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MEMORANDUM FOR THE HEADS OF EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES

SUBJECT:       Establishment of the Countering Economic Coercion Task Force

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and to improve efforts to respond to coercive economic practices of countries of concern, including the People’s Republic of China (PRC), it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1.  Policy.  Consistent with section 5514 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117-263, 22 U.S.C. 3362) (the “Act”), I am directing the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs and the Director of the National Economic Council to oversee an interagency effort to address the increasing use of economic coercion by countries of concern, including the PRC; to assess potential vulnerabilities of countries, including within their private sectors, to such coercion; and to develop concrete recommendations for a comprehensive, effective, and, as appropriate, multilateral response, including to deter future coercive economic behavior.

Sec. 2.  Establishment.  There is established within the Executive Office of the President the Countering Economic Coercion Task Force (Task Force).

Sec. 3.  Membership.  (a)  The Task Force shall be chaired by the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, or his or her designee, and vice-chaired by the Director of the National Economic Council, or his or her designee.

(b)  In addition to the Chair and the Vice Chair, the Task Force shall consist of representatives from the following executive departments and agencies (agencies), the heads of which shall designate or appoint personnel at the level of Assistant Secretary or above to participate in the Task Force:

(i)      the Department of State;

(ii)     the Department of the Treasury;

(iii)    the Department of Defense; 

(iv)     the Department of Justice;

(v)      the Department of Agriculture;

(vi)     the Department of Commerce;

(vii)    the Department of Labor;

(viii)   the Department of Health and Human Services;

(ix)     the Department of Energy;

(x)      the Department of Homeland Security;

(xi)     the Office of the Director of National Intelligence;

(xii)    the Office of the United States Trade Representative;

(xiii)   the Central Intelligence Agency;

(xiv)    the United States Agency for International Development;

(xv)     the Export-Import Bank of the United States;

(xvi)    the Trade and Development Agency;

(xvii)   the United States International Development Finance Corporation; and

(xviii)  other agencies and offices as the President may, from time to time, designate.

Sec. 4.  Mission and Function.  The Task Force shall work across agencies and offices to oversee the development and implementation of an integrated United States Government strategy to respond to and deter coercive economic practices by countries of concern, including the PRC.  That strategy shall include the elements outlined in section 5514(c)(1)(A) of the Act (22 U.S.C. 3362(c)(1)(A)) and shall, consistent with section 5514(c)(2) of the Act (22 U.S.C. 3362(c)(2)), be informed by consultations with relevant stakeholders, including, as necessary and appropriate, stakeholders in the private sector, agencies that are not represented on the Task Force, and foreign allies and partners of the United States.  The Task Force shall also perform the other responsibilities set forth in section 5514(c)(1) of the Act (22 U.S.C. 3362(c)(1)).

Sec. 5.  Reporting on the Work and Recommendations of the Task Force.  (a)  Within 180 days of the date of this memorandum, the Task Force shall submit to the Congress the initial report described in section 5514(e)(1) of the Act (22 U.S.C. 3362(e)(1)).

(b)  Within 1 year of submitting the initial report described in subsection (a) of this section, the Task Force shall submit to the Congress the first interim report described in section 5514(e)(2)(A) of the Act (22 U.S.C. 3362(e)(2)(A)).

(c)  Within 1 year of submitting the first interim report described in subsection (b) of this section, the Task Force shall submit to the Congress the second interim report described in section 5514(e)(2)(B) of the Act (22 U.S.C. 3362(e)(2)(B)).

(d)  Within 30 days of submitting the second interim report described in subsection (c) of this section, the Task Force shall submit to the Congress the final report described in section 5514(e)(3) of the Act (22 U.S.C. 3362(e)(3)).

(e)  The Task Force shall also consolidate any input received and submit periodic recommendations to the President on policies and regulatory actions to address systemic harms from PRC economic coercion.

Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this memorandum shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b)  This memorandum shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c)  This memorandum is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

(d)  The Attorney General is authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.

                               JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post Memorandum on the Establishment of the Countering Economic Coercion Task Force appeared first on The White House.

Today, the White House is releasing the first-ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate. The Strategy was developed through a whole-of-government collaboration with a broad range of civil society partners to describe and address the bias, discrimination, and threats Muslim and Arab Americans have long faced. Over the past year, this initiative has become even more important as threats against American Muslim and Arab communities have spiked. In October 2023, six-year old Wadee Alfayoumi, an American Muslim boy of Palestinian descent, was viciously killed in his home in Illinois and over the last year there have been other grievous attacks on Muslim and Arab Americans.

The Strategy contains more than 100 Executive Branch Actions and more than 100 Calls to Action to every sector of society to prevent and address such violent attacks and to ensure that Muslim and Arab Americans enjoy the liberties and opportunities that are the bedrock of our country. With this initiative, we are creating a path for progress, in partnership with all levels of government, civil society, and the private sector, both now and over the long term.

In December 2022, when President Biden established an interagency group to increase and better coordinate efforts to counter Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and related forms of bias and discrimination, work began on this Strategy. In 2023, the Biden-Harris Administration released the first-ever National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism and announced the development of the first-ever National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate. This latest strategy has four priorities:

Increase awareness of hatred against Muslims and Arabs and broaden recognition of these communities’ heritages. Muslims and Arab Americans have helped build our country since its founding, but they have also routinely experienced hate, discrimination, and bias due to baseless stereotypes, fearmongering, and prejudice. While individuals have sometimes been targeted because they are thought to be Muslim, it is also crucial to recognize that Arabs are routinely targeted simply for being who they are. Through new data collection and innovative educational efforts, the Administration is increasing awareness of these forms of hate as well of the proud heritages of Muslim and Arab Americans.      

Improve safety and security for Muslims and Arabs. Everyone deserves to live their lives without fear of violence, harassment, or discrimination. The Strategy addresses the targeting of Muslim and Arab communities, including through unprecedented investments in strengthening the security of nonprofits and increased efforts to ensure easier access to those funds; correction of discriminatory travel restrictions; and new tools to address transnational repression, doxing, swatting, and hoax threats. It also seeks to reduce trust deficits between government and community members such as by sharing successful practices of engaging Muslim and Arab Americans in the reporting of hate crimes. The Strategy recognizes our utmost duty to protect the nation from terrorist threats and attacks while safeguarding everyone’s civil rights and civil liberties.

Tackle discrimination against Muslims and Arabs and appropriately accommodate their religious practices. Muslim and Arab Americans have long faced discrimination in settings such as education, employment, public accommodations, land use, housing, health care, and access to financial services. More agencies are making it clear that discrimination against Muslim and Arab Americans in federally funded activities is illegal, and the Administration has instituted new practices to accommodate religion and produced a wide range of resources and trainings on nondiscrimination and religious freedom.

Continue to build cross-community solidarity and collective action to counter hate. Threats to one community must be treated as threats to all. Increasing cross-community collaboration  continues to be a key part of Administration efforts to protect the safety of all Americans, including through new partnerships that build solidarity among communities of diverse faiths and beliefs.

We urge our state, local, and international counterparts, as well as the nongovernmental sector, to pursue similar initiatives that seek to build greater unity by recognizing our common humanity, affirming our shared values and history, and embracing equal justice, liberty, and security for all.

###

The post Biden-Harris Administration Releases First-Ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate appeared first on The White House.

Today, the White House is releasing the first-ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate. The Strategy was developed through a whole-of-government collaboration with a broad range of civil society partners to describe and address the bias, discrimination, and threats Muslim and Arab Americans have long faced. Over the past year, this initiative has become even more important as threats against American Muslim and Arab communities have spiked. In October 2023, six-year old Wadee Alfayoumi, an American Muslim boy of Palestinian descent, was viciously killed in his home in Illinois and over the last year there have been other grievous attacks on Muslim and Arab Americans.

The Strategy contains more than 100 Executive Branch Actions and more than 100 Calls to Action to every sector of society to prevent and address such violent attacks and to ensure that Muslim and Arab Americans enjoy the liberties and opportunities that are the bedrock of our country. With this initiative, we are creating a path for progress, in partnership with all levels of government, civil society, and the private sector, both now and over the long term.

In December 2022, when President Biden established an interagency group to increase and better coordinate efforts to counter Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and related forms of bias and discrimination, work began on this Strategy. In 2023, the Biden-Harris Administration released the first-ever National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism and announced the development of the first-ever National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate. This latest strategy has four priorities:

Increase awareness of hatred against Muslims and Arabs and broaden recognition of these communities’ heritages. Muslims and Arab Americans have helped build our country since its founding, but they have also routinely experienced hate, discrimination, and bias due to baseless stereotypes, fearmongering, and prejudice. While individuals have sometimes been targeted because they are thought to be Muslim, it is also crucial to recognize that Arabs are routinely targeted simply for being who they are. Through new data collection and innovative educational efforts, the Administration is increasing awareness of these forms of hate as well of the proud heritages of Muslim and Arab Americans.      

Improve safety and security for Muslims and Arabs. Everyone deserves to live their lives without fear of violence, harassment, or discrimination. The Strategy addresses the targeting of Muslim and Arab communities, including through unprecedented investments in strengthening the security of nonprofits and increased efforts to ensure easier access to those funds; correction of discriminatory travel restrictions; and new tools to address transnational repression, doxing, swatting, and hoax threats. It also seeks to reduce trust deficits between government and community members such as by sharing successful practices of engaging Muslim and Arab Americans in the reporting of hate crimes. The Strategy recognizes our utmost duty to protect the nation from terrorist threats and attacks while safeguarding everyone’s civil rights and civil liberties.

Tackle discrimination against Muslims and Arabs and appropriately accommodate their religious practices. Muslim and Arab Americans have long faced discrimination in settings such as education, employment, public accommodations, land use, housing, health care, and access to financial services. More agencies are making it clear that discrimination against Muslim and Arab Americans in federally funded activities is illegal, and the Administration has instituted new practices to accommodate religion and produced a wide range of resources and trainings on nondiscrimination and religious freedom.

Continue to build cross-community solidarity and collective action to counter hate. Threats to one community must be treated as threats to all. Increasing cross-community collaboration  continues to be a key part of Administration efforts to protect the safety of all Americans, including through new partnerships that build solidarity among communities of diverse faiths and beliefs.

We urge our state, local, and international counterparts, as well as the nongovernmental sector, to pursue similar initiatives that seek to build greater unity by recognizing our common humanity, affirming our shared values and history, and embracing equal justice, liberty, and security for all.

###

The post Biden-Harris Administration Releases First-Ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate appeared first on The White House.

1:44 P.M. EST

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Hello.  Hi, everybody. 

Q    Hi.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Happy Thursday.  (Ms. Jean-Pierre adjusts the lectern.)  Just mess- — be messing with this lectern.

Okay.  So, today, President Biden announced that he is granting clemency to approximately 1,500 Americans — the largest act in a single day — who have demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation as well as a strong commitment to making their communities safer. 

The president is commuting the sentences of 1,500 individuals who were placed on home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic and who have successfully reintegrated into their families and communities.

He is also pardoning 39 individuals who were convicted of nonviolent crimes. 

The Americans receiving relief today include a decorated military veteran, a nurse who has led response for a number of natural disasters, and an addiction counselor who volunteers his time to help young people.  That’s just to name a few.

Today’s actions build on the president’s record of criminal justice reform to help reunite families, strengthen communities, and reintegrate individuals back into society.

The president has issued more sentence commutations at this point in his presidency than any of his recent predecessors at the same point in their first terms.  He is also the first president ever to issue categorical — categorical pardons to individuals convicted of simple use and possession of marijuana and to former LGBTQI+ service members convicted because of their sexual orientation.

As the president has said before, America was founded on the premise of second chances.  For far too long, our criminal justice system has closed doors of opportunity for too many people who should have the chance to once again participate in daily life and contribute to their communities. 

And as the president said in his statement, he will take more steps in the weeks ahead.  He and his team will continue reviewing clemency petitions to advance equal justice under the law, promote public safety, support rehab and reentry, and provide meaningful second chances.

And with that, I have my colleague here from the National Security Council, Admiral Kirby, to talk about foreign policy news of day.

MR. KIRBY:  Thank you so much, Karine.

Afternoon, everybody. 

Q    Hello, sir.

Q    Hello.

MR. KIRBY:  Sorry?

Q    We’re just saying hi.

Q    Hello, sir.

Q    We’re just saying hi.

MR. KIRBY:  All right.  (Laughs.)  Look, as you all know, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is in Israel today.  He just wrapped up a full day of meetings, including one with Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Jake’s meeting with the prime minister focused on the progress we’ve made in the region.  That means ensuring the Lebanon ceasefire continues to hold, that we continue to engage with all Syrian groups to establish a transition toward an independent and sovereign Syria, and, most importantly, that we continue to make progress toward closing a hostage release and ceasefire deal in Gaza so that the hostages — including Americans — can be reunited with their families, so that civilians in Gaza can receive the humanitarian assistance that they desperately still need, and so that this war can come to an end.

Jake will now travel to Doha and to Cairo to continue these efforts.

His travel, of course, coincides with that of Secretary Blinken, who is traveling to Jordan and Turkey, making clear our commitment to a Syrian-led transition process so that the Syrian people and their aspirations can be realized.

The president is being regularly briefed on all these meetings and remains in close touch with his national security team as the situation in Syria continues to develop — and it does continue to develop.

Tomorrow, he’s going to speak virtually with his fellow G7 leaders.  They will discuss a range of issues: our shared support to Ukraine, which comes, of course, after the United States disbursed $20 billion to a new World Bank fund that will provide economic support for Ukraine as part of the $50 billion G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration loan effort. 

And that, of course — I think, as you all know — leverages income earned from frozen Russian sovereign assets and increasingly puts the cost of war on Russia with no burden to the taxpayer here in the United States.  We’re going to continue to explore ways to make maximum use of those assets, by the way.

And I’d note that also today the president approved a new security assistance package for Ukraine that will provide them with additional air defense, artillery, drones, and armored vehicles.  It’s the 72nd such drawdown package announced by the United States.  And as the president made clear, we’re going to continue to provide additional packages right up until the end of this administration.

I think G7 leaders can also be expected to discuss ongoing developments in the Middle East, of course — how we’re helping Israel defend itself against active threats and how we’re all working towards that Syrian-led process we talked about.

Now, I’d also be remiss if I didn’t just take a moment to highlight an important milestone in our efforts to keep faith with Afghan allies.

As of today, the State Department has issued 76,000 Special Immigrant Visas for Afghan partners and their families, surpassing the number of SIVs issued by all previous administrations combined since the program began back in 2009.  They did this by surging staff, by leveraging new technology, by consolidating some cumbersome processing steps, and working hard to verify, in better ways, applicants’ employment status.

And, of course, we’ve requested from Congress more visa numbers so that we can continue to do that.

Now, finally, I just want to add a few comments on the reports of drone activity here on the East Coast, particularly in and around New Jersey.

We have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or a public safety threat or have a foreign nexus.

The Department of Homeland Security and the FBI are investigating these sightings, and they’re working closely with state and local law enforcement to provide resources, using numerous detection methods to better understand their origin.

Using very sophisticated electronic detection technologies provided by federal authorities, we have not been able to — and neither have state or local law enforcement authorities — corroborate any of the reported visual sightings.

To the contrary, upon review of available imagery, it appears that many of the reported sightings are actually manned aircraft that are being operated lawfully.

The United States Coast Guard is providing support to the State of New Jersey and has confirmed that there is no evidence of any foreign-based involvement from coastal vessels.

And, importantly, there are no reported or confirmed drone sightings in any restricted airspace.

Now, that said, we certainly take seriously the threat that can be posed by unmanned aircraft systems, which is why law enforcement and other agencies continue to support New Jersey and investigate the reports, even though they have uncovered no malicious activity or intent at this particular stage. 

While there is no known malicious activity occurring, the reported sightings there do, however, highlight a gap in authorities.  And so, we urge Congress to pass important legislation that will extend and expand existing counter-drone authorities so that we are better prepared to identify and mitigate any potential threats to airports or other critical infrastructure and so that state and local authorities are provided all the tools that they need to respond to such threats as well. 

Now, tomorrow, there’s a little thing called the Army-Navy game.  We wish both sides a good game.  (Laughter.)  We thank them for their service now, of course, at these service academies and for their service in the future.  We don’t officially take sides here at the National Security Council, but “Go Navy, Beat Army.”  (Laughter.)

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Thank you, Admiral.  Good luck. 

What is the White House reaction to President Xi being invited to President-elect Trump’s inauguration next month?

MR. KIRBY:  Well, that’s going to be up to President-elect Trump to decide who’s going to sit with him there at the inauguration and who’s going to be there. 

We’ve worked really hard on this most consequential of bilateral relationships.  The president met with Xi Jinping a number of times, including recently and, as you know, at the — at APEC. 

And we — we believe that as we get ready to turn over things to the Trump team that we’re turning ov- — turning over a U.S.-China relationship that is in better shape than the one we found it in.  That doesn’t mean that we don’t have disagreements.  We do and we will, and I’m sure they will too.  But we’re working hard on this relationship, and we’ll do that right to the end. 

Q    Did President Biden invite any foreign leaders to his inauguration in 2021?

MR. KIRBY:  Oh, geez, I don’t — I don’t know.  I’d have to take that question.  I don’t know.

Q    I think one — one other question about Travis Timmerman.  Was the U.S. aware that he was missing and being detained in Syria before this week?

MR. KIRBY:  I am not aware of any indication that we had that this gentleman was in Syria.  I would — I want to remind that we are just getting word of this, and we’re trying to confirm his identity at this point, so the State Department is working hard on that right now.  I — I am not aware that we had any prior indication that — that he was — was in Syria. 

It’s also a good reminder for everybody, if you’re traveling overseas, to enroll in the State Department’s STEP program so that, you know, they have an idea of who you are and where you are.  It’s voluntary, of course, but we recommend that to everybody.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Thank you.  So, regarding Travis Timmerman, have there been any other — I don’t know, have there been any other Americans — or people who have been saying that they’re American uncovered in detention following what — the events in Syria?  And then, regarding Americans, do you have any updates on Austin Tice?

MR. KIRBY:  On your first question: Not that I’m aware of.

On your second question: We don’t have any additional context or information about Austin since the events of the weekend in Syria, but we are working very, very hard.  And as we’ve said in the past, we — we hope that developments in Syria could lead to some opportunities and some — and some more information, but right now we don’t have anything. 

Q    Are you concerned that there isn’t more information around Tice — there isn’t more of an update, considering the fact that we’re seeing these prisons — sort of, people released?  We’re sort of — would you have expected to have more news about Austin Tice at this point?

MR. KIRBY:  We’re concerned about Mr. Tice.  We’re concerned about finding out more about him — where he is, his condition.  We certainly, as the president said on Sunday, want to do everything we can to get him back with his family where he belongs.

Would we like to have had more information in the last 40, 48, 72 hours?  You betcha. 

And we’re working hard.  We’re in touch with interlocutors and counterparts in and outside Syria to try to get as much information as we can, but I just don’t — I don’t have anything additional to report to you today. 

Q    And just following up on the news that President-elect Trump’s press secretary confirmed that she was invited — you yourself have talked about wanting a competitive relationship that doesn’t have conflict — like you said, “a better relationship now than four years ago with China.”  So, what’s your take?  Was it a wise move?

MR. KIRBY:  I’m not going to — it’s — it’s not my place from the podium here to — to pass judgment on the invitations to the inauguration.  That’s really for the Trump transition team to — to speak to. 

Look, I would just again say this.  It is, without doubt, the single most consequential bilateral relation that the United States has in the world, and it is a relationship that is both fraught with peril and with opportunity. 

And when we get ready to turn over to the Trump team, we will — we will make sure they are fully informed about everything President Biden has done — and he has done a lot — to get this relationship on a more stable footing. 

And it’ll be up to them to determine how and to what degree they want to carry that forward.  And if — if that means having a conversation with President Xi around the inauguration that President Trump wants to do, well, again, that’s his prerogative. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead. 

Q    President-elect Trump —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Oh, sorry.

Q    Karine?

Q    Thanks.  Sorry.  President-elect Trump this morning also kind of dismissed a question about protecting Taiwan.  Could you talk at all about conversations that the current Biden administration might be having with Taiwan in this moment, if there’s more security concern with those friends and partners than with an incoming Trump administration?

MR. KIRBY:  I think Taiwanese leaders know very well where President Biden stands on our continued support to Taiwan’s self-defense.  I think that they also clearly understand that we don’t want to see any cross-strait tensions resolved through violence or force and that — that we’re committed to our obligations under the Taiwan Relations Act. 

So, I’m not aware of any additional specific conversations that have happened in recent days, but I think it’s pretty apparent to everybody, including the PRC and President Xi, where we stand on the issue of Taiwan’s self-defense. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead, Danny.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  Thanks, Admiral.  What’s your response to President-elect Trump saying in his TIME Magazine interview that it was a “foolish decision” by the Biden administration to let Ukraine fire long-range missiles into Ukraine? 

MR. KIRBY:  Hey, look, I’m not going to get into a back-and-forth with the president-elect and what he’s saying in the media space. 

All I can do is — is reiterate what President Biden’s policy and guidance has been, and that is to do everything we can, including today with this package that we’re announcing, to make sure Ukraine can continue to defend itself so that if and when this comes to some sort of negotiation, that President Zelenskyy is in the best possible position that has the most leverage possible, that he has the most success on the battlefield that he can — that he can take into that negotiation. 

That has included additional policy guidance that President Biden issued not long ago to allow for some long-range missile systems to be used to help Ukraine defend itself across that border, and that policy still stands. 

Q    Very briefly, will you be extending any congratulations to President-elect Trump on his second Time of the — Time Person of the Year award?  (Laughter.)

MR. KIRBY:  I actually didn’t know that — that that had happened.  I — I don’t have any — I don’t have anything more to say on that. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead, Nadia.

Q    Thank you, Karine.  I want to go back to Austin Tice.  Can you give us some information about the U.S. presence on the ground?  Who is there to secure his release?  Because it seems to me like it’s battle between journalists who are trying to reach to any American prisoners there and this — what happened this morning. 

MR. KIRBY:  Now let’s not get ahead of where we are right now.  Two things.  One, U.S. military presence in Syria is predominantly in the east and it’s designed solely to help us with the counter-ISIS missions.  And we’re working with the Syrian Democratic Forces to that end.  That’s why they’re there, and that’s the only reason that they’re there. 

We don’t have enough information right now about Mr. Tice and his whereabouts and his condition to develop any kind of policy options in terms of getting him home.  So, we — let’s just not get ahead of where we are right now. 

Right now, we’re really trying — and we hope that developments in Syria will give us the opportunity to glean more information.

Q    So, you — sorry, I just to follow on this.  So, you’re saying that there’s no FBI agents, there is nobody from the hostage departments that the U.S. was dealing who on the ground now in Syria?  Because I’m aware of the Hostage Aid — that’s an organization that trying to find all hostages all over, American hostages.  They are on the ground.  And there are journalists, including my station, who’s — who actually the first station to reach Mr. Timmerman this morning. 

MR. KIRBY:  The work that we’re doing, the presence that we have in Syria is — is largely around counterterrorism missions. 

Again, I don’t have policy options to speak to right now about finding and retrieving Mr. Tice.  We just don’t have enough information at this point.

Q    Okay.  One more on Gaza, please.  You have called on the Israelis many times from this podium to make sure they avoid civilian casualties and aid workers who have been working in Gaza.  In the last week, every single day there’s at least 50 civilians are being killed, including entire families and 34 aid workers.  So, has your message gone on deaf ears, or are you following up with what’s happening there?  How civilians are being killed every single day, and we don’t hear much about them?

MR. KIRBY:  We talk to the Israelis almost every day about — about their operations and about how we want to see them be more careful and minimize civilian casualties. 

And, my goodness, Jake Sullivan, our national security advisor, is in Israel today, and this very much was a part of the discussions he had with — not — with the Israeli national security team as well as the prime minister.  He brought it up today.  Secretary Blinken is in the region.  I have no doubt that he’ll be bringing it up as well.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead, Patsy.

Q    Thanks you, Karine.  John, two questions.  One on Afghanistan — if you have any thoughts on the death of the Taliban minister Khalil Rahman Haqqani in a suicide bombing claimed by a regional Islamic State affiliate.

MR. KIRBY:  I think that — look, we’re just getting information about this.  I think it’s a little too soon for me to — to make a comment.  The only thing I would say is that we recognize — and we said so at the time — that there was still an ISIS threat inside Afghanistan.  And clearly, they have set their sights on the Taliban.  But I don’t really have anything more say on that. 

Q    Is there anything in terms of U.S. over-horizon capability?  Can you comment on that, in terms of, you know, how — how this kind of suicide bomb- — bombing —

MR. KIRBY:  We maintain and have improved, since our withdrawal from Afghanistan, the ability to conduct over-the-horizon counterterrorism operations anywhere in the world — anywhere in the world — and we’ve proven our ability to do that, including in places like Afghanistan since we left. 

Q    And one quick one on Venezuela, if you don’t mind, John.  So, Argentina is accusing Venezuela of continually harassing members of the opposition that’s sheltering in their diplomatic compound in Caracas.  Do you have any comments on that?

MR. KIRBY:  Let me get back to you on that one.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Yeah.  John, thanks so much.  On Syria again.  What is the United States doing to ensure that there are no clashes between that Turkey-backed SNA and the U.S.-allied Kurdish militia there?

MR. KIRBY:  Yeah.

Q    And then I’ve got one more.

MR. KIRBY:  One of the things we want to make sure is that the Syrian Democratic Forces stay partnered with us on counter-ISIS missions.  And we have seen in the past where — where certain parts of the SDF, if they pursue — perceived other — other threats and challenges, they’ve — in the past, they’ve kind of moved off that mission, and we don’t want to see that happen. 

So, we’re in very close touch with our SDF partners to — to try to maintain that focus on counter-ISIS missions, and we are just as importantly in touch with our Turkish counterparts, including Secretary Blinken, to — to make sure that we understand what they’re trying to do and that we both take steps that — that help preserve the effectiveness of the counter-ISIS mission and that it’s not diminished in any way. 

Q    Okay.  I mean, the relationship with the Turks hasn’t been the best.  So, how do you hope to ensure that this, you know, message gets through and is respected?

MR. KIRBY:  By being there and talking to them, which is what we’re doing today. 

Q    Okay.  And then just one more on — on Syria — or, rather, on Austin Tice.  There have been reports — scattered reports that he could be in Iran.  Can you say anything to that?

MR. KIRBY:  I can’t.  As I said — and it’s an honest answer — we just don’t have enough context right now to make a judgment about his whereabouts or his condition, and that’s why we’re working so hard.  And we are, as we speak — you and me today — we are asking those questions.  And we hope that what happened in Syria over the weekend may give us an opportunity to learn more. 

Q    Are you directly in touch with the Iranians about this at all?

MR. KIRBY:  We have been in touch — I’ll just say this.  As you would expect — or at least I hope you would expect us to be — we have been in touch with interlocutors and groups and leaders all over the region.  And we have various ways of being in touch, some is indirect — some is indirect. 

But I — I think it’s safe for you to assume that, given the events over the weekend, we’re — we’re — it’s a full-court press to see what we can do to find out more about Austin Tice, and that includes having a whole heck of a lot of conversations with a lot of different folks. 

Q    Okay.  And then just one more, quickly, on Gaza.  So, Jake said he thinks the ceasefire deal may be near.  We’ve obviously heard that before.

MR. KIRBY:  And Jake said we’ve heard that before — (laughter) — and we — and we haven’t al- — always been able to get it across the finish line.  We’re being pragmatic about this. 

Q    I know.  But, I mean, what — what — you know, how are the circumstances different now?  What dynamics could be different that would actually make a deal happen?

MR. KIRBY:  That’s a great question.  I think if — if you’re Hamas right now, which is still fairly a — a rudderless organization, and you look at the world today, you know, the options aren’t good.  Your — your military capabilities have been all but decimated.  Your main leader is gone.  The leader of your — your buddy, Hezbollah, he’s gone — Nasrallah is gone.  He- — Hezbollah is now in a ceasefire arrangement, which is still holding, with Israel.  And Iran is not coming to the rescue.  There is no cavalry for the Hamas right now — for Hamas right now. 

So, this is the time, and I think that’s what Jake was alluding to.  The — there has been an awful lot of pressure put on anybody who is supporting Hamas.  And now, given where they are and how weakened they are, this is the moment to make this deal. 

And that’s why, I think, Jake believes that we’re — that we’re getting close.  I mean, this is a great opportunity right now to do it.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Thank you, Karine.  Just to follow on Gaza.  In those comments in Jerusalem earlier today, Jake Sullivan said that the posture of both Prime Minister Netanyahu to do a deal and the posture of Hamas at the negotiating table in the wake of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon had changed favorably toward a deal.  I’m just wondering if you could elaborate a little bit more on that dynamic and what he’s referencing there.

MR. KIRBY:  Well, it’s kind of my — my answer to Andrea.  I mean, i- — the — the situation for Hamas has radically changed, particularly because of what’s happened. 

And I would add — one thing I didn’t add was events in Syria, because now Assad is gone.  And who was Assad’s main backer?  Iran. 

Iran was not only unwilling but unable to come to Assad’s rescue.  It’s just more proof — or should be more proof — to Hamas leaders that there is, as I said, no cavalry coming to the rescue. 

So, th- — they’re — they’re at a moment of weakness and desperation.  This is the time to make this deal and move forward on it.

Now, whether they’ll do it or not, as Jake said, you know, we can’t be certain, but we believe there’s an opportunity here — a moment — and that’s why Jake’s in the region.

Q    On Syria, the U.S. has stated that one of its primary goals is to make sure that ISIS does not reconstitute there.  In the days since the Assad regime has fallen, have you seen any information or any intelligence about cells or larger groups that are trying to exploit this opening?

MR. KIRBY:  Yeah, I’m not going to get into too much on the intel side. 

I’ll just tell you that we’re watching this real closely, and that is a risk.  That is a worry — that ISIS — I mean, this is a group that — that loves ungoverned space.  And you can expect — we have to expect that they’re going to look at what’s happening here with the fall of Assad and now Russia — or Iran not coming to the rescue; Russia now also not coming to rescue.  Russia is worried about their own presence in Syria and how that’s going to look.  You can expect — you would expect that a group like ISIS would try to exploit that. 

So, we’re watching it closely. 

I don’t have any, again, additional intelligence indicators to speak to — to today, but it is something we’re laser-focused on. 

Q    And then just broadly, on foreign policy.  There’s only one president at a time, but we’ve seen the president-elect wade into his preference for what the U.S. does or doesn’t do in Syria, the U.S. approach to Ukraine, to the Middle East.  And now the transition is also, as you guys have said, working hand in glove as you push for a ceasefire in the region there.  He’s also inviting world leaders to inauguration. 

Is this having an impact on your foreign policy?

MR. KIRBY:  No.  No. 

But I want to go back to your first question, though.  The oth- — the other thing I want to stress on this ISIS thing is that that is why — and the president said this Sunday — the — the concerns about ISIS is exactly why that mission in Syria, the mil- — the U.S. military mission and the partnership with the SDF is so important and why we want to see it continue.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Lalit.

Q    Thank you.  Two questions.  One on Bangladesh, then on India.

On Bangladesh.  Over the past few weeks, several Hindu American groups across the country have been holding protest march — one outside the White House over the weekend.  They’re protesting against the continued killings of Hindus and the temples in Bangladesh after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government.  Is the president aware about it?  Did he raise this issue when he met his friend and the interim government chief Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the U.N.?

MR. KIRBY:  We’re watching this very, very, very closely, and the president is following events closely as well.

