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6:53 P.M. EDT
 
THE PRESIDENT:  (In progress) — and your friendship.  And thanks to everyone —
 
MS. TERESA:  So, President —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  — at Voto Latino.  (Inaudible.)
 
MS. TERESA:  So, President Biden, before we get started — before we get started, I just want to say, literally, three and a half years ago, we — when we were hunkered down, we were doing Zoom calls very similar to this, you came in and you talked to our community, and you said, “Maria Teresa, we are going to have the largest climate change legislation, the biggest infrastructure,” and you listed 20 things, and he’s like, “Will you be there with me?”  And I said, “Absolutely.”  And I said, “Do you think we’re going to get it done?”  You’re like, “Absolutely.”  And you know what?  You have. 
 
So, I’m incredibly grateful for all the work that you’ve done, and I would love for you to say a few words to — to the community based on your ability to deliver every single time.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We got it done.  I didn’t get it done.  Every major thing we tried to do, from over a trillion dollars in infrastructure to work on communities that need help to health care to — I mean, a whole range of things, and we got it done.
 
As I said earlier, your partnership, your friendship, and your leadership has really made a big difference.  And thank everyone at Latino — you know — excuse me, thank everyone at your organization, Voto Latino, for all you do.  You know, you’ve always had my back, and I think it’s fair to say I’ve always had yours.
 
This is it.  This is it.  Seven days to Election Day, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.  And that’s not a — that’s not an exaggeration.  The choice couldn’t be clearer.
 
Presidential historians tell us the most important thing about a president is character — does he or she have character.  Kamala has character.  She’ll always stand up for Latinos, but not just Lati- — she’ll stand up for everyone who deserves to be stood up for, and that’s all Americans.
 
Donald Trump has no character.  He doesn’t give a damn about the Latino community.  He’s failed businessman.  He’s — he only cares about the billionaire friends he has and accumulating wealth for those at the top.

You know, he says immigrants are “poisoning the blood” of our country.  Give me a break.  He wants to do away with the birthright citizenship.  Who the hell else said that in the last 100 years? 

And just the other day, a speaker at his rally called Puerto Rico a “floating island of garbage.”  Well, let me tell you something.  I don’t — I — I don’t know the Puerto Rican that — that I know — or a Puerto Rico, where I’m fr- — in my home state of Delaware, they’re good, decent, honorable people.  The only garbage I see floating out there is his supporter’s — his — his demonization of Latinos is unconscionable, and it’s un-American.  It’s totally contrary to everything we’ve done, everything we’ve been.  
 
Now, Trump has di- — tried to divide the country based on race, ethnicity, anything that does harm, to take their eye off the ball about what the terrible things he’s done and will do.  But Kamala Harris has fought for all Americans and will be a president for all of America.
 
Look, folks, we’ve gotten a lot done together, as you pointed out.  Look, Maria Teresa, we did everything from the infrastructure bill to health care to making sure that veterans are taken care of.  I mean, across the board, we’ve done so much.  We’ve created over 16 million jobs.  More Latinos have jobs than ever before.
 
Look, a quarter of all — here’s the way I look at it.  A quarter of all the children in our schools today are Latino — are Latino, a quarter of them.  How could we possibly not invest everything we have in a quarter of our population that’s going to be our future?  It’s going to make a major, major, major, major piece of what this country looks like and what we think and what we believe.  So, these are going to have to be the doctors, the teachers, the scientists, and, yes, presidents.
 
You know, I know we’ve asked a lot of each other, but I’m talking to you about one more thing and asking you, as a favor, all of you listening, to vote.  Get out early and vote.  Do it early.
 
You know, I — I know the long waits on Election Day are all too common, especially in Latino communities.  You know, I cast my ballot yesterday.  I stood in line for 40, 45 minutes with all the people in Delaware, and I cast my vote yesterday in my home state.  I waited in line with a lot of other people. 
 
There was a woman ahead of me, an elderly woman, who was in her 90s in a wheelchair, and it was a heavy wheelchair and the person pushing it was having trouble, so I spent time with her.  She — she’s — she’s over 90 years old, and she’s breaking her neck to vote because she knows how important it is.
 
Today is National Vote Early Day.  Let me say it again.  Today is National Vote Early Day.  Remind folks to vote early, to return mail-in ballots. 
 
Vote for access to a good education so everyone has an opportunity.  Vote to eliminate not — what Trump wants — he wants to eliminate the Department of Education and no early education.  We’re fighting like hell, and we’re fighting like hell for early education because, you know, it increases exponentially the prospect of success for our sons and our daughters. 
 
Vote to give our daughters the same opportunities we give our sons, instead of taking away their rights. 
 
Vote to make sure we maintain a significant health care that would provide for our parents and our families and basic health care for all Americans.  Trump is trying like hell to get rid of it.  More people have health care now than ever before.  He says he’s going to — wants to get rid of it.
 
Vote to continue the progress we made on job growth — the growth in jobs for everyone, including Latinos — a significant job growth.
 
Vote for comprehensive imm- — immigration reform instead of mass deportation.  What’s he talkin- — think about it. 
 
You know, I travel the world because of my role as president and my knowledge of foreign policy.  I get inquiries from other heads of state, “Does Trump really mean it?  Are you really going to send out the police to gather up thousands and millions of people and deport them?”  What the hell is going on here?  Vote for comprehensive immigration reform instead of mass deportation. 
 
In short, vote to keep Donald Trump out of the White House.  He’s a true danger to not just Latinos but to all people, particularly those who are in a minority in this country. 
 
You know, we have to vote to elect Kamala as president, Tim Walz as vice president.  It’s (inaudible) — it’s never been more important.
 
We’ve known each other a long time, Maria Teresa — a long time.  And I want to tell you something I can say without equivocation.  Our democracy is at stake.  And to translate that into pure English — and that’s wh- — I should be able to speak Spanish, but I can’t.  We should be able to talk about what this means.
 
He wants to fundamentally change the way our Constitution works.  He wants to take away people’s rights.  He wants to concentrate power in the hands of a very few — people like him.
 
So, go to IWillVote.com and make your plan to vote early.  Make it today, because voting early (inaudible) now basically through election.  Make a plan to vote, please, please, please.  Your vote is critical.  A Latino vote is critical.  Let’s make it heard.
 
I want them to remember who you are and who we are.  We’re the United States of America.  And there’s nothing, nothing at all beyond our capacity when we do it together.
 
So, God bless you all.  And God bless you, Maria Teresa, for all you’ve been doing.  We have more to do, but we got to get it done. 
 
This el- — this election is the most consequential election we’ve ever voted in, no matter how old or how young you are — this election.
 
God bless you all.  And God protect our troops.
 
MS. TERESA:  Thank you so much, President Biden.  And I have to tell you, what you really — what you are saying is a clarion call.  It’s a multicultural democracy, and it’s us, as Americans first, that will save this country and our democracy.  And I’m so grateful for the time —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  The reason why we’re strong.
 
MS. TERESA:  — you’ve spent with us.  (Inaudible.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We’re the most diverse country, and that’s why we’re strong.  That is our strength.
 
MS. TERESA:  Right.  (Laughs.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  (Inaudible) our weakness.  It’s our strength.
 
MS. TERESA:  No, I call it our superpower — our superpower.  And I always say, like, you don’t have to take my word for it.  The reason that you have disinformation around race is because the Russians and the Chinese recognize that racism is our Achilles heel, but it — they also recognize that it’s our multiculturalism that is our superpower and our strength.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We bring all the best of every culture together.  We really do.  It’s not hyperbole.  That’s a fact.
 
MS. TERESA:  It’s true.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Sometimes I think our folks (inaudible) don’t realize it, but it’s truly a fact.  Anyway.
 
God love you for what you’re doing.  Keep it going, kid.
 
MS. TERESA:  I’m super grateful.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Keep it going.
 
MS. TERESA:  Yeah, we’re not done yet.  We’re just getting started.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We’re not even close to done.
 
MS. TERESA:  (Inaudible.)  (Laughs.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  And I may be — I may be leaving office on January 20th, but I’m not leaving. 
 
MS. TERESA:  I — I —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I’m not leaving.
 
MS. TERESA:  You promise?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I’m leaving office, but I’m not leaving this fight. 
 
MS. TERESA:  (Laughs.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  God love you.  Thank you so much.
 
MS. TERESA:  I’m going to remind you of that.  Much love.  Say hello to Jill.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Well, you don’t (inaudible) — I’m going to ask for your help and let me join you.
 
MS. TERESA:  I will always be there, President. 
 

7:02 P.M. EDT

The post Remarks by President Biden on a Call with Voto Latino appeared first on The White House.

6:53 P.M. EDT
 
THE PRESIDENT:  (In progress) — and your friendship.  And thanks to everyone —
 
MS. TERESA:  So, President —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  — at Voto Latino.  (Inaudible.)
 
MS. TERESA:  So, President Biden, before we get started — before we get started, I just want to say, literally, three and a half years ago, we — when we were hunkered down, we were doing Zoom calls very similar to this, you came in and you talked to our community, and you said, “Maria Teresa, we are going to have the largest climate change legislation, the biggest infrastructure,” and you listed 20 things, and he’s like, “Will you be there with me?”  And I said, “Absolutely.”  And I said, “Do you think we’re going to get it done?”  You’re like, “Absolutely.”  And you know what?  You have. 
 
So, I’m incredibly grateful for all the work that you’ve done, and I would love for you to say a few words to — to the community based on your ability to deliver every single time.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We got it done.  I didn’t get it done.  Every major thing we tried to do, from over a trillion dollars in infrastructure to work on communities that need help to health care to — I mean, a whole range of things, and we got it done.
 
As I said earlier, your partnership, your friendship, and your leadership has really made a big difference.  And thank everyone at Latino — you know — excuse me, thank everyone at your organization, Voto Latino, for all you do.  You know, you’ve always had my back, and I think it’s fair to say I’ve always had yours.
 
This is it.  This is it.  Seven days to Election Day, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.  And that’s not a — that’s not an exaggeration.  The choice couldn’t be clearer.
 
Presidential historians tell us the most important thing about a president is character — does he or she have character.  Kamala has character.  She’ll always stand up for Latinos, but not just Lati- — she’ll stand up for everyone who deserves to be stood up for, and that’s all Americans.
 
Donald Trump has no character.  He doesn’t give a damn about the Latino community.  He’s failed businessman.  He’s — he only cares about the billionaire friends he has and accumulating wealth for those at the top.

You know, he says immigrants are “poisoning the blood” of our country.  Give me a break.  He wants to do away with the birthright citizenship.  Who the hell else said that in the last 100 years? 

