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By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 721 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (section 721), 50 U.S.C. 4565, it is hereby ordered as follows:

     Section 1.  Findings.  I hereby make the following findings:

(a)  There is credible evidence that leads me to believe that (1) Nippon Steel Corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of Japan (Nippon Steel); (2) Nippon Steel North America, Inc., a New York corporation (Nippon Steel NA); and (3) 2023 Merger Subsidiary, Inc., a Delaware corporation (together with Nippon Steel and Nippon Steel NA, the Purchasers), through the proposed acquisition by the Purchasers of United States Steel Corporation, a Delaware corporation (U.S. Steel), might take action that threatens to impair the national security of the United States; and

(b)  Provisions of law, other than section 721 and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), do not, in my judgment, provide adequate and appropriate authority for me to protect the national security in this matter.

     Sec. 2.  Actions Ordered and Authorized.  On the basis of the findings set forth in section 1 of this order, considering the factors set forth in subsection 721(f) of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as appropriate, and pursuant to my authority under applicable law, including section 721, I hereby order that:

(a)  The proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel by the Purchasers (Proposed Transaction) is prohibited, and any substantially similar transaction between the Purchasers and U.S. Steel, whether effected directly or indirectly by the Purchasers, through the Purchasers’ shareholders or shareholders’ immediate, intermediate, or ultimate foreign person beneficial owners, or through the Purchasers’ partners, subsidiaries, or affiliates is also prohibited.

(b)  The Purchasers and U.S. Steel shall take all steps necessary to fully and permanently abandon the Proposed Transaction no later than 30 days after the date of this order, unless such date is extended by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), on such conditions as CFIUS may require.  Immediately upon completion of all steps necessary to abandon the Proposed Transaction, the Purchasers and U.S. Steel shall certify in writing to CFIUS that such abandonment has been effected in accordance with this order and that all steps necessary to fully and permanently abandon the Proposed Transaction have been completed.

(c)  From the date of this order until the Purchasers and U.S. Steel provide a certification of abandonment of the Proposed Transaction to CFIUS pursuant to subsection (b) of this section, the Purchasers and U.S. Steel shall certify to CFIUS on a weekly basis that they are in compliance with this order and include with that certification a description of all efforts to fully and permanently abandon the Proposed Transaction, and a timeline for projected completion of remaining actions necessary to effectuate the abandonment.

(d)  Any transaction or other instrument entered into or method employed for the purpose of, or with the effect of, evading or circumventing this order is prohibited.

(e)  Without limitation on the exercise of authority by any agency under other provisions of law, and until such time as the Purchasers and U.S. Steel provide a certification of abandonment of the Proposed Transaction and such certification is verified to the satisfaction of CFIUS, CFIUS is further authorized to implement measures it determines necessary and appropriate with regard to the Proposed Transaction to protect the national security of the United States, including measures available to it under section 721 and its implementing regulations, which include the remedies available for violations of any order, agreement or condition entered into or imposed under section 721.

(f)  If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstances, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and the application of its other provisions to any other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.  If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstances, is held to be invalid because of the lack of certain procedural requirements, the relevant executive branch officials shall implement those procedural requirements.

(g)  The Attorney General is authorized to take any steps necessary to enforce this order.

     Sec. 3.  Reservation.  I hereby reserve my authority to issue further orders with respect to the Purchasers or U.S. Steel as shall in my judgment be necessary to protect the national security of the United States.

     Sec. 4.  Publication and Transmittal.  (a)  This order shall be published in the Federal Register.

(b)  I hereby direct the Secretary of the Treasury to transmit a copy of this order to the parties to the Proposed Transaction named in section 1 of this order.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE,

    January 3, 2025.

The post Order Regarding the Proposed Acquisition of United States Steel Corporation by Nippon Steel Corporation appeared first on The White House.

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 721 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (section 721), 50 U.S.C. 4565, it is hereby ordered as follows:

     Section 1.  Findings.  I hereby make the following findings:

(a)  There is credible evidence that leads me to believe that (1) Nippon Steel Corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of Japan (Nippon Steel); (2) Nippon Steel North America, Inc., a New York corporation (Nippon Steel NA); and (3) 2023 Merger Subsidiary, Inc., a Delaware corporation (together with Nippon Steel and Nippon Steel NA, the Purchasers), through the proposed acquisition by the Purchasers of United States Steel Corporation, a Delaware corporation (U.S. Steel), might take action that threatens to impair the national security of the United States; and

(b)  Provisions of law, other than section 721 and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), do not, in my judgment, provide adequate and appropriate authority for me to protect the national security in this matter.

     Sec. 2.  Actions Ordered and Authorized.  On the basis of the findings set forth in section 1 of this order, considering the factors set forth in subsection 721(f) of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as appropriate, and pursuant to my authority under applicable law, including section 721, I hereby order that:

(a)  The proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel by the Purchasers (Proposed Transaction) is prohibited, and any substantially similar transaction between the Purchasers and U.S. Steel, whether effected directly or indirectly by the Purchasers, through the Purchasers’ shareholders or shareholders’ immediate, intermediate, or ultimate foreign person beneficial owners, or through the Purchasers’ partners, subsidiaries, or affiliates is also prohibited.

(b)  The Purchasers and U.S. Steel shall take all steps necessary to fully and permanently abandon the Proposed Transaction no later than 30 days after the date of this order, unless such date is extended by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), on such conditions as CFIUS may require.  Immediately upon completion of all steps necessary to abandon the Proposed Transaction, the Purchasers and U.S. Steel shall certify in writing to CFIUS that such abandonment has been effected in accordance with this order and that all steps necessary to fully and permanently abandon the Proposed Transaction have been completed.

(c)  From the date of this order until the Purchasers and U.S. Steel provide a certification of abandonment of the Proposed Transaction to CFIUS pursuant to subsection (b) of this section, the Purchasers and U.S. Steel shall certify to CFIUS on a weekly basis that they are in compliance with this order and include with that certification a description of all efforts to fully and permanently abandon the Proposed Transaction, and a timeline for projected completion of remaining actions necessary to effectuate the abandonment.

(d)  Any transaction or other instrument entered into or method employed for the purpose of, or with the effect of, evading or circumventing this order is prohibited.

(e)  Without limitation on the exercise of authority by any agency under other provisions of law, and until such time as the Purchasers and U.S. Steel provide a certification of abandonment of the Proposed Transaction and such certification is verified to the satisfaction of CFIUS, CFIUS is further authorized to implement measures it determines necessary and appropriate with regard to the Proposed Transaction to protect the national security of the United States, including measures available to it under section 721 and its implementing regulations, which include the remedies available for violations of any order, agreement or condition entered into or imposed under section 721.

(f)  If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstances, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and the application of its other provisions to any other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.  If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstances, is held to be invalid because of the lack of certain procedural requirements, the relevant executive branch officials shall implement those procedural requirements.

(g)  The Attorney General is authorized to take any steps necessary to enforce this order.

     Sec. 3.  Reservation.  I hereby reserve my authority to issue further orders with respect to the Purchasers or U.S. Steel as shall in my judgment be necessary to protect the national security of the United States.

     Sec. 4.  Publication and Transmittal.  (a)  This order shall be published in the Federal Register.

(b)  I hereby direct the Secretary of the Treasury to transmit a copy of this order to the parties to the Proposed Transaction named in section 1 of this order.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE,

    January 3, 2025.

The post Order Regarding the Proposed Acquisition of United States Steel Corporation by Nippon Steel Corporation appeared first on The White House.

On Thursday, January 2, 2025, the President signed into law:

H.R. 1555, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 2300 Sylvan Avenue in Modesto, California, as the “Corporal Michael D. Anderson Jr. Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative McClintock for his leadership.

H.R. 1823, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 207 East Fort Dade Avenue in Brooksville, Florida, as the “Specialist Justin Dean Coleman Memorial Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Bilirakis for his leadership.

H.R. 3354, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 220 North Hatcher Avenue in Purcellville, Virginia, as the “Secretary of State Madeleine Albright Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Wexton and Senator Kaine for their leadership.

H.R. 4136, the U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson Memorial VA Clinic Act;

Thank you to Representative Self and Senator Cornyn for their leadership.

H.R. 4955, which names the community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, as the “Henry Parham VA Clinic”;

Thank you to Representative Summer Lee, and Senators Fetterman and Casey for their leadership.

H.R. 5867, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 109 Live Oaks Boulevard in Casselberry, Florida, as the “Colonel Joseph William Kittinger II Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Mills for his leadership.

H.R. 6116, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 14280 South Military Trail in Delray Beach, Florida, as the “Benjamin Berell Ferencz Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Frankel for her leadership.

H.R. 6162, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 379 North Oates Street in Dothan, Alabama, as the “LaBruce ‘Bruce’ Tidwell Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Barry Moore for his leadership.

H.R. 6188, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 420 Highway 17 North in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, as the “Nancy Yount Childs Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Fry for his leadership.