The security situation in Bangladesh has been difficult following the ouster of the former prime minister, and we’ve been working closely with the interim government to enhance the capability of their law enforcement and security services to deal with the challenge. 

We’ve been very clear in our engagement with all Bangladeshi leaders that protection of religious and ethnic minorities is absolutely critical, and the leaders of the interim government have repeatedly committed to providing security to all Bangladeshis, regardless of religion or ethnicity. 

We hol- — we want to hold them to that.

Q    And on India.  As the president concludes his four-year term, what do you think of the key achievements of India-U.S.’s (inaudible)?

MR. KIRBY:  The president is very proud of the way in which our bilateral relationship with India has transformed during his administration.  I mean, we’ve elevated the Quad now — the Indo-Pacific Quad.  I don’t know how many meetings he’s had now inside the Quad and bilaterally with the — the prime minister. 

There’s an awful lot in our relationship that has improved: military-to-military communication and — and defense security partnerships there in India and in the Indo-Pacific writ large, people-to-people ties, economic ties.  I mean, there’s been an awful lot.

Q    Quick follow-up on — on India.  You mentioned about Quad.  What are the president’s expectations on the coming administration on Quad and other American —

MR. KIRBY:  That’s going to be up to the incoming administration. 

Q    — U2I2 —

MR. KIRBY:  That’s — it’s going to be up to them to determine how they leverage the Indo-Pacific Quad.  We can only speak to the ways President Biden has.

Q    Do you expect there to be the bilateral — sorry, bipartisan support to India’s relationship? 

MR. KIRBY:  Do I expect —

Q    India’s relationship has — has been a bipartisan support — right? — for the — both the sides have supported it.

MR. KIRBY:  I don’t see anything in the future which would indicate a change in that.  There has been strong bipartisan support for growing this bilateral relationship, and I’m — I’m — I would expect that that will continue.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Hey, John. 

MR. KIRBY:  Oh, sorry.

Q    Yeah.  President-elect Trump last night named a new director for the Voice of America: Kari Lake.  Do you think that the president has the authority to name a new director of that news group?

MR. KIRBY:  I understand that there’s — I — I actually don’t — you know what, I — I’m going to — look, I’m — I think I should take the question, because I don’t understand enough about the process there to really weigh in on that.  So, why don’t we take that question?

Q    Could you just react generally to the fact that, you know, this is a nonpartisan agency, and Kari Lake is someone who just ran a Senate campaign?  Just any reaction to the fact that she —

MR. KIRBY:  I — I’m just not going to get into casting judgments on the names that the president-elect is putting forward for various jobs.  That is for him and his team to speak to.

The — but what I can tell you: President Biden and this entire administration — and that includes me, personally — have great respect for Voice of America and the work that they do here and around the world.  We value and we respect that they have an editorial independence, which I think is absolutely vital for them to be able to do their job credibly. 

If you’re going to have the name “Voice of America” on your bumper sticker, then, you know, you can expect that certain people around the world may look askance at that.  But the fact that they are editorially independent and do good, solid reporting on their own, I think, says — speaks volumes about how valuable they are to making sure that the proper news and context and information gets to audiences around the world. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

MR. KIRBY:  I’m very proud of them. 

Q    Hi.  Thanks, Karine.  Thanks, John.  At the top of your remarks, you talked about the administration’s commitment to an independent and sovereign Syria.  And, of course, Israel has sent its forces into the buffer zone adjacent to the Golan Heights and apparently beyond it.  The presence of foreign troops would seem inconsistent with an independent and sovereign Syria.  So, will the administration pressure its ally to withdraw those troops?

MR. KIRBY:  We are in discussions with the Israelis, as you might expect us to be, about their operations there inside that buffer zone and staying in close touch, as Jake did today, with better understanding what their goals and objectives are.

I would tell you — or I would point you to what they have said, which is this is a temporary measure to deal with exigent circumstances and what — what we — and we recognize what they recognize, that there are some legitimate threats that they’re trying to —

Q    Have they given any indication what they mean by “temporary,” given that they’ve been, you know, in occupation of the Golan Heights —

MR. KIRBY:  I think I’d point you to —

Q    — since 1967?

MR. KIRBY:  — the Israelis to speak to their military operations.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead, Jacqui.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  John, on the drones, does the U.S. government have any of its own imagery or video of these systems? 

MR. KIRBY:  I’m not aware that we have U.S.-government-produced imagery ourselves.  But as I said in my opening statement, we have certainly done federal analysis of the existing imagery.

Q    Like from people’s cell phones that we’re seeing? Basically, with what you’re looking at, how can you credibly tell people that there is no public safety threat, there’s no national security threat, that there’s no reason to believe that a foreign government is involved?

MR. KIRBY:  Because the analysis thus far, in an investigation that is ongoing, has not revealed any national security or malicious intent or criminal activity. 

But, Jacqui, I would remind you, we’re at the beginning here, not the end.  There’s a lot more work to be done, and we’re working closely with the state and local authorities to gain more information.

Q    It’s taking them a while.

MR. KIRBY:  I — I would argue that it’s — we’re — we’re moving pretty well here with a sense of energy to try to figure out what we can do to learn more about this.  We’re at — we’re still in the middle of an ongoing investigation, and I’m up here explaining to you and to let you know what we know so far, what we believe so far. 

If information comes to light that changes that characterization, then, my goodness, you know, we’ll be the first ones to let you know.  But right now, there’s just no indication that this is some sort of foreign malign activity or, in fact, even criminal. 

Q    Well, what I don’t understand is — you know, this has been happening since late November.  I don’t know that the law enforcement officials or residents in New York and New Jersey, or even the Democratic senators who wrote to Director Wray, Mayorkas, and the FAA administrator today would think that this has been handled with a sense of urgency. 

But, you know, that being said, has —

MR. KIRBY:  I —

Q    — has the president or the secretary of Defense issued any guidance to NORTHCOM or military installations to act on these systems if they are deemed to be a threat in any way?  And what’s the benchmark for that determination? 

MR. KIRBY:  So, two thoughts.  First of all, you — you’re right, late November.  It is now — what? — the 12th of December.  So, I think it shows that we’re moving on with this and we’re going to stay on it.  So, this — don’t — I want to disabuse you of any notion that we’re not taking this seriously, because we are. 

I can also tell you that if the president, as commander-in-chief, believed — based on the information that he’d been given — that there was a national security threat at play here or even a public safety threat at play here, he would issue the appropriate directives to — to not only law enforcement but perhaps even the military if that was needed. 

I want to go back to something I said at the top: There has been no evidence of any of this activity in or near restricted spaces. 

Q    That’s not what the senators said in the letter.  They said, in fact, that they’ve been observed maneuvering near critical infrastructure, sensitive locations, including reservoirs and military installations, and cited a concern from law enforcement about public safety threats because a medevac helicopter was prevented from transporting a seriously injured patient for care because of the presence of these drones.

MR. KIRBY:  I stand by my opening statement. 

Q    Can you make that make more sense?  Because I think people in New York and New Jersey see drones the size of an SUV over their house every night and think that that doesn’t make any sense. 

MR. KIRBY:  Certainly I understand why people would be looking at this and being concerned about it.  I — we’re concerned about it too, which is why we have the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, my goodness, looking at this, and we’re taking it seriously. 

And we — we understand that people are concerned.  We understand that they got questions.  We got questions too, and we’re working hard to get the answers to that. 

What I can tell you, as we sit here today, you know, at 2:16 in the afternoon on the 12th is we haven’t seen any indication thus far that there’s a public safety risk, and we haven’t seen —

Q    But does anyone in the government know what they are?

MR. KIRBY:  We are still investigating this.  I can’t tell —

Q    So, no.

MR. KIRBY:  — you definitively — I cannot characterize for you definitively what these sightings are.  I can just go back to what I said at the opening: We’ve looked at the imagery.  We can’t corroborate some of the reported sightings through our own expert analysis using sophisticated detection techniques.  But that doesn’t mean that, you know, we’re putting our pen down here this afternoon and calling it a day.  We’re going to keep at this. 

Q    What are you doing though?

MR. KIRBY:  We — we are continuing to investigate it, as I said in my opening statement.  Two federal agencies, as well as United States Coast Guard, and state and local law enforcement officials, which we are staying in close touch with.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Picking up on drones.  Has it reached a level or is there a level determined by which the president or the administration, more directly, would prohibit any use of the airspace — since it is regulated — for drones for a period of time to try to figure out who they are and to remove this anxiety that people in the northeast are feeling?

MR. KIRBY:  I don’t know that we’re at a stage right now where we — where we’re considering that sort of a policy option, but I can tell you that we’re going to keep an open mind here.  And I think we’re going to — whatever policy options we determine are appropriate will be informed by the investigation. 

And thus far in this early stage of the investigation, there’s just no national security threat that we see and no public safety risk. 

So, again, you — you want to be careful that you don’t —

that you — you don’t jump to conclusions and you don’t jump to policy options that may not be appropriate at this particular stage.  But we’ll — we’ll obviously see where it goes and we’ll be informed by investigators. 

Q    One other topic.  With Jake in Israel and issues related to Ukraine and Russia, the Middle East, and so forth, with 40 days to go, do you feel that the Biden foreign policy team is in a — cooperate with a very vocal president-elect who is talking about these issues to — to achieve the aims that you have?  Or do you view it as this is really your negotiation to have, whether it’s in Israel, whether it’s with Ukraine?  Is it coordination, competition?  How would you describe —

MR. KIRBY:  I would say consultation.  We are keeping the incoming Trump team fully aware and read in of not only what we’re doing but what we’re thinking about doing so that — that they — there’s nothing they should see in the public domain — nothing I’m saying here, nothing Jake said in Israel — that would surprise them, that we’re keeping them fully informed. 

Q    And has the president or members of this administration asked the president-elect to pull back from public statements or phone calls or anything that might impinge on what you’re trying to do? 

MR. KIRBY:  Not that I’m aware of.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.  Final question.  Go ahead.

Q    What do you make of reports that were out today that Austin Tice was seen alive at a prison in Damascus in 2022?

MR. KIRBY:  I think I’ve answered this before.  I just don’t have — I — I’ve seen that press reporting.  I — I don’t have any information to verify that reporting, and I certainly don’t have anything today that gives us a sense of his whereabouts right now.

Q    I’m asking, though, because the Israelis bombed that facility over the weekend.  And so, I’m wondering if there are any conversations with the Israelis about, you know, maybe avoiding targets where Austin Tice or other prisoners might be held? 

MR. KIRBY:  We’re — we’re — as I said earlier, it’s a full-court press to get more information about Austin, and we are actively in touch with interlocutors and counterparts throughout the region, and that includes Israel. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  All right.  Thank you so much. 

MR. KIRBY:  Thank you, Karine.

Q    Thank you, John.

Q    Thanks, John.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Before we continue, I was asked by one of my colleagues to — to flag Rodney’s sweater.  (Laughter.)  The amazing Christmas gear you got going on, sir, and the tie and all of it.  It looks good. 

Q    Thank you.  Thank you so much.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  And I hear that you — this is a normal thing during the season. 

Q    Yeah.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  All right.  (Laughter.)

That’s why he’s — this is why he’s behind the camera.  (Laughs.)  He’s like — he’s like —

Q    Aw —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  No, I meant that nicely!

Q    No, no.  She’s right.  (Laughter.)

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I meant that really nicely.  He’s like, “Please don’t talk to me.”  (Laughs.)  That’s what I meant.  I meant “Don’t talk to me.”

Q    (Inaudible.)  (Laughter.)

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I appreciate you, Rodney.  Thank you for what you do.

Q    Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  With that — jeez.  Tough crowd. 

Colleen.

Q    Thank you.  So, let’s see.  On the pardons. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yes.

Q    I wondered if — you know, there’s been a couple categorical pardons — or categorical, I guess, grants of clemency by the president.  So, I wondered if we could expect more of those sort of categorical pardons, in particular related to the death penalty, which, you know, the president had said during the campaign trail in 2020 he wanted to get rid of.  And, you know, I know it’s paused, but it isn’t gone.  And there’s, I think, 40 people on federal death row.  The president-elect, you know, has made no secret of his — his desire to continue the death penalty. 

So, you know, wondering about that and any other possible categorical ones. 

Sorry to interrupt you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.  So, I will say that during the president’s remaining weeks — and he said this in his statement overnight, and I said it at the top as well — that we’re going to continue to — he’s going to continue to talk to his team to review any steps that he’s going to be taking. 

He wants to take additional steps, obvi- — obviously, to — to provide meaningful second chances.  This is what this is all about when you look at the — what — the actions that the president not just took today but over, certainly, the last four years. 

And so, they’re going to continue to review clemency petitions, he and his team, in normal course.  And certainly, further — they want to further the criminal justice reforms in a manner that advances equity and justice; promotes public safety; supports rehab and re-entry, which is all the things that I said at the top; and provides, again, meaningful second chances. 

So, when we have more to share, we certainly will update all of you.  But I think if you look at what the president has done over the past four years, as I just — just laid out, granting — in addition to what he talked — what we announced today — granting 21 pardons, 122 commutations, he has certainly done more in — than his last four predecessors at this point in their first term. 

And so, the president takes this very, very seriously and is going to review all options and, especially, as you stated, clemency petitions as we, you know, close out these final — final few weeks.

Q    On pardons still.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Sure.

Q    We had a poll yesterday that just about 2 in 10 Americans approved of President Biden’s decision to pardon his son.  In particular, they were troubled by the fact that he’d gone back on his word.  So, I wondered what the president’s message is to those Americans. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I mean, I’d just go back to his statement that he put out 12 days ago, I think, now — that Sunday.  And I think that last paragraph where he talks really, truly directly to the American people about this decision that he’s made, obviously, as president, as a father. 

But I would say more broadly, you know, legal experts — you’ve heard me say this — you’ve heard from legal experts, specifically an analyst, former U.S. a- — U.S. attorneys from across the country, who have said — and they have all agreed no one would be criminally prosecuted with felony offenses with these facts — the underlying facts that we have — certainly, have gone back and forth on. 

And I have quoted many times, and I’ll do this again, the former attorney general, Eric Holder, who said, “No U.S. attorney would have charged this case given the underlying facts.  Had his name been Joe Smith, the resolution would have been fundamentally and, more fairly, a declination.  Pardon warranted.” 

And so, I think the actions that the president took today, the actions that he’s taken over the last four years when it comes to clemency, I think, shows the president’s commitment when it comes to reforming — trying to reform the criminal justice system and his — obviously, his commitment to that but, also, giving people a second chance. 

And so, you know, I think that — as it relates to the American people, I think that — I understand that you had this poll, and I get that, but I hope that they will understand the decision that he made and — and, you know — and what he’s going to continue to do in these closing weeks as president. 

Q    Do you think he should apologize based on what the polling found?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  What I think is — I think the president hopes that the American people hear him out.  Again, going to that last part of his statement — and I feel that I should continue to reiterate that the American f- — American people out there should take a look at the president’s own words, his statement, how much he wrestled with that decision, and how circumstances did indeed change for him and his view. 

And I quoted many times what Congressman Clyburn said when he spoke to the president two weeks prior — how the president was indeed reticent in making this decision.

And when he saw that Republicans weren’t going to let up, when he s- — you know, we talked about the recently announced Trump appointees for law enforcement who have said themselves that they were going to seek retribution, and there was no reason to not take them by their word.  The sentencing was coming up.  

All of these pieces certainly led to circumstancing — circumstances changing, and so he made a very difficult decision.  And I just hope that in time — in due time, the American people will — will see why he made this decision to move forward.  

In the meantime, I think this announcement — the statement from the president, this announcement today that we’re making: 15- — nearly 1,500 people getting this — their commutation —   I think it’s important.  I think it’s important about second chances, giving people second chances.

And — and so, that’s what the president certainly is going to continue to focus on.

Go ahead.

Q    Thanks.  Different than commuting a sentence, though, or pardoning someone who has been convicted of a crime, there was conversation at one point about the idea of preemptive pardons for somebody who hasn’t been convicted yet but who might be a target of the incoming Trump administration.  Is that still on the table?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I’m not going to get ahead of the president.  As I said, we’ll have more — the president will have more to announce over the upcoming — upcoming weeks as we are — close out our time here.  

I’m not going to get into the president’s thinking.  He’s going to have conversations with his team.  He’s going to review clemency petitions.  He’s going to review options on the table.

And so, I’m — that’s where I’m going to leave it.  

And I think, you know, 1,500 individuals, as you all know, who are — who were placed on home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic and who have successfully reintegrated into their families and communities — and also pardoning 39 individuals –is — is a big deal.  

I think it’s important to those individuals and their families and their communities.  As I’ve said, they’ve rein- — -integrated into — into those really important pieces of their lives, and I think that’s really important — and just building on what the president has done over the past four years.

And I think that’s — I think those — today, I think it’s a good day for many of those folks who deserve that second chance and who have proven — proven to — to be able to take that on.  

Q    Absolutely.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    Some of the names that have been floated around preemptive pardons, though — since it would just be such an unusual, extraordinary step — we’ve talked about — in the news, we’ve seen Liz Cheney, Dr. Fauci, Mark Milley —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  You’re talking about the preemptive pardoning?

Q    Right.  I understand you don’t want to get ahead of the president’s thinking, but are any of those names wrong?  Still — can you tell —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I’m just —

Q    I mean, do you want to tell us anything about —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I — it would be a bad move on my — on my — on my behalf if I preempted the president or previewed anything that the president was thinking about, considering.  And so, this is a — this is something that he’s going to talk with his team about.  And — and I just don’t have anything beyond that for you.  

Again, I think today is a very important day, as we talk about the criminal justice system, as we talk about giving people who have shown that they can reintegrate into their community, back into their families, a second chance.  I think that’s a big deal, and I think that shows the president’s commitment to this.  

And, you know, the president talks a lot about what this country has to offer and possibilities, and you see that in every — every action that the president certainly has taken when it comes to this issue and so many other policies that he’s put forward.

Go ahead.

Q    So, Karine — 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    — I keep asking you this question.  I’m going to ask it one more time.  

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    You have been working on an Islamophobia — or an — a strategy to counter Islamophobia that would partner with the strategy that you’ve already released to countering antisemitism.  We’ve been waiting for it for a long time.  

Do you have any further updates on when that could be released?  Do you anticipate it coming before the end of the year?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I would say: Stay tuned.  This is obviously something that we’re very committed to when it comes to protecting communities across this country.  

You saw that in our antisemitism strategy, and obviously we’ve been talking about this Islamophobia strategy as well — or talking about coming up with a way forward in protecting communities.  Certainly, that’s the President’s commitment.

I don’t have anything to share right now at this moment, at the — at this podium, behind this lectern.  But I would say: Stay tuned.

Q    Given — given the former president’s ban on entry from — for people from Muslim-majority countries — also known as the Muslim ban — at the beginning of his term —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Which — which we — you know, which we repealed and dealt with that very early on.

Q    No, I understand.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    But there were — you know, there were many, many people on no-fly lists.  And there still are some people on no-fly lists. 

You know, do you — is there any preemptive action that the administration can take to guard against that kind of, you know, mass move again this time?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Well, you know where the president stands on this in this administration.  

I don’t have any policy announcement to share with you at this time.  And so, I’ll just leave it there.

Q    All right.  And then, just on the pardons and clemency acts.  You know, numerous groups have sort of asked the administration to go even further, to be even more bold in terms of saying that there’s something like 9,000 addition- — additional petitioners, some of whom are chronically ill, some who are aging, some have very young children.

Can you — I know that you are still reviewing these things, but can you say something about the scale?  I mean, is this the sort of the — you know, is this the big move that we’re going to see and then we’ll see sort of individual pardons coming forward?  Or will there — you know, do you anticipate that there could be another larger-scale move?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I’m not going to get into the strategy.  I’m not going to get into numbers.  I’m not going to get into what the president is currently thinking through.  Not something that I’m going to do from here.

But I don’t want people to forget — and I said this at the top, and I just want to reiterate — we’re talking about Americans who — receiving relief who are decorated military veterans, a nurse who has led response for a number of natural disasters, and an addiction counselor who volunteers his time to help young people.  And that’s just naming a few.

And so, that is important to note, because these are the folks that we’re talking about, who are, again, reintegrating back into their communities in a way that’s effective, in a way that’s incredibly important, giving them second chances.  

And let’s not forget all of the other ways that the president has been able to give second chances to Americans over the past almost four years when he has made these types of important decisions.   So, I’m not going to preview.  I’m not going to get ahead of this president.   It would not be wise for me to do so, because he has to make those final — that final decisions, and he has to review what’s in front of him with his team.  

Q    And I just want to — one more real quick.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Sure.  Sure.

Q    There’s anniversary coming up on Saturday for the Sandy Hook shooting, and I know that this is something that’s very near and dear to the president.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah, obviously.  Yeah. 

Q    Is he planning any kind of action or — or statement? 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, don’t have anything for you.  As you know, we think — during his presidency and, I think, over the past couple of years, even before his presidency, he’s spoken to this day — this tragic, tragic day.  

And you’re right, this is — when it comes to Sandy Hook and any devastating, horrific events like we saw on that day and — you know, the president has always speak — spoken out to it.   This is a president that understands loss, understands what that means to a family, understands what that means to a community.  And Sandy Hook was one of those moments that tore us apart.  

If — I think if you think about that moment and, I think, if you are just a human and you remember that day, it is a heartbreaking, heartbreaking moment.  And obviously our hearts go out to the families and certainly their loved ones who are still dealing with — every year, dealing — dealing with a difficult moment, a difficult anniversary.  And so, I know the president thinks about them almost every day.

And I don’t have anything to — to read out to you on how we’re going to be acknowledging that day, but I’m sure you’ll be continuing to hear from this president.  

Go ahead.

Q    Thank you.  You talk about the clemency actions as historic — the “big deal,” as you called them earlier — and a real relief that is being brought to human individuals by the actions the president has taken.   So, in terms of sequencing, how did he come to the decision to pardon his son before these individuals?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, I think we’ve gone back and forth on — on how he made that decision.  The president obviously — as I — as I said, the president put a statement out 12 days ago, made that decision over that weekend. 

It was a decision that he wrestled with.  I think we’ve talked about the — the politics around this, the decision that he made.  He put out a pretty comprehensive statement.  I’ve mentioned Congressman Clyburn’s — his own words, saying that the president, even two weeks before he had made that decision, was reticent in doing so.  And he wrestled this, and I — as I have said many times: For him, there were consequences that changed his decision.  I just laid that out moments ago. 

Q    But this action pending —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.  Yeah.

Q    — for thousands of individuals —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    — why not bring the relief to them before —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Well, I mean —

Q    — announcing the pardon on his son?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  — and I was about to get to your question.  This is — what you see today, that was far from this being his first — right? — I think we can’t forget that — his first pardon or act of clemency. 

He has issued more — more — we cannot forget this — more sentence commutations at this point in his presidency than any other recent predecessors at this — at the same point of their first term.  And so — and I talked about what he was able to do in April when he issued historic categorical pardons as well to address marijuana possession convictions and military convictions in the LGBTQ+ community.   These are actions that this president has taken.

And, again, today is historic, but he has been taking these types of actions for some time now.  This is far from the first pardon that the president has taken.  

We’ve gone back and forth.  I’ve laid out what the president is thinking.  He has talked about it directly in a statement in his own voice to all of you about 12 days ago. 

And so, I don’t have anything beyond that, but we can’t look at today as being only the first action that he’s taken.  He’s taken many actions to try and deal with giving an opportunity to people who have shown that they deserve a second chance, giving them an opportunity to have that second chance.  

Q    Anita Dunn, who was for a very long time the senior-most communications aide here at the White House, has been very critical of the president’s decision to pardon his son.  She called it extraordinarily bad timing.   She said it was clear that the White House was “not part of this process.”   And she called the president’s rationale “an attack on the judicial system.” 

She goes, “The argument is one that I think many observers are concerned about.  A president who ran to restore the rule of law, who has upheld the rule of law, who has really defended the rule of law kind of saying, ‘Well, maybe not right now.’”

How would you respond to that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I will respond in this way.  She also agreed that Hunter Biden, and I quote, “absolutely” deserved a pardon.   Those — “deserved a pardon” is her own words.  So, she supported that action and —

Look, I don’t want to take away the record that the president has made on providing the most individual commutations in a single — in a single day, and I think that matters.  And he’ll certainly have more news to share in this — in this area — in the clemency space, obviously, in the near future.  And we’ll have more to share and certainly more to speak to.

Q    Was she right that the White House was boxed out of the process —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I — I —

Q    — in reaching that decision?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  What I can say is that I would obviously continue to refer you to the president’s statement 12 days ago.  He laid out his thought process, I think, in a very comprehensive way.  We’ve go- — we’ve gone back and forth here about how the circums- — circumstances had changed, but I — let’s not forget that she also said that Hunter Biden “absolutely” deserved a pardon, and I think that matters as well. 

Q    Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  What was President Biden’s reaction to FBI director Christopher Wray’s decision to step down?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  What I will say is that the president ap- — certainly appreciates the service of Christopher Wray, the FBI director, and — and all that he has done to — in his role.  I don’t have anything more to say beyond that.  Certainly, he wishes the FBI director well. 

Q    Was the president disappointed that Wray is not going to be serving his full —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I don’t have any —

Q    — 10-year term?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I don’t have anything else to share besides the service that the FBI director has been able to provide, and he respects his service.  And I don’t — don’t have anything beyond that.  

Q    Has President Biden spoken to FBI Director Wray since the director made that announcement, or was the White House given a heads-up about the decision?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I would say that I don’t have anything to share of a conversation between the FBI director and the president since this decision was — was made, but the president is grateful — is grateful for the director’s service to our country.  And I just don’t have anything else beyond that to share. 

Go ahead, Kelly O.

Q    Can you — given the breadth of the pardons, can you describe a little bit about the president’s process?  Did he read into the individual cases?  Did he accept a list from those who were working on this on his behalf?  How much did he personally dive into particular stories?  And did he decline on any of the ones brought to him for this time?  Or was it sort of a big package presented to the president?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, I’m not going to go into step by step of this process.

What I can say is this is a president who certainly takes this very seriously, understands the importance of when an individual is able to show that they can reconnect with their community, reconnect with their family, be — be part of a community in a way that I just laid out — when you think about military veteran, when you think about a nurse that’s been very helpful in disaster response — he takes that all into account.  He wants to make sure that — that there are specific criterias that are made, if you will. 

In this case, y- — the Bureau of Prisons, obviously, was very involved in the — in wh- — in looking at — when I say “very involved,” when they made the decision on — on the home confinement of these folks.  And so, obviously, that is a big part of it too. 

And, look, they’ve all des- — demonstrated good behavior, have shown that incarceration and at-home confinement has been successful in their rehabilitation.  And those are all important criterias to look at. 

But this is something, obviously, his team reviews.  It’s presented to the president.  He makes this decision on how to move forward. 

I’m not going to get into the nitty-gritty, but these are important facts that I just laid out to, certainly, look at when you think about getting — again, getting back into the community and showing — showing that, you know, it is — it is meaningful to get that second chance because what these individuals have been able to do.

Go ahead, Annie.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  On the pardons today, can you say whether the president has signed all the paperwork and it’s completely finalized with his signature on it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.  Well, my assumption is that we — this is ready to go, since we made the announcement and that we’ve announced it, obviously, overnight.  And so, this is ready to go, and we’re moving forward.  We wouldn’t have made this announcement if we weren’t.  And so, that’s what I could speak to. 

This is something that the president has decided on, and we’re taking, certainly, the steps to make this happen.

Q    (Inaudible) be able to say sort of precisely when he signed it?  Or maybe (inaudible.)

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I — I don’t have specifics on signature — when — when it was signed, how the process even works. 

I know that we just made announcement, obviously, overnight on — on this, really — you know, this granted clemency of nearly 1,500 people.  I think that’s a big deal.  Thirty-nine individuals are — were, certainly, pardoned, were — who were convicted of nonviolent crimes.  And I think this is important to — to just not forget. 

But I don’t have the specifics of the process or how it works.  But, obviously, it’s out there, and we’re moving forward with it.

Q    And then one other thing.  You had been asked several times about whether Hunter Biden would receive a pardon and responded to that question.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    In that vein, can you tell me whether the president is considering a pardon for his son [brother] James Biden?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Look, what I can speak to is the p- — the president made that decision — right? — about Hunter Biden.  He put it in — in his own words.  I don’t have anything to share beyond that.  What I can say is: Not that I’m aware of, but I just don’t have anything else beyond that. 

And the president, certainly, is going to — as it — more broadly speaking, as we move forward to the next couple of weeks, he obviously is going to review with his team about other clemency decisions, and they’re taking additional steps.  And so, that’s what I can speak to at this time.

Go ahead, Zolan.

Q    Thank you.  During the past clemency actions you were talking about, it seemed like most of the time the recipients were nonviolent, you know, drug offenders — low-level drug crimes.  There were a couple recipients here, though — I mean, a judge who participated in a scheme that sent juveniles to for-profit jails; Medicare fraud; you know, real estate fraud.

I guess what I’m wondering is, was the crime that was committed also part of the criteria here?  Or was it the mere fact where, if you were somebody on home confinement — despite the crime you committed, but just the fact that you were on home confinement — you received a commutation? 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, they’re two different things, right?  There is the 1,500 folks who — who were placed on home confinement during COVID —

Q    The examples I listed are part of the 1,500.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Oh, th- — okay. 

Q    Yeah.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I didn’t know, because I — because those are commutation, right?  So, I didn’t know.  So —

Q    S- — those are commutations, right.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  So, you were saying “pardoned,” so I just wanted to make sure of that. 

Q    Yeah.  To clarify —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  Yes.

Q    — those examples I listed are —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Are the fif- —

Q    — part of the 1,500 that received commutations.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  Okay.  Because, as you know, there were 39 people who were — who were pardoned.  So, two different things, so I just want to make sure we were on the same page. 

So, this is definitely related to the home confinement from COVID.  Let’s not forget, there was the CARE[S] Act of 2020, right?  This is all connected, certainly, to that.  And that’s — those are the individuals who were — again, who had home confinement and they successfully reintegrated into their families, into their communities.  And that’s the group of people — that category, if you will — that we were looking at.

Q    But — but —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    Like, if they — just the fact that they were on home confinement, they received a commutation here?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  No, no, no.  Because —

Q    Was there — did you factor —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  There was —

Q    — in any — like, in the process, do you also factor in the individual cases and the individual crimes that were committed?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Well, I think what’s important is that they were successfully able to reintegrate into their communities and back into their families, right?  They showed that having a second chance is something that they should be given, right?  And so, that is what’s important. 

That — let’s not forget that — the successfully reintegrating.  And I think that’s a huge factor.  That matters as well.  The home confinement, obviously, those — that’s the category that they — that they were in during that CARE[S] Act of 2020.  They were — they — as you know, there was a decision because of COVID-19 pandemic to move forward, back in 2020, before the president was, obviously, in office.

And these folks, this 1,500 that we’re talking about — the nearly 1,500, were able to successfully reintegrate.  And I think that’s a criteria that we can’t forget.  And that’s a criteria that’s incredibly important here as the president made his decision. 

Q    And to follow up on —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    — I think, Kelly’s question.  Just, I know you don’t want to go step by step in the process —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    — but c- — can we say accurately that the president reviewed, looked at any of these applications?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  What I can say is this president made this decision.  This is the president that made the decision to move forward on this. 

Q    What was his involvement, though?  Did they present him the applications and he said yes, or —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I mean, obviously the president was presented from his team the — th- — granting the clemency — right? — of these approximately 1,500 Americans and also the 39 that he pardoned.  He was presented that by his team, and he made the decision.

This is a — this would not have happened — we cannot forget: This would not have happened if the president didn’t sign off on it, if the president didn’t decide to move forward. 