And just the other day, a speaker at his rally called Puerto Rico a “floating island of garbage.”  Well, let me tell you something.  I don’t — I — I don’t know the Puerto Rican that — that I know — or a Puerto Rico, where I’m fr- — in my home state of Delaware, they’re good, decent, honorable people.  The only garbage I see floating out there is his supporter’s — his — his demonization of Latinos is unconscionable, and it’s un-American.  It’s totally contrary to everything we’ve done, everything we’ve been.  
 
Now, Trump has di- — tried to divide the country based on race, ethnicity, anything that does harm, to take their eye off the ball about what the terrible things he’s done and will do.  But Kamala Harris has fought for all Americans and will be a president for all of America.
 
Look, folks, we’ve gotten a lot done together, as you pointed out.  Look, Maria Teresa, we did everything from the infrastructure bill to health care to making sure that veterans are taken care of.  I mean, across the board, we’ve done so much.  We’ve created over 16 million jobs.  More Latinos have jobs than ever before.
 
Look, a quarter of all — here’s the way I look at it.  A quarter of all the children in our schools today are Latino — are Latino, a quarter of them.  How could we possibly not invest everything we have in a quarter of our population that’s going to be our future?  It’s going to make a major, major, major, major piece of what this country looks like and what we think and what we believe.  So, these are going to have to be the doctors, the teachers, the scientists, and, yes, presidents.
 
You know, I know we’ve asked a lot of each other, but I’m talking to you about one more thing and asking you, as a favor, all of you listening, to vote.  Get out early and vote.  Do it early.
 
You know, I — I know the long waits on Election Day are all too common, especially in Latino communities.  You know, I cast my ballot yesterday.  I stood in line for 40, 45 minutes with all the people in Delaware, and I cast my vote yesterday in my home state.  I waited in line with a lot of other people. 
 
There was a woman ahead of me, an elderly woman, who was in her 90s in a wheelchair, and it was a heavy wheelchair and the person pushing it was having trouble, so I spent time with her.  She — she’s — she’s over 90 years old, and she’s breaking her neck to vote because she knows how important it is.
 
Today is National Vote Early Day.  Let me say it again.  Today is National Vote Early Day.  Remind folks to vote early, to return mail-in ballots. 
 
Vote for access to a good education so everyone has an opportunity.  Vote to eliminate not — what Trump wants — he wants to eliminate the Department of Education and no early education.  We’re fighting like hell, and we’re fighting like hell for early education because, you know, it increases exponentially the prospect of success for our sons and our daughters. 
 
Vote to give our daughters the same opportunities we give our sons, instead of taking away their rights. 
 
Vote to make sure we maintain a significant health care that would provide for our parents and our families and basic health care for all Americans.  Trump is trying like hell to get rid of it.  More people have health care now than ever before.  He says he’s going to — wants to get rid of it.
 
Vote to continue the progress we made on job growth — the growth in jobs for everyone, including Latinos — a significant job growth.
 
Vote for comprehensive imm- — immigration reform instead of mass deportation.  What’s he talkin- — think about it. 
 
You know, I travel the world because of my role as president and my knowledge of foreign policy.  I get inquiries from other heads of state, “Does Trump really mean it?  Are you really going to send out the police to gather up thousands and millions of people and deport them?”  What the hell is going on here?  Vote for comprehensive immigration reform instead of mass deportation. 
 
In short, vote to keep Donald Trump out of the White House.  He’s a true danger to not just Latinos but to all people, particularly those who are in a minority in this country. 
 
You know, we have to vote to elect Kamala as president, Tim Walz as vice president.  It’s (inaudible) — it’s never been more important.
 
We’ve known each other a long time, Maria Teresa — a long time.  And I want to tell you something I can say without equivocation.  Our democracy is at stake.  And to translate that into pure English — and that’s wh- — I should be able to speak Spanish, but I can’t.  We should be able to talk about what this means.
 
He wants to fundamentally change the way our Constitution works.  He wants to take away people’s rights.  He wants to concentrate power in the hands of a very few — people like him.
 
So, go to IWillVote.com and make your plan to vote early.  Make it today, because voting early (inaudible) now basically through election.  Make a plan to vote, please, please, please.  Your vote is critical.  A Latino vote is critical.  Let’s make it heard.
 
I want them to remember who you are and who we are.  We’re the United States of America.  And there’s nothing, nothing at all beyond our capacity when we do it together.
 
So, God bless you all.  And God bless you, Maria Teresa, for all you’ve been doing.  We have more to do, but we got to get it done. 
 
This el- — this election is the most consequential election we’ve ever voted in, no matter how old or how young you are — this election.
 
God bless you all.  And God protect our troops.
 
MS. TERESA:  Thank you so much, President Biden.  And I have to tell you, what you really — what you are saying is a clarion call.  It’s a multicultural democracy, and it’s us, as Americans first, that will save this country and our democracy.  And I’m so grateful for the time —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  The reason why we’re strong.
 
MS. TERESA:  — you’ve spent with us.  (Inaudible.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We’re the most diverse country, and that’s why we’re strong.  That is our strength.
 
MS. TERESA:  Right.  (Laughs.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  (Inaudible) our weakness.  It’s our strength.
 
MS. TERESA:  No, I call it our superpower — our superpower.  And I always say, like, you don’t have to take my word for it.  The reason that you have disinformation around race is because the Russians and the Chinese recognize that racism is our Achilles heel, but it — they also recognize that it’s our multiculturalism that is our superpower and our strength.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We bring all the best of every culture together.  We really do.  It’s not hyperbole.  That’s a fact.
 
MS. TERESA:  It’s true.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Sometimes I think our folks (inaudible) don’t realize it, but it’s truly a fact.  Anyway.
 
God love you for what you’re doing.  Keep it going, kid.
 
MS. TERESA:  I’m super grateful.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Keep it going.
 
MS. TERESA:  Yeah, we’re not done yet.  We’re just getting started.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We’re not even close to done.
 
MS. TERESA:  (Inaudible.)  (Laughs.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  And I may be — I may be leaving office on January 20th, but I’m not leaving. 
 
MS. TERESA:  I — I —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I’m not leaving.
 
MS. TERESA:  You promise?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I’m leaving office, but I’m not leaving this fight. 
 
MS. TERESA:  (Laughs.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  God love you.  Thank you so much.
 
MS. TERESA:  I’m going to remind you of that.  Much love.  Say hello to Jill.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Well, you don’t (inaudible) — I’m going to ask for your help and let me join you.
 
MS. TERESA:  I will always be there, President. 
 

7:02 P.M. EDT

The post Remarks by President Biden on a Call with Voto Latino appeared first on The White House.

BMORE LICKS
Baltimore, Maryland

3:02 P.M. EDT

Q    Mr. President, will you be watching the vice president’s speech tonight?

THE PRESIDENT:  I will.

Q    Why are you not attending?  It’s right there on the Ellipse?

THE PRESIDENT:  Because it’s for her.  This is her night.

Q    What do you expect to hear out of her tonight?  What’s the closing message from the vice president?

THE PRESIDENT:  I’ll let you hear it first.

Q    Mr. President, are you worried about the North Korean troops in Kursk, in Russia?

THE PRESIDENT:  I am concerned about it, yes.

Q    Should the Ukrainians strike — strike back?

THE PRESIDENT:  If they cross into Ukraine, yes.

3:03 P.M. EDT

The post Remarks by President Biden in Press Gaggle | Baltimore, MD appeared first on The White House.

BMORE LICKS
Baltimore, Maryland

3:02 P.M. EDT

Q    Mr. President, will you be watching the vice president’s speech tonight?

THE PRESIDENT:  I will.

Q    Why are you not attending?  It’s right there on the Ellipse?

THE PRESIDENT:  Because it’s for her.  This is her night.

Q    What do you expect to hear out of her tonight?  What’s the closing message from the vice president?

THE PRESIDENT:  I’ll let you hear it first.

Q    Mr. President, are you worried about the North Korean troops in Kursk, in Russia?

THE PRESIDENT:  I am concerned about it, yes.

Q    Should the Ukrainians strike — strike back?

THE PRESIDENT:  If they cross into Ukraine, yes.

3:03 P.M. EDT

The post Remarks by President Biden in Press Gaggle | Baltimore, MD appeared first on The White House.

Today, the White House Task Force on AI Datacenter Infrastructure convened experts from power companies, grid operators, software companies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to explore how advanced computing and software solutions, including artificial intelligence (AI), can accelerate grid integration of clean energy. Maintaining U.S. leadership of AI globally is a national security and an economic imperative. That is why the Biden-Harris Administration is focused on maintaining the strongest AI ecosystem in the world here in the United States and ensuring AI datacenters run on clean energy and without raising costs for American consumers. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm, National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard, Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy John Podesta, and National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi encouraged participants to invest in innovative solutions that further accelerate deployment and ensure we reliably meet our energy needs, keep electricity costs low, and achieve U.S. climate targets.

Participants discussed efforts underway to get more sources of supply on the grid by addressing the backlog of projects to power the grid currently waiting in “interconnection queues,” situations where additional computing solutions can make the biggest difference, and strategies on how to pursue those opportunities.

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Willie Phillips joined the convening and explained how stakeholders would benefit from the Commission’s July 2023 rule on interconnecting new generation resources.

The Department of Energy (DOE) announced a forthcoming new program that will use AI to help clean energy project developers submit applications that grid operators can evaluate more quickly. DOE also highlighted an investment announced earlier this month to help transmission owners and grid operators replace fragmented data management systems with a standardized, cloud-based software solution that supports a faster interconnection process.

Moreover, participants discussed DOE initiatives unveiled earlier this year as part of its novel Interconnection Innovative e-Xchange, or i2X, program, highlighting roadmaps with recommended solutions to implement a simpler, faster, and fairer interconnection process and opportunities for stakeholders to get involved.

The Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda has accelerated hundreds of billions of dollars of investments in clean electricity generation across the country and enabled historic actions to get energy projects funded, permitted, and deployed across the country – fueling over 250,000 new, good-paying energy jobs in 2023, which are growing at twice the rate of the rest of the economy. Applications for nearly 2,600 gigawatts of generation and battery storage capacity – twice current U.S. generation capacity – are waiting in interconnection queues to be connected to the grid. Accelerating the process by which grid operators study, determine, and approve needed grid upgrades to interconnect projects will enable clean energy to come online faster – energy America needs to fuel our economic growth, from our expanding manufacturing sector to datacenters that ensure U.S. leadership in AI to electric vehicles and more.

###

The post Readout of White House Discussion on AI and Advanced Software Solutions to Accelerate Clean Energy Grid Integration appeared first on The White House.