H.R. 6244, which to designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1535 East Los Ebanos Boulevard in Brownsville, Texas, as the “1st Lieutenant Andres Zermeno Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Vicente Gonzalez for his leadership.

H.R. 6633, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 9355 113th Street in Seminole, Florida, as the “Army SSG Ryan Christian Knauss Memorial Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Luna for her leadership.

H.R. 6750, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 501 Mercer Street Southwest in Wilson, North Carolina, as the “Milton F. Fitch, Sr. Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Don Davis for his leadership.

H.R. 6810, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 518 North Ridgewood Drive in Sebring, Florida, as the “U.S. Army Air Corps Major Thomas B. McGuire Post Office Building”

Thank you to Representative Franklin for his leadership.

H.R. 6983, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 15 South Valdosta Road in Lakeland, Georgia, as the “Nell Patten Roquemore Post Office”.

Thank you to Representative Austin Scott for his leadership.

###

The post Press Release: Bills Signed: H.R. 1555, H.R. 1823, H.R. 3354, H.R. 4136, H.R. 4955, H.R. 5867, H.R. 6116, H.R. 6162, H.R. 6188, H.R. 6244, H.R. 6633, H.R. 6750 appeared first on The White House.

On Thursday, January 2, 2025, the President signed into law:

H.R. 1555, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 2300 Sylvan Avenue in Modesto, California, as the “Corporal Michael D. Anderson Jr. Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative McClintock for his leadership.

H.R. 1823, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 207 East Fort Dade Avenue in Brooksville, Florida, as the “Specialist Justin Dean Coleman Memorial Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Bilirakis for his leadership.

H.R. 3354, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 220 North Hatcher Avenue in Purcellville, Virginia, as the “Secretary of State Madeleine Albright Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Wexton and Senator Kaine for their leadership.

H.R. 4136, the U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson Memorial VA Clinic Act;

Thank you to Representative Self and Senator Cornyn for their leadership.

H.R. 4955, which names the community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, as the “Henry Parham VA Clinic”;

Thank you to Representative Summer Lee, and Senators Fetterman and Casey for their leadership.

H.R. 5867, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 109 Live Oaks Boulevard in Casselberry, Florida, as the “Colonel Joseph William Kittinger II Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Mills for his leadership.

H.R. 6116, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 14280 South Military Trail in Delray Beach, Florida, as the “Benjamin Berell Ferencz Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Frankel for her leadership.

H.R. 6162, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 379 North Oates Street in Dothan, Alabama, as the “LaBruce ‘Bruce’ Tidwell Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Barry Moore for his leadership.

H.R. 6188, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 420 Highway 17 North in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, as the “Nancy Yount Childs Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Fry for his leadership.

H.R. 6244, which to designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1535 East Los Ebanos Boulevard in Brownsville, Texas, as the “1st Lieutenant Andres Zermeno Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Vicente Gonzalez for his leadership.

H.R. 6633, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 9355 113th Street in Seminole, Florida, as the “Army SSG Ryan Christian Knauss Memorial Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Luna for her leadership.

H.R. 6750, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 501 Mercer Street Southwest in Wilson, North Carolina, as the “Milton F. Fitch, Sr. Post Office Building”;

Thank you to Representative Don Davis for his leadership.

H.R. 6810, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 518 North Ridgewood Drive in Sebring, Florida, as the “U.S. Army Air Corps Major Thomas B. McGuire Post Office Building”

Thank you to Representative Franklin for his leadership.

H.R. 6983, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 15 South Valdosta Road in Lakeland, Georgia, as the “Nell Patten Roquemore Post Office”.

Thank you to Representative Austin Scott for his leadership.

###

The post Press Release: Bills Signed: H.R. 1555, H.R. 1823, H.R. 3354, H.R. 4136, H.R. 4955, H.R. 5867, H.R. 6116, H.R. 6162, H.R. 6188, H.R. 6244, H.R. 6633, H.R. 6750 appeared first on The White House.

THE PRESIDENT:  Good evening.  I know I can speak for all Americans when I say our hearts are with the people in New Orleans after the despicable attack that occurred in the early morning hours.

To all the families of those who were killed, to all those who were injured, to all the people in New Orleans who are grieving today, I want you to know I grieve with you.  Our nation grieves with you.  We’re going to stand with you as you mourn and as you heal in the weeks to come. 

I want to thank our brave first responders and law enforcement personnel who stopped the attacker in his tracks before he could kill or injure even more people.

And I want to thank you to everyone at the Department of the Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, including the FBI, for working nonstop to investigate this heinous act.  The FBI is leading the investigation to determine what happened, why it happened, and whether there is any continuing threat to public safety. 

Here’s what we know so far.  The FBI has reported to me the killer was an American citizen, born in Texas.  He served in the United States Army on active duty for many years.  He also served in the Army Reserve until a few years ago. 

The FBI also reported to me that mere hours before the attack, he posted videos on social media indicating that he was inspired by ISIS, expressing a desire to kill — a desire to kill.  The ISIS flag was found in his vehicle, which he rented to conduct this attack.  Possible explosives were found in the vehicle as well, and more explosives were near — were found nearby. 

The situation is very fluid, and the investigation is at a preliminary stage.  And the fact is that right now — excuse me — there you go — the law enforcement and intelligence community are continuing to look for any connections, associations, or coconspirators. 

We have nothing additional to report at this time.  The investigation is continuing to be active, and no one should jump to conclusions.  I’ve directed my attorney general, the FBI director, the secretary of Homeland Security, the head of the National Counterintelli- — -terrorism Center, and the intelligence community to work on this intensively until we have a full and complete information.  And once we have that information, I will share that information as soon as I — we can confirm it. 

Additionally, we’re tracking the explosion of a Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas.  Law enforcement and the intelligence community are investigating this as well, including whether there’s any possible connection with the attack in New Orleans.  Thus far, there’s nothing to report on that score at this time.

I directed my team to make sure every resource — every resource — is made available to federal, state, and local law enforcement to complete the investigation in New Orleans quickly and to make sure there’s no remaining threat to the American people. 

And we’ll — we will support the people in New Orleans as they begin the hard work of healing. 

New Orleans is a place unlike any other place in the world.  It’s a city full of charm and joy.  So many people around the world love New Orleans because of its history, its culture, and, above all, its people.  So, I know, while this person committed a terrible assault on the city, the spirit of our New Orleans will never, never, never be defeated.  It always will shine forth. 

We’ve seen that time and time again throughout its history, and I know we’ll see it again in the days and weeks ahead.

May God bless the people in New Orleans.  May our — God bless our police and our first responders.  And may God protect our troops.

And we’ll keep you fully, contemporaneously informed.

Thank you.

The post Remarks by President Biden on the Latest Developments in New Orleans | Catoctin Mountain Park, MD appeared first on The White House.

THE PRESIDENT:  Good evening.  I know I can speak for all Americans when I say our hearts are with the people in New Orleans after the despicable attack that occurred in the early morning hours.

To all the families of those who were killed, to all those who were injured, to all the people in New Orleans who are grieving today, I want you to know I grieve with you.  Our nation grieves with you.  We’re going to stand with you as you mourn and as you heal in the weeks to come. 

I want to thank our brave first responders and law enforcement personnel who stopped the attacker in his tracks before he could kill or injure even more people.

And I want to thank you to everyone at the Department of the Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, including the FBI, for working nonstop to investigate this heinous act.  The FBI is leading the investigation to determine what happened, why it happened, and whether there is any continuing threat to public safety. 

Here’s what we know so far.  The FBI has reported to me the killer was an American citizen, born in Texas.  He served in the United States Army on active duty for many years.  He also served in the Army Reserve until a few years ago. 

The FBI also reported to me that mere hours before the attack, he posted videos on social media indicating that he was inspired by ISIS, expressing a desire to kill — a desire to kill.  The ISIS flag was found in his vehicle, which he rented to conduct this attack.  Possible explosives were found in the vehicle as well, and more explosives were near — were found nearby. 

The situation is very fluid, and the investigation is at a preliminary stage.  And the fact is that right now — excuse me — there you go — the law enforcement and intelligence community are continuing to look for any connections, associations, or coconspirators. 

We have nothing additional to report at this time.  The investigation is continuing to be active, and no one should jump to conclusions.  I’ve directed my attorney general, the FBI director, the secretary of Homeland Security, the head of the National Counterintelli- — -terrorism Center, and the intelligence community to work on this intensively until we have a full and complete information.  And once we have that information, I will share that information as soon as I — we can confirm it. 

Additionally, we’re tracking the explosion of a Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas.  Law enforcement and the intelligence community are investigating this as well, including whether there’s any possible connection with the attack in New Orleans.  Thus far, there’s nothing to report on that score at this time.

I directed my team to make sure every resource — every resource — is made available to federal, state, and local law enforcement to complete the investigation in New Orleans quickly and to make sure there’s no remaining threat to the American people. 