And we can’t forget what the president has done.  We’re talking about the — let’s not forget the past.  Yes, we’re talking about today, but we can’t forget the president has also done 122 commutations, 21 pardons before this.  We can’t forget that the president issued — issued categorical pardons for LGBTQ+ service members convicted because of their sexual orientation or identity — gender identity and individuals charged with simply possession of marijuana.  This is — and he just did that back in April. 

So, the president has certainly taken action to show the importance of giving Americans second chances, and this is a continuation.  This is not just a one-day thing.  This is a continuation of the person — of the president taking clemency and giving people second chances very, very seriously and understanding how much that means to families and, certainly, communities.

Go ahead.

Q    Yeah.  Has the president called any of the people he granted pardons to?  Do you have anything to read out on that front?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  No.  It’s a good question.  I don’t have

anything to read out on the president calling any — any of the 15- nearly 1,500 people or 39 folks that he was able to — to pardon today.  I just don’t have anything to share.

Q    And is he planning a farewell address at some point?  Is there something in the works?  Do you know where it might be, when it might be? 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, I don’t — we’ll certainly have more to share what the next — the last couple of weeks, last couple of days of the president’s administration will look like, if he’s going to be giving any big speeches or giving any important remarks as he — as he ends his presidency. 

I don’t have anything right now in this moment, but I would say stay tuned.  We’ll have a lot more to share as to what January post-holiday will look like. 

Go ahead.  I know — go ahead.  I know I was supposed to call on you and I didn’t.

Q    Thank you.  Back to Austin Tice —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.

Q    — with apologies.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  No.  No apologies.  (Laughter.)  That’s an important — no, no.  It’s important.  No apologies.

Q    So, I believe it was last Friday when the family of Austin Tice said that they had spoken to officials here at the White House. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.  They met with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan at the end of last week, yes.

Q    And then they had a statement at the National Press Club, where they said that they had been told from a reliable source — we assume Sullivan — that — that Austin was alive and that he was being treated well. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    So, now we don’t know any of that.  So, what — how did that — where did they get that information?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, look, I’m going to let the family speak for themselves.  I can’t e- — can’t even imagine what they’re going through.  I don’t want to imagine what they’re going through.  I know this has been a difficult time for them.

But what I can say is, when it comes to Austin Tice, this is a top priority for this president.  He said that himself.  And there is no indication that he is not alive, but there’s also no indication about his location or condition. 

And so, what our goal is is to bring him home.  And so, we hope, certainly, that he is alive. 

And — and as we have stated many times before, we are talking through the — through — through this with the Turks, and we want to do everything that we can to bring him home.  It is a top priority for this president and this administration, and that’s how we’re going to continue to move forward on this. 

All right, everybody. 

Q    Will there be further —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Oh, go ahead.

Q    Will there be further meetings between now and the end of this administration?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Well, as you know, this administration, including the national security advisor, Jake Sullivan, has met with many family members of — of Americans who are wrongfully detained, held hostage.  That is something — and also the president has done this as well.  The national security advisor, as I just mentioned, just met with Austin Tice’s family just this past week — this past week. 

And so, we’re c- — we’re going to continue to certainly stay engaged and in touch. 

I don’t have any meetings to preview for you at this time, but we’ve been pretty con- — pretty consistent in staying in touch with these families.

Again, I — our hearts go out to them.  Our hearts go out to them as they are dealing with an incredibly, incredibly difficult time.

All right.  Thanks, everybody.

Q    Thank you.

P.M. EST

The post Press Briefing by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby appeared first on The White House.

1:44 P.M. EST

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Hello.  Hi, everybody. 

Q    Hi.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Happy Thursday.  (Ms. Jean-Pierre adjusts the lectern.)  Just mess- — be messing with this lectern.

Okay.  So, today, President Biden announced that he is granting clemency to approximately 1,500 Americans — the largest act in a single day — who have demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation as well as a strong commitment to making their communities safer. 

The president is commuting the sentences of 1,500 individuals who were placed on home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic and who have successfully reintegrated into their families and communities.

He is also pardoning 39 individuals who were convicted of nonviolent crimes. 

The Americans receiving relief today include a decorated military veteran, a nurse who has led response for a number of natural disasters, and an addiction counselor who volunteers his time to help young people.  That’s just to name a few.

Today’s actions build on the president’s record of criminal justice reform to help reunite families, strengthen communities, and reintegrate individuals back into society.

The president has issued more sentence commutations at this point in his presidency than any of his recent predecessors at the same point in their first terms.  He is also the first president ever to issue categorical — categorical pardons to individuals convicted of simple use and possession of marijuana and to former LGBTQI+ service members convicted because of their sexual orientation.

As the president has said before, America was founded on the premise of second chances.  For far too long, our criminal justice system has closed doors of opportunity for too many people who should have the chance to once again participate in daily life and contribute to their communities. 

And as the president said in his statement, he will take more steps in the weeks ahead.  He and his team will continue reviewing clemency petitions to advance equal justice under the law, promote public safety, support rehab and reentry, and provide meaningful second chances.

And with that, I have my colleague here from the National Security Council, Admiral Kirby, to talk about foreign policy news of day.

MR. KIRBY:  Thank you so much, Karine.

Afternoon, everybody. 

Q    Hello, sir.

Q    Hello.

MR. KIRBY:  Sorry?

Q    We’re just saying hi.

Q    Hello, sir.

Q    We’re just saying hi.

MR. KIRBY:  All right.  (Laughs.)  Look, as you all know, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is in Israel today.  He just wrapped up a full day of meetings, including one with Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Jake’s meeting with the prime minister focused on the progress we’ve made in the region.  That means ensuring the Lebanon ceasefire continues to hold, that we continue to engage with all Syrian groups to establish a transition toward an independent and sovereign Syria, and, most importantly, that we continue to make progress toward closing a hostage release and ceasefire deal in Gaza so that the hostages — including Americans — can be reunited with their families, so that civilians in Gaza can receive the humanitarian assistance that they desperately still need, and so that this war can come to an end.

Jake will now travel to Doha and to Cairo to continue these efforts.

His travel, of course, coincides with that of Secretary Blinken, who is traveling to Jordan and Turkey, making clear our commitment to a Syrian-led transition process so that the Syrian people and their aspirations can be realized.

The president is being regularly briefed on all these meetings and remains in close touch with his national security team as the situation in Syria continues to develop — and it does continue to develop.

Tomorrow, he’s going to speak virtually with his fellow G7 leaders.  They will discuss a range of issues: our shared support to Ukraine, which comes, of course, after the United States disbursed $20 billion to a new World Bank fund that will provide economic support for Ukraine as part of the $50 billion G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration loan effort. 

And that, of course — I think, as you all know — leverages income earned from frozen Russian sovereign assets and increasingly puts the cost of war on Russia with no burden to the taxpayer here in the United States.  We’re going to continue to explore ways to make maximum use of those assets, by the way.

And I’d note that also today the president approved a new security assistance package for Ukraine that will provide them with additional air defense, artillery, drones, and armored vehicles.  It’s the 72nd such drawdown package announced by the United States.  And as the president made clear, we’re going to continue to provide additional packages right up until the end of this administration.

I think G7 leaders can also be expected to discuss ongoing developments in the Middle East, of course — how we’re helping Israel defend itself against active threats and how we’re all working towards that Syrian-led process we talked about.

Now, I’d also be remiss if I didn’t just take a moment to highlight an important milestone in our efforts to keep faith with Afghan allies.

As of today, the State Department has issued 76,000 Special Immigrant Visas for Afghan partners and their families, surpassing the number of SIVs issued by all previous administrations combined since the program began back in 2009.  They did this by surging staff, by leveraging new technology, by consolidating some cumbersome processing steps, and working hard to verify, in better ways, applicants’ employment status.

And, of course, we’ve requested from Congress more visa numbers so that we can continue to do that.

Now, finally, I just want to add a few comments on the reports of drone activity here on the East Coast, particularly in and around New Jersey.

We have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or a public safety threat or have a foreign nexus.

The Department of Homeland Security and the FBI are investigating these sightings, and they’re working closely with state and local law enforcement to provide resources, using numerous detection methods to better understand their origin.

Using very sophisticated electronic detection technologies provided by federal authorities, we have not been able to — and neither have state or local law enforcement authorities — corroborate any of the reported visual sightings.

To the contrary, upon review of available imagery, it appears that many of the reported sightings are actually manned aircraft that are being operated lawfully.

The United States Coast Guard is providing support to the State of New Jersey and has confirmed that there is no evidence of any foreign-based involvement from coastal vessels.

And, importantly, there are no reported or confirmed drone sightings in any restricted airspace.

Now, that said, we certainly take seriously the threat that can be posed by unmanned aircraft systems, which is why law enforcement and other agencies continue to support New Jersey and investigate the reports, even though they have uncovered no malicious activity or intent at this particular stage. 

While there is no known malicious activity occurring, the reported sightings there do, however, highlight a gap in authorities.  And so, we urge Congress to pass important legislation that will extend and expand existing counter-drone authorities so that we are better prepared to identify and mitigate any potential threats to airports or other critical infrastructure and so that state and local authorities are provided all the tools that they need to respond to such threats as well. 

Now, tomorrow, there’s a little thing called the Army-Navy game.  We wish both sides a good game.  (Laughter.)  We thank them for their service now, of course, at these service academies and for their service in the future.  We don’t officially take sides here at the National Security Council, but “Go Navy, Beat Army.”  (Laughter.)

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Thank you, Admiral.  Good luck. 

What is the White House reaction to President Xi being invited to President-elect Trump’s inauguration next month?

MR. KIRBY:  Well, that’s going to be up to President-elect Trump to decide who’s going to sit with him there at the inauguration and who’s going to be there. 

We’ve worked really hard on this most consequential of bilateral relationships.  The president met with Xi Jinping a number of times, including recently and, as you know, at the — at APEC. 

And we — we believe that as we get ready to turn over things to the Trump team that we’re turning ov- — turning over a U.S.-China relationship that is in better shape than the one we found it in.  That doesn’t mean that we don’t have disagreements.  We do and we will, and I’m sure they will too.  But we’re working hard on this relationship, and we’ll do that right to the end. 

Q    Did President Biden invite any foreign leaders to his inauguration in 2021?

MR. KIRBY:  Oh, geez, I don’t — I don’t know.  I’d have to take that question.  I don’t know.

Q    I think one — one other question about Travis Timmerman.  Was the U.S. aware that he was missing and being detained in Syria before this week?

MR. KIRBY:  I am not aware of any indication that we had that this gentleman was in Syria.  I would — I want to remind that we are just getting word of this, and we’re trying to confirm his identity at this point, so the State Department is working hard on that right now.  I — I am not aware that we had any prior indication that — that he was — was in Syria. 

It’s also a good reminder for everybody, if you’re traveling overseas, to enroll in the State Department’s STEP program so that, you know, they have an idea of who you are and where you are.  It’s voluntary, of course, but we recommend that to everybody.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Thank you.  So, regarding Travis Timmerman, have there been any other — I don’t know, have there been any other Americans — or people who have been saying that they’re American uncovered in detention following what — the events in Syria?  And then, regarding Americans, do you have any updates on Austin Tice?

MR. KIRBY:  On your first question: Not that I’m aware of.

On your second question: We don’t have any additional context or information about Austin since the events of the weekend in Syria, but we are working very, very hard.  And as we’ve said in the past, we — we hope that developments in Syria could lead to some opportunities and some — and some more information, but right now we don’t have anything. 

Q    Are you concerned that there isn’t more information around Tice — there isn’t more of an update, considering the fact that we’re seeing these prisons — sort of, people released?  We’re sort of — would you have expected to have more news about Austin Tice at this point?

MR. KIRBY:  We’re concerned about Mr. Tice.  We’re concerned about finding out more about him — where he is, his condition.  We certainly, as the president said on Sunday, want to do everything we can to get him back with his family where he belongs.

Would we like to have had more information in the last 40, 48, 72 hours?  You betcha. 

And we’re working hard.  We’re in touch with interlocutors and counterparts in and outside Syria to try to get as much information as we can, but I just don’t — I don’t have anything additional to report to you today. 

Q    And just following up on the news that President-elect Trump’s press secretary confirmed that she was invited — you yourself have talked about wanting a competitive relationship that doesn’t have conflict — like you said, “a better relationship now than four years ago with China.”  So, what’s your take?  Was it a wise move?

MR. KIRBY:  I’m not going to — it’s — it’s not my place from the podium here to — to pass judgment on the invitations to the inauguration.  That’s really for the Trump transition team to — to speak to. 

Look, I would just again say this.  It is, without doubt, the single most consequential bilateral relation that the United States has in the world, and it is a relationship that is both fraught with peril and with opportunity. 

And when we get ready to turn over to the Trump team, we will — we will make sure they are fully informed about everything President Biden has done — and he has done a lot — to get this relationship on a more stable footing. 

And it’ll be up to them to determine how and to what degree they want to carry that forward.  And if — if that means having a conversation with President Xi around the inauguration that President Trump wants to do, well, again, that’s his prerogative. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead. 

Q    President-elect Trump —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Oh, sorry.

Q    Karine?

Q    Thanks.  Sorry.  President-elect Trump this morning also kind of dismissed a question about protecting Taiwan.  Could you talk at all about conversations that the current Biden administration might be having with Taiwan in this moment, if there’s more security concern with those friends and partners than with an incoming Trump administration?

MR. KIRBY:  I think Taiwanese leaders know very well where President Biden stands on our continued support to Taiwan’s self-defense.  I think that they also clearly understand that we don’t want to see any cross-strait tensions resolved through violence or force and that — that we’re committed to our obligations under the Taiwan Relations Act. 

So, I’m not aware of any additional specific conversations that have happened in recent days, but I think it’s pretty apparent to everybody, including the PRC and President Xi, where we stand on the issue of Taiwan’s self-defense. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead, Danny.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  Thanks, Admiral.  What’s your response to President-elect Trump saying in his TIME Magazine interview that it was a “foolish decision” by the Biden administration to let Ukraine fire long-range missiles into Ukraine? 

MR. KIRBY:  Hey, look, I’m not going to get into a back-and-forth with the president-elect and what he’s saying in the media space. 

All I can do is — is reiterate what President Biden’s policy and guidance has been, and that is to do everything we can, including today with this package that we’re announcing, to make sure Ukraine can continue to defend itself so that if and when this comes to some sort of negotiation, that President Zelenskyy is in the best possible position that has the most leverage possible, that he has the most success on the battlefield that he can — that he can take into that negotiation. 

That has included additional policy guidance that President Biden issued not long ago to allow for some long-range missile systems to be used to help Ukraine defend itself across that border, and that policy still stands. 

Q    Very briefly, will you be extending any congratulations to President-elect Trump on his second Time of the — Time Person of the Year award?  (Laughter.)

MR. KIRBY:  I actually didn’t know that — that that had happened.  I — I don’t have any — I don’t have anything more to say on that. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead, Nadia.

Q    Thank you, Karine.  I want to go back to Austin Tice.  Can you give us some information about the U.S. presence on the ground?  Who is there to secure his release?  Because it seems to me like it’s battle between journalists who are trying to reach to any American prisoners there and this — what happened this morning. 

MR. KIRBY:  Now let’s not get ahead of where we are right now.  Two things.  One, U.S. military presence in Syria is predominantly in the east and it’s designed solely to help us with the counter-ISIS missions.  And we’re working with the Syrian Democratic Forces to that end.  That’s why they’re there, and that’s the only reason that they’re there. 

We don’t have enough information right now about Mr. Tice and his whereabouts and his condition to develop any kind of policy options in terms of getting him home.  So, we — let’s just not get ahead of where we are right now. 

Right now, we’re really trying — and we hope that developments in Syria will give us the opportunity to glean more information.

Q    So, you — sorry, I just to follow on this.  So, you’re saying that there’s no FBI agents, there is nobody from the hostage departments that the U.S. was dealing who on the ground now in Syria?  Because I’m aware of the Hostage Aid — that’s an organization that trying to find all hostages all over, American hostages.  They are on the ground.  And there are journalists, including my station, who’s — who actually the first station to reach Mr. Timmerman this morning. 

MR. KIRBY:  The work that we’re doing, the presence that we have in Syria is — is largely around counterterrorism missions. 

Again, I don’t have policy options to speak to right now about finding and retrieving Mr. Tice.  We just don’t have enough information at this point.

Q    Okay.  One more on Gaza, please.  You have called on the Israelis many times from this podium to make sure they avoid civilian casualties and aid workers who have been working in Gaza.  In the last week, every single day there’s at least 50 civilians are being killed, including entire families and 34 aid workers.  So, has your message gone on deaf ears, or are you following up with what’s happening there?  How civilians are being killed every single day, and we don’t hear much about them?

MR. KIRBY:  We talk to the Israelis almost every day about — about their operations and about how we want to see them be more careful and minimize civilian casualties. 

And, my goodness, Jake Sullivan, our national security advisor, is in Israel today, and this very much was a part of the discussions he had with — not — with the Israeli national security team as well as the prime minister.  He brought it up today.  Secretary Blinken is in the region.  I have no doubt that he’ll be bringing it up as well.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead, Patsy.

Q    Thanks you, Karine.  John, two questions.  One on Afghanistan — if you have any thoughts on the death of the Taliban minister Khalil Rahman Haqqani in a suicide bombing claimed by a regional Islamic State affiliate.

MR. KIRBY:  I think that — look, we’re just getting information about this.  I think it’s a little too soon for me to — to make a comment.  The only thing I would say is that we recognize — and we said so at the time — that there was still an ISIS threat inside Afghanistan.  And clearly, they have set their sights on the Taliban.  But I don’t really have anything more say on that. 

Q    Is there anything in terms of U.S. over-horizon capability?  Can you comment on that, in terms of, you know, how — how this kind of suicide bomb- — bombing —

MR. KIRBY:  We maintain and have improved, since our withdrawal from Afghanistan, the ability to conduct over-the-horizon counterterrorism operations anywhere in the world — anywhere in the world — and we’ve proven our ability to do that, including in places like Afghanistan since we left. 

Q    And one quick one on Venezuela, if you don’t mind, John.  So, Argentina is accusing Venezuela of continually harassing members of the opposition that’s sheltering in their diplomatic compound in Caracas.  Do you have any comments on that?

MR. KIRBY:  Let me get back to you on that one.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Yeah.  John, thanks so much.  On Syria again.  What is the United States doing to ensure that there are no clashes between that Turkey-backed SNA and the U.S.-allied Kurdish militia there?

MR. KIRBY:  Yeah.

Q    And then I’ve got one more.

MR. KIRBY:  One of the things we want to make sure is that the Syrian Democratic Forces stay partnered with us on counter-ISIS missions.  And we have seen in the past where — where certain parts of the SDF, if they pursue — perceived other — other threats and challenges, they’ve — in the past, they’ve kind of moved off that mission, and we don’t want to see that happen. 

So, we’re in very close touch with our SDF partners to — to try to maintain that focus on counter-ISIS missions, and we are just as importantly in touch with our Turkish counterparts, including Secretary Blinken, to — to make sure that we understand what they’re trying to do and that we both take steps that — that help preserve the effectiveness of the counter-ISIS mission and that it’s not diminished in any way. 

Q    Okay.  I mean, the relationship with the Turks hasn’t been the best.  So, how do you hope to ensure that this, you know, message gets through and is respected?

MR. KIRBY:  By being there and talking to them, which is what we’re doing today. 

Q    Okay.  And then just one more on — on Syria — or, rather, on Austin Tice.  There have been reports — scattered reports that he could be in Iran.  Can you say anything to that?

MR. KIRBY:  I can’t.  As I said — and it’s an honest answer — we just don’t have enough context right now to make a judgment about his whereabouts or his condition, and that’s why we’re working so hard.  And we are, as we speak — you and me today — we are asking those questions.  And we hope that what happened in Syria over the weekend may give us an opportunity to learn more. 

Q    Are you directly in touch with the Iranians about this at all?

MR. KIRBY:  We have been in touch — I’ll just say this.  As you would expect — or at least I hope you would expect us to be — we have been in touch with interlocutors and groups and leaders all over the region.  And we have various ways of being in touch, some is indirect — some is indirect. 

But I — I think it’s safe for you to assume that, given the events over the weekend, we’re — we’re — it’s a full-court press to see what we can do to find out more about Austin Tice, and that includes having a whole heck of a lot of conversations with a lot of different folks. 

Q    Okay.  And then just one more, quickly, on Gaza.  So, Jake said he thinks the ceasefire deal may be near.  We’ve obviously heard that before.

MR. KIRBY:  And Jake said we’ve heard that before — (laughter) — and we — and we haven’t al- — always been able to get it across the finish line.  We’re being pragmatic about this. 

Q    I know.  But, I mean, what — what — you know, how are the circumstances different now?  What dynamics could be different that would actually make a deal happen?

MR. KIRBY:  That’s a great question.  I think if — if you’re Hamas right now, which is still fairly a — a rudderless organization, and you look at the world today, you know, the options aren’t good.  Your — your military capabilities have been all but decimated.  Your main leader is gone.  The leader of your — your buddy, Hezbollah, he’s gone — Nasrallah is gone.  He- — Hezbollah is now in a ceasefire arrangement, which is still holding, with Israel.  And Iran is not coming to the rescue.  There is no cavalry for the Hamas right now — for Hamas right now. 

So, this is the time, and I think that’s what Jake was alluding to.  The — there has been an awful lot of pressure put on anybody who is supporting Hamas.  And now, given where they are and how weakened they are, this is the moment to make this deal. 

And that’s why, I think, Jake believes that we’re — that we’re getting close.  I mean, this is a great opportunity right now to do it.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Thank you, Karine.  Just to follow on Gaza.  In those comments in Jerusalem earlier today, Jake Sullivan said that the posture of both Prime Minister Netanyahu to do a deal and the posture of Hamas at the negotiating table in the wake of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon had changed favorably toward a deal.  I’m just wondering if you could elaborate a little bit more on that dynamic and what he’s referencing there.

MR. KIRBY:  Well, it’s kind of my — my answer to Andrea.  I mean, i- — the — the situation for Hamas has radically changed, particularly because of what’s happened. 

And I would add — one thing I didn’t add was events in Syria, because now Assad is gone.  And who was Assad’s main backer?  Iran. 

Iran was not only unwilling but unable to come to Assad’s rescue.  It’s just more proof — or should be more proof — to Hamas leaders that there is, as I said, no cavalry coming to the rescue. 

So, th- — they’re — they’re at a moment of weakness and desperation.  This is the time to make this deal and move forward on it.

Now, whether they’ll do it or not, as Jake said, you know, we can’t be certain, but we believe there’s an opportunity here — a moment — and that’s why Jake’s in the region.

Q    On Syria, the U.S. has stated that one of its primary goals is to make sure that ISIS does not reconstitute there.  In the days since the Assad regime has fallen, have you seen any information or any intelligence about cells or larger groups that are trying to exploit this opening?

MR. KIRBY:  Yeah, I’m not going to get into too much on the intel side. 

I’ll just tell you that we’re watching this real closely, and that is a risk.  That is a worry — that ISIS — I mean, this is a group that — that loves ungoverned space.  And you can expect — we have to expect that they’re going to look at what’s happening here with the fall of Assad and now Russia — or Iran not coming to the rescue; Russia now also not coming to rescue.  Russia is worried about their own presence in Syria and how that’s going to look.  You can expect — you would expect that a group like ISIS would try to exploit that. 

So, we’re watching it closely. 

I don’t have any, again, additional intelligence indicators to speak to — to today, but it is something we’re laser-focused on. 

Q    And then just broadly, on foreign policy.  There’s only one president at a time, but we’ve seen the president-elect wade into his preference for what the U.S. does or doesn’t do in Syria, the U.S. approach to Ukraine, to the Middle East.  And now the transition is also, as you guys have said, working hand in glove as you push for a ceasefire in the region there.  He’s also inviting world leaders to inauguration. 

Is this having an impact on your foreign policy?

MR. KIRBY:  No.  No. 

But I want to go back to your first question, though.  The oth- — the other thing I want to stress on this ISIS thing is that that is why — and the president said this Sunday — the — the concerns about ISIS is exactly why that mission in Syria, the mil- — the U.S. military mission and the partnership with the SDF is so important and why we want to see it continue.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Lalit.

Q    Thank you.  Two questions.  One on Bangladesh, then on India.

On Bangladesh.  Over the past few weeks, several Hindu American groups across the country have been holding protest march — one outside the White House over the weekend.  They’re protesting against the continued killings of Hindus and the temples in Bangladesh after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government.  Is the president aware about it?  Did he raise this issue when he met his friend and the interim government chief Muhammad Yunus on the sidelines of the U.N.?

MR. KIRBY:  We’re watching this very, very, very closely, and the president is following events closely as well.

The security situation in Bangladesh has been difficult following the ouster of the former prime minister, and we’ve been working closely with the interim government to enhance the capability of their law enforcement and security services to deal with the challenge. 

We’ve been very clear in our engagement with all Bangladeshi leaders that protection of religious and ethnic minorities is absolutely critical, and the leaders of the interim government have repeatedly committed to providing security to all Bangladeshis, regardless of religion or ethnicity. 

We hol- — we want to hold them to that.

Q    And on India.  As the president concludes his four-year term, what do you think of the key achievements of India-U.S.’s (inaudible)?

MR. KIRBY:  The president is very proud of the way in which our bilateral relationship with India has transformed during his administration.  I mean, we’ve elevated the Quad now — the Indo-Pacific Quad.  I don’t know how many meetings he’s had now inside the Quad and bilaterally with the — the prime minister. 

There’s an awful lot in our relationship that has improved: military-to-military communication and — and defense security partnerships there in India and in the Indo-Pacific writ large, people-to-people ties, economic ties.  I mean, there’s been an awful lot.

Q    Quick follow-up on — on India.  You mentioned about Quad.  What are the president’s expectations on the coming administration on Quad and other American —

MR. KIRBY:  That’s going to be up to the incoming administration. 

Q    — U2I2 —

MR. KIRBY:  That’s — it’s going to be up to them to determine how they leverage the Indo-Pacific Quad.  We can only speak to the ways President Biden has.

Q    Do you expect there to be the bilateral — sorry, bipartisan support to India’s relationship? 

MR. KIRBY:  Do I expect —

Q    India’s relationship has — has been a bipartisan support — right? — for the — both the sides have supported it.

MR. KIRBY:  I don’t see anything in the future which would indicate a change in that.  There has been strong bipartisan support for growing this bilateral relationship, and I’m — I’m — I would expect that that will continue.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Hey, John. 

MR. KIRBY:  Oh, sorry.

Q    Yeah.  President-elect Trump last night named a new director for the Voice of America: Kari Lake.  Do you think that the president has the authority to name a new director of that news group?

MR. KIRBY:  I understand that there’s — I — I actually don’t — you know what, I — I’m going to — look, I’m — I think I should take the question, because I don’t understand enough about the process there to really weigh in on that.  So, why don’t we take that question?

Q    Could you just react generally to the fact that, you know, this is a nonpartisan agency, and Kari Lake is someone who just ran a Senate campaign?  Just any reaction to the fact that she —

MR. KIRBY:  I — I’m just not going to get into casting judgments on the names that the president-elect is putting forward for various jobs.  That is for him and his team to speak to.

The — but what I can tell you: President Biden and this entire administration — and that includes me, personally — have great respect for Voice of America and the work that they do here and around the world.  We value and we respect that they have an editorial independence, which I think is absolutely vital for them to be able to do their job credibly. 

If you’re going to have the name “Voice of America” on your bumper sticker, then, you know, you can expect that certain people around the world may look askance at that.  But the fact that they are editorially independent and do good, solid reporting on their own, I think, says — speaks volumes about how valuable they are to making sure that the proper news and context and information gets to audiences around the world. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

MR. KIRBY:  I’m very proud of them. 

Q    Hi.  Thanks, Karine.  Thanks, John.  At the top of your remarks, you talked about the administration’s commitment to an independent and sovereign Syria.  And, of course, Israel has sent its forces into the buffer zone adjacent to the Golan Heights and apparently beyond it.  The presence of foreign troops would seem inconsistent with an independent and sovereign Syria.  So, will the administration pressure its ally to withdraw those troops?

MR. KIRBY:  We are in discussions with the Israelis, as you might expect us to be, about their operations there inside that buffer zone and staying in close touch, as Jake did today, with better understanding what their goals and objectives are.

I would tell you — or I would point you to what they have said, which is this is a temporary measure to deal with exigent circumstances and what — what we — and we recognize what they recognize, that there are some legitimate threats that they’re trying to —

Q    Have they given any indication what they mean by “temporary,” given that they’ve been, you know, in occupation of the Golan Heights —

MR. KIRBY:  I think I’d point you to —

Q    — since 1967?

MR. KIRBY:  — the Israelis to speak to their military operations.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead, Jacqui.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  John, on the drones, does the U.S. government have any of its own imagery or video of these systems? 

MR. KIRBY:  I’m not aware that we have U.S.-government-produced imagery ourselves.  But as I said in my opening statement, we have certainly done federal analysis of the existing imagery.

Q    Like from people’s cell phones that we’re seeing? Basically, with what you’re looking at, how can you credibly tell people that there is no public safety threat, there’s no national security threat, that there’s no reason to believe that a foreign government is involved?

MR. KIRBY:  Because the analysis thus far, in an investigation that is ongoing, has not revealed any national security or malicious intent or criminal activity. 

But, Jacqui, I would remind you, we’re at the beginning here, not the end.  There’s a lot more work to be done, and we’re working closely with the state and local authorities to gain more information.

Q    It’s taking them a while.

MR. KIRBY:  I — I would argue that it’s — we’re — we’re moving pretty well here with a sense of energy to try to figure out what we can do to learn more about this.  We’re at — we’re still in the middle of an ongoing investigation, and I’m up here explaining to you and to let you know what we know so far, what we believe so far. 

If information comes to light that changes that characterization, then, my goodness, you know, we’ll be the first ones to let you know.  But right now, there’s just no indication that this is some sort of foreign malign activity or, in fact, even criminal. 

Q    Well, what I don’t understand is — you know, this has been happening since late November.  I don’t know that the law enforcement officials or residents in New York and New Jersey, or even the Democratic senators who wrote to Director Wray, Mayorkas, and the FAA administrator today would think that this has been handled with a sense of urgency. 

But, you know, that being said, has —

MR. KIRBY:  I —

Q    — has the president or the secretary of Defense issued any guidance to NORTHCOM or military installations to act on these systems if they are deemed to be a threat in any way?  And what’s the benchmark for that determination? 

MR. KIRBY:  So, two thoughts.  First of all, you — you’re right, late November.  It is now — what? — the 12th of December.  So, I think it shows that we’re moving on with this and we’re going to stay on it.  So, this — don’t — I want to disabuse you of any notion that we’re not taking this seriously, because we are. 

I can also tell you that if the president, as commander-in-chief, believed — based on the information that he’d been given — that there was a national security threat at play here or even a public safety threat at play here, he would issue the appropriate directives to — to not only law enforcement but perhaps even the military if that was needed. 

I want to go back to something I said at the top: There has been no evidence of any of this activity in or near restricted spaces. 

Q    That’s not what the senators said in the letter.  They said, in fact, that they’ve been observed maneuvering near critical infrastructure, sensitive locations, including reservoirs and military installations, and cited a concern from law enforcement about public safety threats because a medevac helicopter was prevented from transporting a seriously injured patient for care because of the presence of these drones.

MR. KIRBY:  I stand by my opening statement. 

Q    Can you make that make more sense?  Because I think people in New York and New Jersey see drones the size of an SUV over their house every night and think that that doesn’t make any sense. 