Today, the White House Task Force on AI Datacenter Infrastructure convened experts from power companies, grid operators, software companies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to explore how advanced computing and software solutions, including artificial intelligence (AI), can accelerate grid integration of clean energy. Maintaining U.S. leadership of AI globally is a national security and an economic imperative. That is why the Biden-Harris Administration is focused on maintaining the strongest AI ecosystem in the world here in the United States and ensuring AI datacenters run on clean energy and without raising costs for American consumers. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm, National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard, Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy John Podesta, and National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi encouraged participants to invest in innovative solutions that further accelerate deployment and ensure we reliably meet our energy needs, keep electricity costs low, and achieve U.S. climate targets.

Participants discussed efforts underway to get more sources of supply on the grid by addressing the backlog of projects to power the grid currently waiting in “interconnection queues,” situations where additional computing solutions can make the biggest difference, and strategies on how to pursue those opportunities.

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Willie Phillips joined the convening and explained how stakeholders would benefit from the Commission’s July 2023 rule on interconnecting new generation resources.

The Department of Energy (DOE) announced a forthcoming new program that will use AI to help clean energy project developers submit applications that grid operators can evaluate more quickly. DOE also highlighted an investment announced earlier this month to help transmission owners and grid operators replace fragmented data management systems with a standardized, cloud-based software solution that supports a faster interconnection process.

Moreover, participants discussed DOE initiatives unveiled earlier this year as part of its novel Interconnection Innovative e-Xchange, or i2X, program, highlighting roadmaps with recommended solutions to implement a simpler, faster, and fairer interconnection process and opportunities for stakeholders to get involved.

The Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda has accelerated hundreds of billions of dollars of investments in clean electricity generation across the country and enabled historic actions to get energy projects funded, permitted, and deployed across the country – fueling over 250,000 new, good-paying energy jobs in 2023, which are growing at twice the rate of the rest of the economy. Applications for nearly 2,600 gigawatts of generation and battery storage capacity – twice current U.S. generation capacity – are waiting in interconnection queues to be connected to the grid. Accelerating the process by which grid operators study, determine, and approve needed grid upgrades to interconnect projects will enable clean energy to come online faster – energy America needs to fuel our economic growth, from our expanding manufacturing sector to datacenters that ensure U.S. leadership in AI to electric vehicles and more.

###

The post Readout of White House Discussion on AI and Advanced Software Solutions to Accelerate Clean Energy Grid Integration appeared first on The White House.

The United States has long stood with the Georgian people and supported the country of Georgia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and Euro-Atlantic aspirations. That is why I have been deeply alarmed by the country’s recent democratic backsliding, including the enactment of legislation mirroring Russian laws that restrict fundamental freedoms and limit the space for independent civil society organizations. Most recently, Georgia’s October 26 parliamentary elections were marred by numerous recorded misuses of administrative resources as well as voter intimidation and coercion. Georgian citizens have a right to peacefully express their views regarding the conduct of these elections, which independent international and domestic observers have not said were free and fair. We call on the Georgian government to transparently investigate all election irregularities, to repeal laws such as the so-called “Foreign Influence Law” that limit freedoms of assembly and expression, and to begin an immediate, inclusive dialogue with all political forces in Georgia about restoring election integrity. We call for all parties to strictly respect the rule of law and fundamental freedoms, which remain the foundation for Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic future. 

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The post Statement from President Joe Biden on Democratic Backsliding in the Country of Georgia appeared first on The White House.

The United States has long stood with the Georgian people and supported the country of Georgia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and Euro-Atlantic aspirations. That is why I have been deeply alarmed by the country’s recent democratic backsliding, including the enactment of legislation mirroring Russian laws that restrict fundamental freedoms and limit the space for independent civil society organizations. Most recently, Georgia’s October 26 parliamentary elections were marred by numerous recorded misuses of administrative resources as well as voter intimidation and coercion. Georgian citizens have a right to peacefully express their views regarding the conduct of these elections, which independent international and domestic observers have not said were free and fair. We call on the Georgian government to transparently investigate all election irregularities, to repeal laws such as the so-called “Foreign Influence Law” that limit freedoms of assembly and expression, and to begin an immediate, inclusive dialogue with all political forces in Georgia about restoring election integrity. We call for all parties to strictly respect the rule of law and fundamental freedoms, which remain the foundation for Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic future. 

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The post Statement from President Joe Biden on Democratic Backsliding in the Country of Georgia appeared first on The White House.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke today with President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria.  President Biden offered his condolences on the recent flooding that has impacted northeastern Nigeria and underscored his appreciation for President Tinubu’s leadership in securing the release on humanitarian grounds of American citizen and former U.S. law enforcement official Tigran Gambaryan last week.  The two leaders also spoke about the value of the U.S.-Nigeria partnership in addressing global challenges and advancing security and prosperity across multiple sectors. In particular, President Biden expressed appreciation for cooperation on law enforcement, including through the recently announced Bilateral Liaison Group on Illicit Finance and Cryptocurrencies, for collaboration on new and innovative technologies, and on shared interests in reforming international organizations to reflect African voices.

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President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke today with President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria.  President Biden offered his condolences on the recent flooding that has impacted northeastern Nigeria and underscored his appreciation for President Tinubu’s leadership in securing the release on humanitarian grounds of American citizen and former U.S. law enforcement official Tigran Gambaryan last week.  The two leaders also spoke about the value of the U.S.-Nigeria partnership in addressing global challenges and advancing security and prosperity across multiple sectors. In particular, President Biden expressed appreciation for cooperation on law enforcement, including through the recently announced Bilateral Liaison Group on Illicit Finance and Cryptocurrencies, for collaboration on new and innovative technologies, and on shared interests in reforming international organizations to reflect African voices.

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On October 30, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. will host President Nikos Christodoulides of the Republic of Cyprus for a bilateral meeting at the White House. Building on the successful inaugural U.S.-Republic of Cyprus Strategic Dialogue, launched on October 23, the leaders will discuss a range of global issues, including energy security and cooperation, events in the Middle East, and continued robust support to Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of the island’s division, President Biden will reiterate U.S. support for a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality for all Cypriots.  

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The post Statement from Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on the Visit of President Nikos Christodoulides of the Republic of Cyprus appeared first on The White House.

On October 30, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. will host President Nikos Christodoulides of the Republic of Cyprus for a bilateral meeting at the White House. Building on the successful inaugural U.S.-Republic of Cyprus Strategic Dialogue, launched on October 23, the leaders will discuss a range of global issues, including energy security and cooperation, events in the Middle East, and continued robust support to Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of the island’s division, President Biden will reiterate U.S. support for a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality for all Cypriots.  

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On October 25, 2024, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands and ordered Federal assistance to supplement territory and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Ernesto from August 13 to August 16, 2024.

Federal funding is available to territory and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Tropical Storm Ernesto in the islands of St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, and Water Island.

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

Lai Sun Yee of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

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

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 

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

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The post President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves U.S. Virgin Islands Disaster Declaration appeared first on The White House.

On October 25, 2024, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands and ordered Federal assistance to supplement territory and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Ernesto from August 13 to August 16, 2024.

Federal funding is available to territory and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Tropical Storm Ernesto in the islands of St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, and Water Island.

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

Lai Sun Yee of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

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

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 

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

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President Biden will travel to the Port of Baltimore to announce $147 million in awards, which will support up to 2,000 good-paying and union jobs at the Port

Today, President Biden will travel to the Port of Baltimore to announce a $3 billion investment from his Inflation Reduction Act to improve and electrify port infrastructure, support an estimated 40,000 good-paying and union jobs, reduce pollution, and combat the climate crisis.  The announcement includes $147 million in awards for the Maryland Port Administration, which will support over 2,000 good-paying and union jobs by enabling the purchase and installation of zero-emission port equipment, charging infrastructure, and power improvements. During the visit, President Biden will highlight how his Investing in America agenda is making an historic impact on communities and workers in Baltimore and across the country.

$3 Billion Investment to Strengthen Port Infrastructure

Today, President Biden is announcing $3 billion in Environmental Protection Agency Clean Ports grants, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, to 55 selectees across 27 states and territories, including $147 million in implementation and planning grants for the Maryland Port Administration. The nation’s ports are the lynchpin of our nation’s supply chains and employ over 100,000 union workers across the United States.

This funding will protect and create good-paying and union jobs and better working conditions by upgrading port operations and infrastructure to cleaner equipment, while ensuring cleaner air for port workers and nearby communities. The Clean Ports program will support an estimated 40,000 jobs across the economy, including over 6,500 manufacturing jobs, and is expected to increase demand for American manufactured electric cargo handling equipment at least six-fold over the life of the program.

While a major economic driver, our nation’s ports are a major source of pollution for workers and surrounding communities. Communities living near ports and other transportation corridors are exposed to toxic pollution which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular harm, especially in children. The Clean Ports program will improve air quality at ports across the country by installing clean, zero-emission freight and ferry technologies along with associated infrastructure, eliminating more than 3 million metric tons of carbon pollution over the first ten years of implementation, equivalent to 391,220 homes’ energy use for one year. The funds announced today will support the purchase of battery-electric and hydrogen-powered human-operated and human-maintained equipment, including over 1,500 units of cargo handling equipment, 1,000 drayage trucks, 10 locomotives, and 20 vessels, as well as shore power systems for ocean-going vessels, battery-electric and hydrogen vehicle charging and fueling infrastructure, and solar power generation. The Clean Ports program advances the President’s Justice40 Initiative and aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal for a zero-emission freight sector.

Investing in the Port of Baltimore

President Biden will announce the funding at the Port of Baltimore in Maryland. The Port of Baltimore is one of the busiest ports on the East Coast and is a major hub for the import and export of vehicles. More than 20,000 workers support daily Port operations, including unionized longshoreman and truckers. Each day the Port’s economic impact represents $192 million or more than $70 billion a year, representing 13% of Maryland’s gross domestic product.

The Maryland Port Administration’s Equipment Electrification and Terminal Decarbonization project has been selected to receive over $145 million to purchase zero-emission cargo handling equipment and drayage trucks and facilitate the transition of the port to a zero-emission facility, as well as a nearly $2 million planning grant to help the port chart a path to greater emissions reductions in the future, delivering cleaner air for the port and neighboring communities. The port is a major economic engine for the region, providing thousands of jobs and contributing billions of dollars to the local economy—and this new investment will support over 2,000 jobs, including more than 350 manufacturing jobs.