And we’ll — we will support the people in New Orleans as they begin the hard work of healing. 

New Orleans is a place unlike any other place in the world.  It’s a city full of charm and joy.  So many people around the world love New Orleans because of its history, its culture, and, above all, its people.  So, I know, while this person committed a terrible assault on the city, the spirit of our New Orleans will never, never, never be defeated.  It always will shine forth. 

We’ve seen that time and time again throughout its history, and I know we’ll see it again in the days and weeks ahead.

May God bless the people in New Orleans.  May our — God bless our police and our first responders.  And may God protect our troops.

And we’ll keep you fully, contemporaneously informed.

Thank you.

The post Remarks by President Biden on the Latest Developments in New Orleans | Catoctin Mountain Park, MD appeared first on The White House.

State Dining Room

3:34 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, thank you, thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you.  I’m sure you’re clapping because I finally showed up.  (Laughter.)

I do apologize.  We had a very busy schedule the last — over — from New Year’s Day on, dealing with two crises — one in Louisiana and one in Las — in Las Vegas.  And I’ve assembled the entire Defense and intelligence apparatus of the country in the Situation Room, and we’ve been spending a lot of time there.  But I’m going to take another two minutes to talk a little bit about that and then go on to the — what we’re here for.

I want to give an update on the investigations into yesterday’s terrorist attacks in New Orleans and the truck explosion in Las Vegas.  I’ve just come from the meeting — not “just,” it’s been — while we’ve prepared these remarks — better part of an hour — from my Homeland Security team.  The number of people killed in New Orleans has risen to 15, including the attacker.  Thirty-five people were injured. 

Today, the FBI briefed me that, as of now, no information — we have no information that anyone else was involved in the attack.  They’ve established that the attacker was the same person who planted the explosives in those ice coolers in two nearby locations in the French Quarter just a few hours before he rammed into the crowd with his vehicle. 

They assessed he had a remote detonator in his vehicle to set off those two ice chests.  So, there’s no question that — remember all the talk about other people were involved, placed them?  They have him — they have established he’s there and even established that he had a detonator to explode those — those ice chests.

As I said yesterday, the attacker posted several videos just several hours before the attack, in- — indicating his strong support for ISIS.

Federal law enforcement and the intelligence community are actively investigating any foreign or domestic contacts or connections that could possibly be relevant to the attack. 

And so, we’re also continuing to investigate whether or not there’s any connection between the New Orleans attack and the explosion in Las Vegas.  As of now — as of now, I’ve just briefed they have not found any evidence of such a connection thus far.  I’ve directed them to keep looking.

The individual who rented the truck to explode — that exploded in Las Vegas also served as active duty U.S. Army.  And the FBI is working with the Department of Defense on investigating, including the service member’s possible motives and all those he worked with in — who served with him — what things he’d say and do.

I directed my team to accelerate these investigations so we have answers to our unanswered questions.  And I’m making every single resource available to get the job done.  And we’re going to share the facts as soon as I learn them so the American public doesn’t have to wonder. 

In the meantime, like I said last night, New Orleans is a city of tremendous spirit.  It can’t keep it down — you really can’t.  And we are seeing that today.  The Sugar Bowl is back on.  Kick-off is going to take off very shortly.  If I don’t get this damn thing done, we’re going to be in real trouble.  (Laughter.)  And the FBI in handing control to Bourbon Street back to local officials, security of the area has been reinforced, and it should be open for business later today.  The — Bourbon Street. 

The people of New Orleans are sending an unmistakable message: They will not let this attack or the attacks — attacker’s de- — his deluded ideology overcome us.  None of us should fear it’ll — he’ll overcome us. 

And we’re going to relentlessly pursue ISIS and other terrorist organizations where they are, and they’ll find no safe harbor here.

I’ll continue to provide updates on New Orleans and Las Vegas as the facts develop.

Now to the business at hand.  I can’t tell you how much I appreciate these two men.  Not a joke.  You know, I want to — the fact of the matter is that the Ma- — Majority Leader Schumer and Chair Durbin, they — their leadership has been invaluable. 

You know, from my days of leading the Senate Judiciary Committee 200 years ago — (laughter) — I have made judicial nominations a priority.  And some of you may remember, I was involved in some very contentious Supreme Court nominations over the years.

And today, I want to recognize a major milestone.  The Senate recently confirmed its 235th federal judge, which is the largest number of confirmations in a single presidential term since the early ‘80s.  That includes 1 Supreme Court justice, 45 Circuit Court of Appeal judges, 187 District Court judges, and 2 judges on the Court of International Trade. 

And they represent the best of America.  It’s all about preserving the Constitution.  I made two — three speeches in this campaign — in this — my term as president.  One when I first entered, saying democracy is at stake.  One I later made at — anyway.  I made three major speeches.  The institutions are in jeopardy, in my view.  And some of the decisions coming down, to me, made no constitutional sense.

They’re all highly qualified people (inaudible).  They’ve had distinguished legal, judicial, and academic careers. 

It matters.  Judges matter.  You know, shaping the everyday lives of Americans.  Protecting our basic freedoms.  I never thought we’d be talking about this.  Defending constitutional liberties.  Replacing pr- — you know, respecting the idea precedent matters — precedent matters.

These judges will be independent, they’ll be fair, and they’ll be impartial, and they’ll respect the rule of law.  And most importantly — I know this sounds — I never thought I’d be saying this — they’d up- — they’ll uphold the Constitution.  They’ll uphold the Constitution.

When I ran for president, I made a promise that I’d have a bench that looks like America that taps into the full talents of this nation.  And I’m proud we’ve kept our commitment, with the help of these two men and many others, bolstering confidence in judicial decision-making and outcomes. 

We have a record number of judges with backgrounds and experiences that have long been overlooked in the federal judiciary, like advocates for civil rights, workers rights, immigrant rights, and so much more — the first former public defender to sit in the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. 

I’ve also continued to put forward men and women who have been prosecutors and plaintiffs attorneys, which has been a — a distant past in the — of — of courts. 

No matter who they are or where they come from, all these appointees — all these appointees understand the role of a judge and are committed to the rule of law, the institutional safeguards built on our Constitution, that upholds the rights and guarantees of the Constitution. 

You know, I have appointed the most demographically diverse slate of judicial nominees ever in the history of America that represents all of America and the best of America. 

There is numerous s- — there is numerous historic firsts.  The first Black woman on the United States Supreme Court.  I made that promise and we kept it.  More Black women to the Courts of Appeals than every other previous administration in American history combined — combined.  (Applause.) 

Other historic firsts for Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, Muslim Americans.  The list goes on. 

Look, the point is: For the first time in a long, long time, we have a bench that looks like and represents all of America.  All of America. 

And a special thank you again to — to Leader Schumer and Chair Durbin for working tirelessly to move these nominees through the committee and onto the Senate floor in a very — I think it’s not an understatement to say — a very contentious political period in American history.  (Laughter.)  I — but think about it.  One — one-vote majority.  I mean, it’s amazing what they did. 

Other senators, Democrats and Republicans alike, worked with my administration to fill vacancies in their states. 

You know, all these Republican senators, they were — they weren’t sending me Democratic nominees.  They were sending me Republican nominees.  But we got the — sort of back to the basics, finding basic commitment to civil rights, civil liberties.  Whether it was your counterpart in the leader of Republican party, in Kentucky, or wherever, we got people who are people who understand the institutional limitations and safeguards in the Constitution.

I don’t want to get anyone in trouble, but this includes some of my conservative friends in Indiana, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Texas.  But they’re — also got appointed, and they’re not Democrats, but they’re — understand the institutional structure of the court.

Together, these judges are going to hear cases on issues ruling from everything as whether Americans can cast their ballot.  I mean, literally, where they — how they can cast their ballot, when it will be counted.  Whether workers can unionize — I thought we settled that in 1934 — and make a living wage for their families.  Whether children can breathe clean air and drink clean water, and we mandate it by the Congress to do so.

These judges also are a vital check on the excesses of — of other branches of government, including Congress and the executive branch when they overreach and run afoul of the constitutional and institutional safeguards. 

So, let me close with this.  I’m proud — proud of the legacy that we’ll leave for our nation as it relates to judges.  And I’m proud of the men and women who stepped forward and heeded the call to serve.  I really mean it.

Think about it.  If I looked at some of you and said, “I want to nominate you.”  You said, “In this time?”  (Laughter.)  No, I’m serious.  I — I’m being — I know this room is probably the only room that fully would understand and comprehend that.

And, folks, I know — I know they’ll continue to uphold our nation’s founding principles of liberty, justice, equality, and do it for decades to come. 

As we say in my old neighborhood, it’s a big deal.  (Laughter.)  It’s a big deal.  And — and I — bless me, Father, for I have sinned.  (The president makes the sign of the cross.)  (Laughter.) 