MR. KIRBY:  Certainly I understand why people would be looking at this and being concerned about it.  I — we’re concerned about it too, which is why we have the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, my goodness, looking at this, and we’re taking it seriously. 

And we — we understand that people are concerned.  We understand that they got questions.  We got questions too, and we’re working hard to get the answers to that. 

What I can tell you, as we sit here today, you know, at 2:16 in the afternoon on the 12th is we haven’t seen any indication thus far that there’s a public safety risk, and we haven’t seen —

Q    But does anyone in the government know what they are?

MR. KIRBY:  We are still investigating this.  I can’t tell —

Q    So, no.

MR. KIRBY:  — you definitively — I cannot characterize for you definitively what these sightings are.  I can just go back to what I said at the opening: We’ve looked at the imagery.  We can’t corroborate some of the reported sightings through our own expert analysis using sophisticated detection techniques.  But that doesn’t mean that, you know, we’re putting our pen down here this afternoon and calling it a day.  We’re going to keep at this. 

Q    What are you doing though?

MR. KIRBY:  We — we are continuing to investigate it, as I said in my opening statement.  Two federal agencies, as well as United States Coast Guard, and state and local law enforcement officials, which we are staying in close touch with.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Picking up on drones.  Has it reached a level or is there a level determined by which the president or the administration, more directly, would prohibit any use of the airspace — since it is regulated — for drones for a period of time to try to figure out who they are and to remove this anxiety that people in the northeast are feeling?

MR. KIRBY:  I don’t know that we’re at a stage right now where we — where we’re considering that sort of a policy option, but I can tell you that we’re going to keep an open mind here.  And I think we’re going to — whatever policy options we determine are appropriate will be informed by the investigation. 

And thus far in this early stage of the investigation, there’s just no national security threat that we see and no public safety risk. 

So, again, you — you want to be careful that you don’t —

that you — you don’t jump to conclusions and you don’t jump to policy options that may not be appropriate at this particular stage.  But we’ll — we’ll obviously see where it goes and we’ll be informed by investigators. 

Q    One other topic.  With Jake in Israel and issues related to Ukraine and Russia, the Middle East, and so forth, with 40 days to go, do you feel that the Biden foreign policy team is in a — cooperate with a very vocal president-elect who is talking about these issues to — to achieve the aims that you have?  Or do you view it as this is really your negotiation to have, whether it’s in Israel, whether it’s with Ukraine?  Is it coordination, competition?  How would you describe —

MR. KIRBY:  I would say consultation.  We are keeping the incoming Trump team fully aware and read in of not only what we’re doing but what we’re thinking about doing so that — that they — there’s nothing they should see in the public domain — nothing I’m saying here, nothing Jake said in Israel — that would surprise them, that we’re keeping them fully informed. 

Q    And has the president or members of this administration asked the president-elect to pull back from public statements or phone calls or anything that might impinge on what you’re trying to do? 

MR. KIRBY:  Not that I’m aware of.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.  Final question.  Go ahead.

Q    What do you make of reports that were out today that Austin Tice was seen alive at a prison in Damascus in 2022?

MR. KIRBY:  I think I’ve answered this before.  I just don’t have — I — I’ve seen that press reporting.  I — I don’t have any information to verify that reporting, and I certainly don’t have anything today that gives us a sense of his whereabouts right now.

Q    I’m asking, though, because the Israelis bombed that facility over the weekend.  And so, I’m wondering if there are any conversations with the Israelis about, you know, maybe avoiding targets where Austin Tice or other prisoners might be held? 

MR. KIRBY:  We’re — we’re — as I said earlier, it’s a full-court press to get more information about Austin, and we are actively in touch with interlocutors and counterparts throughout the region, and that includes Israel. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  All right.  Thank you so much. 

MR. KIRBY:  Thank you, Karine.

Q    Thank you, John.

Q    Thanks, John.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Before we continue, I was asked by one of my colleagues to — to flag Rodney’s sweater.  (Laughter.)  The amazing Christmas gear you got going on, sir, and the tie and all of it.  It looks good. 

Q    Thank you.  Thank you so much.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  And I hear that you — this is a normal thing during the season. 

Q    Yeah.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  All right.  (Laughter.)

That’s why he’s — this is why he’s behind the camera.  (Laughs.)  He’s like — he’s like —

Q    Aw —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  No, I meant that nicely!

Q    No, no.  She’s right.  (Laughter.)

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I meant that really nicely.  He’s like, “Please don’t talk to me.”  (Laughs.)  That’s what I meant.  I meant “Don’t talk to me.”

Q    (Inaudible.)  (Laughter.)

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I appreciate you, Rodney.  Thank you for what you do.

Q    Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  With that — jeez.  Tough crowd. 

Colleen.

Q    Thank you.  So, let’s see.  On the pardons. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yes.

Q    I wondered if — you know, there’s been a couple categorical pardons — or categorical, I guess, grants of clemency by the president.  So, I wondered if we could expect more of those sort of categorical pardons, in particular related to the death penalty, which, you know, the president had said during the campaign trail in 2020 he wanted to get rid of.  And, you know, I know it’s paused, but it isn’t gone.  And there’s, I think, 40 people on federal death row.  The president-elect, you know, has made no secret of his — his desire to continue the death penalty. 

So, you know, wondering about that and any other possible categorical ones. 

Sorry to interrupt you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.  So, I will say that during the president’s remaining weeks — and he said this in his statement overnight, and I said it at the top as well — that we’re going to continue to — he’s going to continue to talk to his team to review any steps that he’s going to be taking. 

He wants to take additional steps, obvi- — obviously, to — to provide meaningful second chances.  This is what this is all about when you look at the — what — the actions that the president not just took today but over, certainly, the last four years. 

And so, they’re going to continue to review clemency petitions, he and his team, in normal course.  And certainly, further — they want to further the criminal justice reforms in a manner that advances equity and justice; promotes public safety; supports rehab and re-entry, which is all the things that I said at the top; and provides, again, meaningful second chances. 

So, when we have more to share, we certainly will update all of you.  But I think if you look at what the president has done over the past four years, as I just — just laid out, granting — in addition to what he talked — what we announced today — granting 21 pardons, 122 commutations, he has certainly done more in — than his last four predecessors at this point in their first term. 

And so, the president takes this very, very seriously and is going to review all options and, especially, as you stated, clemency petitions as we, you know, close out these final — final few weeks.

Q    On pardons still.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Sure.

Q    We had a poll yesterday that just about 2 in 10 Americans approved of President Biden’s decision to pardon his son.  In particular, they were troubled by the fact that he’d gone back on his word.  So, I wondered what the president’s message is to those Americans. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I mean, I’d just go back to his statement that he put out 12 days ago, I think, now — that Sunday.  And I think that last paragraph where he talks really, truly directly to the American people about this decision that he’s made, obviously, as president, as a father. 

But I would say more broadly, you know, legal experts — you’ve heard me say this — you’ve heard from legal experts, specifically an analyst, former U.S. a- — U.S. attorneys from across the country, who have said — and they have all agreed no one would be criminally prosecuted with felony offenses with these facts — the underlying facts that we have — certainly, have gone back and forth on. 

And I have quoted many times, and I’ll do this again, the former attorney general, Eric Holder, who said, “No U.S. attorney would have charged this case given the underlying facts.  Had his name been Joe Smith, the resolution would have been fundamentally and, more fairly, a declination.  Pardon warranted.” 

And so, I think the actions that the president took today, the actions that he’s taken over the last four years when it comes to clemency, I think, shows the president’s commitment when it comes to reforming — trying to reform the criminal justice system and his — obviously, his commitment to that but, also, giving people a second chance. 

And so, you know, I think that — as it relates to the American people, I think that — I understand that you had this poll, and I get that, but I hope that they will understand the decision that he made and — and, you know — and what he’s going to continue to do in these closing weeks as president. 

Q    Do you think he should apologize based on what the polling found?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  What I think is — I think the president hopes that the American people hear him out.  Again, going to that last part of his statement — and I feel that I should continue to reiterate that the American f- — American people out there should take a look at the president’s own words, his statement, how much he wrestled with that decision, and how circumstances did indeed change for him and his view. 

And I quoted many times what Congressman Clyburn said when he spoke to the president two weeks prior — how the president was indeed reticent in making this decision.

And when he saw that Republicans weren’t going to let up, when he s- — you know, we talked about the recently announced Trump appointees for law enforcement who have said themselves that they were going to seek retribution, and there was no reason to not take them by their word.  The sentencing was coming up.  

All of these pieces certainly led to circumstancing — circumstances changing, and so he made a very difficult decision.  And I just hope that in time — in due time, the American people will — will see why he made this decision to move forward.  

In the meantime, I think this announcement — the statement from the president, this announcement today that we’re making: 15- — nearly 1,500 people getting this — their commutation —   I think it’s important.  I think it’s important about second chances, giving people second chances.

And — and so, that’s what the president certainly is going to continue to focus on.

Go ahead.

Q    Thanks.  Different than commuting a sentence, though, or pardoning someone who has been convicted of a crime, there was conversation at one point about the idea of preemptive pardons for somebody who hasn’t been convicted yet but who might be a target of the incoming Trump administration.  Is that still on the table?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I’m not going to get ahead of the president.  As I said, we’ll have more — the president will have more to announce over the upcoming — upcoming weeks as we are — close out our time here.  

I’m not going to get into the president’s thinking.  He’s going to have conversations with his team.  He’s going to review clemency petitions.  He’s going to review options on the table.

And so, I’m — that’s where I’m going to leave it.  

And I think, you know, 1,500 individuals, as you all know, who are — who were placed on home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic and who have successfully reintegrated into their families and communities — and also pardoning 39 individuals –is — is a big deal.  

I think it’s important to those individuals and their families and their communities.  As I’ve said, they’ve rein- — -integrated into — into those really important pieces of their lives, and I think that’s really important — and just building on what the president has done over the past four years.

And I think that’s — I think those — today, I think it’s a good day for many of those folks who deserve that second chance and who have proven — proven to — to be able to take that on.  

Q    Absolutely.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    Some of the names that have been floated around preemptive pardons, though — since it would just be such an unusual, extraordinary step — we’ve talked about — in the news, we’ve seen Liz Cheney, Dr. Fauci, Mark Milley —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  You’re talking about the preemptive pardoning?

Q    Right.  I understand you don’t want to get ahead of the president’s thinking, but are any of those names wrong?  Still — can you tell —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I’m just —

Q    I mean, do you want to tell us anything about —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I — it would be a bad move on my — on my — on my behalf if I preempted the president or previewed anything that the president was thinking about, considering.  And so, this is a — this is something that he’s going to talk with his team about.  And — and I just don’t have anything beyond that for you.  

Again, I think today is a very important day, as we talk about the criminal justice system, as we talk about giving people who have shown that they can reintegrate into their community, back into their families, a second chance.  I think that’s a big deal, and I think that shows the president’s commitment to this.  

And, you know, the president talks a lot about what this country has to offer and possibilities, and you see that in every — every action that the president certainly has taken when it comes to this issue and so many other policies that he’s put forward.

Go ahead.

Q    So, Karine — 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    — I keep asking you this question.  I’m going to ask it one more time.  

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    You have been working on an Islamophobia — or an — a strategy to counter Islamophobia that would partner with the strategy that you’ve already released to countering antisemitism.  We’ve been waiting for it for a long time.  

Do you have any further updates on when that could be released?  Do you anticipate it coming before the end of the year?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I would say: Stay tuned.  This is obviously something that we’re very committed to when it comes to protecting communities across this country.  

You saw that in our antisemitism strategy, and obviously we’ve been talking about this Islamophobia strategy as well — or talking about coming up with a way forward in protecting communities.  Certainly, that’s the President’s commitment.

I don’t have anything to share right now at this moment, at the — at this podium, behind this lectern.  But I would say: Stay tuned.

Q    Given — given the former president’s ban on entry from — for people from Muslim-majority countries — also known as the Muslim ban — at the beginning of his term —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Which — which we — you know, which we repealed and dealt with that very early on.

Q    No, I understand.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    But there were — you know, there were many, many people on no-fly lists.  And there still are some people on no-fly lists. 

You know, do you — is there any preemptive action that the administration can take to guard against that kind of, you know, mass move again this time?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Well, you know where the president stands on this in this administration.  

I don’t have any policy announcement to share with you at this time.  And so, I’ll just leave it there.

Q    All right.  And then, just on the pardons and clemency acts.  You know, numerous groups have sort of asked the administration to go even further, to be even more bold in terms of saying that there’s something like 9,000 addition- — additional petitioners, some of whom are chronically ill, some who are aging, some have very young children.

Can you — I know that you are still reviewing these things, but can you say something about the scale?  I mean, is this the sort of the — you know, is this the big move that we’re going to see and then we’ll see sort of individual pardons coming forward?  Or will there — you know, do you anticipate that there could be another larger-scale move?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I’m not going to get into the strategy.  I’m not going to get into numbers.  I’m not going to get into what the president is currently thinking through.  Not something that I’m going to do from here.

But I don’t want people to forget — and I said this at the top, and I just want to reiterate — we’re talking about Americans who — receiving relief who are decorated military veterans, a nurse who has led response for a number of natural disasters, and an addiction counselor who volunteers his time to help young people.  And that’s just naming a few.

And so, that is important to note, because these are the folks that we’re talking about, who are, again, reintegrating back into their communities in a way that’s effective, in a way that’s incredibly important, giving them second chances.  

And let’s not forget all of the other ways that the president has been able to give second chances to Americans over the past almost four years when he has made these types of important decisions.   So, I’m not going to preview.  I’m not going to get ahead of this president.   It would not be wise for me to do so, because he has to make those final — that final decisions, and he has to review what’s in front of him with his team.  

Q    And I just want to — one more real quick.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Sure.  Sure.

Q    There’s anniversary coming up on Saturday for the Sandy Hook shooting, and I know that this is something that’s very near and dear to the president.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah, obviously.  Yeah. 

Q    Is he planning any kind of action or — or statement? 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, don’t have anything for you.  As you know, we think — during his presidency and, I think, over the past couple of years, even before his presidency, he’s spoken to this day — this tragic, tragic day.  

And you’re right, this is — when it comes to Sandy Hook and any devastating, horrific events like we saw on that day and — you know, the president has always speak — spoken out to it.   This is a president that understands loss, understands what that means to a family, understands what that means to a community.  And Sandy Hook was one of those moments that tore us apart.  

If — I think if you think about that moment and, I think, if you are just a human and you remember that day, it is a heartbreaking, heartbreaking moment.  And obviously our hearts go out to the families and certainly their loved ones who are still dealing with — every year, dealing — dealing with a difficult moment, a difficult anniversary.  And so, I know the president thinks about them almost every day.

And I don’t have anything to — to read out to you on how we’re going to be acknowledging that day, but I’m sure you’ll be continuing to hear from this president.  

Go ahead.

Q    Thank you.  You talk about the clemency actions as historic — the “big deal,” as you called them earlier — and a real relief that is being brought to human individuals by the actions the president has taken.   So, in terms of sequencing, how did he come to the decision to pardon his son before these individuals?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, I think we’ve gone back and forth on — on how he made that decision.  The president obviously — as I — as I said, the president put a statement out 12 days ago, made that decision over that weekend. 

It was a decision that he wrestled with.  I think we’ve talked about the — the politics around this, the decision that he made.  He put out a pretty comprehensive statement.  I’ve mentioned Congressman Clyburn’s — his own words, saying that the president, even two weeks before he had made that decision, was reticent in doing so.  And he wrestled this, and I — as I have said many times: For him, there were consequences that changed his decision.  I just laid that out moments ago. 

Q    But this action pending —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.  Yeah.

Q    — for thousands of individuals —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    — why not bring the relief to them before —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Well, I mean —

Q    — announcing the pardon on his son?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  — and I was about to get to your question.  This is — what you see today, that was far from this being his first — right? — I think we can’t forget that — his first pardon or act of clemency. 

He has issued more — more — we cannot forget this — more sentence commutations at this point in his presidency than any other recent predecessors at this — at the same point of their first term.  And so — and I talked about what he was able to do in April when he issued historic categorical pardons as well to address marijuana possession convictions and military convictions in the LGBTQ+ community.   These are actions that this president has taken.

And, again, today is historic, but he has been taking these types of actions for some time now.  This is far from the first pardon that the president has taken.  

We’ve gone back and forth.  I’ve laid out what the president is thinking.  He has talked about it directly in a statement in his own voice to all of you about 12 days ago. 

And so, I don’t have anything beyond that, but we can’t look at today as being only the first action that he’s taken.  He’s taken many actions to try and deal with giving an opportunity to people who have shown that they deserve a second chance, giving them an opportunity to have that second chance.  

Q    Anita Dunn, who was for a very long time the senior-most communications aide here at the White House, has been very critical of the president’s decision to pardon his son.  She called it extraordinarily bad timing.   She said it was clear that the White House was “not part of this process.”   And she called the president’s rationale “an attack on the judicial system.” 

She goes, “The argument is one that I think many observers are concerned about.  A president who ran to restore the rule of law, who has upheld the rule of law, who has really defended the rule of law kind of saying, ‘Well, maybe not right now.’”

How would you respond to that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I will respond in this way.  She also agreed that Hunter Biden, and I quote, “absolutely” deserved a pardon.   Those — “deserved a pardon” is her own words.  So, she supported that action and —

Look, I don’t want to take away the record that the president has made on providing the most individual commutations in a single — in a single day, and I think that matters.  And he’ll certainly have more news to share in this — in this area — in the clemency space, obviously, in the near future.  And we’ll have more to share and certainly more to speak to.

Q    Was she right that the White House was boxed out of the process —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I — I —

Q    — in reaching that decision?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  What I can say is that I would obviously continue to refer you to the president’s statement 12 days ago.  He laid out his thought process, I think, in a very comprehensive way.  We’ve go- — we’ve gone back and forth here about how the circums- — circumstances had changed, but I — let’s not forget that she also said that Hunter Biden “absolutely” deserved a pardon, and I think that matters as well. 

Q    Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  What was President Biden’s reaction to FBI director Christopher Wray’s decision to step down?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  What I will say is that the president ap- — certainly appreciates the service of Christopher Wray, the FBI director, and — and all that he has done to — in his role.  I don’t have anything more to say beyond that.  Certainly, he wishes the FBI director well. 

Q    Was the president disappointed that Wray is not going to be serving his full —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I don’t have any —

Q    — 10-year term?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I don’t have anything else to share besides the service that the FBI director has been able to provide, and he respects his service.  And I don’t — don’t have anything beyond that.  

Q    Has President Biden spoken to FBI Director Wray since the director made that announcement, or was the White House given a heads-up about the decision?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I would say that I don’t have anything to share of a conversation between the FBI director and the president since this decision was — was made, but the president is grateful — is grateful for the director’s service to our country.  And I just don’t have anything else beyond that to share. 

Go ahead, Kelly O.

Q    Can you — given the breadth of the pardons, can you describe a little bit about the president’s process?  Did he read into the individual cases?  Did he accept a list from those who were working on this on his behalf?  How much did he personally dive into particular stories?  And did he decline on any of the ones brought to him for this time?  Or was it sort of a big package presented to the president?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, I’m not going to go into step by step of this process.

What I can say is this is a president who certainly takes this very seriously, understands the importance of when an individual is able to show that they can reconnect with their community, reconnect with their family, be — be part of a community in a way that I just laid out — when you think about military veteran, when you think about a nurse that’s been very helpful in disaster response — he takes that all into account.  He wants to make sure that — that there are specific criterias that are made, if you will. 

In this case, y- — the Bureau of Prisons, obviously, was very involved in the — in wh- — in looking at — when I say “very involved,” when they made the decision on — on the home confinement of these folks.  And so, obviously, that is a big part of it too. 

And, look, they’ve all des- — demonstrated good behavior, have shown that incarceration and at-home confinement has been successful in their rehabilitation.  And those are all important criterias to look at. 

But this is something, obviously, his team reviews.  It’s presented to the president.  He makes this decision on how to move forward. 

I’m not going to get into the nitty-gritty, but these are important facts that I just laid out to, certainly, look at when you think about getting — again, getting back into the community and showing — showing that, you know, it is — it is meaningful to get that second chance because what these individuals have been able to do.

Go ahead, Annie.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  On the pardons today, can you say whether the president has signed all the paperwork and it’s completely finalized with his signature on it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.  Well, my assumption is that we — this is ready to go, since we made the announcement and that we’ve announced it, obviously, overnight.  And so, this is ready to go, and we’re moving forward.  We wouldn’t have made this announcement if we weren’t.  And so, that’s what I could speak to. 

This is something that the president has decided on, and we’re taking, certainly, the steps to make this happen.

Q    (Inaudible) be able to say sort of precisely when he signed it?  Or maybe (inaudible.)

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I — I don’t have specifics on signature — when — when it was signed, how the process even works. 

I know that we just made announcement, obviously, overnight on — on this, really — you know, this granted clemency of nearly 1,500 people.  I think that’s a big deal.  Thirty-nine individuals are — were, certainly, pardoned, were — who were convicted of nonviolent crimes.  And I think this is important to — to just not forget. 

But I don’t have the specifics of the process or how it works.  But, obviously, it’s out there, and we’re moving forward with it.

Q    And then one other thing.  You had been asked several times about whether Hunter Biden would receive a pardon and responded to that question.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    In that vein, can you tell me whether the president is considering a pardon for his son [brother] James Biden?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Look, what I can speak to is the p- — the president made that decision — right? — about Hunter Biden.  He put it in — in his own words.  I don’t have anything to share beyond that.  What I can say is: Not that I’m aware of, but I just don’t have anything else beyond that. 

And the president, certainly, is going to — as it — more broadly speaking, as we move forward to the next couple of weeks, he obviously is going to review with his team about other clemency decisions, and they’re taking additional steps.  And so, that’s what I can speak to at this time.

Go ahead, Zolan.

Q    Thank you.  During the past clemency actions you were talking about, it seemed like most of the time the recipients were nonviolent, you know, drug offenders — low-level drug crimes.  There were a couple recipients here, though — I mean, a judge who participated in a scheme that sent juveniles to for-profit jails; Medicare fraud; you know, real estate fraud.

I guess what I’m wondering is, was the crime that was committed also part of the criteria here?  Or was it the mere fact where, if you were somebody on home confinement — despite the crime you committed, but just the fact that you were on home confinement — you received a commutation? 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, they’re two different things, right?  There is the 1,500 folks who — who were placed on home confinement during COVID —

Q    The examples I listed are part of the 1,500.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Oh, th- — okay. 

Q    Yeah.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I didn’t know, because I — because those are commutation, right?  So, I didn’t know.  So —

Q    S- — those are commutations, right.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  So, you were saying “pardoned,” so I just wanted to make sure of that. 

Q    Yeah.  To clarify —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  Yes.

Q    — those examples I listed are —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Are the fif- —

Q    — part of the 1,500 that received commutations.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  Okay.  Because, as you know, there were 39 people who were — who were pardoned.  So, two different things, so I just want to make sure we were on the same page. 

So, this is definitely related to the home confinement from COVID.  Let’s not forget, there was the CARE[S] Act of 2020, right?  This is all connected, certainly, to that.  And that’s — those are the individuals who were — again, who had home confinement and they successfully reintegrated into their families, into their communities.  And that’s the group of people — that category, if you will — that we were looking at.

Q    But — but —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    Like, if they — just the fact that they were on home confinement, they received a commutation here?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  No, no, no.  Because —

Q    Was there — did you factor —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  There was —

Q    — in any — like, in the process, do you also factor in the individual cases and the individual crimes that were committed?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Well, I think what’s important is that they were successfully able to reintegrate into their communities and back into their families, right?  They showed that having a second chance is something that they should be given, right?  And so, that is what’s important. 

That — let’s not forget that — the successfully reintegrating.  And I think that’s a huge factor.  That matters as well.  The home confinement, obviously, those — that’s the category that they — that they were in during that CARE[S] Act of 2020.  They were — they — as you know, there was a decision because of COVID-19 pandemic to move forward, back in 2020, before the president was, obviously, in office.

And these folks, this 1,500 that we’re talking about — the nearly 1,500, were able to successfully reintegrate.  And I think that’s a criteria that we can’t forget.  And that’s a criteria that’s incredibly important here as the president made his decision. 

Q    And to follow up on —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    — I think, Kelly’s question.  Just, I know you don’t want to go step by step in the process —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    — but c- — can we say accurately that the president reviewed, looked at any of these applications?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  What I can say is this president made this decision.  This is the president that made the decision to move forward on this. 

Q    What was his involvement, though?  Did they present him the applications and he said yes, or —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I mean, obviously the president was presented from his team the — th- — granting the clemency — right? — of these approximately 1,500 Americans and also the 39 that he pardoned.  He was presented that by his team, and he made the decision.

This is a — this would not have happened — we cannot forget: This would not have happened if the president didn’t sign off on it, if the president didn’t decide to move forward. 

And we can’t forget what the president has done.  We’re talking about the — let’s not forget the past.  Yes, we’re talking about today, but we can’t forget the president has also done 122 commutations, 21 pardons before this.  We can’t forget that the president issued — issued categorical pardons for LGBTQ+ service members convicted because of their sexual orientation or identity — gender identity and individuals charged with simply possession of marijuana.  This is — and he just did that back in April. 

So, the president has certainly taken action to show the importance of giving Americans second chances, and this is a continuation.  This is not just a one-day thing.  This is a continuation of the person — of the president taking clemency and giving people second chances very, very seriously and understanding how much that means to families and, certainly, communities.

Go ahead.

Q    Yeah.  Has the president called any of the people he granted pardons to?  Do you have anything to read out on that front?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  No.  It’s a good question.  I don’t have

anything to read out on the president calling any — any of the 15- nearly 1,500 people or 39 folks that he was able to — to pardon today.  I just don’t have anything to share.

Q    And is he planning a farewell address at some point?  Is there something in the works?  Do you know where it might be, when it might be? 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, I don’t — we’ll certainly have more to share what the next — the last couple of weeks, last couple of days of the president’s administration will look like, if he’s going to be giving any big speeches or giving any important remarks as he — as he ends his presidency. 

I don’t have anything right now in this moment, but I would say stay tuned.  We’ll have a lot more to share as to what January post-holiday will look like. 

Go ahead.  I know — go ahead.  I know I was supposed to call on you and I didn’t.

Q    Thank you.  Back to Austin Tice —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.

Q    — with apologies.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  No.  No apologies.  (Laughter.)  That’s an important — no, no.  It’s important.  No apologies.

Q    So, I believe it was last Friday when the family of Austin Tice said that they had spoken to officials here at the White House. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.  They met with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan at the end of last week, yes.

Q    And then they had a statement at the National Press Club, where they said that they had been told from a reliable source — we assume Sullivan — that — that Austin was alive and that he was being treated well. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    So, now we don’t know any of that.  So, what — how did that — where did they get that information?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, look, I’m going to let the family speak for themselves.  I can’t e- — can’t even imagine what they’re going through.  I don’t want to imagine what they’re going through.  I know this has been a difficult time for them.

But what I can say is, when it comes to Austin Tice, this is a top priority for this president.  He said that himself.  And there is no indication that he is not alive, but there’s also no indication about his location or condition. 

And so, what our goal is is to bring him home.  And so, we hope, certainly, that he is alive. 

And — and as we have stated many times before, we are talking through the — through — through this with the Turks, and we want to do everything that we can to bring him home.  It is a top priority for this president and this administration, and that’s how we’re going to continue to move forward on this. 

All right, everybody. 

Q    Will there be further —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Oh, go ahead.

Q    Will there be further meetings between now and the end of this administration?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Well, as you know, this administration, including the national security advisor, Jake Sullivan, has met with many family members of — of Americans who are wrongfully detained, held hostage.  That is something — and also the president has done this as well.  The national security advisor, as I just mentioned, just met with Austin Tice’s family just this past week — this past week. 

And so, we’re c- — we’re going to continue to certainly stay engaged and in touch. 

I don’t have any meetings to preview for you at this time, but we’ve been pretty con- — pretty consistent in staying in touch with these families.

Again, I — our hearts go out to them.  Our hearts go out to them as they are dealing with an incredibly, incredibly difficult time.

All right.  Thanks, everybody.

Q    Thank you.

P.M. EST

The post Press Briefing by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby appeared first on The White House.

Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is granting clemency consisting of 39 pardons and 1,499 commutations.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is pardoning the following 39 individuals:

NINA SIMONA ALLEN – Harvest, Alabama
Nina Simona Allen is a 49-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent offense in her 20s. In the years since, Ms. Allen returned to school to earn a post-baccalaureate degree and two master’s degrees. She now works in the field of education. Ms. Allen strengthens her community by volunteering at a local soup kitchen and at a nursing home. Ms. Allen is described by people who know her as a dependable, hardworking woman of integrity.

KELSIE LYNN BECKLIN – Falcon Heights, Minnesota
Kelsie Lynn Becklin is a 38-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense at the age of 21. After successfully serving her sentence, Ms. Becklin has furthered her education and recently completed a Ph.D. program. In addition to her graduate program research and academic writing, Ms. Becklin mentors previously incarcerated individuals who also seek to pursue higher education. She is also an active volunteer in her community. Friends and professors attest to her work ethic, dedication, and genuine care for others.

DURAN ARTHUR BROWN – Cleveland, Ohio
Duran Arthur Brown is a 44-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. Mr. Brown received early termination of his probationary sentence and has advanced his education and maintained consistent employment in the field of education. Mr. Brown is also a veteran of the U.S. Navy, and during his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and several other medals and awards. Following his honorable discharge, Mr. Brown served in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He is described by colleagues as caring and compassionate.

NORMAN O’NEAL BROWN – Washington, DC
Norman O’Neal Brown is a 56-year-old man who was convicted of non-violent drug offenses when he was 22 years old. If Mr. Brown had been sentenced under current law and today’s sentencing practices, he likely would have received a shorter sentence. After serving over 20 years in prison, President Obama commuted his sentence in 2015. Since then, Mr. Brown has worked with several non-profit organizations, including those focused on rehabilitation, reentry, and justice-impacted youth. Mr. Brown volunteers at several national and community-based organizations that help support incarcerated and formerly-incarcerated people and serves as a board member for a non-profit dedicated to sentencing reform. Family members and colleagues describe Mr. Brown as a man of grace and integrity and an exceptional human being.

ARTHUR LAWRENCE BYRD – Clinton, Maryland
Arthur Lawrence Byrd is a 58-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses at the age of 23. In the years since, Mr. Byrd has been employed as an equipment operator, where he has received various certificates in recognition and appreciation for his work and safety record. He is also active in his church community and contributes to the church’s coat drive and food pantry. People who know him attest to his willingness to help others, his work ethic, and his character.

SARAH JEAN CARLSON – Coon Rapids, Minnesota
Sarah Jean Carlson is a 49-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. She received early termination of her probationary sentence. Since then, she has furthered her education and worked in addiction counseling at a faith-based rehabilitation center. Ms. Carlson also volunteers in her local community and at her church. Community members emphasize that Ms. Carlson goes above and beyond to help as many people in crisis as possible.

BRANDON SERGIO CASTROFLAY – Alexandria, Virginia
Brandon Sergio Castroflay is a 49-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent, drug-related offenses at age 21. After successfully completing his sentence, Mr. Castroflay continued his career in the U.S. Army and then went on to work as a civilian for both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force. Mr. Castroflay received multiple awards related to his work. He also took night classes to earn a bachelor’s degree while also working full-time. Mr. Castroflay volunteers for several charitable organizations that support Gold Star families and wounded service members. Mr. Castroflay has been described as exceptionally hard working, dedicated, and trustworthy by those who know him.