Creating Good Paying, Union Jobs in Baltimore and Across the Country

President Biden is the most pro-union president in history. He’s the first and only president to walk a picket line, and under his Administration, unions have secured historic labor wins. Last month, President Biden signed an Executive Order that calls on agencies to promote strong labor standards such as family-sustaining wages, workplace safety, and the free and fair choice to join a union, and encourages agencies to implement these standards through their Investing in America programs. This builds on a record of pro-worker accomplishments throughout the Biden-Harris Administration. For example:

• Workers are filing for union representation at twice the rate they were at the start of the Biden-Harris Administration—the first Administration in five decades to have an increase in union petitions. In Maryland, union petitions increased by 55% percent. The National Labor Relations Board has met this historic moment by reducing unnecessary delays in union representation elections and by expanding remedies available to workers when their employers engage in unionbusting.
• The vast majority of Investing in America programs require grantees to pay Davis-Bacon prevailing wages for workers. The Administration also published the first update to Davis-Bacon prevailing wages in nearly 40 years, which will increase pay for one million construction workers over time.
• The Department of the Treasury finalized a rule implementing prevailing wage and apprenticeship bonus credits for certain clean energy projects funded by the President’s Inflation Reduction Act to ensure clean energy workers are paid good wages and that these projects create equitable pipelines to these good jobs.

Building on Historic Investments in Maryland’s Infrastructure and Economy

Today’s announcement builds on a historic investment in the state of Maryland under the Biden-Harris Administration. To date, the Investing in America agenda has delivered over $13 billion for over 970 projects in Maryland, spurring over $3 billion in private sector investments.

This includes a number of projects in Baltimore, for example:

• $4.7 billion for Amtrak’s Frederick Douglass Tunnel—which will replace the 150-year-old Baltimore and Potomac tunnel that is currently one of the largest rail bottlenecks on the Northeast Corridor;
• $213 million to replace the Maryland Transit Administration’s entire fleet of 52 aging light rail vehicles with new, modern rail cars;
• $80 million for interchange improvements at the I-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel;
• $68 million for upgrades at Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall airport;
• $43 million to identify and replace toxic lead pipes across Maryland;
• $31 million to rehabilitate a section of the Dundalk Marine Terminal at the Port; and
• $9 million to Baltimore City Public Schools for clean school buses.

Baltimore was also named an Investing in America Workforce Hub, where the Administration is bringing together industry, government, educators, non-profits and unions to help workers in Maryland access good jobs created by private and public sector investments in the state. In November 2023, Hub partners announced new efforts to train and hire local residents to support major infrastructure projects. These commitments include one from the State of Maryland to incorporate a Project Labor Agreement in the bidding process for nine projects covering $9 billion in investment and 11,000 jobs—including 7,000 construction jobs. One of these commitments includes Amtrak promising to invest at least $5 million in funding received through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to create recruitment and training programs for new jobs for Baltimore residents as part of the Frederick Douglass Tunnel Program.

The Department of Commerce also awarded the Maryland Department of Labor $23 million through the Economic Development Administration’s Good Jobs Challenge to create a new apprenticeship model for the growing offshore wind industry in Maryland, working with leading employers and local unions to develop a training model focused on underserved populations. The Maritime Administration is further supporting the Maryland offshore wind industry through a $47 million grant to Sparrows Point Steel to retool, a former Bethlehem Steel mill in Baltimore, to establish an offshore wind logistics and manufacturing hub in partnership with the United Steelworkers.

The Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda has also unleashed $3 billion in private sector manufacturing and clean energy investments in Maryland, including:

• A $350 million investment by United Safety Technology in Baltimore to produce critical medical supplies, including personal protective equipment.
• A $300 million investment by AstraZeneca in a state-of-the-art facility in Rockville to launch life-saving cell therapy platforms for cancer trials.
• A $230 million investment by Catalent to expand its advanced gene therapy manufacturing campus in Harmans.

The Administration’s Investing in America agenda continues to make critical investments that will improve the lives and futures of all Marylanders.

The Biden-Harris Administration’s Ongoing Support for Baltimore

President Biden was last in Baltimore in the immediate aftermath of the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge, which claimed the lives of six construction workers and closed ship traffic in and out of the Port of Baltimore. There, he said his Administration would move heaven and earth to reopen the Port of Baltimore as quickly as possible to support Maryland’s workers and economy. A Unified Command led by the United States Coast Guard and the Army Corps of Engineers cleared 50,000 tons of wreckage from the channel, allowing the Port to fully reopen 78 days after the bridge collapse. The Department of Labor and Small Business Administration mobilized quickly to support workers and small businesses impacted by the port closure, including thousands of Longshoremen and Teamsters who rely on the port for their livelihood. And the Department of Transportation and the Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force worked to limit supply chain disruptions, keep costs down, and ensure cargo quickly returned to the Port once it reopened. Today, port workers are back on the job, once again moving more than 100,000 tons of cargo per day.

The President also committed to rebuilding the bridge as quickly as possible. Thanks to close collaboration with the Department of Transportation, Maryland is on the fast track to rebuild the bridge. In July, the Federal Highway Administration issued a Categorical Exclusion, allowing the project to clear a critical permitting milestone. And in August, Maryland selected a contractor to design and build the new bridge.  Immediately following the bridge collapse, President Biden called on Congress to fully fund the replacement bridge and his Administration reiterated this request in July.

The Biden-Harris Administration also committed to holding the owners of the DALI cargo ship accountable for the disaster. Just last week, the Department of Justice announced a settlement of over $100 million with the owners of the DALI to cover federal government costs incurred in responding to the collapse. While the State of Maryland continues to pursue a separate lawsuit for damages incurred to the local economy, community, and families impacted by the collapse, the Biden-Harris Administration remains committed to working with Baltimore and the State of Maryland to ensure the city’s long-term recovery and success.

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The post FACT SHEET: President Joe Biden Announces $3 Billion to Strengthen Port Infrastructure, Create Good-Paying and Union Jobs, Bring Cleaner Air to Communities appeared first on The White House.

President Biden will travel to the Port of Baltimore to announce $147 million in awards, which will support up to 2,000 good-paying and union jobs at the Port

Today, President Biden will travel to the Port of Baltimore to announce a $3 billion investment from his Inflation Reduction Act to improve and electrify port infrastructure, support an estimated 40,000 good-paying and union jobs, reduce pollution, and combat the climate crisis.  The announcement includes $147 million in awards for the Maryland Port Administration, which will support over 2,000 good-paying and union jobs by enabling the purchase and installation of zero-emission port equipment, charging infrastructure, and power improvements. During the visit, President Biden will highlight how his Investing in America agenda is making an historic impact on communities and workers in Baltimore and across the country.

$3 Billion Investment to Strengthen Port Infrastructure

Today, President Biden is announcing $3 billion in Environmental Protection Agency Clean Ports grants, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, to 55 selectees across 27 states and territories, including $147 million in implementation and planning grants for the Maryland Port Administration. The nation’s ports are the lynchpin of our nation’s supply chains and employ over 100,000 union workers across the United States.

This funding will protect and create good-paying and union jobs and better working conditions by upgrading port operations and infrastructure to cleaner equipment, while ensuring cleaner air for port workers and nearby communities. The Clean Ports program will support an estimated 40,000 jobs across the economy, including over 6,500 manufacturing jobs, and is expected to increase demand for American manufactured electric cargo handling equipment at least six-fold over the life of the program.

While a major economic driver, our nation’s ports are a major source of pollution for workers and surrounding communities. Communities living near ports and other transportation corridors are exposed to toxic pollution which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular harm, especially in children. The Clean Ports program will improve air quality at ports across the country by installing clean, zero-emission freight and ferry technologies along with associated infrastructure, eliminating more than 3 million metric tons of carbon pollution over the first ten years of implementation, equivalent to 391,220 homes’ energy use for one year. The funds announced today will support the purchase of battery-electric and hydrogen-powered human-operated and human-maintained equipment, including over 1,500 units of cargo handling equipment, 1,000 drayage trucks, 10 locomotives, and 20 vessels, as well as shore power systems for ocean-going vessels, battery-electric and hydrogen vehicle charging and fueling infrastructure, and solar power generation. The Clean Ports program advances the President’s Justice40 Initiative and aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal for a zero-emission freight sector.

Investing in the Port of Baltimore

President Biden will announce the funding at the Port of Baltimore in Maryland. The Port of Baltimore is one of the busiest ports on the East Coast and is a major hub for the import and export of vehicles. More than 20,000 workers support daily Port operations, including unionized longshoreman and truckers. Each day the Port’s economic impact represents $192 million or more than $70 billion a year, representing 13% of Maryland’s gross domestic product.

The Maryland Port Administration’s Equipment Electrification and Terminal Decarbonization project has been selected to receive over $145 million to purchase zero-emission cargo handling equipment and drayage trucks and facilitate the transition of the port to a zero-emission facility, as well as a nearly $2 million planning grant to help the port chart a path to greater emissions reductions in the future, delivering cleaner air for the port and neighboring communities. The port is a major economic engine for the region, providing thousands of jobs and contributing billions of dollars to the local economy—and this new investment will support over 2,000 jobs, including more than 350 manufacturing jobs.

Creating Good Paying, Union Jobs in Baltimore and Across the Country

President Biden is the most pro-union president in history. He’s the first and only president to walk a picket line, and under his Administration, unions have secured historic labor wins. Last month, President Biden signed an Executive Order that calls on agencies to promote strong labor standards such as family-sustaining wages, workplace safety, and the free and fair choice to join a union, and encourages agencies to implement these standards through their Investing in America programs. This builds on a record of pro-worker accomplishments throughout the Biden-Harris Administration. For example:

• Workers are filing for union representation at twice the rate they were at the start of the Biden-Harris Administration—the first Administration in five decades to have an increase in union petitions. In Maryland, union petitions increased by 55% percent. The National Labor Relations Board has met this historic moment by reducing unnecessary delays in union representation elections and by expanding remedies available to workers when their employers engage in unionbusting.
• The vast majority of Investing in America programs require grantees to pay Davis-Bacon prevailing wages for workers. The Administration also published the first update to Davis-Bacon prevailing wages in nearly 40 years, which will increase pay for one million construction workers over time.
• The Department of the Treasury finalized a rule implementing prevailing wage and apprenticeship bonus credits for certain clean energy projects funded by the President’s Inflation Reduction Act to ensure clean energy workers are paid good wages and that these projects create equitable pipelines to these good jobs.

Building on Historic Investments in Maryland’s Infrastructure and Economy

Today’s announcement builds on a historic investment in the state of Maryland under the Biden-Harris Administration. To date, the Investing in America agenda has delivered over $13 billion for over 970 projects in Maryland, spurring over $3 billion in private sector investments.

