting American workers and businesses from unfair trade practices by China. The administration sought to distinguish these actions from those taken by the previous administration, arguing that their strategy focuses on boosting American manufacturing and reducing the trade deficit with China.
Jean-Pierre also reaffirmed the administration's commitment to supporting Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression, pushing back against criticisms that U.S. military aid has been slow. She highlighted President Biden’s leadership in strengthening NATO and garnering international support for Ukraine. The briefing included sharp criticisms of Republican handling of immigration reform, with the White House calling for bipartisan cooperation to pass a comprehensive border deal that would address current challenges.
Lastly, the administration addressed concerns about Russian disinformation campaigns, highlighting efforts by the State Department and the Department of Justice to counter these operations globally. The White House remains vigilant in its stance against misinformation that threatens democratic institutions, emphasizing the seriousness of these threats despite attempts by Russian media to mock U.S. efforts. Throughout the briefing, Jean-Pierre underscored the administration's focus on protecting American interests at home and abroad while pushing back against political and misinformation challenges.
White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby held an on-the-record press gaggle. He discussed several key topics related to U.S. foreign policy. He began by highlighting President Biden's upcoming meeting with UK Prime Minister Starmer, where they will discuss a range of issues, including Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression, events in the Middle East, challenges in the Indo-Pacific, and deepening economic ties between the U.S. and the UK. This marks their second bilateral conversation following their meeting at the NATO Summit in July, and the President looks forward to strengthening the close ties between the two nations.
Regarding Ukraine, Kirby addressed multiple questions about the potential policy shift on allowing Ukraine to use long-range weapons. He clarified that there is no change in U.S. policy concerning long-range strike capabilities inside Russia and that no announcements on this issue should be expected. Kirby also touched on concerns about a North Korean uranium facility, noting that while he could not delve into intelligence specifics, the U.S. continues to monitor North Korea’s nuclear and missile developments closely, emphasizing the importance of strong alliances and partnerships in the region.
Kirby responded to questions about Russian President Vladimir Putin's threats concerning Western weapons reaching deeper into Russia. He described Putin’s statements as familiar rhetoric but affirmed that the U.S. takes such threats seriously. On the Middle East, Kirby mentioned ongoing efforts, in coordination with Qatar, Egypt, and Israel, to negotiate hostage deals involving Hamas, indicating that discussions are active but did not provide specific details on any upcoming negotiations.
Finally, on Venezuela, Kirby discussed the recent sanctions imposed on the Maduro government, emphasizing that Maduro must release election data to ensure transparency. He warned that further actions could be taken if the Venezuelan government did not comply. Kirby also briefly addressed concerns about Maduro's alliances with nations like Iran, Russia, and China, reiterating the U.S. commitment to supporting democratic aspirations in Venezuela and protecting national security interests in the Western Hemisphere.
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden delivered remarks at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama, highlighting the importance of early education and support for military families. Drawing on her experience as a reading specialist, she emphasized the need for strong educational foundations, advocating for free, high-quality preschool across America, a goal the Biden administration has pursued, particularly for military families.
She celebrated the recent implementation of full-day pre-kindergarten at Maxwell AFB and 80 other military schools, framing it as a blueprint for universal pre-K nationwide. Dr. Biden also discussed her initiative, Joining Forces, which supports military and veteran families, highlighting the administration’s efforts to reduce childcare costs, expand parental leave, and support military spouses’ employment.
Expressing gratitude to military families, she emphasized their essential role in national security and pledged continued support. She honored Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, praising his leadership and commitment to service, inspired by his mentor Frances Hesselbein’s motto, “To serve is to live.”
In her remarks at the Soufan Center’s Global Summit on Counterterrorism and Political Violence, Homeland Security Advisor Dr. Liz Sherwood-Randall highlighted the evolving nature of terrorism and the U.S. response to these changing threats. She noted that while the U.S. has made significant progress in degrading the capabilities of foreign terrorist groups, the threat landscape has transformed, presenting new challenges from both international and domestic sources. Terrorism has become more decentralized, with groups like ISIS and al-Qaida adapting by exploiting global conflicts, such as the recent Israel-Hamas conflict, to recruit and incite violence. Domestically, the rise of racially and politically motivated extremism, often fueled by online platforms, has emerged as a significant concern.
The Biden-Harris Administration has adopted an integrated approach to counter these threats, focusing on foreign and domestic terrorism. This strategy emphasizes decisive action, robust international partnerships, and a commitment to upholding U.S. values. The administration’s actions include targeted strikes against high-profile terrorists and efforts to build the counterterrorism capabilities of partner nations worldwide. Domestically, the administration has enhanced counterterrorism efforts through better coordination among law enforcement and intelligence agencies, a focus on prevention, and initiatives to address the root causes of extremism, including hate-fueled violence.