ROSETTA JEAN DAVIS – Colville, Washington
Rosetta Jean Davis is a 60-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent drug offenses. After successfully serving her sentence, Ms. Davis has maintained steady employment, including by working as a peer supporter for those struggling with substance abuse. Colleagues, family, friends, and neighbors all speak highly of her, citing her hard work, dependability, and willingness to serve as an example of rehabilitation to those with criminal records or who are battling addiction.

STEVONI WELLS DOYLE – Santaquin, Utah
Stevoni Wells Doyle is a 47-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses at the age of 24. After her conviction, she completed a master’s program and has worked as a licensed substance use disorder counselor. She volunteers in her community and fosters animals. Community members describe her as a great mentor and a person of integrity.

GREGORY S. EKMAN – Fountain Valley, California
Gregory S. Ekman is a 58-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense at the age of 25. After successfully serving his sentence, Mr. Ekman has maintained consistent employment and has engaged in extensive community service, including with a youth group and with his local church. Friends and associates uniformly praise his character, honesty, and dedication to family. During his U.S. Air Force service, Mr. Ekman received the Training Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, and Air Force Longevity Service Award.

SHANNAN RAE FAULKNER – Muldrow, Oklahoma
Shannan Rae Faulkner is a 56-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense. After successfully serving her sentence, she furthered her education and now works as a counselor and recovery coach with female trauma victims and people with disabilities. Ms. Faulkner also volunteers with organizations dedicated to preventing sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as with local charities. Colleagues attest to her inspirational character, her integrity, and the remarkable impact she makes on the lives of those she helps.

TRYNITHA FULTON – New Orleans, Louisiana
Trynitha Fulton is a 46-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses she committed when she was 23 years old. Since her conviction, she has earned a master’s degree and worked in the education field. Ms. Fulton also contributes to her community by coaching and volunteering, including for an organization that feeds homeless individuals. She also founded two non-profits dedicated to supporting and helping youth. Ms. Fulton has been described as someone who goes above and beyond for her community.

PAUL JOHN GARCIA – Las Vegas, New Mexico
Paul John Garcia is a 72-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent theft offenses. Since his conviction, he has maintained steady employment in the medical field. Mr. Garcia engages in community service, including with a charity supporting and mentoring youth. Mr. Garcia is a veteran who served in the U.S. Navy, where he received the National Defense Service Medal and other medals and awards. He is known for his extraordinary and compassionate delivery of patient care and his volunteerism.

KIM DOUGLAS HAMAN – Lima, Ohio
Kim Douglas Haman is a 75-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses. Mr. Haman is also a veteran of the U.S. Army, where he served in the Vietnam War and earned awards, including the U.S. Army Commendation Medal and the Bronze Star. He was honorably discharged. After his conviction, Mr. Haman worked at a vehicle parts production facility and retired after 16 years of service. Mr. Haman has gained the reputation of being an excellent handyman and a devoted family man who is sincere, honest, and hardworking.

SHERRANDA JANELL HARRIS – Norwalk, Connecticut
Sherranda Janell Harris is a 43-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent drug offense when she was 24 years old. In the years since, Ms. Harris has maintained employment in the finance and real estate fields. Ms. Harris is an engaged parent and spends most of her free time with her child. She is also committed to her church and has taken care of fellow parishioners. Ms. Harris has been described as a role model for young women in her community.

TERENCE ANTHONY JACKSON – Seattle, Washington
Terence Anthony Jackson is a 36-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense he committed when he was 23 years old. If Mr. Jackson had been sentenced under current law and sentencing practices, he would have likely received a shorter sentence. In the years since his release, Mr. Jackson has worked in the legal industry and is pursuing a degree while he works full-time. In addition to studying, Mr. Jackson has volunteered in his community, including as a barber to children in need. He is described by those who know him as dependable and caring and as someone who always tries to help others.

EDWIN ALLEN JONES – Paducah, Kentucky
Edwin Allen Jones is a 60-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent drug offenses. Mr. Jones served in the U.S. Army and achieved the rank of Captain before being honorably discharged. Since successfully completing his sentence, Mr. Jones has had a notable legal career. Mr. Jones also participates in local government and volunteers for addiction recovery groups. Mr. Jones is described by community members as thoughtful, forward thinking, and trustworthy.

JAMAL LEE KING – North Ridgeville, Ohio
Jamal Lee King is a 53-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. Mr. King is a U.S. Army veteran. He received the National Defense Service Medal and several other awards before being honorably discharged. He received early termination of his probationary sentence and has since worked in various jobs. Mr. King contributes to his community through his church and by caring for his elderly neighbors. His community members describe him as trustworthy and honest.

JERRY DONALD MANNING – Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
Jerry Donald Manning is a 70-year-old man who was convicted of non-violent offenses. Mr. Manning received early termination of his probationary sentence and has since advanced his education and career in aviation. He is active in his community, coaching soccer, attending church, and serving as a bible study teacher. Mr. Manning is a veteran of the U.S. Army. While in service, he was awarded a medal during Operation Desert Storm, and was honorably discharged. Friends and colleagues attest to his character, describing him as a good, honest man and a great leader.

HONI LORI MOORE – Rock Springs, Wyoming
Honi Lori Moore is a 46-year-old woman who committed a non-violent drug offense when she was 19 years old. Since her release, she has maintained consistent employment in the mining industry and has furthered her education by earning certificates. Ms. Moore is a member of two charitable organizations and has provided critical support to individuals in need, including fire safety, rescue, and first aid. Friends, neighbors, and colleagues describe Ms. Moore as honest, courageous, trustworthy, and dependable.

EMILY GOOD NELSON – Indianapolis, Indiana
Emily Good Nelson is a 39-year-old woman who was convicted of non-violent drug offenses when she was 19 years old. Since her release, she completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and now works in the healthcare field. She has spoken publicly about drug use and has volunteered as a counselor at an in-patient psychiatric facility. She is described as kind, committed to recovery and helping others, and as someone with tremendous talent and ability.

DENITA NICOLE PARKER – Gaffney, South Carolina
Denita Nicole Parker is a 43-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense when she was in her 20s. Since her conviction, she has been a dedicated parent to her two children and works full-time. Ms. Parker also volunteers with a charitable organization delivering meals at least two to three times per month, organizes donations for the homeless, and buys holiday gifts for children in her community. She and her husband also started a program that feeds approximately 100 families. Friends, work associates, and neighbors describe Ms. Parker as law-abiding, trustworthy, dependable, and dedicated person.

MICHAEL GARY PELLETIER – Augusta, Maine
Michael Gary Pelletier is a 67-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. Mr. Pelletier served in the U.S. Coast Guard for 14 years on active duty, where he participated in more than 790 search and rescue operations and saved 32 lives. He also previously worked with the U.S. Secret Service and received several citations and awards for his meritorious service. He was honorably discharged and later served in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. After his conviction, Mr. Pelletier worked for almost 20 years at a water treatment facility. He volunteered for his county HAZMAT team, assisting first responders at hazardous material spills, accidents, and natural disasters. Additionally, he has grown vegetables for a local soup kitchen and volunteered at an organization supporting wounded veterans and their families. Friends, colleagues, and those who know Mr. Pelletier describe him has honest, dependable, and committed to his country and community.

RUSSELL THOMAS PORTNER – Toutle, Washington
Russell Thomas Portner is a 74-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense. Mr. Portner served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged after earning several decorations, including the Bronze Star. Since his conviction, he married, raised four children, operated a successful business, and developed a reputation for charitable generosity and community service. He is currently a member of several veterans organizations. Neighbors, business associates, and friends describe him as trustworthy, loyal, and as a respected businessperson.

NATHANIEL DAVID REED III – San Antonio, Texas
Nathaniel David Reed III is a 46-year-old man who was convicted of non-violent offenses at the age of 21. He served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years after his conviction, including many overseas deployments, and achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and earned numerous good conduct awards before retiring with an honorable discharge. Mr. Reed has volunteered for numerous causes benefitting both the U.S. Air Force and the civilian community, such as training local firefighters, teaching fire prevention in various settings, and organizing fire prevention weeks. He has also served as a certified sexual assault prevention and response advocate and has used his experience in overcoming the stigma of his conviction to help mentor fellow airmen. Friends, neighbors, and former U.S. Air Force colleagues consistently describe Mr. Reed as highly motivated, reliable, patient, family-oriented, trustworthy, patriotic, dependable, upstanding, honest, hardworking, and personable.

GARY MICHAEL ROBINSON – Redmond, Oregon
Gary Michael Robinson is a 70-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense. Mr. Robinson is a distinguished U.S. Army veteran. During his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal and other awards. He was honorably discharged and served as a reservist for several years. Since his conviction, he has built a successful firefighting and habitat preservation business. He volunteers in his community, gives regularly to charity, and is well-regarded by friends and associates. Mr. Robinson is described by those who know him as honest, trustworthy, and professional.

JOSE ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ – Coral Springs, Florida
Jose Antonio Rodriguez is a 55-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense at the age of 26. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy and received several medals and awards for his service, including the U.S. Navy Achievement Medal. Since his conviction, Mr. Rodriguez has started a family, committed himself to higher education, and has maintained employment in the medical field. Colleagues and friends describe Mr. Rodriguez as compassionate, empathetic, and dedicated to treating patients.

PATRICE CHANTE SELLERS – Bear, Delaware
Patrice Chante Sellers is a 49-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense when she was in her 20s. If Ms. Sellers had been sentenced under current law and sentencing practice, she likely would not have been prosecuted federally. Since her conviction, Ms. Sellers enrolled in school, earning multiple certifications and licenses. She gives back to her community by donating clothing and toiletries to a transitional housing program and offering encouragement to its residents. Community members describe Ms. Sellers as someone who goes above and beyond for others.

AUDREY DIANE SIMONE (AUDREY CLARK) – Prescott, Wisconsin
Audrey Diane Simon is a 63-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent offense. In the years since, Ms. Simon has worked in the field of addiction recovery and earned a bachelor’s degree and a permanent counseling license. She also contributes to her community through her church where she serves as a deacon and works in the church’s prison ministry. Community members describe her as inspirational, trustworthy, positive, and caring.

JAMES RUSSELL STIDD – Groveport, Ohio
James Russell Stidd is a 79-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense at the age of 20. After his conviction, he served in the U.S. Air Force until he was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant. He reenlisted and served another four years, including during the Vietnam War, and was honorably discharged at the rank of Staff Sergeant. Upon being honorably discharged, Mr. Stidd worked as a contractor and as a road and park maintenance worker. He has participated in various charitable activities through his church and is a member of a disabled veterans organization. Mr. Stidd is described as a man of integrity and honor.

DIANA BAZAN VILLANUEVA – La Grange, Illinois
Diana Bazan Villanueva is a 51-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent drug offense in her 20s. In the years since, Ms. Villanueva has been a dedicated mother to her children and has worked in payroll and accounts. Ms. Villanueva also regularly volunteers at school events, fundraisers, and annual autism-related charitable events. Friends and coworkers uniformly praise Ms. Villanueva and describe her as warm, reliable, and always eager to help.

LASHAWN MARRVINIA WALKER – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Lashawn Marrvinia Walker is a 51-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent drug offenses in her 20s. Ms. Walker received early termination of her probationary sentence for her exemplary probation record. Since then, Ms. Walker has worked in the healthcare field, is an engaged parent, and regularly assists others in her community, including during the holidays when she helps serve dinner at a retirement home. People in her community describe Ms. Walker as caring, good-hearted, and responsible. They also note her willingness to meaningfully help others.

MIREYA AIMEE WALMSLEY – La Porte, Texas
Mireya Aimee Walmsley is a 57-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent offense at the age of 25. Since her conviction, she has earned an associate’s degree, a nursing license, and a bachelor’s degree. She has maintained steady employment in the healthcare field. Additionally, she has led emergency response teams during several natural disasters (including Hurricanes Katrina, Ike, and Harvey, and Tropical Storm Allison) and spearheaded vaccination efforts during the H1N1 epidemic and COVID-19 pandemic. Her contributions to public health have been recognized on numerous occasions. She has been commended for her loyalty, integrity, compassion for people of all backgrounds, and is universally described as honest and steadfast in crisis.

KIMBERLY JO WARNER – Portville, New York
Kimberly Jo Warner is a 54-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. Since her conviction, Ms. Warner earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees and works in the healthcare field. She has volunteered at a non-profit that provides therapeutic services to veterans and first responders and serves as a mentor. She also participates in the Gold Star Wives Program and speaks at the local veterans organization meetings. Ms. Warner has been described as positive, empathetic, caring, and nurturing by those who know her.

JOHNNIE EARL WILLIAMS – Denver, Colorado
Johnnie Earl Williams is a 58-year-old man who was convicted of a non-violent offense. In the years since, Mr. Williams has worked as a criminal justice specialist and addiction counselor. He gives back to his community through volunteering and serving in his church. Mr. Williams has received many awards for his charitable work, including an award that honors individuals who work with young men of color. Community members describe Mr. Williams as honest, loyal, and compassionate.

SHAWNTE DOROTHEA WILLIAMS – Columbia, South Carolina
Shawnte Dorothea Williams is a 45-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense in her 20s. In the years since, Ms. Williams has been steadily employed in several fields. Ms. Williams is involved in her community, working in her church’s food pantry and serving as a greeter on Sunday mornings. Ms. Williams has been described by those who know her as a loyal and dependable community member.

LASHUNDRA TENNEAL WILSON – Arlington, Texas
Lashundra Tenneal Wilson is a 49-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense she committed when she was a teenager. In the years since, Ms. Wilson pursued her education and has worked in the healthcare field. Ms. Wilson gives back to the community by volunteering at community health fairs and raising funds for non-profit health organizations. Ms. Wilson has been praised for her work ethic, trustworthiness, and dependability by community members.

LORA NICOLE WOOD – Maxwell, Nevada
Lora Nicole Wood is a 39-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense when she was 19 years old. Since her release, Ms. Wood has maintained steady employment and is an engaged parent. She has spent time volunteering with animal welfare and canine therapy service organizations and has organized food drives and fundraisers. Ms. Wood has been praised her work ethic, devotion to her children, and volunteer endeavors.

JAMES EDGAR YARBROUGH – Arlington, Tennessee
James Edgar Yarbrough is a 79-year-old man who was convicted of non-violent offenses. Mr. Yarbrough is a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran who earned a Purple Heart Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and over 10 other medals and awards throughout his service. He was honorably discharged after attaining the rank of Captain. Since his conviction, he worked for a shipping company for nearly 30 years. Now retired, he spends much of his time volunteering and is active in his church. Mr. Yarbrough’s business acquaintances, neighbors, church members, and friends all reflect a consistent high level of regard for Mr. Yarbrough, commenting on his impressive civic engagement, good character, and generosity.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is commuting the sentences of the following 1,499 individuals:

NameReg. No.ANTWON ABBOTT16383-028RLS AR ABDUL AZIZ02438-095EDWARD ABELL III00566-138ANTHONY ABREU-MATOS44903-069FAYEZ ABU-AISH67402-018JOSE ABUNDIZ11828-085JORGE ACEVEDO04413-028MARK ACKERMAN30428-047SETH ACOSTA47417-177FELIX ACOSTA78804-198KARA ADAMS61718-019JOHN ADAMS17769-029LONZINE ADAMS39134-018DARRYL ADAMS32351-009HERMAN ADAMS03791-480ADEMOLA ADEBAYO17711-104AYODELE ADENIRAN78249-054PAMELA ADENUGA45171-177SHELINDER AGGARWAL34768-001MANUEL AGUILAR26463-009RAMON AGUILAR III50500-177VINCENTER JIMENES19899-026RAY AGUILLARD05451-095ALBERTO AGUIRRE68408-079CHELSEY AGUIRRI57387-177TOYOSI ALATISHE63492-037DENNIS ALBA89560-012BRIAN ALCORTA44752-380MAHMOUD ALDISSI60832-018ROBERT ALDRIDGE00195-120ANTHONY ALFARO22710-026MUHAMMAD ALI42233-379NAGY ALI13500-479ASIF ALI57844-177MICHAEL ALLEN14822-042DEVORD ALLEN05097-041KRISTIE ALLEN18933-023BENJAMIN ALLMON17008-029KAHEIM ALLUMS78040-054GUMARO ALMANZA57815-380JORGE ALOMAR-BAELLO74170-053WILLIAM ALONZO51061-039JAMES ALTOM27680-045JUAN ALVAREZ18027-097CARLOS AMADOR64899-279FRANK AMODEO48883-019ROBERT ANDERSON14686-076ROBERT ANDERSON09350-021THOMAS ANDERSON JR41952-044MELVIN ANDERSON32689-074JULIE ANDRADE75726-112MARK ANDREOTTI67620-050WILFREDO ANDUJAR23432-058ANTONIO ESCOBAR
CHRISTOPHER ANZALONE29230-479
06975-104JOSE APONTE71104-050CLYDE APPERSON14058-031ROY APPLEWHITE13755-040DWAYNE APPLING12383-273ALVARO ARGUELLES36944-479MINEL ARIAS85794-054GABRIEL ARIAS MADURO16089-104RICHARD ARLEDGE16769-078GENNY ARMENTA54202-177TRACY ARNOLD52198-074ERIC ARNOLD45771-074BERNARD ARRE04052-029BENJAMIN ARZOLA27539-050JAMES ASKEW III27100-001NICHOLAS AUDETTE72060-018CARLOS AVANT22833-076ANGELA AVETISYAN68350-112ERICA AYALA49030-177ISMAEL AYALA42295-018FRANK BADILLA JR43595-480ALCIDES BAEZ37504-004JACKIE BAGLEY63477-037SANDRA BAILEY27281-076JAMES BAILEY05406-010RYAN BAIRD15870-028ULYSEE BAKER JR56979-083BRIAN BALLANGEE11907-033JOHN BANKS15023-075KIMBERLY BANKS96188-020JEFFREY BANKS78927-083FRAENCHOT BANKS15638-041ANDRE BARBARY97866-004EVIZAEL BARBOSA-DELGADO76036-066RUBEN BARCELO-SEVERINO63353-018COY BARKER22321-078HAROLD BARNETT15762-033YESENIA BARRAGAN80567-298JOSE BARRERA28336-078JOSE BARRERAS15114-028ONEIL BARRETT57578-298PHILIP BARRY77573-053DION BARTLETT51593-083KURT BARTON71720-280RAMIRO 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MELISSA HARLESS63290-018
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SHELDON HOWARD12704-032
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The post Clemency Recipient List appeared first on The White House.

Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is granting clemency consisting of 39 pardons and 1,499 commutations.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is pardoning the following 39 individuals:

NINA SIMONA ALLEN – Harvest, Alabama
Nina Simona Allen is a 49-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent offense in her 20s. In the years since, Ms. Allen returned to school to earn a post-baccalaureate degree and two master’s degrees. She now works in the field of education. Ms. Allen strengthens her community by volunteering at a local soup kitchen and at a nursing home. Ms. Allen is described by people who know her as a dependable, hardworking woman of integrity.

KELSIE LYNN BECKLIN – Falcon Heights, Minnesota
Kelsie Lynn Becklin is a 38-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense at the age of 21. After successfully serving her sentence, Ms. Becklin has furthered her education and recently completed a Ph.D. program. In addition to her graduate program research and academic writing, Ms. Becklin mentors previously incarcerated individuals who also seek to pursue higher education. She is also an active volunteer in her community. Friends and professors attest to her work ethic, dedication, and genuine care for others.

DURAN ARTHUR BROWN – Cleveland, Ohio
Duran Arthur Brown is a 44-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. Mr. Brown received early termination of his probationary sentence and has advanced his education and maintained consistent employment in the field of education. Mr. Brown is also a veteran of the U.S. Navy, and during his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and several other medals and awards. Following his honorable discharge, Mr. Brown served in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He is described by colleagues as caring and compassionate.

NORMAN O’NEAL BROWN – Washington, DC
Norman O’Neal Brown is a 56-year-old man who was convicted of non-violent drug offenses when he was 22 years old. If Mr. Brown had been sentenced under current law and today’s sentencing practices, he likely would have received a shorter sentence. After serving over 20 years in prison, President Obama commuted his sentence in 2015. Since then, Mr. Brown has worked with several non-profit organizations, including those focused on rehabilitation, reentry, and justice-impacted youth. Mr. Brown volunteers at several national and community-based organizations that help support incarcerated and formerly-incarcerated people and serves as a board member for a non-profit dedicated to sentencing reform. Family members and colleagues describe Mr. Brown as a man of grace and integrity and an exceptional human being.

ARTHUR LAWRENCE BYRD – Clinton, Maryland
Arthur Lawrence Byrd is a 58-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses at the age of 23. In the years since, Mr. Byrd has been employed as an equipment operator, where he has received various certificates in recognition and appreciation for his work and safety record. He is also active in his church community and contributes to the church’s coat drive and food pantry. People who know him attest to his willingness to help others, his work ethic, and his character.

SARAH JEAN CARLSON – Coon Rapids, Minnesota
Sarah Jean Carlson is a 49-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. She received early termination of her probationary sentence. Since then, she has furthered her education and worked in addiction counseling at a faith-based rehabilitation center. Ms. Carlson also volunteers in her local community and at her church. Community members emphasize that Ms. Carlson goes above and beyond to help as many people in crisis as possible.

BRANDON SERGIO CASTROFLAY – Alexandria, Virginia
Brandon Sergio Castroflay is a 49-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent, drug-related offenses at age 21. After successfully completing his sentence, Mr. Castroflay continued his career in the U.S. Army and then went on to work as a civilian for both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force. Mr. Castroflay received multiple awards related to his work. He also took night classes to earn a bachelor’s degree while also working full-time. Mr. Castroflay volunteers for several charitable organizations that support Gold Star families and wounded service members. Mr. Castroflay has been described as exceptionally hard working, dedicated, and trustworthy by those who know him.

ROSETTA JEAN DAVIS – Colville, Washington
Rosetta Jean Davis is a 60-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent drug offenses. After successfully serving her sentence, Ms. Davis has maintained steady employment, including by working as a peer supporter for those struggling with substance abuse. Colleagues, family, friends, and neighbors all speak highly of her, citing her hard work, dependability, and willingness to serve as an example of rehabilitation to those with criminal records or who are battling addiction.

STEVONI WELLS DOYLE – Santaquin, Utah
Stevoni Wells Doyle is a 47-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses at the age of 24. After her conviction, she completed a master’s program and has worked as a licensed substance use disorder counselor. She volunteers in her community and fosters animals. Community members describe her as a great mentor and a person of integrity.

GREGORY S. EKMAN – Fountain Valley, California
Gregory S. Ekman is a 58-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense at the age of 25. After successfully serving his sentence, Mr. Ekman has maintained consistent employment and has engaged in extensive community service, including with a youth group and with his local church. Friends and associates uniformly praise his character, honesty, and dedication to family. During his U.S. Air Force service, Mr. Ekman received the Training Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, and Air Force Longevity Service Award.

SHANNAN RAE FAULKNER – Muldrow, Oklahoma
Shannan Rae Faulkner is a 56-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense. After successfully serving her sentence, she furthered her education and now works as a counselor and recovery coach with female trauma victims and people with disabilities. Ms. Faulkner also volunteers with organizations dedicated to preventing sexual assault and domestic violence, as well as with local charities. Colleagues attest to her inspirational character, her integrity, and the remarkable impact she makes on the lives of those she helps.

TRYNITHA FULTON – New Orleans, Louisiana
Trynitha Fulton is a 46-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses she committed when she was 23 years old. Since her conviction, she has earned a master’s degree and worked in the education field. Ms. Fulton also contributes to her community by coaching and volunteering, including for an organization that feeds homeless individuals. She also founded two non-profits dedicated to supporting and helping youth. Ms. Fulton has been described as someone who goes above and beyond for her community.

PAUL JOHN GARCIA – Las Vegas, New Mexico
Paul John Garcia is a 72-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent theft offenses. Since his conviction, he has maintained steady employment in the medical field. Mr. Garcia engages in community service, including with a charity supporting and mentoring youth. Mr. Garcia is a veteran who served in the U.S. Navy, where he received the National Defense Service Medal and other medals and awards. He is known for his extraordinary and compassionate delivery of patient care and his volunteerism.

KIM DOUGLAS HAMAN – Lima, Ohio
Kim Douglas Haman is a 75-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent offenses. Mr. Haman is also a veteran of the U.S. Army, where he served in the Vietnam War and earned awards, including the U.S. Army Commendation Medal and the Bronze Star. He was honorably discharged. After his conviction, Mr. Haman worked at a vehicle parts production facility and retired after 16 years of service. Mr. Haman has gained the reputation of being an excellent handyman and a devoted family man who is sincere, honest, and hardworking.

SHERRANDA JANELL HARRIS – Norwalk, Connecticut
Sherranda Janell Harris is a 43-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent drug offense when she was 24 years old. In the years since, Ms. Harris has maintained employment in the finance and real estate fields. Ms. Harris is an engaged parent and spends most of her free time with her child. She is also committed to her church and has taken care of fellow parishioners. Ms. Harris has been described as a role model for young women in her community.

TERENCE ANTHONY JACKSON – Seattle, Washington
Terence Anthony Jackson is a 36-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense he committed when he was 23 years old. If Mr. Jackson had been sentenced under current law and sentencing practices, he would have likely received a shorter sentence. In the years since his release, Mr. Jackson has worked in the legal industry and is pursuing a degree while he works full-time. In addition to studying, Mr. Jackson has volunteered in his community, including as a barber to children in need. He is described by those who know him as dependable and caring and as someone who always tries to help others.

EDWIN ALLEN JONES – Paducah, Kentucky
Edwin Allen Jones is a 60-year-old man who pleaded guilty to non-violent drug offenses. Mr. Jones served in the U.S. Army and achieved the rank of Captain before being honorably discharged. Since successfully completing his sentence, Mr. Jones has had a notable legal career. Mr. Jones also participates in local government and volunteers for addiction recovery groups. Mr. Jones is described by community members as thoughtful, forward thinking, and trustworthy.

JAMAL LEE KING – North Ridgeville, Ohio
Jamal Lee King is a 53-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. Mr. King is a U.S. Army veteran. He received the National Defense Service Medal and several other awards before being honorably discharged. He received early termination of his probationary sentence and has since worked in various jobs. Mr. King contributes to his community through his church and by caring for his elderly neighbors. His community members describe him as trustworthy and honest.

JERRY DONALD MANNING – Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
Jerry Donald Manning is a 70-year-old man who was convicted of non-violent offenses. Mr. Manning received early termination of his probationary sentence and has since advanced his education and career in aviation. He is active in his community, coaching soccer, attending church, and serving as a bible study teacher. Mr. Manning is a veteran of the U.S. Army. While in service, he was awarded a medal during Operation Desert Storm, and was honorably discharged. Friends and colleagues attest to his character, describing him as a good, honest man and a great leader.

HONI LORI MOORE – Rock Springs, Wyoming
Honi Lori Moore is a 46-year-old woman who committed a non-violent drug offense when she was 19 years old. Since her release, she has maintained consistent employment in the mining industry and has furthered her education by earning certificates. Ms. Moore is a member of two charitable organizations and has provided critical support to individuals in need, including fire safety, rescue, and first aid. Friends, neighbors, and colleagues describe Ms. Moore as honest, courageous, trustworthy, and dependable.

EMILY GOOD NELSON – Indianapolis, Indiana
Emily Good Nelson is a 39-year-old woman who was convicted of non-violent drug offenses when she was 19 years old. Since her release, she completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and now works in the healthcare field. She has spoken publicly about drug use and has volunteered as a counselor at an in-patient psychiatric facility. She is described as kind, committed to recovery and helping others, and as someone with tremendous talent and ability.

DENITA NICOLE PARKER – Gaffney, South Carolina
Denita Nicole Parker is a 43-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense when she was in her 20s. Since her conviction, she has been a dedicated parent to her two children and works full-time. Ms. Parker also volunteers with a charitable organization delivering meals at least two to three times per month, organizes donations for the homeless, and buys holiday gifts for children in her community. She and her husband also started a program that feeds approximately 100 families. Friends, work associates, and neighbors describe Ms. Parker as law-abiding, trustworthy, dependable, and dedicated person.

MICHAEL GARY PELLETIER – Augusta, Maine
Michael Gary Pelletier is a 67-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. Mr. Pelletier served in the U.S. Coast Guard for 14 years on active duty, where he participated in more than 790 search and rescue operations and saved 32 lives. He also previously worked with the U.S. Secret Service and received several citations and awards for his meritorious service. He was honorably discharged and later served in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. After his conviction, Mr. Pelletier worked for almost 20 years at a water treatment facility. He volunteered for his county HAZMAT team, assisting first responders at hazardous material spills, accidents, and natural disasters. Additionally, he has grown vegetables for a local soup kitchen and volunteered at an organization supporting wounded veterans and their families. Friends, colleagues, and those who know Mr. Pelletier describe him has honest, dependable, and committed to his country and community.

RUSSELL THOMAS PORTNER – Toutle, Washington
Russell Thomas Portner is a 74-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense. Mr. Portner served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged after earning several decorations, including the Bronze Star. Since his conviction, he married, raised four children, operated a successful business, and developed a reputation for charitable generosity and community service. He is currently a member of several veterans organizations. Neighbors, business associates, and friends describe him as trustworthy, loyal, and as a respected businessperson.

NATHANIEL DAVID REED III – San Antonio, Texas
Nathaniel David Reed III is a 46-year-old man who was convicted of non-violent offenses at the age of 21. He served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years after his conviction, including many overseas deployments, and achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and earned numerous good conduct awards before retiring with an honorable discharge. Mr. Reed has volunteered for numerous causes benefitting both the U.S. Air Force and the civilian community, such as training local firefighters, teaching fire prevention in various settings, and organizing fire prevention weeks. He has also served as a certified sexual assault prevention and response advocate and has used his experience in overcoming the stigma of his conviction to help mentor fellow airmen. Friends, neighbors, and former U.S. Air Force colleagues consistently describe Mr. Reed as highly motivated, reliable, patient, family-oriented, trustworthy, patriotic, dependable, upstanding, honest, hardworking, and personable.

GARY MICHAEL ROBINSON – Redmond, Oregon
Gary Michael Robinson is a 70-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense. Mr. Robinson is a distinguished U.S. Army veteran. During his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal and other awards. He was honorably discharged and served as a reservist for several years. Since his conviction, he has built a successful firefighting and habitat preservation business. He volunteers in his community, gives regularly to charity, and is well-regarded by friends and associates. Mr. Robinson is described by those who know him as honest, trustworthy, and professional.

JOSE ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ – Coral Springs, Florida
Jose Antonio Rodriguez is a 55-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense at the age of 26. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy and received several medals and awards for his service, including the U.S. Navy Achievement Medal. Since his conviction, Mr. Rodriguez has started a family, committed himself to higher education, and has maintained employment in the medical field. Colleagues and friends describe Mr. Rodriguez as compassionate, empathetic, and dedicated to treating patients.

PATRICE CHANTE SELLERS – Bear, Delaware
Patrice Chante Sellers is a 49-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense when she was in her 20s. If Ms. Sellers had been sentenced under current law and sentencing practice, she likely would not have been prosecuted federally. Since her conviction, Ms. Sellers enrolled in school, earning multiple certifications and licenses. She gives back to her community by donating clothing and toiletries to a transitional housing program and offering encouragement to its residents. Community members describe Ms. Sellers as someone who goes above and beyond for others.

AUDREY DIANE SIMONE (AUDREY CLARK) – Prescott, Wisconsin
Audrey Diane Simon is a 63-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent offense. In the years since, Ms. Simon has worked in the field of addiction recovery and earned a bachelor’s degree and a permanent counseling license. She also contributes to her community through her church where she serves as a deacon and works in the church’s prison ministry. Community members describe her as inspirational, trustworthy, positive, and caring.