This includes a number of projects in Baltimore, for example:

• $4.7 billion for Amtrak’s Frederick Douglass Tunnel—which will replace the 150-year-old Baltimore and Potomac tunnel that is currently one of the largest rail bottlenecks on the Northeast Corridor;
• $213 million to replace the Maryland Transit Administration’s entire fleet of 52 aging light rail vehicles with new, modern rail cars;
• $80 million for interchange improvements at the I-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel;
• $68 million for upgrades at Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall airport;
• $43 million to identify and replace toxic lead pipes across Maryland;
• $31 million to rehabilitate a section of the Dundalk Marine Terminal at the Port; and
• $9 million to Baltimore City Public Schools for clean school buses.

Baltimore was also named an Investing in America Workforce Hub, where the Administration is bringing together industry, government, educators, non-profits and unions to help workers in Maryland access good jobs created by private and public sector investments in the state. In November 2023, Hub partners announced new efforts to train and hire local residents to support major infrastructure projects. These commitments include one from the State of Maryland to incorporate a Project Labor Agreement in the bidding process for nine projects covering $9 billion in investment and 11,000 jobs—including 7,000 construction jobs. One of these commitments includes Amtrak promising to invest at least $5 million in funding received through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to create recruitment and training programs for new jobs for Baltimore residents as part of the Frederick Douglass Tunnel Program.

The Department of Commerce also awarded the Maryland Department of Labor $23 million through the Economic Development Administration’s Good Jobs Challenge to create a new apprenticeship model for the growing offshore wind industry in Maryland, working with leading employers and local unions to develop a training model focused on underserved populations. The Maritime Administration is further supporting the Maryland offshore wind industry through a $47 million grant to Sparrows Point Steel to retool, a former Bethlehem Steel mill in Baltimore, to establish an offshore wind logistics and manufacturing hub in partnership with the United Steelworkers.

The Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda has also unleashed $3 billion in private sector manufacturing and clean energy investments in Maryland, including:

• A $350 million investment by United Safety Technology in Baltimore to produce critical medical supplies, including personal protective equipment.
• A $300 million investment by AstraZeneca in a state-of-the-art facility in Rockville to launch life-saving cell therapy platforms for cancer trials.
• A $230 million investment by Catalent to expand its advanced gene therapy manufacturing campus in Harmans.

The Administration’s Investing in America agenda continues to make critical investments that will improve the lives and futures of all Marylanders.

The Biden-Harris Administration’s Ongoing Support for Baltimore

President Biden was last in Baltimore in the immediate aftermath of the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge, which claimed the lives of six construction workers and closed ship traffic in and out of the Port of Baltimore. There, he said his Administration would move heaven and earth to reopen the Port of Baltimore as quickly as possible to support Maryland’s workers and economy. A Unified Command led by the United States Coast Guard and the Army Corps of Engineers cleared 50,000 tons of wreckage from the channel, allowing the Port to fully reopen 78 days after the bridge collapse. The Department of Labor and Small Business Administration mobilized quickly to support workers and small businesses impacted by the port closure, including thousands of Longshoremen and Teamsters who rely on the port for their livelihood. And the Department of Transportation and the Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force worked to limit supply chain disruptions, keep costs down, and ensure cargo quickly returned to the Port once it reopened. Today, port workers are back on the job, once again moving more than 100,000 tons of cargo per day.

The President also committed to rebuilding the bridge as quickly as possible. Thanks to close collaboration with the Department of Transportation, Maryland is on the fast track to rebuild the bridge. In July, the Federal Highway Administration issued a Categorical Exclusion, allowing the project to clear a critical permitting milestone. And in August, Maryland selected a contractor to design and build the new bridge.  Immediately following the bridge collapse, President Biden called on Congress to fully fund the replacement bridge and his Administration reiterated this request in July.

The Biden-Harris Administration also committed to holding the owners of the DALI cargo ship accountable for the disaster. Just last week, the Department of Justice announced a settlement of over $100 million with the owners of the DALI to cover federal government costs incurred in responding to the collapse. While the State of Maryland continues to pursue a separate lawsuit for damages incurred to the local economy, community, and families impacted by the collapse, the Biden-Harris Administration remains committed to working with Baltimore and the State of Maryland to ensure the city’s long-term recovery and success.

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The University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA

SECOND GENTLEMAN DOUGLAS EMHOFF: Thank you, Meryl and Yoni, and thank you Pittsburgh. You’ve welcomed me many times to mourn, to remember, and to rededicate ourselves to living proudly as Jews.
 
Thank you for opening your doors and arms once again, at this critical moment.
 
We have one week to go. One week to turn the page, chart a new way forward, and elect Kamala Harris.
 
I am so proud of the way she has stepped up, shared her vision, and prosecuted the case against Donald Trump’s unhinged view of America and of our fellow Americans.
 
Kamala brings both joy and toughness to everything she does – and this campaign is no different.
 
Yesterday we marked the anniversary of the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history, a massacre at Shabbat services not far from where we gather right now.
 
And one year after the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel, we are all still reeling.
 
So I want to talk about how we feel when we wake up, walk through the world, and stare at the ceiling at night:
 
It is an uncomfortable and unsettling time to be Jewish. These are hard days.
 
There is pride in our people, but also a deep sense of insecurity.
 
Like you, I know people who think twice about wearing a kippah or a Star of David.
 
Parents who are worried sick about their kids’ safety on college campuses.
 
Young people who aren’t just afraid that they’re going to grow up with fewer rights than their grandparents, but who are being targeted for being Jewish in ways we thought only happened in our grandparents’ time.
 
Everywhere I go, people tell me they also feel something else: loneliness.
 
In the rooms where you used to feel safe, you no longer feel welcome. It didn’t always feel this lonely to be Jewish in America.
 
Like many of you, my family came to this country to escape these very fears. To feel this way in 2024 is disorienting and disconcerting.
  
But I’ll tell you one place I’ve never felt that – where I’ve actually felt the opposite: the home I share with Kamala.
 
When we’re shaken, we go home and talk to the people we love.
 
After Charlottesville, after Tree of Life, after October 7, the person I turned to and talked to was my wife.
 
After Hamas executed Hersh and the other hostages, she and I grieved together.

When we see the antisemitic attacks that are happening week by week in America – like the students wearing kippot who were assaulted while walking to the Hillel on this very campus, like the Federation building in Detroit that was vandalized on the anniversary of October 7, like the historic synagogue in Philadelphia that was defiled just last week, like the man who was shot in Chicago while walking to Shabbat services two days ago – Kamala and I recommit ourselves to extinguishing this epidemic of hate.
 
And let me make something else clear: we do not cower.
 
We take inspiration from communities like this one, which came together as one after Tree of Life – and from those Pitt students, who say they wear the signs of their Judaism even more proudly since being attacked.
 
We heard the antisemitic and racist speeches at Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally yesterday.
 
It’s appalling to hear those slurs, especially in the closing days of a campaign – and even more painful to hear them on the anniversary of the massacre at Tree of Life.
 
But nothing will stop me from living fearlessly as a Jew. Nothing will stop Kamala and me from speaking out. Nothing will take away our joy or our faith in America.
 
Kamala is someone whose conviction and compassion is driven by empathy as well as experience.
 
She hears the stories of people who practice a different faith – and especially those who are targeted because of it – and comes away with a sense of personal responsibility.
 
She knows how deeply our community has been re-traumatized and our fears about the future.
 
So this is not a footnote in her agenda. Bringing us together, defending those who are wronged, disparaged, and excluded is the essence of her life and her leadership.
 
And that is what we need in the Oval Office.
  
Now, anybody can say the right things on the campaign trail, and then go home and turn it off. Not Kamala.
 
Because when Kamala walks through the door at the end of the day, that door has a mezuzah on it.
 
And three months from now, with your help, the White House residence could have a mezuzah on its doorpost.
 
Let me be direct and answer the question that Jews have asked for generations: Yes, she feels it in her gut. Kamala feels it, as we say, in her kishkes.
 
Her commitment to the security of Israel is unwavering. I know this not just because of what she’s said publicly – though she has said it consistently her entire career – but also by what she does and says when it’s just us.
 
I’ve talked to her before and after her calls with Israel’s leaders and diplomats.
 
She takes seriously her pledge – and I’m going to quote Kamala here – to “always ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself from Iran and Iran-backed terrorists.”
 
I saw her determination earlier this month after she spent hours in the Situation Room, coordinating in real time with our military to shoot down the missiles Iran launched into Israel’s skies.
 
I’ve been next to her as she’s steeled herself, with such care and compassion, to meet the hostage families.
 
And I’ve seen how those conversations both break her heart and strengthen her resolve.
 
I know what’s in her soul. She feels what you and I – and Jews across America – are feeling today. She gets it.
 
And to tell you the truth, it’s not because she married a nice Jewish boy. To be honest, she’s been working on this longer than I have.
 
Growing up, she collected donations, in those iconic blue-and-white tzedakah boxes, to plant trees in Israel.
 
As District Attorney of San Francisco, she prosecuted antisemitic attacks as hate crimes.
 
As Attorney General, she published an annual report on hate crimes.
 
As a U.S. senator, the first resolution she passed – the very first – was to speak out against antisemitism.
 
Throughout her career, Kamala has strengthened the bonds between the United States and Israel, between the Israeli people and the American people.
 
She knows those bonds must remain strong regardless of which administration or leader is in power.
 
Over the last year, Kamala has worked every day for a deal to bring the hostages home and for a ceasefire – to protect innocent civilians in Gaza and make sure aid gets to those in need – and for a reality in which Israel is secure and Palestinians know the dignity, freedom, and self-determination they deserve.
 
Throughout her career, Kamala has been crystal clear in pledging – again, I’m going to use her words – to “always work to ensure the safety and security of the Jewish people here and around the world” and “support the existence of a secure, democratic homeland for the Jewish people.” Those are direct quotes.
 
When Kamala is President, she will continue to stand with Israel and with the Jewish community – our community. She will reject antisemitic hate and the notion that Israel does not have the right to exist.
 
Kamala also knows that the justice Judaism commands us to pursue is not only about foreign policy.
 
It is also about ensuring everyone is respected, every vote is counted, and every woman has the freedom to make decisions about her own body.
  
Like some of you, I have walked along the train tracks that led into, but not out of, Auschwitz.
 
I have spoken to Holocaust survivors who hear in the present-day propaganda and intolerance the echoes of the 1930s – and warned us what was heading for America.
 
Last year, I met with a survivor who escaped to present-day Ukraine from Germany – but who now has been forced, in her advanced age, to escape to Germany from Ukraine.
 
And I went with Kamala to visit Yad Vashem. Before we left, Kamala wrote a note to share how devastated she was by – as she put it – “the silent testimonials of those who perished in the Shoah.”
 