But all kidding aside, I really — I’m really proud of the caliber, capacity, willingness, and the academic backgrounds of all these men and women who we appointed.  In fact, we appointed more women than others.  That’s just because I’ve — was raised in a household where all the women are smarter than all the men.  (Laughter.)

But all kidding aside, I really think we’ll be proud of these women and men that have been appointed.  And I think we’re going to reestablish the safeguards that were built into the Constitution.  Everybody, everybody, everybody has an equal opportunity.  That’s what it’s all about.

So, thank you all and all the leaders in this room for all you’ve done.  It wouldn’t have gotten it done without you guys. Thanks for the recommendations and all the help.  But most importantly, these two guys.

The idea that if — in the beginning, when we had that first conversation, Chuck said, “We’re going to appoint all these judges.”  We looked at each other like, “Are we kidding ourselves?”  Right?  (Laughter.)  Thank you, pal.

LEADER SCHUMER:  Thank you, Mr. President.

THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, thank you, thank you.  (Applause.)

And, Dick — by the way, I’ve ruined his reputation by bragging so much about him.  I — I was hesitant to do it during an election year because it might hurt him.  But all kidding aside, every time we get in trouble, I literally ask my staff — I say, “Durbin is there.”  (Laughter.)  “Durbin is there.”

SENATOR DURBIN:  Thank you.

THE PRESIDENT:  You’re the best, pal.

SENATOR DURBIN:  Thank you. 

THE PRESIDENT:  You really are.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

Thank you all so very much.  (Applause.)

 3:46 P.M. EST

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State Dining Room

3:34 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, thank you, thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you.  I’m sure you’re clapping because I finally showed up.  (Laughter.)

I do apologize.  We had a very busy schedule the last — over — from New Year’s Day on, dealing with two crises — one in Louisiana and one in Las — in Las Vegas.  And I’ve assembled the entire Defense and intelligence apparatus of the country in the Situation Room, and we’ve been spending a lot of time there.  But I’m going to take another two minutes to talk a little bit about that and then go on to the — what we’re here for.

I want to give an update on the investigations into yesterday’s terrorist attacks in New Orleans and the truck explosion in Las Vegas.  I’ve just come from the meeting — not “just,” it’s been — while we’ve prepared these remarks — better part of an hour — from my Homeland Security team.  The number of people killed in New Orleans has risen to 15, including the attacker.  Thirty-five people were injured. 

Today, the FBI briefed me that, as of now, no information — we have no information that anyone else was involved in the attack.  They’ve established that the attacker was the same person who planted the explosives in those ice coolers in two nearby locations in the French Quarter just a few hours before he rammed into the crowd with his vehicle. 

They assessed he had a remote detonator in his vehicle to set off those two ice chests.  So, there’s no question that — remember all the talk about other people were involved, placed them?  They have him — they have established he’s there and even established that he had a detonator to explode those — those ice chests.

As I said yesterday, the attacker posted several videos just several hours before the attack, in- — indicating his strong support for ISIS.

Federal law enforcement and the intelligence community are actively investigating any foreign or domestic contacts or connections that could possibly be relevant to the attack. 

And so, we’re also continuing to investigate whether or not there’s any connection between the New Orleans attack and the explosion in Las Vegas.  As of now — as of now, I’ve just briefed they have not found any evidence of such a connection thus far.  I’ve directed them to keep looking.

The individual who rented the truck to explode — that exploded in Las Vegas also served as active duty U.S. Army.  And the FBI is working with the Department of Defense on investigating, including the service member’s possible motives and all those he worked with in — who served with him — what things he’d say and do.

I directed my team to accelerate these investigations so we have answers to our unanswered questions.  And I’m making every single resource available to get the job done.  And we’re going to share the facts as soon as I learn them so the American public doesn’t have to wonder. 

In the meantime, like I said last night, New Orleans is a city of tremendous spirit.  It can’t keep it down — you really can’t.  And we are seeing that today.  The Sugar Bowl is back on.  Kick-off is going to take off very shortly.  If I don’t get this damn thing done, we’re going to be in real trouble.  (Laughter.)  And the FBI in handing control to Bourbon Street back to local officials, security of the area has been reinforced, and it should be open for business later today.  The — Bourbon Street. 

The people of New Orleans are sending an unmistakable message: They will not let this attack or the attacks — attacker’s de- — his deluded ideology overcome us.  None of us should fear it’ll — he’ll overcome us. 

And we’re going to relentlessly pursue ISIS and other terrorist organizations where they are, and they’ll find no safe harbor here.

I’ll continue to provide updates on New Orleans and Las Vegas as the facts develop.

Now to the business at hand.  I can’t tell you how much I appreciate these two men.  Not a joke.  You know, I want to — the fact of the matter is that the Ma- — Majority Leader Schumer and Chair Durbin, they — their leadership has been invaluable. 

You know, from my days of leading the Senate Judiciary Committee 200 years ago — (laughter) — I have made judicial nominations a priority.  And some of you may remember, I was involved in some very contentious Supreme Court nominations over the years.

And today, I want to recognize a major milestone.  The Senate recently confirmed its 235th federal judge, which is the largest number of confirmations in a single presidential term since the early ‘80s.  That includes 1 Supreme Court justice, 45 Circuit Court of Appeal judges, 187 District Court judges, and 2 judges on the Court of International Trade. 

And they represent the best of America.  It’s all about preserving the Constitution.  I made two — three speeches in this campaign — in this — my term as president.  One when I first entered, saying democracy is at stake.  One I later made at — anyway.  I made three major speeches.  The institutions are in jeopardy, in my view.  And some of the decisions coming down, to me, made no constitutional sense.

They’re all highly qualified people (inaudible).  They’ve had distinguished legal, judicial, and academic careers. 

It matters.  Judges matter.  You know, shaping the everyday lives of Americans.  Protecting our basic freedoms.  I never thought we’d be talking about this.  Defending constitutional liberties.  Replacing pr- — you know, respecting the idea precedent matters — precedent matters.

These judges will be independent, they’ll be fair, and they’ll be impartial, and they’ll respect the rule of law.  And most importantly — I know this sounds — I never thought I’d be saying this — they’d up- — they’ll uphold the Constitution.  They’ll uphold the Constitution.

When I ran for president, I made a promise that I’d have a bench that looks like America that taps into the full talents of this nation.  And I’m proud we’ve kept our commitment, with the help of these two men and many others, bolstering confidence in judicial decision-making and outcomes. 

We have a record number of judges with backgrounds and experiences that have long been overlooked in the federal judiciary, like advocates for civil rights, workers rights, immigrant rights, and so much more — the first former public defender to sit in the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. 

I’ve also continued to put forward men and women who have been prosecutors and plaintiffs attorneys, which has been a — a distant past in the — of — of courts. 

No matter who they are or where they come from, all these appointees — all these appointees understand the role of a judge and are committed to the rule of law, the institutional safeguards built on our Constitution, that upholds the rights and guarantees of the Constitution. 

You know, I have appointed the most demographically diverse slate of judicial nominees ever in the history of America that represents all of America and the best of America. 

There is numerous s- — there is numerous historic firsts.  The first Black woman on the United States Supreme Court.  I made that promise and we kept it.  More Black women to the Courts of Appeals than every other previous administration in American history combined — combined.  (Applause.) 

Other historic firsts for Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, Muslim Americans.  The list goes on. 

Look, the point is: For the first time in a long, long time, we have a bench that looks like and represents all of America.  All of America. 

And a special thank you again to — to Leader Schumer and Chair Durbin for working tirelessly to move these nominees through the committee and onto the Senate floor in a very — I think it’s not an understatement to say — a very contentious political period in American history.  (Laughter.)  I — but think about it.  One — one-vote majority.  I mean, it’s amazing what they did. 

Other senators, Democrats and Republicans alike, worked with my administration to fill vacancies in their states. 

You know, all these Republican senators, they were — they weren’t sending me Democratic nominees.  They were sending me Republican nominees.  But we got the — sort of back to the basics, finding basic commitment to civil rights, civil liberties.  Whether it was your counterpart in the leader of Republican party, in Kentucky, or wherever, we got people who are people who understand the institutional limitations and safeguards in the Constitution.

I don’t want to get anyone in trouble, but this includes some of my conservative friends in Indiana, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Texas.  But they’re — also got appointed, and they’re not Democrats, but they’re — understand the institutional structure of the court.

Together, these judges are going to hear cases on issues ruling from everything as whether Americans can cast their ballot.  I mean, literally, where they — how they can cast their ballot, when it will be counted.  Whether workers can unionize — I thought we settled that in 1934 — and make a living wage for their families.  Whether children can breathe clean air and drink clean water, and we mandate it by the Congress to do so.

These judges also are a vital check on the excesses of — of other branches of government, including Congress and the executive branch when they overreach and run afoul of the constitutional and institutional safeguards. 

So, let me close with this.  I’m proud — proud of the legacy that we’ll leave for our nation as it relates to judges.  And I’m proud of the men and women who stepped forward and heeded the call to serve.  I really mean it.