JAMES RUSSELL STIDD – Groveport, Ohio
James Russell Stidd is a 79-year-old man who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense at the age of 20. After his conviction, he served in the U.S. Air Force until he was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant. He reenlisted and served another four years, including during the Vietnam War, and was honorably discharged at the rank of Staff Sergeant. Upon being honorably discharged, Mr. Stidd worked as a contractor and as a road and park maintenance worker. He has participated in various charitable activities through his church and is a member of a disabled veterans organization. Mr. Stidd is described as a man of integrity and honor.

DIANA BAZAN VILLANUEVA – La Grange, Illinois
Diana Bazan Villanueva is a 51-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent drug offense in her 20s. In the years since, Ms. Villanueva has been a dedicated mother to her children and has worked in payroll and accounts. Ms. Villanueva also regularly volunteers at school events, fundraisers, and annual autism-related charitable events. Friends and coworkers uniformly praise Ms. Villanueva and describe her as warm, reliable, and always eager to help.

LASHAWN MARRVINIA WALKER – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Lashawn Marrvinia Walker is a 51-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to non-violent drug offenses in her 20s. Ms. Walker received early termination of her probationary sentence for her exemplary probation record. Since then, Ms. Walker has worked in the healthcare field, is an engaged parent, and regularly assists others in her community, including during the holidays when she helps serve dinner at a retirement home. People in her community describe Ms. Walker as caring, good-hearted, and responsible. They also note her willingness to meaningfully help others.

MIREYA AIMEE WALMSLEY – La Porte, Texas
Mireya Aimee Walmsley is a 57-year-old woman who was convicted of a non-violent offense at the age of 25. Since her conviction, she has earned an associate’s degree, a nursing license, and a bachelor’s degree. She has maintained steady employment in the healthcare field. Additionally, she has led emergency response teams during several natural disasters (including Hurricanes Katrina, Ike, and Harvey, and Tropical Storm Allison) and spearheaded vaccination efforts during the H1N1 epidemic and COVID-19 pandemic. Her contributions to public health have been recognized on numerous occasions. She has been commended for her loyalty, integrity, compassion for people of all backgrounds, and is universally described as honest and steadfast in crisis.

KIMBERLY JO WARNER – Portville, New York
Kimberly Jo Warner is a 54-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense. Since her conviction, Ms. Warner earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees and works in the healthcare field. She has volunteered at a non-profit that provides therapeutic services to veterans and first responders and serves as a mentor. She also participates in the Gold Star Wives Program and speaks at the local veterans organization meetings. Ms. Warner has been described as positive, empathetic, caring, and nurturing by those who know her.

JOHNNIE EARL WILLIAMS – Denver, Colorado
Johnnie Earl Williams is a 58-year-old man who was convicted of a non-violent offense. In the years since, Mr. Williams has worked as a criminal justice specialist and addiction counselor. He gives back to his community through volunteering and serving in his church. Mr. Williams has received many awards for his charitable work, including an award that honors individuals who work with young men of color. Community members describe Mr. Williams as honest, loyal, and compassionate.

SHAWNTE DOROTHEA WILLIAMS – Columbia, South Carolina
Shawnte Dorothea Williams is a 45-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense in her 20s. In the years since, Ms. Williams has been steadily employed in several fields. Ms. Williams is involved in her community, working in her church’s food pantry and serving as a greeter on Sunday mornings. Ms. Williams has been described by those who know her as a loyal and dependable community member.

LASHUNDRA TENNEAL WILSON – Arlington, Texas
Lashundra Tenneal Wilson is a 49-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent offense she committed when she was a teenager. In the years since, Ms. Wilson pursued her education and has worked in the healthcare field. Ms. Wilson gives back to the community by volunteering at community health fairs and raising funds for non-profit health organizations. Ms. Wilson has been praised for her work ethic, trustworthiness, and dependability by community members.

LORA NICOLE WOOD – Maxwell, Nevada
Lora Nicole Wood is a 39-year-old woman who pleaded guilty to a non-violent drug offense when she was 19 years old. Since her release, Ms. Wood has maintained steady employment and is an engaged parent. She has spent time volunteering with animal welfare and canine therapy service organizations and has organized food drives and fundraisers. Ms. Wood has been praised her work ethic, devotion to her children, and volunteer endeavors.

JAMES EDGAR YARBROUGH – Arlington, Tennessee
James Edgar Yarbrough is a 79-year-old man who was convicted of non-violent offenses. Mr. Yarbrough is a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran who earned a Purple Heart Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and over 10 other medals and awards throughout his service. He was honorably discharged after attaining the rank of Captain. Since his conviction, he worked for a shipping company for nearly 30 years. Now retired, he spends much of his time volunteering and is active in his church. Mr. Yarbrough’s business acquaintances, neighbors, church members, and friends all reflect a consistent high level of regard for Mr. Yarbrough, commenting on his impressive civic engagement, good character, and generosity.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. is commuting the sentences of the following 1,499 individuals:

NameReg. No.ANTWON ABBOTT16383-028RLS AR ABDUL AZIZ02438-095EDWARD ABELL III00566-138ANTHONY ABREU-MATOS44903-069FAYEZ ABU-AISH67402-018JOSE ABUNDIZ11828-085JORGE ACEVEDO04413-028MARK ACKERMAN30428-047SETH ACOSTA47417-177FELIX ACOSTA78804-198KARA ADAMS61718-019JOHN ADAMS17769-029LONZINE ADAMS39134-018DARRYL ADAMS32351-009HERMAN ADAMS03791-480ADEMOLA ADEBAYO17711-104AYODELE ADENIRAN78249-054PAMELA ADENUGA45171-177SHELINDER AGGARWAL34768-001MANUEL AGUILAR26463-009RAMON AGUILAR III50500-177VINCENTER JIMENES19899-026RAY AGUILLARD05451-095ALBERTO AGUIRRE68408-079CHELSEY AGUIRRI57387-177TOYOSI ALATISHE63492-037DENNIS ALBA89560-012BRIAN ALCORTA44752-380MAHMOUD ALDISSI60832-018ROBERT ALDRIDGE00195-120ANTHONY ALFARO22710-026MUHAMMAD ALI42233-379NAGY ALI13500-479ASIF ALI57844-177MICHAEL ALLEN14822-042DEVORD ALLEN05097-041KRISTIE ALLEN18933-023BENJAMIN ALLMON17008-029KAHEIM ALLUMS78040-054GUMARO ALMANZA57815-380JORGE ALOMAR-BAELLO74170-053WILLIAM ALONZO51061-039JAMES ALTOM27680-045JUAN ALVAREZ18027-097CARLOS AMADOR64899-279FRANK AMODEO48883-019ROBERT ANDERSON14686-076ROBERT ANDERSON09350-021THOMAS ANDERSON JR41952-044MELVIN ANDERSON32689-074JULIE ANDRADE75726-112MARK ANDREOTTI67620-050WILFREDO ANDUJAR23432-058ANTONIO ESCOBAR
CHRISTOPHER ANZALONE29230-479
06975-104JOSE APONTE71104-050CLYDE APPERSON14058-031ROY APPLEWHITE13755-040DWAYNE APPLING12383-273ALVARO ARGUELLES36944-479MINEL ARIAS85794-054GABRIEL ARIAS MADURO16089-104RICHARD ARLEDGE16769-078GENNY ARMENTA54202-177TRACY ARNOLD52198-074ERIC ARNOLD45771-074BERNARD ARRE04052-029BENJAMIN ARZOLA27539-050JAMES ASKEW III27100-001NICHOLAS AUDETTE72060-018CARLOS AVANT22833-076ANGELA AVETISYAN68350-112ERICA AYALA49030-177ISMAEL AYALA42295-018FRANK BADILLA JR43595-480ALCIDES BAEZ37504-004JACKIE BAGLEY63477-037SANDRA BAILEY27281-076JAMES BAILEY05406-010RYAN BAIRD15870-028ULYSEE BAKER JR56979-083BRIAN BALLANGEE11907-033JOHN BANKS15023-075KIMBERLY BANKS96188-020JEFFREY BANKS78927-083FRAENCHOT BANKS15638-041ANDRE BARBARY97866-004EVIZAEL BARBOSA-DELGADO76036-066RUBEN BARCELO-SEVERINO63353-018COY BARKER22321-078HAROLD BARNETT15762-033YESENIA BARRAGAN80567-298JOSE BARRERA28336-078JOSE BARRERAS15114-028ONEIL BARRETT57578-298PHILIP BARRY77573-053DION BARTLETT51593-083KURT BARTON71720-280RAMIRO BASALDUA64458-079HARVEY BASS55769-018SHALLIN BAST22296-040PATRICK BATES33795-058DERRICK BEALS04143-043CARLOS BECERRA16447-179LYDIA BECK71137-019DONALD BECK29104-057EDDIE BECKHAM34320-058TODD BEHRENDS22602-047ANTHONY BELL26231-013JEAN BENITEZ-REYES52753-069AUNDEL BENOIT36312-004SHANNON BENTLEY71366-018LARRY BENTLEY JR24069-044LEON BENZER47521-048MARC BERCOON66081-019ROGER BERGMAN04825-104CARLOS BASTARD72419-054AUSTIN BERTCH14003-029CORDARRYL BETTON21389-043ANTONIO BEVERLY02712-104TRACY BIAS70248-061DAVID BILES40371-074MICHAEL BINDAY66389-054MICKEY BIRGE10240-028DOYLE BIVENS40031-074KIMBERLY BLACK-MCCORMICK26518-045KEVIN BLALOCK42597-074JAMES BLANTON50960-509ANIS BLEMUR19380-104KEVIN BLEVINS32128-177ERIC BLOOM44727-424JOHN BLOUNT17880-035KENDALL BLUE55802-056VILAWOE BOADU76454-408ANDREW BOGDANOFF68251-066ANASTASSIA BOGOMOLOVA60833-018LASHAUN BOLTON30504-057AMANDA BONEL22810-078RICARDO BONILLA-ROJAS40498-069CHRISTOPHER BOOTH07502-043LISA BOOTON30658-047RANDALL BOSTIC42523-074SYLVESTER BOSTON JR50221-039ROBERT BOSTON33525-058ALICIA BOULDIN58421-177AUDRA BOWDEN50705-177MELVIN BOWEN19666-078PAUL BOWMAN53747-074MICHAEL BOWMAN19060-084VERNON BOWSER14524-074CHRISTOPHER BOX22026-084QUINBY BOYD30446-058WILLIAM BOYLAND JR79751-053KENNETH BRADLEY09488-021MACK BRADLEY08073-043WILLIAM BRADLEY87078-054BENJAMIN BRADLEY50878-039JUSTIN BRANON89595-408DONALD BRELJE09657-041MATTHEW BREMOND20559-006STEVEN BREWER24281-077TREAVOR BRIGGS32708-009SHAMICHAEL BRIGHT14688-035MITCHELL BROOKS24135-016ANDREA BROOKS28601-380TERRICIOUS BROOKS54557-056SHELLE BROOKS04027-029DONALD BROOMFIELD61304-018BOBBIE BROWN40453-424ATARI BROWN54681-039JERMAINE BROWN62269-019KEVIN BROWN32427-016JB BROWN JR19409-026EDDIE BROWN06900-063DARRYL BROWN46329-074ISAAC BROWN33651-058TRAMAINE BROWN91240-053JAMES BROWN31677-171TERESA BROWN22766-045JONATHAN BRUMBACK22506-031TORRIE BRUMFIELD32473-034ROCKY BRUMMETT12354-032MICHAEL BRUNER17984-032MICHAEL BRYANT54559-004GREGORY BUCK26568-081TAMATHA BUCKHOLT63353-280KEVIN BUI26874-017DENNIS BUNCH78044-083JOHN BURGESS59495-177JAMES BURKHART15426-028PAUL BURKS29723-058ALEKSANDR BURMAN50234-054VICTOR BURNETT54977-039ANTHONY BURNETT16708-028PIERRE BURNETT15146-028LAMEL BURNS42334-424SIRRICO BURNSIDE24037-171NATHANIEL BURRELL III71431-066REBECCA BURRESS30393-074KERI BURROUGHS14152-010CRYSTAL BUSBY-TETZLAFF08770-046ANTONIO BUSSIE66847-019RUBEN BUSTOS47273-380DANNY BUTLER19107-033SHAWN BUTLER83619-083JOHN BUTLER JR20040-018MICHAEL BYERS34932-058ERNESTO CABANAS-TORRES59340-408YERITHZA CABAUATAN64824-298LYNN CADY55388-380BRIAN CALLAHAN82618-053THOMAS CAMBIANO28886-031PIO CAMPOS09314-089ROSETTA CANNATA62780-018XAVIER CARDONA36123-380LUIS CARIBE-GARCIA16113-069JAMES CARLSON16784-041ALLEN CARNES02783-061TERRELL CARNEY33927-034LUSHAWN CAROLINA58659-083KELLI CARON13604-059HORRIS CARPENTER27422-076PEDRO CARRASCO JR07532-046CARMELO CARRASQUILLO-LOPEZ53078-069JIMMY CARRASQUILLO-RODRIGUEZ33484-069JOSE CARRILLO62730-080CLIFFORD CARROLL13905-104DEWEY CARROLL50232-037RASHAUN CARTER21884-084ERIK CARTER51330-039MAURICE CARTER97740-020JOSEPH CARTER16691-075RANDY CARVER53579-074JAMES CARVER25084-014MELISSA CASEY48834-074SHARLENE CASH33128-064NORMA CASILLAS52244-179VLADIMIR CASTANEDA62039-018ROLAND CASTELLANOS62970-019RONALD CASTILLE JR63882-280DANNY CASTILLO26164-014NELVING CASTRO69551-066DESHON CATCHINGS47363-039JOSE MORA CATES17496-028DWELLY CAULEY69830-004SEUI CAVAN08947-030PEDRO CAVAZOS JR52624-080OSVALDO CEBALLO01241-104RAFAEL CEBALLOS-CASTILLO06988-028DOMINGO CEDANO-MARTINEZ59126-177ISRAEL CEDENO-MARTINEZ66258-050ROMAN CHAIDEZ-ALVAREZ17137-424AMANDA CHAMBERLAIN54101-177SHAUNTEL CHAMBERS17381-027KAWANA CHAMPION71021-019NIGEL CHANDLER32455-177JAMES CHANEY17746-032DONNIE CHASTAIN60461-019LIZA CHAVERA84866-380JOSE CHAVEZ07920-027CARLOS CHAVEZ-LOZANO08285-063JUAN CHAVIRA-GUERRERO26392-078MARCUS CISNEROS55251-177XAVIER CISNEROS87026-280EMMA CLARK27724-078BERNARD CLARK27715-171ROBERT CLARK JR10732-078NEIL CLARK06923-032KASIMU 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SHELDON HOWARD12704-032
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The post Clemency Recipient List appeared first on The White House.

Today’s announcement will commute the sentences of close to 1,500 individuals who were placed on home confinement and will pardon 39 individuals convicted of non-violent crimes

Today, President Biden announced that he is granting clemency to nearly 1,500 Americans – the most ever in a single day – who have shown successful rehabilitation and a strong commitment to making their communities safer. The President is commuting the sentences of close to 1,500 individuals who were placed on home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic and who have successfully reintegrated into their families and communities. He is also pardoning 39 individuals who were convicted of non-violent crimes. These actions represent the largest single-day grant of clemency in modern history.

Together, these actions build on the President’s record of criminal justice reform to help reunite families, strengthen communities, and reintegrate individuals back into society. The President has issued more sentence commutations at this point in his presidency than any of his recent predecessors at the same point in their first terms. He is also the first President ever to issue categorical pardons to individuals convicted of simple use and possession of marijuana, and to former LGBTQI+ service members convicted of private conduct because of their sexual orientation. In the coming weeks, the President will take additional steps to provide meaningful second chances and continue to review additional pardons and commutations.

Americans receiving relief today include:

• A decorated military veteran and pilot who spends much of his time helping his fellow church members who are in poor health or unable to perform strenuous tasks;

• A nurse who has led emergency response for several natural disasters and who helped spearhead vaccination efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic; and

• An addiction counselor who volunteers his time to help young people find their purpose, make better choices, and refrain from destructive behaviors and gang involvement.

As the President has said, the United States is a nation of second chances. The President recognizes how the clemency power can advance equal justice under law and remedy harms caused by practices of the past.

The nearly 1,500 individuals who received commutations today have been serving their sentences at home for at least one year under the COVID-era CARES Act. These Americans have been reunited with their families and shown their commitment to rehabilitation by securing employment and advancing their education. The 39 individuals receiving pardons today were convicted of non-violent crimes, including drug offenses, and have turned their lives around. These individuals are parents, veterans, health care professionals, teachers, advocates, and engaged members of their communities. Many of them have used their experiences in the criminal justice system to inspire and encourage others.

Individual Clemency Actions Throughout the Biden-Harris Administration

The President is intent on granting clemency to individuals convicted of non-violent crimes who were sentenced under outdated laws, policies, and practices that left them with longer sentences than if the individuals were sentenced today.

To address these injustices, President Biden has taken several bold clemency actions throughout his Administration, including:

• In April 2022, the President granted clemency to individuals with various drug-related offenses and some individuals on CARES Act home confinement. In total, he granted three pardons and 75 commutations.
  
  
• In December 2022, the President granted clemency to recipients with various drug- and alcohol-related offenses. In total, he granted six pardons.
  
  
• In April 2023, the President granted clemency to recipients on CARES Act home confinement. In total, he granted 31 commutations.
  
  
• In December 2023 and April 2024, the President granted clemency to individuals sentenced for non-violent drug offenses. In total, he granted 11 pardons and 16 commutations.
  
  

These individual actions have helped to transform these individuals’ lives and positively impact their communities. Federal convictions make it difficult to secure housing, jobs, educational opportunities, benefits, and health care; all essential to living a healthy and productive life. Through his use of the clemency power, President Biden has taken steps to unlock doors of opportunity that would have otherwise remained closed to these recipients, who deserve a second chance.

Categorical Clemency Actions throughout the Biden-Harris Administration

In addition to these individual clemency actions, President Biden has issued a number of categorical pardons to certain groups of people. The President has used categorical clemency more than any of his predecessors, which has allowed him to widely and systemically respond to historic injustices. His bold and unprecedented categorical actions, broadly outlined below, include the following:

• In October 2022, the President issued a full, complete, and unconditional categorical pardon for the offense of simple possession of marijuana.
  
  
• In December 2023, the President issued another proclamation that expanded earlier relief for the offenses of simple possession of marijuana, attempted simple possession of marijuana, or use of marijuana, regardless of whether the individual had been charged with or prosecuted for the offenses on or before the date of the proclamation. 
  
  
• In June 2024, the President issued a full, complete, and unconditional categorical pardons to certain former military service persons convicted of offenses based on their sexual orientation, specifically unaggravated offenses based on consensual, private conduct with persons age 18 and older occurring between May 31, 1951, and December 26, 2013, as well as attempts, conspiracies, or solicitations of such conduct.

 The President’s categorical approach to clemency has also inspired leaders across the country to take similar action. Over ten states and localities, including Maryland and Massachusetts, have issued categorical clemency for marijuana convictions, impacting hundreds of thousands of people and allowing individuals to move past their convictions and move on with their daily lives.

While today’s announcement marks important progress, there is more to come. President Biden will continue to review clemency petitions and deliver criminal justice reform in a manner that advances equity and justice, promotes public safety, supports rehabilitation and reentry, and provides meaningful second chances.

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America was built on the promise of possibility and second chances. As President, I have the great privilege of extending mercy to people who have demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation, restoring opportunity for Americans to participate in daily life and contribute to their communities, and taking steps to remove sentencing disparities for non-violent offenders, especially those convicted of drug offenses.

That is why, today, I am pardoning 39 people who have shown successful rehabilitation and have shown commitment to making their communities stronger and safer. I am also commuting the sentences of nearly 1,500 people who are serving long prison sentences – many of whom would receive lower sentences if charged under today’s laws, policies, and practices. These commutation recipients, who were placed on home confinement during the COVID pandemic, have successfully reintegrated into their families and communities and have shown that they deserve a second chance.

I will take more steps in the weeks ahead. My Administration will continue reviewing clemency petitions to advance equal justice under the law, promote public safety, support rehabilitation and reentry, and provide meaningful second chances.

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Today’s announcement will commute the sentences of close to 1,500 individuals who were placed on home confinement and will pardon 39 individuals convicted of non-violent crimes

Today, President Biden announced that he is granting clemency to nearly 1,500 Americans – the most ever in a single day – who have shown successful rehabilitation and a strong commitment to making their communities safer. The President is commuting the sentences of close to 1,500 individuals who were placed on home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic and who have successfully reintegrated into their families and communities. He is also pardoning 39 individuals who were convicted of non-violent crimes. These actions represent the largest single-day grant of clemency in modern history.

Together, these actions build on the President’s record of criminal justice reform to help reunite families, strengthen communities, and reintegrate individuals back into society. The President has issued more sentence commutations at this point in his presidency than any of his recent predecessors at the same point in their first terms. He is also the first President ever to issue categorical pardons to individuals convicted of simple use and possession of marijuana, and to former LGBTQI+ service members convicted of private conduct because of their sexual orientation. In the coming weeks, the President will take additional steps to provide meaningful second chances and continue to review additional pardons and commutations.

Americans receiving relief today include:

• A decorated military veteran and pilot who spends much of his time helping his fellow church members who are in poor health or unable to perform strenuous tasks;

• A nurse who has led emergency response for several natural disasters and who helped spearhead vaccination efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic; and

• An addiction counselor who volunteers his time to help young people find their purpose, make better choices, and refrain from destructive behaviors and gang involvement.

As the President has said, the United States is a nation of second chances. The President recognizes how the clemency power can advance equal justice under law and remedy harms caused by practices of the past.

The nearly 1,500 individuals who received commutations today have been serving their sentences at home for at least one year under the COVID-era CARES Act. These Americans have been reunited with their families and shown their commitment to rehabilitation by securing employment and advancing their education. The 39 individuals receiving pardons today were convicted of non-violent crimes, including drug offenses, and have turned their lives around. These individuals are parents, veterans, health care professionals, teachers, advocates, and engaged members of their communities. Many of them have used their experiences in the criminal justice system to inspire and encourage others.

Individual Clemency Actions Throughout the Biden-Harris Administration

The President is intent on granting clemency to individuals convicted of non-violent crimes who were sentenced under outdated laws, policies, and practices that left them with longer sentences than if the individuals were sentenced today.

To address these injustices, President Biden has taken several bold clemency actions throughout his Administration, including:

• In April 2022, the President granted clemency to individuals with various drug-related offenses and some individuals on CARES Act home confinement. In total, he granted three pardons and 75 commutations.
  
  
• In December 2022, the President granted clemency to recipients with various drug- and alcohol-related offenses. In total, he granted six pardons.
  
  
• In April 2023, the President granted clemency to recipients on CARES Act home confinement. In total, he granted 31 commutations.
  
  
• In December 2023 and April 2024, the President granted clemency to individuals sentenced for non-violent drug offenses. In total, he granted 11 pardons and 16 commutations.
  
  

These individual actions have helped to transform these individuals’ lives and positively impact their communities. Federal convictions make it difficult to secure housing, jobs, educational opportunities, benefits, and health care; all essential to living a healthy and productive life. Through his use of the clemency power, President Biden has taken steps to unlock doors of opportunity that would have otherwise remained closed to these recipients, who deserve a second chance.

Categorical Clemency Actions throughout the Biden-Harris Administration

In addition to these individual clemency actions, President Biden has issued a number of categorical pardons to certain groups of people. The President has used categorical clemency more than any of his predecessors, which has allowed him to widely and systemically respond to historic injustices. His bold and unprecedented categorical actions, broadly outlined below, include the following:

• In October 2022, the President issued a full, complete, and unconditional categorical pardon for the offense of simple possession of marijuana.
  
  
• In December 2023, the President issued another proclamation that expanded earlier relief for the offenses of simple possession of marijuana, attempted simple possession of marijuana, or use of marijuana, regardless of whether the individual had been charged with or prosecuted for the offenses on or before the date of the proclamation. 
  
  
• In June 2024, the President issued a full, complete, and unconditional categorical pardons to certain former military service persons convicted of offenses based on their sexual orientation, specifically unaggravated offenses based on consensual, private conduct with persons age 18 and older occurring between May 31, 1951, and December 26, 2013, as well as attempts, conspiracies, or solicitations of such conduct.

 The President’s categorical approach to clemency has also inspired leaders across the country to take similar action. Over ten states and localities, including Maryland and Massachusetts, have issued categorical clemency for marijuana convictions, impacting hundreds of thousands of people and allowing individuals to move past their convictions and move on with their daily lives.

While today’s announcement marks important progress, there is more to come. President Biden will continue to review clemency petitions and deliver criminal justice reform in a manner that advances equity and justice, promotes public safety, supports rehabilitation and reentry, and provides meaningful second chances.

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The post FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces Clemency for Nearly 1,500 Americans appeared first on The White House.

America was built on the promise of possibility and second chances. As President, I have the great privilege of extending mercy to people who have demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation, restoring opportunity for Americans to participate in daily life and contribute to their communities, and taking steps to remove sentencing disparities for non-violent offenders, especially those convicted of drug offenses.

That is why, today, I am pardoning 39 people who have shown successful rehabilitation and have shown commitment to making their communities stronger and safer. I am also commuting the sentences of nearly 1,500 people who are serving long prison sentences – many of whom would receive lower sentences if charged under today’s laws, policies, and practices. These commutation recipients, who were placed on home confinement during the COVID pandemic, have successfully reintegrated into their families and communities and have shown that they deserve a second chance.

I will take more steps in the weeks ahead. My Administration will continue reviewing clemency petitions to advance equal justice under the law, promote public safety, support rehabilitation and reentry, and provide meaningful second chances.

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TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:

Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency unless, within 90 days prior to the anniversary date of its declaration, the President publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Congress a notice stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond the anniversary date.  In accordance with this provision, I have sent to the Federal Register for publication the enclosed notice stating that the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13818 of December 20, 2017, is to continue in effect beyond December 20, 2024.

The prevalence and severity of human rights abuse and corruption that have their source, in whole or in substantial part, outside the United States, continue to threaten the stability of international political and economic systems.  Human rights abuse and corruption undermine the values that form an essential foundation of stable, secure, and functioning societies; have devastating impacts on individuals; weaken democratic institutions; degrade the rule of law; perpetuate violent conflicts; facilitate the activities of dangerous persons; undermine economic markets; and continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.

Therefore, I have determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13818 with respect to serious human rights abuse and corruption.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE,

    December 11, 2024.

The post Message to the Congress on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Serious Human Rights Abuse and Corruption appeared first on The White House.

TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:

Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency unless, within 90 days prior to the anniversary date of its declaration, the President publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Congress a notice stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond the anniversary date.  In accordance with this provision, I have sent to the Federal Register for publication the enclosed notice stating that the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13818 of December 20, 2017, is to continue in effect beyond December 20, 2024.

The prevalence and severity of human rights abuse and corruption that have their source, in whole or in substantial part, outside the United States, continue to threaten the stability of international political and economic systems.  Human rights abuse and corruption undermine the values that form an essential foundation of stable, secure, and functioning societies; have devastating impacts on individuals; weaken democratic institutions; degrade the rule of law; perpetuate violent conflicts; facilitate the activities of dangerous persons; undermine economic markets; and continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.

Therefore, I have determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13818 with respect to serious human rights abuse and corruption.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE,

    December 11, 2024.

The post Message to the Congress on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Serious Human Rights Abuse and Corruption appeared first on The White House.

On December 20, 2017, by Executive Order 13818, the President declared a national emergency with respect to serious human rights abuse and corruption around the world and, pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), took related steps to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.

The prevalence and severity of human rights abuse and corruption that have their source, in whole or in substantial part, outside the United States, continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.  For this reason, the national emergency declared on December 20, 2017, must continue in effect beyond December 20, 2024.  Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13818 with respect to serious human rights abuse and corruption.

This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE,

    December 11, 2024.

The post Notice to the Congress on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Serious Human Rights Abuse and Corruption appeared first on The White House.

On December 20, 2017, by Executive Order 13818, the President declared a national emergency with respect to serious human rights abuse and corruption around the world and, pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), took related steps to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.

The prevalence and severity of human rights abuse and corruption that have their source, in whole or in substantial part, outside the United States, continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.  For this reason, the national emergency declared on December 20, 2017, must continue in effect beyond December 20, 2024.  Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13818 with respect to serious human rights abuse and corruption.

This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE,

    December 11, 2024.

The post Notice to the Congress on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Serious Human Rights Abuse and Corruption appeared first on The White House.

President Biden and Vice President Harris came into office determined to end the COVID-19 pandemic while making progress toward a world that is safe from biological threats. Today we are releasing the final annual global health security report of the Biden-Harris Administration, U.S. Government Support for Global Health Security – Protecting Lives and Safeguarding Economies, which highlights progress in global health security and identifies remaining challenges.

The Biden-Harris Administration has advanced a bold agenda to prevent the devastating toll of outbreaks and pandemics, including investing more than $3 billion in strengthening global health security (GHS) since 2020. These investments have helped to: prepare countries around the world to more effectively prevent, detect and respond to biological threats; build stronger and more effective regional and global institutions to support health emergency preparedness and response; and respond rapidly to numerous outbreaks – from Ebola to mpox – to limit the health and economic impacts on the American people, as well as people living around the world. U.S. leadership in global health security is built on decades of investments in global health and research and development, as well as strong partnerships with other countries, regional and multilateral institutions, civil society, and the private sector.

REDUCING THE RISK OF NEW THREATS EMERGING AND BUILDING COUNTRY CAPACITY TO RESPOND TO THREATS

The most effective way to limit the impact of biological threats is to stop them at their source. The United States is working with countries and partners around the world to ensure they have the capacity to identify and stop emerging threats before they grow into regional or global threats. Central to these partnerships is the development of a shared plan based on gaps in each country’s capacity, as well as country ownership to sustain global health security capacities once U.S. Government support has ended. Highlights from the report include:

• More than 100 countries are building stronger global health security capacities: Over the last four years, the Biden-Harris Administrationexpanded formal Global Health Security partnerships from 19 countries to more than 50 countries and one regional group. The United States has also leveraged financial resources and diplomatic channels to mobilize support for 50 additional countries to strengthen their health security capacities, for a total of more than 100 countries receiving support. For example, through U.S. support to the Pandemic Fund and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (Global Fund) COVID-19 Response Mechanism, over sixty countries received financing to strengthen core health security capacities. The United States is not the sole provider of these resources, as countries around the world contribute, including through co-financing by low and middle-income countries.

• Measuring the impact of U.S. investments: The Biden-Harris Administration is focused on measurable results of these investments. Of the 25 formal GHS partner countries that have received U.S. support for at least two years, five have achieved the U.S. target of “demonstrated capacity” in at least five technical areas, and an additional five countries are close. We can also see the impact of investments when threats emerge. For example, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) – a U.S. government GHS partner since 2015 – has successfully contained five Ebola outbreaks since 2020, dramatically improving detection and response times. In 2022 the government of DRC detected an Ebola outbreak in 48 hours and contained the outbreak with only five lives lost to the disease.

• Country ownership on global health security: Many United States GHS partner countries are leading their own responses to crises, with U.S. collaboration when needed. For example, the U.S. Government is partnering with Nigeria to build stronger capacity on zoonotic diseases, disease surveillance, and health emergency management, among other areas. In 2023, Nigeria experienced outbreaks of anthrax, a zoonotic disease that can cause severe illness in people and animals. Nigeria activated national response mechanisms to coordinate collaboration across the human and animal sectors and reduce the risk for further disease transmission. Nigeria also collaborated with Ghana to exchange strategies for anthrax prevention and control. These and other measures helped curtail the impact of anthrax in Nigeria.