Kamala hears the silence of those we lost – she hears the silence of those who look the other way – and she urged me to use my voice. That is why I have used this role to do this work of fighting antisemitism and hate.
 
That’s right: it was Kamala who encouraged me to take up this mission as Second Gentleman.
 
I am so proud to have helped the President and Vice President establish the first-ever National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, mobilizing the full force of the federal government to protect Jewish communities.
 
One thing we know about antisemitism is that those who discriminate against us discriminate against all of us. There are many Jews far more religiously observant than I am – but as I said to an Orthodox rabbi, they hate us all equally.
 
Another thing we know is that anti-Semites usually don’t stop there.
 
Those who hate Jews often hate Muslims, hate people of color, hate LGBTQ people, hate anyone who doesn’t look or pray or think like they do.
 
And a third thing we know about antisemitism is that whenever chaos and cruelty are given a green light, Jew-hatred is historically not far behind.
 
That matters today because Donald Trump is nothing if not an agent of chaos and cruelty.
  
People run for office for one of two reasons: to hold power or to lead people.
 
And when you look at the candidates on your ballot, that is the choice.
 
He is running for himself. She is running for you – for us. In fact, that distinction has been the driving force for each of them throughout their very different careers.
 
He is a conman and a convicted criminal who tears others down. She is a prosecutor and a public servant who lifts people up.
 
He has lost the support of those who worked with him the closest. She proudly accepts their endorsements.
 
He demeans immigrants with the same hateful slurs hurled at our ancestors – “vermin” and “animals” who “poison the blood of our country.”
 
He scapegoats Jewish voters to our faces, saying that if he loses, it will be the fault of the Jews.
 
He looks at Adolf Hitler’s generals and sees something to admire.
 
Let that sink in. 
 
You do not reward someone like that with a platform – or with power – and never again with the Presidency.
  
Now, you and I have heard the arguments that give Trump the benefit of the doubt despite all his nonsensical, hateful rhetoric; despite his takeover of the Supreme Court; despite his insurrection at the Capitol; despite his promise to be a dictator on day one.
 
But this is different. Last time, there were people around him who checked his worst instincts.
 
If there is a next time, they won’t be there. The people who know that Trump should be nowhere near the Situation Room are the ones who will be locked out.
 
Just listen to his own Vice President, his own Chief of Staff, his own Defense Secretary, his own National Security Advisor.
 
Donald Trump demands loyalty – but he is loyal to nothing but himself. If it suited his selfish interests, Trump would turn his back on Israel and the Jewish people on a dime.
 
Whenever antisemitism rears its ugly head in this country, we should never have to wonder where our government stands.
 
We should never have to wonder whether our leaders are praising Nazis behind closed doors.
 
When I used to speak to a jury at the end of a trial, I would often say to them: Believe what you see. Trust the facts staring you in the face.
 
So when Donald Trump says something unhinged, do not roll your eyes. Roll up your sleeves.
  
Let me finish where I started: this has been a heartbreaking year to be a Jew in America.
 
The question is: will next year be even harder – for us and for Americans of every background, for all of us who believe in freedom?
 
The answer is in our hands. The answer is on our ballots.
 
How many times have you read our history and asked: What were they thinking? Why didn’t they stop it? Why didn’t they act?
 
Embedded in that question is this truth: we have a choice.
 
There is a fire in this country. Either we pour water on it, or we pour gasoline.
 
That is the choice every one of us faces right now. Because fighting antisemitism and all forms of hate is the responsibility of every American.
 
Kamala and I planted a pomegranate tree at the Vice President’s residence this past October 7.
 
It commemorates both the pain and the perseverance of the Jewish people.
 
We pray that this symbol of hope will grow into a tree of life, reflecting the resilience of the congregation here in Pittsburgh of the same name.
 
Our Proverbs liken the Torah to a Tree of Life. But there’s an important condition attached. The full verse says it is “a tree of life – for those who hold fast to it.”
 
In other words, it is only a source of goodness if you choose to honor it.
 
That is the story of America, too.
 
Our Constitution only works if we choose to respect the rule of law.
 
Our democracy only works if we choose to respect one another – and if we elect leaders who serve us rather than themselves.
 
As Ben Franklin famously said here in Pennsylvania, it’s only a republic if we can keep it.
 
This is the most important election in our lifetimes – and as Kamala says, the most important election in the lifetime of our nation.
 
We’re being asked whether we will protect America’s promise as a welcoming society – for Jews and for everyone. A nation where no one ever feels attacked or alone.
 
There is only one candidate in this race who will bring us closer to that reality.
 
In your gut – in your kishkes – you know that’s true. And you know what we need to do to elect her as our next President.
 
Thank you.

The post Remarks by the Second Gentleman at a Campaign Event | Pittsburgh, PA appeared first on The White House.

The University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA

SECOND GENTLEMAN DOUGLAS EMHOFF: Thank you, Meryl and Yoni, and thank you Pittsburgh. You’ve welcomed me many times to mourn, to remember, and to rededicate ourselves to living proudly as Jews.
 
Thank you for opening your doors and arms once again, at this critical moment.
 
We have one week to go. One week to turn the page, chart a new way forward, and elect Kamala Harris.
 
I am so proud of the way she has stepped up, shared her vision, and prosecuted the case against Donald Trump’s unhinged view of America and of our fellow Americans.
 
Kamala brings both joy and toughness to everything she does – and this campaign is no different.
 
Yesterday we marked the anniversary of the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history, a massacre at Shabbat services not far from where we gather right now.
 
And one year after the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel, we are all still reeling.
 
So I want to talk about how we feel when we wake up, walk through the world, and stare at the ceiling at night:
 
It is an uncomfortable and unsettling time to be Jewish. These are hard days.
 
There is pride in our people, but also a deep sense of insecurity.
 
Like you, I know people who think twice about wearing a kippah or a Star of David.
 
Parents who are worried sick about their kids’ safety on college campuses.
 
Young people who aren’t just afraid that they’re going to grow up with fewer rights than their grandparents, but who are being targeted for being Jewish in ways we thought only happened in our grandparents’ time.
 
Everywhere I go, people tell me they also feel something else: loneliness.
 
In the rooms where you used to feel safe, you no longer feel welcome. It didn’t always feel this lonely to be Jewish in America.
 
Like many of you, my family came to this country to escape these very fears. To feel this way in 2024 is disorienting and disconcerting.
  
But I’ll tell you one place I’ve never felt that – where I’ve actually felt the opposite: the home I share with Kamala.
 
When we’re shaken, we go home and talk to the people we love.
 
After Charlottesville, after Tree of Life, after October 7, the person I turned to and talked to was my wife.
 
After Hamas executed Hersh and the other hostages, she and I grieved together.

When we see the antisemitic attacks that are happening week by week in America – like the students wearing kippot who were assaulted while walking to the Hillel on this very campus, like the Federation building in Detroit that was vandalized on the anniversary of October 7, like the historic synagogue in Philadelphia that was defiled just last week, like the man who was shot in Chicago while walking to Shabbat services two days ago – Kamala and I recommit ourselves to extinguishing this epidemic of hate.
 
And let me make something else clear: we do not cower.
 
We take inspiration from communities like this one, which came together as one after Tree of Life – and from those Pitt students, who say they wear the signs of their Judaism even more proudly since being attacked.
 
We heard the antisemitic and racist speeches at Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally yesterday.
 
It’s appalling to hear those slurs, especially in the closing days of a campaign – and even more painful to hear them on the anniversary of the massacre at Tree of Life.
 
But nothing will stop me from living fearlessly as a Jew. Nothing will stop Kamala and me from speaking out. Nothing will take away our joy or our faith in America.
 
Kamala is someone whose conviction and compassion is driven by empathy as well as experience.
 
She hears the stories of people who practice a different faith – and especially those who are targeted because of it – and comes away with a sense of personal responsibility.
 
She knows how deeply our community has been re-traumatized and our fears about the future.
 
So this is not a footnote in her agenda. Bringing us together, defending those who are wronged, disparaged, and excluded is the essence of her life and her leadership.
 
And that is what we need in the Oval Office.
  
Now, anybody can say the right things on the campaign trail, and then go home and turn it off. Not Kamala.
 
Because when Kamala walks through the door at the end of the day, that door has a mezuzah on it.
 
And three months from now, with your help, the White House residence could have a mezuzah on its doorpost.
 
Let me be direct and answer the question that Jews have asked for generations: Yes, she feels it in her gut. Kamala feels it, as we say, in her kishkes.
 
Her commitment to the security of Israel is unwavering. I know this not just because of what she’s said publicly – though she has said it consistently her entire career – but also by what she does and says when it’s just us.
 
I’ve talked to her before and after her calls with Israel’s leaders and diplomats.
 
She takes seriously her pledge – and I’m going to quote Kamala here – to “always ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself from Iran and Iran-backed terrorists.”
 
I saw her determination earlier this month after she spent hours in the Situation Room, coordinating in real time with our military to shoot down the missiles Iran launched into Israel’s skies.
 
I’ve been next to her as she’s steeled herself, with such care and compassion, to meet the hostage families.
 
And I’ve seen how those conversations both break her heart and strengthen her resolve.
 
I know what’s in her soul. She feels what you and I – and Jews across America – are feeling today. She gets it.
 
And to tell you the truth, it’s not because she married a nice Jewish boy. To be honest, she’s been working on this longer than I have.
 
Growing up, she collected donations, in those iconic blue-and-white tzedakah boxes, to plant trees in Israel.
 
As District Attorney of San Francisco, she prosecuted antisemitic attacks as hate crimes.
 
As Attorney General, she published an annual report on hate crimes.
 
As a U.S. senator, the first resolution she passed – the very first – was to speak out against antisemitism.
 
Throughout her career, Kamala has strengthened the bonds between the United States and Israel, between the Israeli people and the American people.
 
She knows those bonds must remain strong regardless of which administration or leader is in power.
 
Over the last year, Kamala has worked every day for a deal to bring the hostages home and for a ceasefire – to protect innocent civilians in Gaza and make sure aid gets to those in need – and for a reality in which Israel is secure and Palestinians know the dignity, freedom, and self-determination they deserve.
 
Throughout her career, Kamala has been crystal clear in pledging – again, I’m going to use her words – to “always work to ensure the safety and security of the Jewish people here and around the world” and “support the existence of a secure, democratic homeland for the Jewish people.” Those are direct quotes.
 
When Kamala is President, she will continue to stand with Israel and with the Jewish community – our community. She will reject antisemitic hate and the notion that Israel does not have the right to exist.
 
Kamala also knows that the justice Judaism commands us to pursue is not only about foreign policy.
 
It is also about ensuring everyone is respected, every vote is counted, and every woman has the freedom to make decisions about her own body.
  