Think about it.  If I looked at some of you and said, “I want to nominate you.”  You said, “In this time?”  (Laughter.)  No, I’m serious.  I — I’m being — I know this room is probably the only room that fully would understand and comprehend that.

And, folks, I know — I know they’ll continue to uphold our nation’s founding principles of liberty, justice, equality, and do it for decades to come. 

As we say in my old neighborhood, it’s a big deal.  (Laughter.)  It’s a big deal.  And — and I — bless me, Father, for I have sinned.  (The president makes the sign of the cross.)  (Laughter.) 

But all kidding aside, I really — I’m really proud of the caliber, capacity, willingness, and the academic backgrounds of all these men and women who we appointed.  In fact, we appointed more women than others.  That’s just because I’ve — was raised in a household where all the women are smarter than all the men.  (Laughter.)

But all kidding aside, I really think we’ll be proud of these women and men that have been appointed.  And I think we’re going to reestablish the safeguards that were built into the Constitution.  Everybody, everybody, everybody has an equal opportunity.  That’s what it’s all about.

So, thank you all and all the leaders in this room for all you’ve done.  It wouldn’t have gotten it done without you guys. Thanks for the recommendations and all the help.  But most importantly, these two guys.

The idea that if — in the beginning, when we had that first conversation, Chuck said, “We’re going to appoint all these judges.”  We looked at each other like, “Are we kidding ourselves?”  Right?  (Laughter.)  Thank you, pal.

LEADER SCHUMER:  Thank you, Mr. President.

THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, thank you, thank you.  (Applause.)

And, Dick — by the way, I’ve ruined his reputation by bragging so much about him.  I — I was hesitant to do it during an election year because it might hurt him.  But all kidding aside, every time we get in trouble, I literally ask my staff — I say, “Durbin is there.”  (Laughter.)  “Durbin is there.”

SENATOR DURBIN:  Thank you.

THE PRESIDENT:  You’re the best, pal.

SENATOR DURBIN:  Thank you. 

THE PRESIDENT:  You really are.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

Thank you all so very much.  (Applause.)

 3:46 P.M. EST

The post Remarks by President Biden on Securing 235 Judicial Confirmations appeared first on The White House.

Yesterday, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists for the Native Village of Kipnuk and ordered federal aid to supplement the Tribal Nation’s efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm and flooding from August 16 to August 18, 2024.

Federal funding is available to the Native Village of Kipnuk and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storm and flooding.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Native Village of Kipnuk.

Mr. Lance E. Davis of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

###

The post President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Native Village of Kipnuk appeared first on The White House.

Yesterday, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists for the Native Village of Kipnuk and ordered federal aid to supplement the Tribal Nation’s efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm and flooding from August 16 to August 18, 2024.

Federal funding is available to the Native Village of Kipnuk and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storm and flooding.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Native Village of Kipnuk.

Mr. Lance E. Davis of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

###

The post President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Native Village of Kipnuk appeared first on The White House.

On Thursday, January 2, 2025, the President signed into law:

S. 141, the “Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act,” which amends various Department of Veterans Affairs authorities related to health care, economic opportunity, disability and memorial affairs, veteran homelessness, and oversight and investigations.

Thank you to Senators Moran, Tester, and Hassan, Representatives Ciscomani, Bost, Brownley, and Takano, and many others for their leadership.

###

The post Press Release: Bill Signed: S. 141 appeared first on The White House.

On Thursday, January 2, 2025, the President signed into law:

S. 141, the “Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act,” which amends various Department of Veterans Affairs authorities related to health care, economic opportunity, disability and memorial affairs, veteran homelessness, and oversight and investigations.

Thank you to Senators Moran, Tester, and Hassan, Representatives Ciscomani, Bost, Brownley, and Takano, and many others for their leadership.

###

The post Press Release: Bill Signed: S. 141 appeared first on The White House.

     WHEREAS, Proclamation 8336 of January 6, 2009, established the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (Monument); and

     WHEREAS, Proclamation 9173 of September 25, 2014, established the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument Expansion (Monument Expansion);

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including section 320301 of title 54, United States Code, do amend Proclamation 8336 and Proclamation 9173 for the purposes of updating the name of the Monument and the Monument Expansion to recognize the connection of these areas with the cultural heritage of the Indigenous Peoples and communities of the Pacific Islands, and of making the following conforming changes and corrections:

     Section 1.  The title of Proclamation 8336 is amended to read, “Establishment of the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument.”

     Sec. 2.  The title of Proclamation 9173 is amended to read, “Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument Expansion.”

     Sec. 3.  The phrase “Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument” is amended to read, “Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument,” wherever it appears in Proclamation 8336 and Proclamation 9173.

     Sec. 4.  The titles of the maps of the Monument accompanying Proclamation 8336 are amended to read, “Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument.”

     Sec. 5.  The titles of the maps of the Monument Expansion accompanying Proclamation 9173 are amended to read, “Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument Expansion.”

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on on Amending Proclamation 8336 to Read, “Establishment of the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument” and Amending Proclamation 9173 to Read, “Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument Expansion” appeared first on The White House.

     WHEREAS, Proclamation 8336 of January 6, 2009, established the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (Monument); and

     WHEREAS, Proclamation 9173 of September 25, 2014, established the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument Expansion (Monument Expansion);

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including section 320301 of title 54, United States Code, do amend Proclamation 8336 and Proclamation 9173 for the purposes of updating the name of the Monument and the Monument Expansion to recognize the connection of these areas with the cultural heritage of the Indigenous Peoples and communities of the Pacific Islands, and of making the following conforming changes and corrections:

     Section 1.  The title of Proclamation 8336 is amended to read, “Establishment of the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument.”

     Sec. 2.  The title of Proclamation 9173 is amended to read, “Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument Expansion.”

     Sec. 3.  The phrase “Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument” is amended to read, “Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument,” wherever it appears in Proclamation 8336 and Proclamation 9173.

     Sec. 4.  The titles of the maps of the Monument accompanying Proclamation 8336 are amended to read, “Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument.”

     Sec. 5.  The titles of the maps of the Monument Expansion accompanying Proclamation 9173 are amended to read, “Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument Expansion.”

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on on Amending Proclamation 8336 to Read, “Establishment of the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument” and Amending Proclamation 9173 to Read, “Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument Expansion” appeared first on The White House.

Today, President Biden is taking action to recognize the cultural heritage of the Indigenous Peoples and communities of the Pacific Islands by renaming the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument as the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument, and becoming the first President to formally honor the Hui Panalāʻau, Native Hawaiians sent to secure United States territorial claim to the islands in the run up to World War II. This action builds on President Biden’s historic record of delivering for Indigenous communities across the country.

In March 2023, the President issued a Presidential Memorandum directing the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce to collaborate with Indigenous cultural leaders to inform renaming of the existing Pacific Remote Islands National Monument to honor the area’s heritage, ancestral pathways, and stopping points for Pacific Island voyagers, and to inform posthumous recognition for the Hui Panalāʻau.

Today’s action supports President Biden’s commitment to telling a fuller story of our Nation’s history and builds on the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to advance opportunity, including for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Communities.

Renaming of the Marine National Monument

The Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument encompasses approximately 490,000 square miles of open ocean, coral reef, and island habitats in the Pacific Ocean and includes seven National Wildlife Refuges associated with Baker Island, Howland Island, Jarvis Island, Johnston Atoll, Kingman Reef, Palmyra Atoll, and Wake Atoll. The national monument is home to one of the largest collections of tropical islands, coral reef, seamounts, and deep sea protected areas on the planet, and provides large migration and foraging ranges for sea turtles, marine mammals, whales, sharks, and manta rays.

At President Biden’s direction, the Udall Foundation, in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), led an 18-month collaborative renaming process to engage Indigenous Peoples and other Pacific Island communities on developing a recommendation for a new name for the Marine National Monument. This included participating in the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture, where the Administration convened sessions with the Pacific Island delegations, cultural practitioners, voyagers, language experts, and the broader Pacific Island community to seek comment and input on a new name.

The renaming of the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument reaffirms the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to recognize and acknowledge the tradition of voyaging and other cultural and ancestral connections to the monument area and the historic and scientific objects it contains as core to Pacific Island communities’ heritage. The name also honors the many people, cultures, languages, and resources that have existed in the region for thousands of years and will continue to thrive in the future.

President George W. Bush first established this marine national monument in 2009, and President Barack Obama designated a marine national monument expansion area in 2014. Today’s action applies the new name to the existing monument, without altering its boundaries or any applicable requirements.

Recognition for the Hui Panalāʻau

From 1935 to 1942, the United States government sent 135 mainly Native Hawaiian men – known collectively as the Hui Panalāʻau – to live for six weeks to several months at a time on the uninhabited Pacific equatorial islands of Howland, Baker, Jarvis, Enderbury, and Canton to claim the islands for the United States. Today, President Biden issued a Presidential Message officially recognizing for the first time their contributions to the United States.