• Reducing the risk of biosafety and biosecurity incidents: Expanding biosurveillance capacity and the rapid evolution of technology are critical for health security, but can also elevate the risk of accidental and deliberate incidents. The Biden-Harris Administration has taken significant steps to minimize the chances of laboratory accidents; reduce the likelihood of deliberate use or accidental misuse; ensure effective biosafety and biosecurity practices and oversight; and promote responsible research and innovation. For example, the United States secured inclusion of biosafety and biosecurity as a critical component of the Pandemic Fund grants to support laboratory strengthening. One of the projects, the Caribbean Public Health Agency Train-the-Trainer Workshop on the Safe Transportation of Infectious Substances, resulted in certified trainers well-positioned to serve as national trainers and advisors in biosafety and safe transport protocols, ensuring safer practices across the region. The U.S. global health security bilateral partnerships also build capacity in biosafety and biosecurity: the GHS partner countries with at least two years of U.S. Government support demonstrated a net improvement in biosafety and biosecurity capacity from 2018 to 2023.

• Modernizing biorisk management: The Administration released the 2024 United States Government Policy for Oversight of Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential, marking a major new step in modernizing biorisk management. This policy streamlines and expands oversight of research of concern across the entire U.S. Government – setting a new global standard for effective research oversight. The Administration also introduced a new framework for biotechnology safeguards on federally funded purchases of synthetic DNA and RNA. These safeguards, which include Know-Your-Customer screening, will reduce the likelihood of misuse of synthetic biology. 

BUILDING MORE EFFECTIVE AND SUSTAINABLE GLOBAL HEALTH SECURITY GOVERNANCE AND FINANCING SYSTEMS

Strong national systems within the United States and other countries are essential to global health security. However, each country, including the United States, operates within a regional or global system that can either facilitate or hamper quick and effective responses to health emergencies. The Biden-Harris Administration has invested in building stronger multilateral systems and partnerships to strengthen global health security. 

Multilateral Partnerships

• Multilateral Negotiations: Through strong leadership and diplomatic outreach to World Health Organization (WHO) Member States, the United States helped secure an ambitious suite of amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) that will strengthen health emergency prevention, preparedness, and response. The United States is actively negotiating a pandemic agreement, with the goal of putting in place practical measures to prevent future pandemics, and strengthening the international community’s ability to respond rapidly and effectively in the event of a pandemic. The United States has also supported successful negotiations through the United Nations (UN) and UN agencies such as WHO on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response; antimicrobial resistance; biosafety and biosecurity; and biological weapons nonproliferation; among other areas.

• Multi-country Partnerships: The Biden-Harris Administration has worked closely with our allies and partners to advance initiatives critical to improving health security. For example, the G20 has been instrumental in establishing and sustaining stronger links between health and finance ministries. The G7 has committed to support more than 100 countries to strengthen their global health security capacities, and has led progress in transforming pandemic preparedness and response financing. The U.S. Department of State launched the Foreign Ministry Channel for Health Security to foster greater diplomatic engagement among Foreign Ministries on global health security. The Quad, a diplomatic grouping between the United States, Australia, India, and Japan, delivered more than 400 million safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine doses to Indo-Pacific countries and almost 800 million doses globally; advanced health security priorities in the Indo-Pacific region; and recently launched the Quad Cancer Moonshot, which will deliver up to 40 million doses of the human papillomavirus vaccine and support other efforts to address cervical cancer to the Indo-Pacific. Since its inception in 2014, the United States has actively engaged in the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA), a partnership of over 70 countries, more than 10 international organizations and coalitions, and more than 30 non-governmental organizations, including private sector and civil society partners, working together to accelerate implementation of the International Health Regulations.

Financing

Limitations in the existing systems to finance pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response left countries and financial institutions ill prepared to effectively contain COVID-19, contributing to the health and financial crises that resulted in the deaths of over 1.2 million Americans and an estimated $14 trillion in economic losses to the U.S. economy. On day one, President Biden called on his Administration to transform the existing financing institutions and to cultivate new financing sources for global health security that are more effective and sustainable, and that are less dependent on U.S. government assistance. 

• Expanding Reliable Financing for Pandemic Prevention and Preparedness: The United States was instrumental in the creation of the Pandemic Fund in 2022, the only multilateral financing facility dedicated exclusively to pandemic preparedness financing for low- and middle- income countries. The Pandemic Fund made significant progress in its first two years, awarding grants totaling $885 million, which mobilized an additional $6 billion in investments, to support 75 countries and economies across six geographic regions. The Pandemic Fund also effectively pivoted to support countries to prepare for mpox outbreaks as part of the global response to the ongoing mpox public health emergency. The United States has supported the Pandemic Fund’s $2 billion replenishment goal by pledging up to $667 million by 2025, calling on other donors to step up their contributions and end the cycle of panic and neglect.

• Strengthening Existing Financing Institutions to Support GHS: The United States is working to evolve Multilateral Development Banks to be better equipped to respond to the increasing frequency, scope, and complexity of global challenges, including pandemics. The Biden-Harris Administration strongly supported the establishment of the International Monetary Fund Resilience and Sustainability Trust and its goal of supporting low-income and vulnerable middle-income countries to access long-term, affordable financing to address longer-term challenges, such as health emergencies.

• Improving Timely Access to Emergency Response Financing: During the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries and institutions lacked the liquidity to procure the medical countermeasures (MCM) needed to mount effective and timely responses. The U.S. Development Finance Corporation helped develop and lead a G7 Surge Financing Initiative, through which G7 development finance institutions (DFIs), the European Investment Bank, the International Finance Corporation, and global and regional health stakeholders are developing and deploying innovative financing tools to accelerate access to MCMs in health emergencies. The United States also supported the establishment of the Day Zero Financing Facility, a suite of tools that will enable Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, to quickly meet demand for vaccines during a pandemic, including up to $2 billion in bridge financing loans. The United States also supports the roles of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), the Global Fund, and other regional and multilateral organizations in the development of solutions to surge financing for MCMs during emergencies.

• Increasing International Coordination and Cooperation in Health Security Financing: During health emergencies donors often surge rapid financial and technical support, with limited effective means for transparency and coordination, which can lead to inefficiencies, duplication of efforts, and gaps in support. The Biden-Harris Administration has taken action to enhance the impact of financing though increased coordination and cooperation including supporting the establishment of the G20 Finance-Health Task Force to strengthen coordination between Finance and Health Ministries; and contributed to improved international mpox response coordination.

EXPANDING ACCESS TO MEDICAL COUNTERMEASURES

The Biden-Harris Administration has prioritized expanding access to quality medical countermeasures (MCMs) around the world, building on decades of global health and health security leadership by the United States. The United States has long led the world in innovation, research and development. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the vital role of U.S. biotechnology and biomanufacturing in developing and producing the life-saving diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines needed to protect American lives and livelihoods, and national and economic security against future biological threats, whether naturally-occurring, accidental, or deliberate. The Biden-Harris Administration has strengthened sustainable global manufacturing and supply chain capacity; donated vaccines, diagnostic tests and treatments and support for their delivery; expanded pandemic response financing for MCMs; and strengthened legal and regulatory systems to ensure quality products and overcome barriers to rapid access. 

• Investments in Research and Development for Preparedness: While there will always be new or evolving biological threats, developing effective countermeasures for known threats is a critical piece of preparedness. For example, the U.S. government invested billions of dollars in mRNA technology in advance of the COVID-19 pandemic. These public investments translated into millions of lives saved in the United States and around the world, and were crucial to developing the mRNA vaccine technology that can be leveraged in a future pandemic, as well as potentially treating other diseases. The U.S. supports the goals of the mRNA Technology Transfer Programme, a capacity-building initiative in low- and middle-income countries to sustainably produce mRNA vaccines. Similarly, the United States Government invested more than $2 billion in the JYNNEOS vaccine as part of smallpox preparedness. These investments directly led to product licensure for both smallpox and mpox. On September 13, 2024, WHO announced pre-qualification of the JYNNEOS vaccine for global use, including in the Africa region in response to ongoing mpox outbreaks. The JYNNEOS vaccine that has now been used to protect Americans and people living around the world from mpox; it would not exist without the investment and technical expertise provided by the United States.

• Investments in Biotechnology: The Biden-Harris Administration has prioritized transforming our biotechnology capabilities, including catalyzing advances in science, technology, and core capabilities and has advanced a whole-of-government approach to strengthening U.S. biotechnology and biomanufacturing, including for health security. The United States Government’s historic investments in science and technology, from basic science to piloting innovative financing mechanisms to real-time research during health emergencies, are transforming the tools and approaches we use to detect, contain and respond to health threats. These efforts support the ambitious international goal of developing vaccines, treatments and diagnostics within 100 days from the onset of a potential pandemic.

• Support for the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI): CEPI is working to accelerate the development of life-saving vaccines against emerging disease threats, and to transform capability for rapid countermeasure development in response to future threats. Notable achievements include: the market authorization of the world’s first Chikungunya vaccine and technology transfer to regional producers for regional supply to LMICs; the advancement through clinical development of vaccine candidates against Lassa, Nipah, and coronaviruses, among others; and the launch of a new Disease X Vaccine Library with six viral families prioritized as high risk.

• Expanding Access to Publicly-supported Medical Inventions: The U.S. supports broad access to medical inventions facilitated by public investments and science, including through: the NIH proposal to promote access to products that rely on NIH-owned inventions (“Promoting Equity Through Access Planning”); fair pricing guarantees in funding agreements between manufacturers and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA); and appropriate provisions in a Pandemic Agreement for timely and equitable access to pandemic-related health products. During the COVID-19 pandemic, NIH licensed COVID-19 technologies arising from NIH intramural research to the Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) for access through WHO’s COVID-19 Technology Access Pool (C-TAP). Such contributions are an important step toward facilitating wider availability of lifesaving interventions around the world.

• Respecting Countries’ Rights to Protect Public Health: The United States respects countries’ right to protect public health and to promote access to medicines for all. The United States respects and does not call out countries for exercising health rights and flexibilities enshrined in the World Trade Organization’s (WTO’s) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), including with respect to compulsory licenses, in a manner consistent with TRIPS obligations. Toward that end, the United States endorsed negotiations of a temporary waiver of WTO intellectual property rules to support access to COVID vaccines.

STOPPING BIOLOGICAL THREATS AT THEIR SOURCE

In February 2021, just a few weeks into the Biden-Harris Administration and during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, DRC and Guinea experienced two unrelated Ebola outbreaks. Since then, the United States Government has supported responses to numerous outbreaks, from Ebola disease and Marburg virus disease to mpox, avian influenza, Oropouche virus, as well as ongoing threats including dengue, cholera, measles, malaria and HIV. United States Government support to emergency response is closely linked with ongoing bilateral investments in preparedness, with the goal of each country developing the capacity and resources to lead and coordinate responses to threats as soon as they emerge. Examples of U.S. Government support to outbreak responses during the Biden-Harris Administration include:

• COVID-19 Pandemic: Starting in 2021, the United States invested $16 billion in the global COVID-19 response. The Administration accelerated global access to COVID-19 vaccines, including sharing nearly 700 million COVID-19 vaccine doses with countries around the world, as well as diagnostics and therapeutics, supporting health workers, securing supply chains, and combatting mis- and disinformation on safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines. The United States was the world’s largest donor to the Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator (ACT-A) and provided global leadership to raise additional billions in critical funding through the U.S.-hosted and co-hosted Global COVID-19 Summits to save lives globally, end the pandemic, and build stronger health security.

• Mpox Outbreaks: The worldhas faced two regional or global outbreaks of mpox during the Biden-Harris Administration. In 2022, the Biden-Harris Administration mounted a robust response to the spread of clade IIb mpox by making vaccines available to those at risk, making testing more convenient, and providing treatments to those who needed them both in the United States and worldwide. During the ongoing clade I mpox outbreak, the U.S. Government has committed over $500 million to support mpox preparedness and response activities in mpox-affected countries in Africa, and the U.S. Government has made more than one million mpox vaccine doses available for global use. The United States has delivered additional support through technical assistance and in-kind contributions to surveillance, case investigation, procurement of diagnostic kits, consumable reagents, other laboratory supplies, and personal protective equipment.
• Marburg Virus Disease (MVD): After learning of the MVD outbreak in Rwanda in September 2024, the United States committed to making nearly $11 million available to address urgent health needs in Rwanda and surrounding countries, including for surveillance and contact tracing, infection prevention and control guidance, and exit screening. Within days of learning of the MVD outbreak, CDC deployed three senior scientists to Rwanda to support its response. Although there are currently no FDA-approved vaccines or drugs against MVD, the United States contributed thousands of investigational vaccine doses and a small number of investigational therapeutics doses, which arrived in Rwanda within a week of the U.S. Government learning of the outbreak. The United States has also contributed hundreds of MVD tests and units of personal protective equipment.

• Enhanced U.S. Government Response Coordination: Building on work in previous Administrations, the Biden-Harris Administration has successfully shepherded the “Playbook for Biological Incident Response” and a “Biological Incident Notification and Assessment” protocol from concept stage to an established and well-exercised process for rapid communication and coordination when biological threats emerge. This playbook and the protocol serve to give U.S. federal agencies “off-the-shelf” tools to respond to biological threats from all sources – natural, accidental and deliberate – that avoid response delays that cost lives and resources.

While we have made progress since emerging from the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, continued investment of financial, political, and technical resources is needed to ensure success in building stronger preparedness today, sustainability of those efforts, and resilience to future biological threats. Both at home and abroad, willingness to invest critical financial and political resources has waned as global health security competes with other priorities for attention and resources. Collective action across sectors and throughout the world is needed to ensure we do not cycle once more into neglect, rather that we sustain and build on the significant progress made. Success in these efforts will make Americans safer, protect our economy and reduce international reliance on U.S. resources and expertise during times of crisis.

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The post FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Releases Global Health Security Annual Report Demonstrating the Impact of United States Leadership and Investments appeared first on The White House.

President Biden and Vice President Harris came into office determined to end the COVID-19 pandemic while making progress toward a world that is safe from biological threats. Today we are releasing the final annual global health security report of the Biden-Harris Administration, U.S. Government Support for Global Health Security – Protecting Lives and Safeguarding Economies, which highlights progress in global health security and identifies remaining challenges.

The Biden-Harris Administration has advanced a bold agenda to prevent the devastating toll of outbreaks and pandemics, including investing more than $3 billion in strengthening global health security (GHS) since 2020. These investments have helped to: prepare countries around the world to more effectively prevent, detect and respond to biological threats; build stronger and more effective regional and global institutions to support health emergency preparedness and response; and respond rapidly to numerous outbreaks – from Ebola to mpox – to limit the health and economic impacts on the American people, as well as people living around the world. U.S. leadership in global health security is built on decades of investments in global health and research and development, as well as strong partnerships with other countries, regional and multilateral institutions, civil society, and the private sector.

REDUCING THE RISK OF NEW THREATS EMERGING AND BUILDING COUNTRY CAPACITY TO RESPOND TO THREATS

The most effective way to limit the impact of biological threats is to stop them at their source. The United States is working with countries and partners around the world to ensure they have the capacity to identify and stop emerging threats before they grow into regional or global threats. Central to these partnerships is the development of a shared plan based on gaps in each country’s capacity, as well as country ownership to sustain global health security capacities once U.S. Government support has ended. Highlights from the report include:

• More than 100 countries are building stronger global health security capacities: Over the last four years, the Biden-Harris Administrationexpanded formal Global Health Security partnerships from 19 countries to more than 50 countries and one regional group. The United States has also leveraged financial resources and diplomatic channels to mobilize support for 50 additional countries to strengthen their health security capacities, for a total of more than 100 countries receiving support. For example, through U.S. support to the Pandemic Fund and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (Global Fund) COVID-19 Response Mechanism, over sixty countries received financing to strengthen core health security capacities. The United States is not the sole provider of these resources, as countries around the world contribute, including through co-financing by low and middle-income countries.

• Measuring the impact of U.S. investments: The Biden-Harris Administration is focused on measurable results of these investments. Of the 25 formal GHS partner countries that have received U.S. support for at least two years, five have achieved the U.S. target of “demonstrated capacity” in at least five technical areas, and an additional five countries are close. We can also see the impact of investments when threats emerge. For example, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) – a U.S. government GHS partner since 2015 – has successfully contained five Ebola outbreaks since 2020, dramatically improving detection and response times. In 2022 the government of DRC detected an Ebola outbreak in 48 hours and contained the outbreak with only five lives lost to the disease.

• Country ownership on global health security: Many United States GHS partner countries are leading their own responses to crises, with U.S. collaboration when needed. For example, the U.S. Government is partnering with Nigeria to build stronger capacity on zoonotic diseases, disease surveillance, and health emergency management, among other areas. In 2023, Nigeria experienced outbreaks of anthrax, a zoonotic disease that can cause severe illness in people and animals. Nigeria activated national response mechanisms to coordinate collaboration across the human and animal sectors and reduce the risk for further disease transmission. Nigeria also collaborated with Ghana to exchange strategies for anthrax prevention and control. These and other measures helped curtail the impact of anthrax in Nigeria.

• Reducing the risk of biosafety and biosecurity incidents: Expanding biosurveillance capacity and the rapid evolution of technology are critical for health security, but can also elevate the risk of accidental and deliberate incidents. The Biden-Harris Administration has taken significant steps to minimize the chances of laboratory accidents; reduce the likelihood of deliberate use or accidental misuse; ensure effective biosafety and biosecurity practices and oversight; and promote responsible research and innovation. For example, the United States secured inclusion of biosafety and biosecurity as a critical component of the Pandemic Fund grants to support laboratory strengthening. One of the projects, the Caribbean Public Health Agency Train-the-Trainer Workshop on the Safe Transportation of Infectious Substances, resulted in certified trainers well-positioned to serve as national trainers and advisors in biosafety and safe transport protocols, ensuring safer practices across the region. The U.S. global health security bilateral partnerships also build capacity in biosafety and biosecurity: the GHS partner countries with at least two years of U.S. Government support demonstrated a net improvement in biosafety and biosecurity capacity from 2018 to 2023.

• Modernizing biorisk management: The Administration released the 2024 United States Government Policy for Oversight of Dual Use Research of Concern and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential, marking a major new step in modernizing biorisk management. This policy streamlines and expands oversight of research of concern across the entire U.S. Government – setting a new global standard for effective research oversight. The Administration also introduced a new framework for biotechnology safeguards on federally funded purchases of synthetic DNA and RNA. These safeguards, which include Know-Your-Customer screening, will reduce the likelihood of misuse of synthetic biology. 

BUILDING MORE EFFECTIVE AND SUSTAINABLE GLOBAL HEALTH SECURITY GOVERNANCE AND FINANCING SYSTEMS

Strong national systems within the United States and other countries are essential to global health security. However, each country, including the United States, operates within a regional or global system that can either facilitate or hamper quick and effective responses to health emergencies. The Biden-Harris Administration has invested in building stronger multilateral systems and partnerships to strengthen global health security. 

Multilateral Partnerships

• Multilateral Negotiations: Through strong leadership and diplomatic outreach to World Health Organization (WHO) Member States, the United States helped secure an ambitious suite of amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) that will strengthen health emergency prevention, preparedness, and response. The United States is actively negotiating a pandemic agreement, with the goal of putting in place practical measures to prevent future pandemics, and strengthening the international community’s ability to respond rapidly and effectively in the event of a pandemic. The United States has also supported successful negotiations through the United Nations (UN) and UN agencies such as WHO on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response; antimicrobial resistance; biosafety and biosecurity; and biological weapons nonproliferation; among other areas.

• Multi-country Partnerships: The Biden-Harris Administration has worked closely with our allies and partners to advance initiatives critical to improving health security. For example, the G20 has been instrumental in establishing and sustaining stronger links between health and finance ministries. The G7 has committed to support more than 100 countries to strengthen their global health security capacities, and has led progress in transforming pandemic preparedness and response financing. The U.S. Department of State launched the Foreign Ministry Channel for Health Security to foster greater diplomatic engagement among Foreign Ministries on global health security. The Quad, a diplomatic grouping between the United States, Australia, India, and Japan, delivered more than 400 million safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine doses to Indo-Pacific countries and almost 800 million doses globally; advanced health security priorities in the Indo-Pacific region; and recently launched the Quad Cancer Moonshot, which will deliver up to 40 million doses of the human papillomavirus vaccine and support other efforts to address cervical cancer to the Indo-Pacific. Since its inception in 2014, the United States has actively engaged in the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA), a partnership of over 70 countries, more than 10 international organizations and coalitions, and more than 30 non-governmental organizations, including private sector and civil society partners, working together to accelerate implementation of the International Health Regulations.

Financing

Limitations in the existing systems to finance pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response left countries and financial institutions ill prepared to effectively contain COVID-19, contributing to the health and financial crises that resulted in the deaths of over 1.2 million Americans and an estimated $14 trillion in economic losses to the U.S. economy. On day one, President Biden called on his Administration to transform the existing financing institutions and to cultivate new financing sources for global health security that are more effective and sustainable, and that are less dependent on U.S. government assistance. 

• Expanding Reliable Financing for Pandemic Prevention and Preparedness: The United States was instrumental in the creation of the Pandemic Fund in 2022, the only multilateral financing facility dedicated exclusively to pandemic preparedness financing for low- and middle- income countries. The Pandemic Fund made significant progress in its first two years, awarding grants totaling $885 million, which mobilized an additional $6 billion in investments, to support 75 countries and economies across six geographic regions. The Pandemic Fund also effectively pivoted to support countries to prepare for mpox outbreaks as part of the global response to the ongoing mpox public health emergency. The United States has supported the Pandemic Fund’s $2 billion replenishment goal by pledging up to $667 million by 2025, calling on other donors to step up their contributions and end the cycle of panic and neglect.

• Strengthening Existing Financing Institutions to Support GHS: The United States is working to evolve Multilateral Development Banks to be better equipped to respond to the increasing frequency, scope, and complexity of global challenges, including pandemics. The Biden-Harris Administration strongly supported the establishment of the International Monetary Fund Resilience and Sustainability Trust and its goal of supporting low-income and vulnerable middle-income countries to access long-term, affordable financing to address longer-term challenges, such as health emergencies.

• Improving Timely Access to Emergency Response Financing: During the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries and institutions lacked the liquidity to procure the medical countermeasures (MCM) needed to mount effective and timely responses. The U.S. Development Finance Corporation helped develop and lead a G7 Surge Financing Initiative, through which G7 development finance institutions (DFIs), the European Investment Bank, the International Finance Corporation, and global and regional health stakeholders are developing and deploying innovative financing tools to accelerate access to MCMs in health emergencies. The United States also supported the establishment of the Day Zero Financing Facility, a suite of tools that will enable Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, to quickly meet demand for vaccines during a pandemic, including up to $2 billion in bridge financing loans. The United States also supports the roles of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), the Global Fund, and other regional and multilateral organizations in the development of solutions to surge financing for MCMs during emergencies.

• Increasing International Coordination and Cooperation in Health Security Financing: During health emergencies donors often surge rapid financial and technical support, with limited effective means for transparency and coordination, which can lead to inefficiencies, duplication of efforts, and gaps in support. The Biden-Harris Administration has taken action to enhance the impact of financing though increased coordination and cooperation including supporting the establishment of the G20 Finance-Health Task Force to strengthen coordination between Finance and Health Ministries; and contributed to improved international mpox response coordination.

EXPANDING ACCESS TO MEDICAL COUNTERMEASURES

The Biden-Harris Administration has prioritized expanding access to quality medical countermeasures (MCMs) around the world, building on decades of global health and health security leadership by the United States. The United States has long led the world in innovation, research and development. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the vital role of U.S. biotechnology and biomanufacturing in developing and producing the life-saving diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines needed to protect American lives and livelihoods, and national and economic security against future biological threats, whether naturally-occurring, accidental, or deliberate. The Biden-Harris Administration has strengthened sustainable global manufacturing and supply chain capacity; donated vaccines, diagnostic tests and treatments and support for their delivery; expanded pandemic response financing for MCMs; and strengthened legal and regulatory systems to ensure quality products and overcome barriers to rapid access. 

• Investments in Research and Development for Preparedness: While there will always be new or evolving biological threats, developing effective countermeasures for known threats is a critical piece of preparedness. For example, the U.S. government invested billions of dollars in mRNA technology in advance of the COVID-19 pandemic. These public investments translated into millions of lives saved in the United States and around the world, and were crucial to developing the mRNA vaccine technology that can be leveraged in a future pandemic, as well as potentially treating other diseases. The U.S. supports the goals of the mRNA Technology Transfer Programme, a capacity-building initiative in low- and middle-income countries to sustainably produce mRNA vaccines. Similarly, the United States Government invested more than $2 billion in the JYNNEOS vaccine as part of smallpox preparedness. These investments directly led to product licensure for both smallpox and mpox. On September 13, 2024, WHO announced pre-qualification of the JYNNEOS vaccine for global use, including in the Africa region in response to ongoing mpox outbreaks. The JYNNEOS vaccine that has now been used to protect Americans and people living around the world from mpox; it would not exist without the investment and technical expertise provided by the United States.

• Investments in Biotechnology: The Biden-Harris Administration has prioritized transforming our biotechnology capabilities, including catalyzing advances in science, technology, and core capabilities and has advanced a whole-of-government approach to strengthening U.S. biotechnology and biomanufacturing, including for health security. The United States Government’s historic investments in science and technology, from basic science to piloting innovative financing mechanisms to real-time research during health emergencies, are transforming the tools and approaches we use to detect, contain and respond to health threats. These efforts support the ambitious international goal of developing vaccines, treatments and diagnostics within 100 days from the onset of a potential pandemic.

• Support for the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI): CEPI is working to accelerate the development of life-saving vaccines against emerging disease threats, and to transform capability for rapid countermeasure development in response to future threats. Notable achievements include: the market authorization of the world’s first Chikungunya vaccine and technology transfer to regional producers for regional supply to LMICs; the advancement through clinical development of vaccine candidates against Lassa, Nipah, and coronaviruses, among others; and the launch of a new Disease X Vaccine Library with six viral families prioritized as high risk.

• Expanding Access to Publicly-supported Medical Inventions: The U.S. supports broad access to medical inventions facilitated by public investments and science, including through: the NIH proposal to promote access to products that rely on NIH-owned inventions (“Promoting Equity Through Access Planning”); fair pricing guarantees in funding agreements between manufacturers and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA); and appropriate provisions in a Pandemic Agreement for timely and equitable access to pandemic-related health products. During the COVID-19 pandemic, NIH licensed COVID-19 technologies arising from NIH intramural research to the Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) for access through WHO’s COVID-19 Technology Access Pool (C-TAP). Such contributions are an important step toward facilitating wider availability of lifesaving interventions around the world.

• Respecting Countries’ Rights to Protect Public Health: The United States respects countries’ right to protect public health and to promote access to medicines for all. The United States respects and does not call out countries for exercising health rights and flexibilities enshrined in the World Trade Organization’s (WTO’s) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), including with respect to compulsory licenses, in a manner consistent with TRIPS obligations. Toward that end, the United States endorsed negotiations of a temporary waiver of WTO intellectual property rules to support access to COVID vaccines.

STOPPING BIOLOGICAL THREATS AT THEIR SOURCE

In February 2021, just a few weeks into the Biden-Harris Administration and during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, DRC and Guinea experienced two unrelated Ebola outbreaks. Since then, the United States Government has supported responses to numerous outbreaks, from Ebola disease and Marburg virus disease to mpox, avian influenza, Oropouche virus, as well as ongoing threats including dengue, cholera, measles, malaria and HIV. United States Government support to emergency response is closely linked with ongoing bilateral investments in preparedness, with the goal of each country developing the capacity and resources to lead and coordinate responses to threats as soon as they emerge. Examples of U.S. Government support to outbreak responses during the Biden-Harris Administration include:

• COVID-19 Pandemic: Starting in 2021, the United States invested $16 billion in the global COVID-19 response. The Administration accelerated global access to COVID-19 vaccines, including sharing nearly 700 million COVID-19 vaccine doses with countries around the world, as well as diagnostics and therapeutics, supporting health workers, securing supply chains, and combatting mis- and disinformation on safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines. The United States was the world’s largest donor to the Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator (ACT-A) and provided global leadership to raise additional billions in critical funding through the U.S.-hosted and co-hosted Global COVID-19 Summits to save lives globally, end the pandemic, and build stronger health security.

• Mpox Outbreaks: The worldhas faced two regional or global outbreaks of mpox during the Biden-Harris Administration. In 2022, the Biden-Harris Administration mounted a robust response to the spread of clade IIb mpox by making vaccines available to those at risk, making testing more convenient, and providing treatments to those who needed them both in the United States and worldwide. During the ongoing clade I mpox outbreak, the U.S. Government has committed over $500 million to support mpox preparedness and response activities in mpox-affected countries in Africa, and the U.S. Government has made more than one million mpox vaccine doses available for global use. The United States has delivered additional support through technical assistance and in-kind contributions to surveillance, case investigation, procurement of diagnostic kits, consumable reagents, other laboratory supplies, and personal protective equipment.
• Marburg Virus Disease (MVD): After learning of the MVD outbreak in Rwanda in September 2024, the United States committed to making nearly $11 million available to address urgent health needs in Rwanda and surrounding countries, including for surveillance and contact tracing, infection prevention and control guidance, and exit screening. Within days of learning of the MVD outbreak, CDC deployed three senior scientists to Rwanda to support its response. Although there are currently no FDA-approved vaccines or drugs against MVD, the United States contributed thousands of investigational vaccine doses and a small number of investigational therapeutics doses, which arrived in Rwanda within a week of the U.S. Government learning of the outbreak. The United States has also contributed hundreds of MVD tests and units of personal protective equipment.

• Enhanced U.S. Government Response Coordination: Building on work in previous Administrations, the Biden-Harris Administration has successfully shepherded the “Playbook for Biological Incident Response” and a “Biological Incident Notification and Assessment” protocol from concept stage to an established and well-exercised process for rapid communication and coordination when biological threats emerge. This playbook and the protocol serve to give U.S. federal agencies “off-the-shelf” tools to respond to biological threats from all sources – natural, accidental and deliberate – that avoid response delays that cost lives and resources.

While we have made progress since emerging from the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, continued investment of financial, political, and technical resources is needed to ensure success in building stronger preparedness today, sustainability of those efforts, and resilience to future biological threats. Both at home and abroad, willingness to invest critical financial and political resources has waned as global health security competes with other priorities for attention and resources. Collective action across sectors and throughout the world is needed to ensure we do not cycle once more into neglect, rather that we sustain and build on the significant progress made. Success in these efforts will make Americans safer, protect our economy and reduce international reliance on U.S. resources and expertise during times of crisis.

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The post FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Releases Global Health Security Annual Report Demonstrating the Impact of United States Leadership and Investments appeared first on The White House.

East Room

11:36 A.M. EST
 
THE FIRST LADY:  You’re so quiet.  It’s like a classroom.  (Laughter and applause.) 
 
So, in the intermission, were you all, like, dancing and everything?  (Laughter.)  Get a little movement.  You know, you’ve been sitting for a while.
 
So, thank you for standing.  But, you know, I’m glad you get a little — like you said, Robin, a little movement, right?  It’s — that’s what it’s all about.
 
So — oh, please sit down.  Please.  (Laughter.)  If you feel all stretched out by now.
 