Like some of you, I have walked along the train tracks that led into, but not out of, Auschwitz.
 
I have spoken to Holocaust survivors who hear in the present-day propaganda and intolerance the echoes of the 1930s – and warned us what was heading for America.
 
Last year, I met with a survivor who escaped to present-day Ukraine from Germany – but who now has been forced, in her advanced age, to escape to Germany from Ukraine.
 
And I went with Kamala to visit Yad Vashem. Before we left, Kamala wrote a note to share how devastated she was by – as she put it – “the silent testimonials of those who perished in the Shoah.”
 
Kamala hears the silence of those we lost – she hears the silence of those who look the other way – and she urged me to use my voice. That is why I have used this role to do this work of fighting antisemitism and hate.
 
That’s right: it was Kamala who encouraged me to take up this mission as Second Gentleman.
 
I am so proud to have helped the President and Vice President establish the first-ever National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, mobilizing the full force of the federal government to protect Jewish communities.
 
One thing we know about antisemitism is that those who discriminate against us discriminate against all of us. There are many Jews far more religiously observant than I am – but as I said to an Orthodox rabbi, they hate us all equally.
 
Another thing we know is that anti-Semites usually don’t stop there.
 
Those who hate Jews often hate Muslims, hate people of color, hate LGBTQ people, hate anyone who doesn’t look or pray or think like they do.
 
And a third thing we know about antisemitism is that whenever chaos and cruelty are given a green light, Jew-hatred is historically not far behind.
 
That matters today because Donald Trump is nothing if not an agent of chaos and cruelty.
  
People run for office for one of two reasons: to hold power or to lead people.
 
And when you look at the candidates on your ballot, that is the choice.
 
He is running for himself. She is running for you – for us. In fact, that distinction has been the driving force for each of them throughout their very different careers.
 
He is a conman and a convicted criminal who tears others down. She is a prosecutor and a public servant who lifts people up.
 
He has lost the support of those who worked with him the closest. She proudly accepts their endorsements.
 
He demeans immigrants with the same hateful slurs hurled at our ancestors – “vermin” and “animals” who “poison the blood of our country.”
 
He scapegoats Jewish voters to our faces, saying that if he loses, it will be the fault of the Jews.
 
He looks at Adolf Hitler’s generals and sees something to admire.
 
Let that sink in. 
 
You do not reward someone like that with a platform – or with power – and never again with the Presidency.
  
Now, you and I have heard the arguments that give Trump the benefit of the doubt despite all his nonsensical, hateful rhetoric; despite his takeover of the Supreme Court; despite his insurrection at the Capitol; despite his promise to be a dictator on day one.
 
But this is different. Last time, there were people around him who checked his worst instincts.
 
If there is a next time, they won’t be there. The people who know that Trump should be nowhere near the Situation Room are the ones who will be locked out.
 
Just listen to his own Vice President, his own Chief of Staff, his own Defense Secretary, his own National Security Advisor.
 
Donald Trump demands loyalty – but he is loyal to nothing but himself. If it suited his selfish interests, Trump would turn his back on Israel and the Jewish people on a dime.
 
Whenever antisemitism rears its ugly head in this country, we should never have to wonder where our government stands.
 
We should never have to wonder whether our leaders are praising Nazis behind closed doors.
 
When I used to speak to a jury at the end of a trial, I would often say to them: Believe what you see. Trust the facts staring you in the face.
 
So when Donald Trump says something unhinged, do not roll your eyes. Roll up your sleeves.
  
Let me finish where I started: this has been a heartbreaking year to be a Jew in America.
 
The question is: will next year be even harder – for us and for Americans of every background, for all of us who believe in freedom?
 
The answer is in our hands. The answer is on our ballots.
 
How many times have you read our history and asked: What were they thinking? Why didn’t they stop it? Why didn’t they act?
 
Embedded in that question is this truth: we have a choice.
 
There is a fire in this country. Either we pour water on it, or we pour gasoline.
 
That is the choice every one of us faces right now. Because fighting antisemitism and all forms of hate is the responsibility of every American.
 
Kamala and I planted a pomegranate tree at the Vice President’s residence this past October 7.
 
It commemorates both the pain and the perseverance of the Jewish people.
 
We pray that this symbol of hope will grow into a tree of life, reflecting the resilience of the congregation here in Pittsburgh of the same name.
 
Our Proverbs liken the Torah to a Tree of Life. But there’s an important condition attached. The full verse says it is “a tree of life – for those who hold fast to it.”
 
In other words, it is only a source of goodness if you choose to honor it.
 
That is the story of America, too.
 
Our Constitution only works if we choose to respect the rule of law.
 
Our democracy only works if we choose to respect one another – and if we elect leaders who serve us rather than themselves.
 
As Ben Franklin famously said here in Pennsylvania, it’s only a republic if we can keep it.
 
This is the most important election in our lifetimes – and as Kamala says, the most important election in the lifetime of our nation.
 
We’re being asked whether we will protect America’s promise as a welcoming society – for Jews and for everyone. A nation where no one ever feels attacked or alone.
 
There is only one candidate in this race who will bring us closer to that reality.
 
In your gut – in your kishkes – you know that’s true. And you know what we need to do to elect her as our next President.
 
Thank you.

The post Remarks by the Second Gentleman at a Campaign Event | Pittsburgh, PA appeared first on The White House.

Burns Park
Ann Arbor, Michigan

7:41 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Good evening, Ann Arbor!  (Applause.)  Good evening. 

Can we hear it for Tim Walz?  (Applause.)

Oh, it’s great to be back in Michigan.  How’s everybody doing?  (Applause.)  Go Blue!  (Applause.) 

So, let me just say about Tim Walz.  He’s been such an extraordinary running mate, and he will be an extraordinary vice president of the United States.  (Applause.)

And let me tell you why I love Coach Walz.  As he travels to every corner of our country, meeting with people in small towns, big to- — towns, everywhere in between, Cal- — Coach Walz is always bringing the joy.  He is always bringing the joy.  He cares about people.  He understands people.  He understands hard work.  And he understands what it means to be a leader who lifts people up instead of trying to beat people down.  That is Tim Walz.  (Applause.)

And, Ann Arbor, I can feel the joy tonight.  Thank you all so very much.  (Applause.)

And we have some other incredible leaders with us here tonight.  Mayor Taylor, thank you.  (Applause.)  Where’s — there you are.  Deputy County Executive Turfe, I thank you so very much.  (Applause.)  Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist.  (Applause.)  Representative Dingell, a champion for this community.  (Applause.)  And let’s also send Elissa Slotkin to the United States Senate.  (Applause.)  We need her in D.C.

And I also want to thank all the labor, elected, and community leaders who are here today.

And can we please hear it again for Maggie Rogers?  (Applause.)

All right.  We got business to handle.  (Laughter.) 

Okay.  So, Ann Arbor, I have a question for you.  Are we ready to do this?  (Applause.)

Are we ready to vote?  (Applause.)

Are we ready to win?  (Applause.)  Yes.  And we will win.  (Applause.)  And we will win. 

So, you just heard from the coach: Early voting has started here in Michigan.  You can vote early now through Sunday, November 3rd.  And we need you to vote early, Michigan, because we have just eight days to go — eight days left in one of the most consequential elections of our lifetime. 

And as everybody here knows, this is going to be a tight race until the very end. 

So, we have a lot of work ahead of us, but we like hard work.  (Applause.)  Hard work is good work.  Hard work is joyful work. 

And make no mistake, we will win.  We will win.  (Applause.)

AUDIENCE:  We will win!  We will win!  We will win!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:   Yes, we will. 

And we will win because together —

AUDIENCE:  We will win!  We will win!  We will win!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And we will win, yes.  Yes.  (Laughs.)

AUDIENCE:  We will win!  We will win!  We will win!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  We can keep going all night.  (Laughs.)

But one of the reasons we will win is because we are all in this together.  We are all in this together — people from every walk of life, understanding that the vast majority of us have so much more in common than what separates us. 

And we here are fighting for the future.  (Applause.)  We are fighting for the future, and we understand the opportunity that we have before us to turn the page on the fear and divisiveness that have characterized our politics for a decade because of Donald Trump. 

We have an opportunity to turn the page and chart a new and joyful way forward where we tap into the ambitions — (applause) — and we will tap into the ambitions and the aspirations and the dreams of the American people.  (Applause.)

And let me tell you something.  As I travel our country, there is an overwhelming call for a fresh start — people from all walks of life.  And they are calling for a new generation of leadership that is optimistic and excited about what we can do together.  (Applause.) 

There is a yearning in our country for a president who will see you, who gets you, and who will fight for you.  (Applause.)

And, listen, hey, on the subject of Gaza.  Hey, guys — (the vice president waves to audience members) — I hear you.  On the subject of Gaza, we all want this war to end as soon as possible and get the hostages out.  And I will do everything in my power to make it so.  (Applause.)

And let’s be clear.  We are all here because we are fighting for a democracy and for the right of people to be heard and seen.  (Applause.)  We’re not about the enemy within.  We know we are all in this together.  That’s what we are fighting for.  (Applause.)

     And my whole career —

     AUDIENCE:  Kamala!  Kamala!  Kamala!

     THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.  Thank you.

     AUDIENCE:  Kamala!  Kamala!  Kamala!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Okay, now I want each of you to shout your own name.  Do that — (laughter) — because it’s about all of us.  It’s about all of us. 

And, listen, I have fought my whole career to put the people first and to put the people above partisanship.  I never once asked in my career, “Are you a Democrat or are you a Republican?”  The only thing I ever asked is “How can I help you?  Are you okay?”  And that — (applause) — and that is a major difference between Donald Trump and me, and between the two extremely different visions that he and I have for our nation. 

His is focused on himself and the past.  Ours is focused on the future and it is focused on the people.  (Applause.)

So, together, we will build a future where we bring down the cost of living.  That will be my focus every single day as president, because while inflation is down and wages are up, prices are still too high.  You know it, and I know it. 

And unlike Donald Trump, who had $400 million handed to him on a silver platter — and don’t forget, he filed for bankruptcy six times, the great businessman — unlike him, I grew up in a middle-class neighborhood with a working mother who kept a strict budget and did everything she could to make sure that my sister and I had all we needed.  I come from the middle class, and I will never forget where I come from.  (Applause.)  Never.

And so, my commonsense plan will lower the prices you pay on everything from prescription medication to groceries to housing.  On the other hand, Donald Trump will raise costs on you and your family. 

In fact, independent economists have analyzed both of our plans and found mine will cut your costs and strengthen our economy, while his will increase inflation and lead to a recession by the middle of next year.  (Applause.)