Sherwood-Randall underscored the importance of learning from past counterterrorism efforts to address current and future challenges. She emphasized that the evolving nature of terrorism requires resilience, agility, and continued investment in international and domestic partnerships. Additionally, she highlighted the need to apply counterterrorism lessons to other transnational threats, such as combating the illicit fentanyl crisis. Overall, Sherwood-Randall called for a flexible, values-driven approach to effectively counter the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of terrorism and political violence.
The President signed into law:
H.R. 1076, the “Preventing the Financing of Illegal Synthetic Drugs Act,” which requires the Government Accountability Office to carry out a study on illicit financing in connection with the trafficking of synthetic drugs; and
S. 1608, the “Starr–Camargo Bridge Expansion Act,” which provides for the expansion of the Starr–Camargo Bridge near Rio Grande City, Texas.
President Biden issued a memorandum that delegates various sanctions-related authorities to key U.S. government officials, including the Secretaries of State, Treasury, Defense, Commerce, and the Attorney General. This delegation aims to streamline the implementation of sanctions under specific laws, including those targeting Iran, human rights abuses, and the financing of terrorist groups.
The first major delegation pertains to the Stop Harboring Iranian Petroleum Act, where the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State, is assigned the responsibility to implement sanctions related to Iranian petroleum. The Fight and Combat Rampant Iranian Missile Exports Act delegates responsibilities to the Secretaries of State and Treasury, focusing on sanctions related to Iranian missile exports.
Additionally, the Mahsa Amini Human Rights and Security Accountability Act assigns enforcement duties regarding Iranian human rights abuses to both the Secretaries of Treasury and State. For the Hamas and Other Palestinian Terrorist Groups International Financing Prevention Act, authorities are divided among the Secretaries of State, Treasury, and Commerce, emphasizing the prevention of terrorist financing.
Further delegations cover various acts such as the No Technology for Terror Act, Strengthening Tools to Counter the Use of Human Shields Act, and the Illicit Captagon Trafficking Suppression Act, where responsibilities are shared among these officials to enhance U.S. sanctions enforcement. The memorandum emphasizes inter-agency consultation and coordination to ensure effective implementation of these sanctions, reflecting a strategic approach to U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives.
President Biden met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House to discuss various foreign policy issues. They reaffirmed strong support for Ukraine against Russian aggression and expressed concern over Iran and North Korea supplying weapons to Russia, as well as China's support for Russia's defense industry. The leaders emphasized their commitment to Israel's security, called for a ceasefire to free hostages and provide relief in Gaza, and urged Israel to protect civilians amid the humanitarian crisis. They also condemned Iran-backed Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. The discussion included U.S.-UK cooperation on clean energy, advanced technologies, AUKUS, and economic ties. President Biden highlighted the importance of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement for peace in Northern Ireland.
In her campaign rally in Wilkes-Barre, PA, Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a speech emphasizing unity, strong leadership, and a vision for an America serving everyday citizens. Harris began by stressing the importance of coming together as a nation and rejecting the divisive rhetoric she attributed to former President Donald Trump. She argued that true leadership should benefit all people, not just the wealthy or politically connected, criticizing Trump for using fear and misinformation to divide Americans.
Harris highlighted her administration’s economic achievements, such as job growth and the post-pandemic recovery, while promising continued efforts to reduce the cost of living. She outlined specific policies aimed at helping the middle class and working Americans, including plans to lower prescription drug prices, expand access to healthcare, and invest in infrastructure. She also discussed supporting small businesses through tax incentives and reducing regulatory burdens, positioning these initiatives as crucial to building a more equitable economy.
A significant portion of Harris’s speech focused on defending reproductive rights, especially in response to recent Supreme Court decisions. She criticized Trump and his allies for attempting to roll back protections for women’s health and reproductive autonomy. Harris framed these issues as fundamental to American freedom and democracy, vowing that the current administration would continue to protect these rights.
Drawing on her experience as a prosecutor and attorney general, Harris spoke passionately about her commitment to protecting communities, particularly marginalized groups. She highlighted her record of prosecuting violent offenders while advocating for criminal justice reform, including police reform and community-based safety initiatives. Harris emphasized her efforts to address the root causes of crime, such as poverty and lack of opportunity, underscoring her belief in a balanced approach to justice and community safety.
Harris concluded her speech with a call to action, urging the audience to stay engaged in the political process. She stressed that the stakes in the upcoming election are high, especially in battleground states like Pennsylvania. Harris emphasized the power of every vote and called on citizens to reject apathy, highlighting the importance of fighting for a future that reflects the nation’s highest values. Her speech was a blend of criticism of Trump’s past leadership, a defense of her administration’s policies, and a rallying cry for continued civic engagement and support in the upcoming elections.
President Biden meets with U.K. Prime Minister Starmer at the White House
Go Joe go ! First Lady works non stop and contributes so much to American families. What a blessing they both are. And a strong team well chosen is getting so much done. Thank you to all.