So, before I begin, I just want to say I’m so glad that you got to come here today because the White House is decorated.  (Applause.)  And the theme this year is “Peace and Light.”  So, I hope that you all feel that sense of, you know, peace and light and that, just for a moment, when you leave here today, that you feel — I don’t know — a little — a sense of joy, because I think we all need, like, this — you know, we all need to feel joy now during this — this time of the season, during — just during this time. 
 
So, anyway — (laughter) — okay.  Now I’ll start.  You’re all reading into that.  (Laughter.) 
 
Anyway, for decades, for centuries even, at dinner tables and in waiting rooms, in whispered conversations, you know, when we meet our friends for coffee, women have been talking to each other about our health.  Isn’t that true?
 
AUDIENCE:  Yes.
 
THE FIRST LADY:  So, today, we brought that conversation to the White House.  (Applause.)  Today, we are saying to women everywhere: We hear you, and we will get you the answers you need.
 
So, thank you for joining us for the White House Conference on Women’s Health Research.
 
The United States has the best health research in the world, yet women’s health is understudied and research is underfunded.  And so many of you have said this.  And the United States economy loses $1.8 billion in working time every year to menopause symptoms that upend women’s lives.
 
And that’s what Maria Shriver and I talked about on that Saturday afternoon in April last year.  So, Maria keeps this quote next to her phone — you have a stationary phone?  (Laughter.) 
 
MS. SHRIVER:  (Inaudible.)  (Laughter.)
 
THE FIRST LADY:  — in her office, and it says, “Why go to the moon?”  And your uncle, President Kennedy, asked, “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things not because they are easy, because they are hard.”
 
So, Maria, thank you for carrying on that mission, pushing for breakthroughs that are never easy but possible.  Thank you.  (Applause.) 
 
So, a little more than a year ago, President Biden launched — thank you, Joe — (laughter) — the first-ever White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research, building on the foundation of decades of work in women’s health from many of you in this room.
 
And Carolyn made sure yesterday, as we were doing speech prep, that I understood — she said, “Jill, you know, I know that we’re doing this now, but there are some women” — like Carolyn — “who’s been doing this research forever and ever and ever.”  And I just want you — to say we — we recognize that.  So — (applause).
 
So, it — you heard from Carolyn, you know, our incredible — and our incredible team here at the White House who’s ensured that government-funded research, you know — and they will include women from the beginning.
 
And that means designing studies and separating the data, which everyone has said, and reporting findings to create treatments specifically for women and for we- — men.  I mean, we’re not going to leave you guys out.  (Laughter.)
 
And we’ve invested nearly $1 billion in this research on women’s health.  (Applause.)
 
So, a- — over this past year, I’ve traveled around the country, and I have met, honestly, some really incredible researchers.  And I’ve been to universities and the New York Stock Exchange to bring people together and create connections across industries. 
 
And the women of this country are paying attention.  Researchers and business leaders are too. 
 
So, we brought all of you into this room to elevate all this information: discoveries that will change how we treat menopause symptoms — we’ve talked about this all this morning; research that uses genetics to find the cause of extreme morning sickness.  And I heard this a couple weeks ago, and I was particularly interested because my own granddaughter was going through the same thing — because we’re going to be great-grandparents.  (Applause.)  (Laughs.)
 
So, funders and founders who are seeing the market for women’s health products triple, advocates who are making sure that women know that solutions are at our fingertips if we just keep fighting for them.
 
Together, we’ve laid down a new line, a marker of our progress toward closing the gaps in women’s health.  Everything that you’ve heard today — and hasn’t it been, like, so informative and fascinating?  I mean, I love these forums because I always learn something new.  I just — you know, it’s just so inspiring.  Because this is our new normal. 
 
And today isn’t the finish line; it’s the starting point.  We — all of us, we have built the momentum.  Now it’s up to us to make it unstoppable.
 
It has been the honor of my life to serve as your first lady and to join you in this work, but my work doesn’t stop in January when Joe and I leave this house.  I will keep building alliances, like the ones that brought us here today, and I will keep pushing for funding for innovative research.  (Applause.)  (Laughs.)
 
So, join me.  Be the researcher who makes sure that each proposal you work on considers women from the beginning.  Be the investor who searches for the next breakthrough product of [or] treatment.  Be the voice in every space, from boardrooms to classrooms to laboratories, who asks, “What are we doing to advance women’s health?”
 
Let’s make a promise to all those women out there right now, sitting in a parking lot somewhere, in a doc- — after a doctor’s appointment, wondering why you’re not being heard — so, maybe feeling, you know, like you’re all alone.
 
And — well, I’ll just have to stop here for one second.  I did hear during that little intermission thing — like, we’re not putting our doctors down — right? — so, some doc ba- — in the back said, “You know, it sounds like you’re putting the docs down.”  We’re not putting the docs down.  I don’t want you to feel that way.  That, you know — but I think the docs are joining us and saying, “Hey, we want the answers.”  So, I just want to make that 100 percent clear.
 
So, the White House, all of us here, we will keep fighting for you until your worries turn into answers, your symptoms into solutions.  Until women everywhere benefit from the lifesaving and world-changing research that we know is possible. 
 
A new future can ring out from this conference, one that — one that answers the call from women who have been waiting for too long.  Let this be the moment that we push harder, the moment that people say changed the world of women’s health forever. 
 
Thank you.  (Applause.)  (Laughs.)  Thank you.  Thank you.  (Applause.) 
 
Thank you.  Thank you very much.  Please.
 
So, I’m so grateful to have a president who — (laughs) — who heard us — (laughter) — and took action quickly.  So, without Joe, really, this wouldn’t have been made possible.  And that’s the power of someone who understands how to make things happen in government — because God knows, Joe, you’ve been for — what? — 50 years.  (Laughter.)  (The president makes the sign of the cross.) 
 
So, someone who has fundamentally shifted how our nat- — nation approaches women’s health research.
 
So, please welcome my husband, your president and champion, I think, of all of us.  So, my husband, Joe Biden.  Come on, Joe.  (Applause.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  (Applause.) 
 
Thank God she said “yes” the fifth time I asked her to marry me.  (Laughter.) 
 
Please have a seat. 
 
You know, I — as they used to say in the Senate, a point of personal privilege: I — when — no man deserves one great love, let alone two.  When I was introduced to Jill, my younger brother — my youngest brother said, “You’ll love her; she hates politics.”  (Laughter.) 
 
Well, look, I — hello, everyone.  My name is Joe Biden; I’m Jill Biden’s husband.  (Laughter.)  Let’s be honest, we wouldn’t be here today without Jill. 
 
Across our administration and across Congress, across the country, the work we’re doing on women’s health research is some of the most important work this administration has ever done.
 
And I’ve always believed that our nation is at its best when we — when we plumb the endless possibilities that exist for all our women and girls.  And that includes their health.
 
Women on- — are half our population, to state the obvious.  But like Jill said, for too long, they’ve been underrepresented when it comes to health research.  And that’s real. 
 
You know, that’s why, over a year ago, we launched the first-ever White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research.  And the goal was to fundamentally change and improve how we approach and invest in women’s health research — we weren’t doing enough of it — and to pioneer the next generation of scientific research and discoveries that are going to improve care for — women receive all across the country.
 
Because the fact is the health of our moms and grandmothers, sisters and daughters, friends and colleagues affects not just women’s well-being but the prosperity of the entire nation.  And that’s a fact.  We haven’t gotten that through to the other team yet.  (Laughter.)  No — no, I mean it, across the board.  Anyway, I won’t get into that.  (Laughter.)
 
But that’s why, in my State of the Union address this year, I called on Congress to invest $12 billion in women’s health research to benefit millions of lives — (applause) — and families and communities all across America.
 
Folks, but my administration wasn’t going to wait for Congress to secure the funding.  We looked for other ways to prioritize women’s health with existing dollars that are already in the government and to get important work started.
 
And I knew where to start: Rosa DeLauro.  (Applause.)  Rosa, stand up.  I’m not joking.  As they say in souther- — you all think I’m kidding.  I’m not kidding.  (Laughter.)  She’s incredible.  Every important thing I’ve ever tried to get done that no one paid attention to, you were there for me.  I mean it sincerely.  You’re the best, Rosa.  What you did on Child Tax Credit — I mean, across the board. 
 
And, folks, women’s health is — is a — something that — that matters so, so very much.  Along with members that are here today, you — she’s going to keep this effort going to — when we leave.  When we leave — when Jill and I leave.
 
AUDIENCE MEMBER:  Fight like hell.  (Laughter.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Well, we’re going to fight like hell.  And w- — I — I’m the — we’re — we’re no longer going to be president and first lady, but we’re not going away.  (Laughter.)  And so — (applause).
 
Along with members here, like Diane [Diana] and Lauren.  Where — where is Diane [Diana]? 
 
REPRESENTATIVE DEGETTE:  Right here. 
 
THE PRESIDENT:  There you go.  Stand up, kiddo.  Let them see you.  (Applause.)
 
And, Lauren, thank you. 
 
So, I’m so proud that, to date, we’ve secured $1 billion so far in women’s health research from different government agencies.
 
You know, our new agency, ARPA-H, which is patterned after Advanced — it’s called Advanced Research Projects and Agencies for Health — is based on DARPA, which is the Defense Department program for Advanced Research and Projects Agency.  That drove breakthroughs — the Defense Department broke breakthroughs in everything from the Internet to GPS.  It had a big budget for doing everything else, but it also had this specific individual budget. 
 
And ARPA-H does for biomedicine what DARPA does for technology, driving breakthroughs to prevent, detect, and treat diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and so much more.  We’re using their funding to drive breakthroughs in women’s health in ovarian cancer and menopause, in migraines, in high blood pressure for pregnant women.
 
The National Institute of Health is using their funding to break down the silos — a lot of silos in government, a lot of silos across the — in America — to make more progress and do it more quickly.
 
For example, we know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women.  But we don’t know — we don’t know enough about how menopause may affect heart disease.  And that’s going to change now.  We’re going to learn so much more.
 
And the Department of Defense is dedicating funds to research women’s health issues like arthritis, cancer, chronic fatigue that affect women in the military, but this research is going to benefit all women — all women.
 
Our work doesn’t stop here.
 
Look, you know, the addition to — in addition to launching the Women’s Health Research Initiative earlier this year, I signed an executive order that — directing the most comprehensive set of executive actions ever taken — ever taken in the history of this country to improve women’s health issues.
 
And, look — (applause) — it ensures that women’s health is integrated and prioritized all across the entire federal government — all research projects and budget plans, across the entire government.  And it spurs new research and innovation on a wide range of women’s health needs throughout their lives.  And it does so much more — so much more.
 
Folks, there’s literally never been more comprehensive effort from the federal government to spur innovation in women’s health research in our entire history. 
 
And thank you, by the way, kiddo.  (Laughter and applause.)  I — no, I mean it.  (Applause.)  I mean it.
 
If I can digress for a moment, I — I would — I have been the beneficiary of a lot of the research that’s been done.  I had a — two cranial aneurysms.  I had two nine-hour operations.  They took the top of my head off twice; they couldn’t find a brain the first time.  (Laughter.) 
 
But all — all kidding aside, I mean the research that’s going on across the entire world.  I visited every single solitary major health center in the world — in the world — seven of them.  And, you know, a lot of wha- — what happens, even in not just women’s research, but, you know, docs who are great, they walk by the mirror, and they see a Pulitzer Pri- — a — a Nobel Prize about to be won and — rather than sharing the data.  But that’s all changing.  That’s all changing. 
 
And this initiative lays the groundwork for discoveries and research for generations to come.  Mark my words.  And the benefits we gain tomorrow will happen because we made the decision to do something about them today — today, now. 
 
And all of you in this room are leading the way, and that’s not hyperbole.  You really are.  It’s a hell of a com- — combination of people that make things change.
 
Let me close with this.  And my daughter, Ashley, sitting here, she runs a — she works for women — she runs a women’s health shel- — women’s health center — shelter in Philadelphia. 
 
And — and, you know, this holiday season is a time not for gratitude but for reflection.  Gratitude is important, but we got to reflect on what’s going on. 
 
And let me say to you that it’s been an honor of my life to serve as your president the last four years.  But I’m — and I’m forever grateful.  I really am.  (Applause.) 
 
But folks, it’s not a joke.  We’re blessed to live in America.  We’re blessed to live in America.  I’ve been to over 140 countries.  I mean, but for the grace of God, I could’ve been born a lot of other places.  Literally the greatest country on Earth, that’s who we are.  But we got to raise up even more than we are now.
 
I often say, America can be summed up in one word.  I was on the Tibetan Plateau with Xi Jinping, and he said, “Can you define America for me?”  And I — this is all on the record.  I said, “Yes, one word: possibilities.” 
 
Think about it.  We’re the only nation in the world where people — they think there’s arrogance in that.  But we’ve never failed to get things done when we set our mind to it.  It’s all about possibilities.  Anything is possible.
 
That’s what the Women’s Realth — Health Research Initiative is all about: possibilities.  You know, and that’s what this conference is all about.  That’s what you’re all about.  Researchers, innovators, investors; businesses, advocates, elected officials; public, private, and non-profit leaders unleashing the drive and discovery and the talent and imagination that you have in this room — a spirit of innovation inherent in who you guys are. 
 
I really mean it.  Think about it.  Turn and look at the people to your left and right who you know are engaged in this.  It’s all about the possibilities and belief we can do things, we can change things fundamentally.   
 
I think inherent in the American con- — conscience is setting a bold vision and taking concrete steps to make our dreams a reality, holding on to one more thing that we can never lose: hope — hope, hope, hope.  Because what we need — we need to raise the expectations of the American people up.  We got to let them know we haven’t forgotten.  Whether it’s a business or labor or whether it’s politics, whatever, we haven’t forgotten. 
 
You — you guys go out there.  You take care of all of these folks.  Guess what?  How many of them think that we just sort of forgotten?  Why aren’t we focused?
 
Because of you and your fearless determination, you’re making real progress.  You’re really making progress. 
 
There’s still so much more to do.  And we’re going to take all of us to get it done.  I know it’s a battle.  But I know I have a hell of a lot of — a hell of an army here.  (Laughter.) 
 
You know, when I look around at all of you here today — and I mean this sincerely — I know it’s a battle we’re going to win.  We’re going to win this battle.  
 
We just have to remember who in the hell we are.  We’re the United States of America.  And there is nothing we’ve ever set our mind to we’ve been unable to do when we’ve done it together.  It’s not beyond our capacity, when we work together.  And that’s what you’re all doing: working together. 
 
And so, I — and I want to close by thanking my wife for Ji- — I mean, Jill, I tell you.  Like I said, when we got married, my brother said, “Don’t worry; she doesn’t like politics.”  Well, I tell you what, you stepped up, kid.  (Laughter.)  You’ve stepped up.
 
And in case you wonder, when she speaks, I listen.  (Laughter and applause.)
 
Thank you all so very, very much.  Let’s get this done.    Thank you.  (Applause.) 
 
11:57 A.M. EST

The post Remarks by President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden at the First-Ever White House Conference on Women’s Health Research appeared first on The White House.

East Room

11:36 A.M. EST
 
THE FIRST LADY:  You’re so quiet.  It’s like a classroom.  (Laughter and applause.) 
 
So, in the intermission, were you all, like, dancing and everything?  (Laughter.)  Get a little movement.  You know, you’ve been sitting for a while.
 
So, thank you for standing.  But, you know, I’m glad you get a little — like you said, Robin, a little movement, right?  It’s — that’s what it’s all about.
 
So — oh, please sit down.  Please.  (Laughter.)  If you feel all stretched out by now.
 
So, before I begin, I just want to say I’m so glad that you got to come here today because the White House is decorated.  (Applause.)  And the theme this year is “Peace and Light.”  So, I hope that you all feel that sense of, you know, peace and light and that, just for a moment, when you leave here today, that you feel — I don’t know — a little — a sense of joy, because I think we all need, like, this — you know, we all need to feel joy now during this — this time of the season, during — just during this time. 
 
So, anyway — (laughter) — okay.  Now I’ll start.  You’re all reading into that.  (Laughter.) 
 
Anyway, for decades, for centuries even, at dinner tables and in waiting rooms, in whispered conversations, you know, when we meet our friends for coffee, women have been talking to each other about our health.  Isn’t that true?
 
AUDIENCE:  Yes.
 
THE FIRST LADY:  So, today, we brought that conversation to the White House.  (Applause.)  Today, we are saying to women everywhere: We hear you, and we will get you the answers you need.
 
So, thank you for joining us for the White House Conference on Women’s Health Research.
 
The United States has the best health research in the world, yet women’s health is understudied and research is underfunded.  And so many of you have said this.  And the United States economy loses $1.8 billion in working time every year to menopause symptoms that upend women’s lives.
 
And that’s what Maria Shriver and I talked about on that Saturday afternoon in April last year.  So, Maria keeps this quote next to her phone — you have a stationary phone?  (Laughter.) 
 
MS. SHRIVER:  (Inaudible.)  (Laughter.)
 
THE FIRST LADY:  — in her office, and it says, “Why go to the moon?”  And your uncle, President Kennedy, asked, “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things not because they are easy, because they are hard.”
 
So, Maria, thank you for carrying on that mission, pushing for breakthroughs that are never easy but possible.  Thank you.  (Applause.) 
 
So, a little more than a year ago, President Biden launched — thank you, Joe — (laughter) — the first-ever White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research, building on the foundation of decades of work in women’s health from many of you in this room.
 
And Carolyn made sure yesterday, as we were doing speech prep, that I understood — she said, “Jill, you know, I know that we’re doing this now, but there are some women” — like Carolyn — “who’s been doing this research forever and ever and ever.”  And I just want you — to say we — we recognize that.  So — (applause).
 
So, it — you heard from Carolyn, you know, our incredible — and our incredible team here at the White House who’s ensured that government-funded research, you know — and they will include women from the beginning.
 
And that means designing studies and separating the data, which everyone has said, and reporting findings to create treatments specifically for women and for we- — men.  I mean, we’re not going to leave you guys out.  (Laughter.)
 
And we’ve invested nearly $1 billion in this research on women’s health.  (Applause.)
 
So, a- — over this past year, I’ve traveled around the country, and I have met, honestly, some really incredible researchers.  And I’ve been to universities and the New York Stock Exchange to bring people together and create connections across industries. 
 
And the women of this country are paying attention.  Researchers and business leaders are too. 
 
So, we brought all of you into this room to elevate all this information: discoveries that will change how we treat menopause symptoms — we’ve talked about this all this morning; research that uses genetics to find the cause of extreme morning sickness.  And I heard this a couple weeks ago, and I was particularly interested because my own granddaughter was going through the same thing — because we’re going to be great-grandparents.  (Applause.)  (Laughs.)
 
So, funders and founders who are seeing the market for women’s health products triple, advocates who are making sure that women know that solutions are at our fingertips if we just keep fighting for them.
 
Together, we’ve laid down a new line, a marker of our progress toward closing the gaps in women’s health.  Everything that you’ve heard today — and hasn’t it been, like, so informative and fascinating?  I mean, I love these forums because I always learn something new.  I just — you know, it’s just so inspiring.  Because this is our new normal. 
 
And today isn’t the finish line; it’s the starting point.  We — all of us, we have built the momentum.  Now it’s up to us to make it unstoppable.
 
It has been the honor of my life to serve as your first lady and to join you in this work, but my work doesn’t stop in January when Joe and I leave this house.  I will keep building alliances, like the ones that brought us here today, and I will keep pushing for funding for innovative research.  (Applause.)  (Laughs.)
 
So, join me.  Be the researcher who makes sure that each proposal you work on considers women from the beginning.  Be the investor who searches for the next breakthrough product of [or] treatment.  Be the voice in every space, from boardrooms to classrooms to laboratories, who asks, “What are we doing to advance women’s health?”
 
Let’s make a promise to all those women out there right now, sitting in a parking lot somewhere, in a doc- — after a doctor’s appointment, wondering why you’re not being heard — so, maybe feeling, you know, like you’re all alone.
 
And — well, I’ll just have to stop here for one second.  I did hear during that little intermission thing — like, we’re not putting our doctors down — right? — so, some doc ba- — in the back said, “You know, it sounds like you’re putting the docs down.”  We’re not putting the docs down.  I don’t want you to feel that way.  That, you know — but I think the docs are joining us and saying, “Hey, we want the answers.”  So, I just want to make that 100 percent clear.
 
So, the White House, all of us here, we will keep fighting for you until your worries turn into answers, your symptoms into solutions.  Until women everywhere benefit from the lifesaving and world-changing research that we know is possible. 
 
A new future can ring out from this conference, one that — one that answers the call from women who have been waiting for too long.  Let this be the moment that we push harder, the moment that people say changed the world of women’s health forever. 
 
Thank you.  (Applause.)  (Laughs.)  Thank you.  Thank you.  (Applause.) 
 
Thank you.  Thank you very much.  Please.
 
So, I’m so grateful to have a president who — (laughs) — who heard us — (laughter) — and took action quickly.  So, without Joe, really, this wouldn’t have been made possible.  And that’s the power of someone who understands how to make things happen in government — because God knows, Joe, you’ve been for — what? — 50 years.  (Laughter.)  (The president makes the sign of the cross.) 
 
So, someone who has fundamentally shifted how our nat- — nation approaches women’s health research.
 
So, please welcome my husband, your president and champion, I think, of all of us.  So, my husband, Joe Biden.  Come on, Joe.  (Applause.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  (Applause.) 
 
Thank God she said “yes” the fifth time I asked her to marry me.  (Laughter.) 
 
Please have a seat. 
 
You know, I — as they used to say in the Senate, a point of personal privilege: I — when — no man deserves one great love, let alone two.  When I was introduced to Jill, my younger brother — my youngest brother said, “You’ll love her; she hates politics.”  (Laughter.) 
 
Well, look, I — hello, everyone.  My name is Joe Biden; I’m Jill Biden’s husband.  (Laughter.)  Let’s be honest, we wouldn’t be here today without Jill. 
 
Across our administration and across Congress, across the country, the work we’re doing on women’s health research is some of the most important work this administration has ever done.
 
And I’ve always believed that our nation is at its best when we — when we plumb the endless possibilities that exist for all our women and girls.  And that includes their health.
 
Women on- — are half our population, to state the obvious.  But like Jill said, for too long, they’ve been underrepresented when it comes to health research.  And that’s real. 
 
You know, that’s why, over a year ago, we launched the first-ever White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research.  And the goal was to fundamentally change and improve how we approach and invest in women’s health research — we weren’t doing enough of it — and to pioneer the next generation of scientific research and discoveries that are going to improve care for — women receive all across the country.
 
Because the fact is the health of our moms and grandmothers, sisters and daughters, friends and colleagues affects not just women’s well-being but the prosperity of the entire nation.  And that’s a fact.  We haven’t gotten that through to the other team yet.  (Laughter.)  No — no, I mean it, across the board.  Anyway, I won’t get into that.  (Laughter.)
 
But that’s why, in my State of the Union address this year, I called on Congress to invest $12 billion in women’s health research to benefit millions of lives — (applause) — and families and communities all across America.
 
Folks, but my administration wasn’t going to wait for Congress to secure the funding.  We looked for other ways to prioritize women’s health with existing dollars that are already in the government and to get important work started.
 
And I knew where to start: Rosa DeLauro.  (Applause.)  Rosa, stand up.  I’m not joking.  As they say in souther- — you all think I’m kidding.  I’m not kidding.  (Laughter.)  She’s incredible.  Every important thing I’ve ever tried to get done that no one paid attention to, you were there for me.  I mean it sincerely.  You’re the best, Rosa.  What you did on Child Tax Credit — I mean, across the board. 
 
And, folks, women’s health is — is a — something that — that matters so, so very much.  Along with members that are here today, you — she’s going to keep this effort going to — when we leave.  When we leave — when Jill and I leave.
 
AUDIENCE MEMBER:  Fight like hell.  (Laughter.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Well, we’re going to fight like hell.  And w- — I — I’m the — we’re — we’re no longer going to be president and first lady, but we’re not going away.  (Laughter.)  And so — (applause).
 
Along with members here, like Diane [Diana] and Lauren.  Where — where is Diane [Diana]? 
 
REPRESENTATIVE DEGETTE:  Right here. 
 
THE PRESIDENT:  There you go.  Stand up, kiddo.  Let them see you.  (Applause.)
 
And, Lauren, thank you. 
 
So, I’m so proud that, to date, we’ve secured $1 billion so far in women’s health research from different government agencies.
 
You know, our new agency, ARPA-H, which is patterned after Advanced — it’s called Advanced Research Projects and Agencies for Health — is based on DARPA, which is the Defense Department program for Advanced Research and Projects Agency.  That drove breakthroughs — the Defense Department broke breakthroughs in everything from the Internet to GPS.  It had a big budget for doing everything else, but it also had this specific individual budget. 
 
And ARPA-H does for biomedicine what DARPA does for technology, driving breakthroughs to prevent, detect, and treat diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and so much more.  We’re using their funding to drive breakthroughs in women’s health in ovarian cancer and menopause, in migraines, in high blood pressure for pregnant women.
 
The National Institute of Health is using their funding to break down the silos — a lot of silos in government, a lot of silos across the — in America — to make more progress and do it more quickly.
 
For example, we know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women.  But we don’t know — we don’t know enough about how menopause may affect heart disease.  And that’s going to change now.  We’re going to learn so much more.
 
And the Department of Defense is dedicating funds to research women’s health issues like arthritis, cancer, chronic fatigue that affect women in the military, but this research is going to benefit all women — all women.
 
Our work doesn’t stop here.
 
Look, you know, the addition to — in addition to launching the Women’s Health Research Initiative earlier this year, I signed an executive order that — directing the most comprehensive set of executive actions ever taken — ever taken in the history of this country to improve women’s health issues.
 
And, look — (applause) — it ensures that women’s health is integrated and prioritized all across the entire federal government — all research projects and budget plans, across the entire government.  And it spurs new research and innovation on a wide range of women’s health needs throughout their lives.  And it does so much more — so much more.
 
Folks, there’s literally never been more comprehensive effort from the federal government to spur innovation in women’s health research in our entire history. 
 
And thank you, by the way, kiddo.  (Laughter and applause.)  I — no, I mean it.  (Applause.)  I mean it.
 
If I can digress for a moment, I — I would — I have been the beneficiary of a lot of the research that’s been done.  I had a — two cranial aneurysms.  I had two nine-hour operations.  They took the top of my head off twice; they couldn’t find a brain the first time.  (Laughter.) 
 
But all — all kidding aside, I mean the research that’s going on across the entire world.  I visited every single solitary major health center in the world — in the world — seven of them.  And, you know, a lot of wha- — what happens, even in not just women’s research, but, you know, docs who are great, they walk by the mirror, and they see a Pulitzer Pri- — a — a Nobel Prize about to be won and — rather than sharing the data.  But that’s all changing.  That’s all changing. 
 
And this initiative lays the groundwork for discoveries and research for generations to come.  Mark my words.  And the benefits we gain tomorrow will happen because we made the decision to do something about them today — today, now. 
 
And all of you in this room are leading the way, and that’s not hyperbole.  You really are.  It’s a hell of a com- — combination of people that make things change.
 
Let me close with this.  And my daughter, Ashley, sitting here, she runs a — she works for women — she runs a women’s health shel- — women’s health center — shelter in Philadelphia. 
 
And — and, you know, this holiday season is a time not for gratitude but for reflection.  Gratitude is important, but we got to reflect on what’s going on. 
 
And let me say to you that it’s been an honor of my life to serve as your president the last four years.  But I’m — and I’m forever grateful.  I really am.  (Applause.) 
 
But folks, it’s not a joke.  We’re blessed to live in America.  We’re blessed to live in America.  I’ve been to over 140 countries.  I mean, but for the grace of God, I could’ve been born a lot of other places.  Literally the greatest country on Earth, that’s who we are.  But we got to raise up even more than we are now.
 
I often say, America can be summed up in one word.  I was on the Tibetan Plateau with Xi Jinping, and he said, “Can you define America for me?”  And I — this is all on the record.  I said, “Yes, one word: possibilities.” 
 
Think about it.  We’re the only nation in the world where people — they think there’s arrogance in that.  But we’ve never failed to get things done when we set our mind to it.  It’s all about possibilities.  Anything is possible.
 
That’s what the Women’s Realth — Health Research Initiative is all about: possibilities.  You know, and that’s what this conference is all about.  That’s what you’re all about.  Researchers, innovators, investors; businesses, advocates, elected officials; public, private, and non-profit leaders unleashing the drive and discovery and the talent and imagination that you have in this room — a spirit of innovation inherent in who you guys are. 
 
I really mean it.  Think about it.  Turn and look at the people to your left and right who you know are engaged in this.  It’s all about the possibilities and belief we can do things, we can change things fundamentally.   
 
I think inherent in the American con- — conscience is setting a bold vision and taking concrete steps to make our dreams a reality, holding on to one more thing that we can never lose: hope — hope, hope, hope.  Because what we need — we need to raise the expectations of the American people up.  We got to let them know we haven’t forgotten.  Whether it’s a business or labor or whether it’s politics, whatever, we haven’t forgotten. 
 
You — you guys go out there.  You take care of all of these folks.  Guess what?  How many of them think that we just sort of forgotten?  Why aren’t we focused?
 
Because of you and your fearless determination, you’re making real progress.  You’re really making progress. 
 
There’s still so much more to do.  And we’re going to take all of us to get it done.  I know it’s a battle.  But I know I have a hell of a lot of — a hell of an army here.  (Laughter.) 
 
You know, when I look around at all of you here today — and I mean this sincerely — I know it’s a battle we’re going to win.  We’re going to win this battle.  
 
We just have to remember who in the hell we are.  We’re the United States of America.  And there is nothing we’ve ever set our mind to we’ve been unable to do when we’ve done it together.  It’s not beyond our capacity, when we work together.  And that’s what you’re all doing: working together. 
 
And so, I — and I want to close by thanking my wife for Ji- — I mean, Jill, I tell you.  Like I said, when we got married, my brother said, “Don’t worry; she doesn’t like politics.”  Well, I tell you what, you stepped up, kid.  (Laughter.)  You’ve stepped up.
 
And in case you wonder, when she speaks, I listen.  (Laughter and applause.)
 
Thank you all so very, very much.  Let’s get this done.    Thank you.  (Applause.) 
 
11:57 A.M. EST

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MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE
THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
THE SECRETARY OF ENERGY
THE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET

SUBJECT:       Delegation of Functions and Authorities Under Sections 1352 and 1353 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 301 of title 3, United States Code:

Section 1.  (a)  I hereby delegate to the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretaries of Defense and Energy, the functions and authorities vested in the President by section 1352(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118-31) (the “Act”).

(b)  I hereby delegate to the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretaries of State and Energy and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the functions and authorities vested in the President by section 1352(e)(1)(A) of the Act.

(c)  I hereby delegate to the Secretary of Energy, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the functions and authorities vested in the President by section 1352(f)(2) of the Act.

(d)  I hereby delegate to the Secretary of Defense for funds transferred to Department of Defense accounts and to the Secretary of Energy for funds transferred to Department of Energy accounts, in coordination with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the functions and authorities vested in the President by sections 1353(c), 1353(e)(1)(D), and 1353(e)(3) of the Act.

(e)  I hereby delegate to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, in consultation with the Secretaries of Defense and Energy, as appropriate, the functions and authorities vested in the President by sections 1353(a), 1353(e)(1)(A), 1353(e)(2), and 1353(f)(1) of the Act.

Sec. 2.  The delegation in this memorandum shall apply to any provision of any future public law that is the same or substantially the same as the provision referenced in this memorandum.

Sec. 3.  The Secretary of Defense is authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post Memorandum on the Delegation of Functions and Authorities Under Sections 1352 and 1353 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 appeared first on The White House.