Beginning in 1935, the United States government recruited young Hawaiian students and recent graduates of the Kamehameha School for Boys to serve a colonization mission to the uninhabited islands. Although military interests justified occupation of the islands, the Hui Panalāʻau members were not informed of the true nature of the project. The men recorded weather conditions, cultivated plants, maintained a daily log, recorded the types of fish that they caught, observed bird life, and collected specimens for the Bishop Museum on O’ahu, and also endured personal sacrifice and hardship living on the islands. Several Hui Panalāʻau members died on the islands, including in an attack by the Empire of Japan the day after the Japanese military attacked Pearl Harbor.

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration acknowledges the accomplishments and sacrifices of the members of the Hui Panalā‘au, and extends to them and their families the deep appreciation of the people of the United States. The United States also extends condolences to the families of Carl Kahalewai, Joseph Keliihananui, and Richard Whaley for the loss of their loved ones in the service of the United States. The previously unsung contributions and sacrifices of these young men and their loved ones must be recognized as a part of the history of our Nation and of their beloved home, Hawai‘i.

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) conducted a thorough review of records relevant to the Equatorial Pacific colonization program and was able to verify a participant roster that reflects, to the very best of their ability, a list of 135 individuals involved in this United States Government project. NARA corroborated this list with individual employment records. The records are from the Office of the Territories: Central Classified Files Relating to the Equatorial Islands, and this series consists of 15 containers which are fully digitized and available in the National Archives Catalog.

Today, the United States honors their memory for their service and sacrifices for our Nation:

Ahia, Charles; Ahia, Henry; Akaka, Lewellyn; Akana, Albert; Akana, Bernard; Akana, George; Akana, Theodore; Anahu, William; Anakalea, Joseph; Au, Charles; Aune, Edward; Awana, Theodore; Beatty, Rupert; Bederman, Thos. W.; Bell, Kenneth; Blake, Hartwell; Boyd, Andrew; Braun, Charles; Braun, Clarence; Bruhn, James Ferdinand; Burke, Eugene; Burke, Walter; Bush, Harry; Calley, Chas. D., Jr.; Carroll, James; Chang, Herbert; Ching, Archie; Ching, Lawrence; Cockett, Frank; Cockett, Herbert; Collins, Austin; Cowden, Lawrence; Coyle, James W.; Duff, Leonard; Dyen, Samuel; Faufata, Folina; Feigenbaum, Ralph; Fialkowaski, Henry; Graf, Wyman; Haili, Jacob; Hall, Bernard H.; Harbottle, Isaac; Harris, Arthur; Hartwell, David Kawila; Henderson, Waldron; Hooper, Herbert; Hutchinson, William; Jacobson, Victor; Jensen, Hans P.; Jensen, Karl Emil; Kaahea, Henry; Kahalewai, Carl; Kahalewai, Samuel; Kahanu, George; Kahapea, Alexander; Kahapea, William; Kaina, Wm.; Kalama, David H.; Kalama, Samuel; Kalama, Solomon; Kamakaiwi, James C., Jr.; Kaninau, Charles; Kauahikaua, Archie; Kaulu, Albert Kelii; Keliihananui, Jos. K.; Kepoo, Joseph; Kilbey, John Gibson; Kim, Bak Sung; Kim, Harold; Kim, Joseph; Kim, Victor; King, Kenneth Lum; Kinney, James; Knell, Henry Crockett; Lawler, Vernon; Lee, Francis; Lee, Frederick; Lee, Henry Kong; Leong, Ah Kin; Lieson, Robert W.; Lum, Harold Chin; Lum, Kam; Lum, Paul Yat; Lum, Yau Fai; MacKellar, Ian; Mahikoa, Henry; Makua, Blue; Markham, Wm. S.; Mattson, Elvin K.; McCorriston, Edward M.; Medeiros, Henry; Newton, Edmond; Ohumukini, Henry; Opiopio, Killarney; Paoa, Melvin; Paquette, Maurice; Pea, Aki Kini Levi; Pea, Wm. Kane; Pease, James K.; Phillips, Manley Woodrow; Phillips, Paul Gordon; Piianai, Abraham; Pires, Manuel; Rahe, Bernard; Renken, Ernest Kalane; Riley, James Jos.; Roberts, John; Roberts, Oliver K.; Robinson, Alexander; Ruddle, Francis; Smith, Henry M.; Sproat, Manuel; Stein, Charles; Stillman, Francis; Stillman, Geo. C.L.; Suares, Louis; Summers, Carl; Surber, George; Tavares, William; Theiss, Harry; Toomey, Daniel; Toomey, John Kauwe; Toomey, William; Victor, Gabriel; Waiwaiole, Luther; West, George; Whaley, Richard; Wilhelm, Frederick; Williamson, Elmer; Wilson, Ralph; Wong, Alexander; Wood, Joshua; Yomes, William; Young, Edward; and Zagara, Dominic P.

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The post FACT SHEET: President Biden Recognizes Fuller Story of Pacific Islands Heritage appeared first on The White House.

Today, President Biden is taking action to recognize the cultural heritage of the Indigenous Peoples and communities of the Pacific Islands by renaming the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument as the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument, and becoming the first President to formally honor the Hui Panalāʻau, Native Hawaiians sent to secure United States territorial claim to the islands in the run up to World War II. This action builds on President Biden’s historic record of delivering for Indigenous communities across the country.

In March 2023, the President issued a Presidential Memorandum directing the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce to collaborate with Indigenous cultural leaders to inform renaming of the existing Pacific Remote Islands National Monument to honor the area’s heritage, ancestral pathways, and stopping points for Pacific Island voyagers, and to inform posthumous recognition for the Hui Panalāʻau.

Today’s action supports President Biden’s commitment to telling a fuller story of our Nation’s history and builds on the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to advance opportunity, including for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Communities.

Renaming of the Marine National Monument

The Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument encompasses approximately 490,000 square miles of open ocean, coral reef, and island habitats in the Pacific Ocean and includes seven National Wildlife Refuges associated with Baker Island, Howland Island, Jarvis Island, Johnston Atoll, Kingman Reef, Palmyra Atoll, and Wake Atoll. The national monument is home to one of the largest collections of tropical islands, coral reef, seamounts, and deep sea protected areas on the planet, and provides large migration and foraging ranges for sea turtles, marine mammals, whales, sharks, and manta rays.

At President Biden’s direction, the Udall Foundation, in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), led an 18-month collaborative renaming process to engage Indigenous Peoples and other Pacific Island communities on developing a recommendation for a new name for the Marine National Monument. This included participating in the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture, where the Administration convened sessions with the Pacific Island delegations, cultural practitioners, voyagers, language experts, and the broader Pacific Island community to seek comment and input on a new name.

The renaming of the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument reaffirms the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to recognize and acknowledge the tradition of voyaging and other cultural and ancestral connections to the monument area and the historic and scientific objects it contains as core to Pacific Island communities’ heritage. The name also honors the many people, cultures, languages, and resources that have existed in the region for thousands of years and will continue to thrive in the future.

President George W. Bush first established this marine national monument in 2009, and President Barack Obama designated a marine national monument expansion area in 2014. Today’s action applies the new name to the existing monument, without altering its boundaries or any applicable requirements.

Recognition for the Hui Panalāʻau

From 1935 to 1942, the United States government sent 135 mainly Native Hawaiian men – known collectively as the Hui Panalāʻau – to live for six weeks to several months at a time on the uninhabited Pacific equatorial islands of Howland, Baker, Jarvis, Enderbury, and Canton to claim the islands for the United States. Today, President Biden issued a Presidential Message officially recognizing for the first time their contributions to the United States.

Beginning in 1935, the United States government recruited young Hawaiian students and recent graduates of the Kamehameha School for Boys to serve a colonization mission to the uninhabited islands. Although military interests justified occupation of the islands, the Hui Panalāʻau members were not informed of the true nature of the project. The men recorded weather conditions, cultivated plants, maintained a daily log, recorded the types of fish that they caught, observed bird life, and collected specimens for the Bishop Museum on O’ahu, and also endured personal sacrifice and hardship living on the islands. Several Hui Panalāʻau members died on the islands, including in an attack by the Empire of Japan the day after the Japanese military attacked Pearl Harbor.

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration acknowledges the accomplishments and sacrifices of the members of the Hui Panalā‘au, and extends to them and their families the deep appreciation of the people of the United States. The United States also extends condolences to the families of Carl Kahalewai, Joseph Keliihananui, and Richard Whaley for the loss of their loved ones in the service of the United States. The previously unsung contributions and sacrifices of these young men and their loved ones must be recognized as a part of the history of our Nation and of their beloved home, Hawai‘i.

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) conducted a thorough review of records relevant to the Equatorial Pacific colonization program and was able to verify a participant roster that reflects, to the very best of their ability, a list of 135 individuals involved in this United States Government project. NARA corroborated this list with individual employment records. The records are from the Office of the Territories: Central Classified Files Relating to the Equatorial Islands, and this series consists of 15 containers which are fully digitized and available in the National Archives Catalog.

Today, the United States honors their memory for their service and sacrifices for our Nation:

Ahia, Charles; Ahia, Henry; Akaka, Lewellyn; Akana, Albert; Akana, Bernard; Akana, George; Akana, Theodore; Anahu, William; Anakalea, Joseph; Au, Charles; Aune, Edward; Awana, Theodore; Beatty, Rupert; Bederman, Thos. W.; Bell, Kenneth; Blake, Hartwell; Boyd, Andrew; Braun, Charles; Braun, Clarence; Bruhn, James Ferdinand; Burke, Eugene; Burke, Walter; Bush, Harry; Calley, Chas. D., Jr.; Carroll, James; Chang, Herbert; Ching, Archie; Ching, Lawrence; Cockett, Frank; Cockett, Herbert; Collins, Austin; Cowden, Lawrence; Coyle, James W.; Duff, Leonard; Dyen, Samuel; Faufata, Folina; Feigenbaum, Ralph; Fialkowaski, Henry; Graf, Wyman; Haili, Jacob; Hall, Bernard H.; Harbottle, Isaac; Harris, Arthur; Hartwell, David Kawila; Henderson, Waldron; Hooper, Herbert; Hutchinson, William; Jacobson, Victor; Jensen, Hans P.; Jensen, Karl Emil; Kaahea, Henry; Kahalewai, Carl; Kahalewai, Samuel; Kahanu, George; Kahapea, Alexander; Kahapea, William; Kaina, Wm.; Kalama, David H.; Kalama, Samuel; Kalama, Solomon; Kamakaiwi, James C., Jr.; Kaninau, Charles; Kauahikaua, Archie; Kaulu, Albert Kelii; Keliihananui, Jos. K.; Kepoo, Joseph; Kilbey, John Gibson; Kim, Bak Sung; Kim, Harold; Kim, Joseph; Kim, Victor; King, Kenneth Lum; Kinney, James; Knell, Henry Crockett; Lawler, Vernon; Lee, Francis; Lee, Frederick; Lee, Henry Kong; Leong, Ah Kin; Lieson, Robert W.; Lum, Harold Chin; Lum, Kam; Lum, Paul Yat; Lum, Yau Fai; MacKellar, Ian; Mahikoa, Henry; Makua, Blue; Markham, Wm. S.; Mattson, Elvin K.; McCorriston, Edward M.; Medeiros, Henry; Newton, Edmond; Ohumukini, Henry; Opiopio, Killarney; Paoa, Melvin; Paquette, Maurice; Pea, Aki Kini Levi; Pea, Wm. Kane; Pease, James K.; Phillips, Manley Woodrow; Phillips, Paul Gordon; Piianai, Abraham; Pires, Manuel; Rahe, Bernard; Renken, Ernest Kalane; Riley, James Jos.; Roberts, John; Roberts, Oliver K.; Robinson, Alexander; Ruddle, Francis; Smith, Henry M.; Sproat, Manuel; Stein, Charles; Stillman, Francis; Stillman, Geo. C.L.; Suares, Louis; Summers, Carl; Surber, George; Tavares, William; Theiss, Harry; Toomey, Daniel; Toomey, John Kauwe; Toomey, William; Victor, Gabriel; Waiwaiole, Luther; West, George; Whaley, Richard; Wilhelm, Frederick; Williamson, Elmer; Wilson, Ralph; Wong, Alexander; Wood, Joshua; Yomes, William; Young, Edward; and Zagara, Dominic P.

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WASHINGTON – Today, President Biden named twenty recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal.

The Presidential Citizens Medal is awarded to citizens of the United States of America who have performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or their fellow citizens. President Biden believes these Americans are bonded by their common decency and commitment to serving others. The country is better because of their dedication and sacrifice.

The awards will be presented at the White House on January 2, 2025. The following individuals will be awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal:

Mary L. Bonauto

Attorney and activist Mary Bonauto first fought to legalize same-sex marriage in Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Maine before arguing before the Supreme Court in Obergefell v. Hodges, which established marriage equality as the law of the land. Her efforts made millions of families whole and forged a more perfect Union.

Bill Bradley

Raised in small-town Missouri, Bill Bradley showed a dedication to basketball that would define his courage, discipline, and selflessness. A two-time NBA Champion and Hall-of-Fame New York Knick, he served three terms as a United States Senator from New Jersey and was a candidate for president, advancing tax reform, water rights, civil rights, and more, while still today seeking to deepen our common humanity with humility and heart.

Frank K. Butler, Jr.

As a pioneering innovator, Navy Seal, and leader in dive medicine, Dr. Frank Butler introduced Tactical Combat Casualty Care to the medical world that set new standards for tourniquet use not only for injuries in war, but injuries across daily civilian life. He has transformed battlefield trauma care for the United States military and saved countless lives.

Elizabeth L. Cheney

Throughout two decades in public service, including as a Congresswoman for Wyoming and Vice Chair of the Committee on the January 6 attack, Liz Cheney has raised her voice—and reached across the aisle—to defend our Nation and the ideals we stand for: Freedom. Dignity. And decency. Her integrity and intrepidness remind us all what is possible if we work together.

Christopher J. Dodd

Chris Dodd has served our Nation with distinction for more than 50 years as a United States Congressman, Senator, respected lawyer, and diplomat. From advancing childcare, to reforming our financial markets, to fostering partnerships across the Western Hemisphere—he has stood watch over America as a beacon to the world.

Diane Carlson Evans

After serving as an Army nurse during the Vietnam War, Diane Carlson Evans founded the Vietnam Women’s Memorial Foundation to ensure female service members received the recognition they deserve—one of our Nation’s most sacred obligations. Her duty and devotion embody the very best of who we are as Americans.

Joseph L. Galloway (posthumous)

From Vietnam to the Persian Gulf, Joe Galloway spent decades sharing first-hand accounts of horror, humanity, and heroism in battle. Known as the soldier’s reporter and the soldier’s friend, he embedded with American troops, rescued wounded soldiers under fire, and became the only civilian awarded a Bronze Star for combat valor by the United States Army as one of the most respected war correspondents of his era.

Nancy Landon Kassebaum

The first woman to represent Kansas, Nancy Kassebaum was a force in the United States Senate. From supporting a woman’s right to choose to reforming health care, she stood up for what she believed in even if it meant standing alone, and she reached across the aisle to do what she believed was right.

Ted Kaufman

For decades, including as a United States Senator from Delaware, Ted Kaufman has served the Nation with honesty and integrity. A master of the Senate who championed everyday Americans and public servants, he’s been at the forefront of consequential debates about the courts, the financial system, and more.

Carolyn McCarthy

As a nurse, Carolyn McCarthy had an instinct to heal and serve. When her husband and son were shot on a local commuter train, she became an advocate so persuasive that she was recruited to run for Congress. She served 18 years, championing gun safety measures including improved background checks, as a citizen legislator devoted to protecting our Nation’s welfare.

Louis Lorenzo Redding (posthumous)

A groundbreaking civil rights advocate, Louis was the first Black attorney admitted to the bar in Delaware, where he argued against segregation in the seminal cases of Bulah v. Gebhart and Belton v. Gebhart—laying the legal framework for Brown v. Board of Education. A towering figure and a generous mentor, he opened doors of equity and opportunity for all Americans.

Bobby Sager

A Boston native, Bobby Sager travels the world as a photographer and philanthropist grounded in family and empathy, wielding his camera and influence to connect with people in war-torn countries, capture their hope and humanity, and inspire others to take action and see a fuller portrait of the planet we all share.

Collins J. Seitz (posthumous)

As a state judge in Delaware, Judge Seitz became the first judge in America to integrate a white public school, dismantling the doctrine of “separate but equal” with exacting detail and reverence for the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment of our Constitution. His brave ruling tore down walls of separation to help us see each other as fellow Americans.

Eleanor Smeal

From leading massive protests and galvanizing women’s votes in the 1970s to steering progress for equal pay and helping the Violence Against Women Act become law, Ellie Smeal forced the Nation to not only include women in political discourse but to value them as power brokers and equals. Her strategic vision over more than 40 years embodies the American pursuit to create a fairer, more just world.

Bennie G. Thompson

Born and raised in a segregated Mississippi, as a college student inspired by the Civil Rights movement, Bennie Thompson volunteered on campaigns and registered southern Black voters. That call to serve eventually led him to Congress, where he chaired the House January 6th Committee—at the forefront of defending the rule of law with unwavering integrity and a steadfast commitment to truth.

Mitsuye Endo Tsutsumi (posthumous)

In a shameful chapter in our Nation’s history, Mitsuye Endo was incarcerated alongside more than 120,000 Japanese Americans. Undaunted, she challenged the injustice and reached the Supreme Court. Her resolve allowed thousands of Japanese Americans to return home and rebuild their lives, reminding us that we are a Nation that stands for freedom for all.

Thomas J. Vallely

A United States Marine during the Vietnam War, Thomas Vallely has never given up on peace. Over the course of five decades, he has brought Vietnam and the United States together—establishing Fulbright University Vietnam, fostering greater economic and cultural exchange, and overcoming the perils of the past to seize the promise of the future. His service remains a symbol of American leadership in the world.

Frances M. Visco

As president of the National Breast Cancer Coalition, Fran Visco has fought tirelessly and fearlessly to increase Federal funding for breast cancer research, early detection education, and access to women’s healthcare. As a breast cancer survivor, she turned pain into purpose, changed the landscape of breast cancer advocacy, and has become a powerful symbol of hope for the Nation.

Paula S. Wallace

A lifelong educator and trailblazer of the arts, Paula Wallace dreamt of a school that would transform how we think about professional education. By establishing the esteemed Savannah College of Art and Design and serving as its president, she has guided thousands of students into creative industries.

Evan Wolfson

By leading the marriage equality movement, Evan Wolfson helped millions of people in all 50 states win the fundamental right to love, marry, and be themselves. For 32 years, starting with a visionary law school thesis, Evan Wolfson worked with singular focus and untiring optimism to change not just the law, but society—pioneering a political playbook for change and sharing its lessons, even now, with countless causes worldwide.

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The post President Biden Announces Recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal appeared first on The White House.

WASHINGTON – Today, President Biden named twenty recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal.

The Presidential Citizens Medal is awarded to citizens of the United States of America who have performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or their fellow citizens. President Biden believes these Americans are bonded by their common decency and commitment to serving others. The country is better because of their dedication and sacrifice.

The awards will be presented at the White House on January 2, 2025. The following individuals will be awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal:

Mary L. Bonauto

Attorney and activist Mary Bonauto first fought to legalize same-sex marriage in Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Maine before arguing before the Supreme Court in Obergefell v. Hodges, which established marriage equality as the law of the land. Her efforts made millions of families whole and forged a more perfect Union.

Bill Bradley

Raised in small-town Missouri, Bill Bradley showed a dedication to basketball that would define his courage, discipline, and selflessness. A two-time NBA Champion and Hall-of-Fame New York Knick, he served three terms as a United States Senator from New Jersey and was a candidate for president, advancing tax reform, water rights, civil rights, and more, while still today seeking to deepen our common humanity with humility and heart.

Frank K. Butler, Jr.

As a pioneering innovator, Navy Seal, and leader in dive medicine, Dr. Frank Butler introduced Tactical Combat Casualty Care to the medical world that set new standards for tourniquet use not only for injuries in war, but injuries across daily civilian life. He has transformed battlefield trauma care for the United States military and saved countless lives.

Elizabeth L. Cheney

Throughout two decades in public service, including as a Congresswoman for Wyoming and Vice Chair of the Committee on the January 6 attack, Liz Cheney has raised her voice—and reached across the aisle—to defend our Nation and the ideals we stand for: Freedom. Dignity. And decency. Her integrity and intrepidness remind us all what is possible if we work together.

Christopher J. Dodd

Chris Dodd has served our Nation with distinction for more than 50 years as a United States Congressman, Senator, respected lawyer, and diplomat. From advancing childcare, to reforming our financial markets, to fostering partnerships across the Western Hemisphere—he has stood watch over America as a beacon to the world.

Diane Carlson Evans

After serving as an Army nurse during the Vietnam War, Diane Carlson Evans founded the Vietnam Women’s Memorial Foundation to ensure female service members received the recognition they deserve—one of our Nation’s most sacred obligations. Her duty and devotion embody the very best of who we are as Americans.

Joseph L. Galloway (posthumous)

From Vietnam to the Persian Gulf, Joe Galloway spent decades sharing first-hand accounts of horror, humanity, and heroism in battle. Known as the soldier’s reporter and the soldier’s friend, he embedded with American troops, rescued wounded soldiers under fire, and became the only civilian awarded a Bronze Star for combat valor by the United States Army as one of the most respected war correspondents of his era.

Nancy Landon Kassebaum

The first woman to represent Kansas, Nancy Kassebaum was a force in the United States Senate. From supporting a woman’s right to choose to reforming health care, she stood up for what she believed in even if it meant standing alone, and she reached across the aisle to do what she believed was right.

Ted Kaufman

For decades, including as a United States Senator from Delaware, Ted Kaufman has served the Nation with honesty and integrity. A master of the Senate who championed everyday Americans and public servants, he’s been at the forefront of consequential debates about the courts, the financial system, and more.

Carolyn McCarthy

As a nurse, Carolyn McCarthy had an instinct to heal and serve. When her husband and son were shot on a local commuter train, she became an advocate so persuasive that she was recruited to run for Congress. She served 18 years, championing gun safety measures including improved background checks, as a citizen legislator devoted to protecting our Nation’s welfare.

Louis Lorenzo Redding (posthumous)

A groundbreaking civil rights advocate, Louis was the first Black attorney admitted to the bar in Delaware, where he argued against segregation in the seminal cases of Bulah v. Gebhart and Belton v. Gebhart—laying the legal framework for Brown v. Board of Education. A towering figure and a generous mentor, he opened doors of equity and opportunity for all Americans.

Bobby Sager

A Boston native, Bobby Sager travels the world as a photographer and philanthropist grounded in family and empathy, wielding his camera and influence to connect with people in war-torn countries, capture their hope and humanity, and inspire others to take action and see a fuller portrait of the planet we all share.

Collins J. Seitz (posthumous)

As a state judge in Delaware, Judge Seitz became the first judge in America to integrate a white public school, dismantling the doctrine of “separate but equal” with exacting detail and reverence for the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment of our Constitution. His brave ruling tore down walls of separation to help us see each other as fellow Americans.

Eleanor Smeal

From leading massive protests and galvanizing women’s votes in the 1970s to steering progress for equal pay and helping the Violence Against Women Act become law, Ellie Smeal forced the Nation to not only include women in political discourse but to value them as power brokers and equals. Her strategic vision over more than 40 years embodies the American pursuit to create a fairer, more just world.

Bennie G. Thompson

Born and raised in a segregated Mississippi, as a college student inspired by the Civil Rights movement, Bennie Thompson volunteered on campaigns and registered southern Black voters. That call to serve eventually led him to Congress, where he chaired the House January 6th Committee—at the forefront of defending the rule of law with unwavering integrity and a steadfast commitment to truth.

Mitsuye Endo Tsutsumi (posthumous)

In a shameful chapter in our Nation’s history, Mitsuye Endo was incarcerated alongside more than 120,000 Japanese Americans. Undaunted, she challenged the injustice and reached the Supreme Court. Her resolve allowed thousands of Japanese Americans to return home and rebuild their lives, reminding us that we are a Nation that stands for freedom for all.

Thomas J. Vallely

A United States Marine during the Vietnam War, Thomas Vallely has never given up on peace. Over the course of five decades, he has brought Vietnam and the United States together—establishing Fulbright University Vietnam, fostering greater economic and cultural exchange, and overcoming the perils of the past to seize the promise of the future. His service remains a symbol of American leadership in the world.

Frances M. Visco

As president of the National Breast Cancer Coalition, Fran Visco has fought tirelessly and fearlessly to increase Federal funding for breast cancer research, early detection education, and access to women’s healthcare. As a breast cancer survivor, she turned pain into purpose, changed the landscape of breast cancer advocacy, and has become a powerful symbol of hope for the Nation.

Paula S. Wallace

A lifelong educator and trailblazer of the arts, Paula Wallace dreamt of a school that would transform how we think about professional education. By establishing the esteemed Savannah College of Art and Design and serving as its president, she has guided thousands of students into creative industries.

Evan Wolfson

By leading the marriage equality movement, Evan Wolfson helped millions of people in all 50 states win the fundamental right to love, marry, and be themselves. For 32 years, starting with a visionary law school thesis, Evan Wolfson worked with singular focus and untiring optimism to change not just the law, but society—pioneering a political playbook for change and sharing its lessons, even now, with countless causes worldwide.

###

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Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Oregon and ordered Federal assistance to supplement state, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from July 10 to August 23, 2024.

Federal funding is available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the wildfires in the counties of Gilliam, Grant, Umatilla, Wasco, and Wheeler.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Ms. Yolanda J. Jackson of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

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The post President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Oregon Major Disaster Declaration appeared first on The White House.

Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Oregon and ordered Federal assistance to supplement state, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from July 10 to August 23, 2024.

Federal funding is available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the wildfires in the counties of Gilliam, Grant, Umatilla, Wasco, and Wheeler.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Ms. Yolanda J. Jackson of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT (202) 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

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