And his agenda is laid out in Project 2025.  You know, I say everywhere —

AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And I know we’ve got a lot of students here, and I have to tell you, I just find it really interesting that they put that — that thing in writing.  (Laughter.)  They put it in writing.  They — they bound it.  They published it.  They handed it out.  And then they expect we’re not going to talk about it?  Are you kidding me?  (Laughter.)

And when you read it, you will see it is a detailed and dangerous blueprint for what he plans to do if he is elected president.

Donald Trump will impose a 20 percent national sales tax on everyday, basic necessities, which economists have estimated will cost the average American family an additional $4,000 a year. 

AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Contrast, on the other hand, I’m going to take on corporate price gouging.  I’ve done it before, and I will do it again.  (Applause.)  

Donald Trump will give massive tax cuts, like he did before, to billionaires and the biggest corporations.  He did it the last time.  He is going to do it again. 

I, on the other hand, will give middle-class tax cuts to hundred million Americans, including $6,000 for the first year of a child’s life, because I understand how that will lift America’s children out of poverty, which what — must be one of our highest goals.  (Applause.)

Donald Trump will get rid of the $35-a-month cap on insulin for our seniors. 

AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  He will cut Medicare and Social Security.  In fact, economists say he will bankrupt Social Security in the next six years. 

AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And understand what that means.  So many of the seniors in America — that’s their only source of income.  That’s the only way they’re able to pay their rent and buy food. 

I have a plan to support our seniors, so they can grow older with dignity and so their families are not overwhelmed by the cost of home health care.  (Applause.)

On top of that, my plan will bring down the cost of housing; cut taxes for small businesses, because small businesses are the backbone of our economy — (applause); and lower health care costs, because I believe health care should be a right and not just a privilege of those who can afford it.  (Applause.)

Donald Trump, on the other hand, intends to end the Affordable Care Act and take us back —

AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — which would take us back to a time when insurance companies could deny people with preexisting conditions.  You remember what that was like?

Well, we are —

AUDIENCE:  Not going back!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — not going back.  We are not going back.  We are not going back. 

AUDIENCE:  We’re not going back!  We’re not going back!  We’re not going back!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  We’re not going back.  We’re not going — and we’re not going back because we, together, will move forward to the future, because we believe in who we are and what is possible and because we know it is time to turn the page.  It is time to turn the page.  (Applause.)

Ours is a fight for the future, and it is a fight for freedom, like the fundamental freedom of a woman to make decisions about her own body — (applause) — and not have her government tell her what to do. 

And we all remember how we got here.  When Donald Trump was president, he hand-selected three members of the United States Supreme Court with the intention that they would undo the protections of Roe v. Wade. 

     AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And they did as he intended.  And now in America, one in three women lives in a state with a Trump abortion ban —

     AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — many with no exceptions, even for rape and incest. 

I was just in Texas the other day.  You know they provide prison for life for doctors and nurses and health care providers for providing care?  Prison for life.

     AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And no exceptions for a crime that is a violation of someone’s body, and then to tell that survivor of that violation, “You have no right to make a decision about what happens to your body next.”  That is immoral.  It is immoral.  (Applause.)  And I know we all agree: One does not have to abandon their faith or deeply held beliefs to agree the government should not be telling her what to do.  (Applause.)  Not the government.

And, listen, you all have heard me say, I do believe Donald Trump to be an unserious man, but the consequences of him ever being president again are brutally serious — brutally serious.  Consider, on the topic we were just discussing, Donald Trump still refuses to acknowledge the pain and suffering he has caused.  He insists that, quote, “everyone” wanted for Roe v. Wade to be overturned. 

     AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Everyone wanted this?  Women are being denied care during miscarriages, some only being treated when they’ve developed sepsis.  They didn’t want this.  Couples trying to grow their family have been cut off in the middle of IVF treatments.  They didn’t want this.  The men of America are seeing their daughters and wives and sisters and mothers put at risk because their rights have been taken from them.  The men of America don’t want this.  (Applause.) 

And women have died because of these bans.  How could anyone say these folks wanted this? 

And I pledge to you, when Congress passes a bill to restore reproductive freedoms, as president of the United States, I will proudly sign it into law.  (Applause.)  Proudly.  Proudly.

And I’m traveling our nation.  So, I have to tell everyone here: Across our nation, we are seeing a full-on assault on other and additional hard-fought, hard-won freedoms and rights, like the freedom to vote. 

I was just in Georgia.  You know they passed a law that makes it illegal to give people food and water for standing in line to vote?

     AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  The hypocrisy abounds.  Whatever happened to “love thy neighbor,” right? 

Attacks on the freedom to be safe from gun violence, the freedom to breathe clean air and drink clean water, the freedom to love who you love openly and with pride.  (Applause.)

     So, I say to everyone here what you know: Generations of Americans before us fought for freedom, and now the baton is in our hands.  The baton is in our hands.  And I want to speak specifically to all the young leaders, all the students who are here today.  (Applause.)  I want to speak to you for a moment. 

     So, I love your generation.  (Laughs.)  I really do.  And one of the things about it is you are rightly impatient for change.  I love that about you.  (Applause.) 

You are impatient for change.  Because, look, you have only known the climate crisis and are leading, then, the charge to protect our planet and our future.  (Applause.)  You — you, young leaders, who grew up with active shooter drills and are fighting, then, to keep our schools safe.  You, who now know fewer rights than your mothers and grandmothers, are standing up for reproductive freedom.  (Applause.) 

And for you — and for you, then, I know that these issues that are at stake, they are not theoretical.  This is not political for you.  It is your lived experience.  And I see you, and I see your power, and I know many of you are voting for the first time.  Can I see a raise of hands: Who’s voting for the first time?  (Applause.)

Can we hear it for our first-time voters?  (Applause.)  See, that’s why I know the future of our country is bright.  That’s why I know.

So, listen, so much is on the line in this election, and this is not 2016 or 2020.  We can all see that Donald Trump is even more unstable and more unhinged, and now he wants unchecked power. 

     AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And this time — and this time, there will be no one there to stop him, not even the Supreme Court, which, months ago, told the former president that he is essentially immune no matter what he would do in the White House. 

     AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  So, think about it.  Before, at least there was the threat, the possibility that there would be some accountability and consequence.  Now the Supreme Court has said he is effectively — would be immune. 

 So, just imagine Donald Trump with no guardrails.  He who has vowed he would be a dictator on day one.  He who has even called for, quote, the “termination” of the Constitution of the United States of America. 

     AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And let us be clear.  Anyone who suggests we should terminate the Constitution of the United States should never again stand behind the seal of the president of the United States of America.  (Applause.)  Never again.  Never again.

     AUDIENCE:  Never again!  Never again!  Never again!

     THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Never again.  (Inaudible.)

     AUDIENCE:  Never again!  Never again!  Never again!

So, Michigan, there is a huge contrast in this election, and I’d ask us to just imagine the Oval Office in three months.  Okay?  So, just picture it in your head.  So, either it’s Donald Trump sitting in there —

     AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — stewing — stewing over his enemies list — or me, with your help, working for you, checking off my to-do list.  (Applause.)

So, Michigan, it all comes down to this.  We are here together because we know what is at stake.  Everyone here, out of your busy lives, the time you have taken to be here tonight and to be here because we know not only what is at stake but we are here together because we love our country.  (Applause.)  We love our country.  We love our country. 

And, you know, when you love something, you got to fight for it.  (Applause.)  Ours is not a fight against something.  Ours is not a fight against something.  It is a fight for something.  (Applause.)

 And I do believe it is one of the highest forms of patriotism — love of our country — to then fight for the ideals of our country and to fight to realize the promise of America.  That’s what our campaign is about.  That’s what we are about. 

And one of the most powerful ways that we will do that is with our vote.  So, now is the time to get out the vote, Michigan.  (Applause.)  Now is the time.

     AUDIENCE:  Vote!  Vote!  Vote!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And we have eight days to get this done.  So, obviously, nobody here is going to sit on the sidelines. 

     AUDIENCE:  No!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And let’s make sure that we spend the next eight days knowing that in nine days, when we look back, we will be able to say and know we did everything we could to remind our friends and our classmates and our neighbors and our coworkers that we’re all in this together. 

You know, there’s been something about this Trump era that has been very backward in terms of trying to suggest that the measure of the strength of a leader is based on who you beat down, instead of what we all know: The true measure of our individual and collective strength is based on who we lift up.  (Applause.)  That’s what we are about. 

And over these next eight days, yes, we will win.  Yes, we must win.  But let’s also approach these eight da- — eight days knowing our power to build community, knowing our power to build coalitions, knowing our power to reach out to one another, reminding us that nobody is alone, that we are all in this together. 

And let’s do that then — (applause) — while we knock on doors, while we take the time to text and call potential voters.  Let’s reach out to our family and our friends and our classmates and our neighbors and make sure they know the stakes in this election. 

And let’s remind them: Your vote is your voice, and your voice is your power.  (Applause.)

And so, Michigan, I then ask you: Are you ready to make your voices heard?  (Applause.)

     Do we believe in freedom?  (Applause.)

     Do we believe in opportunity?  (Applause.)

     Do we believe in the promise of America?  (Applause.)

     And are we ready to fight for it?  (Applause.) 

     And when we fight —

     AUDIENCE:  We win! 

     THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — we win.

     God bless you.  And God bless the United States of America. 

Thank you all.  (Applause.)

                             END                8:05 P.M. EDT

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IUPAT District Council 1M
Warren, MI

5:15 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you all.

PARTICIPANT:  Thank you for saving our pensions.  Thank you for saving — (applause) —

PARTICIPANTS:  Thank you. 

PARTICIPANT:  Thank you.  Thank you for CHIPS and Science.  Thank you for the Inflation Reduction Act.  Thank you for all you’ve done for us.

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, you know what?  Y- — you guys make it easy.  I mean, look, I — as you know, I am a long-standing supporter and friend of unions and labor.  And — and the painters union, I am honored to have your support in this election.

But, look, you guys are the ones who make it easy.  This is highly skilled work.  You do it with a sense of pride.  You do it with a sense of commitment.  You are making our country stronger and better by the work that you do. 

We just talked about the industrial work that you’re doing, whether it’s about a bridge, whether it’s about what we’re doing to invest in technology and the future industries.  You’re transitioning also into batteries — all that work.  And it’s highly skilled work.

And I love, for example, the apprenticeship programs and building up America’s workforce around training and, again, the highest of skills.  The work that you are doing through an apprenticeship program that’s also about building community and family for the people who enter it — it’s about pride in work.  It’s about the dignity of work.

The reason that I have fought for things like pensions is it’s literally about the dignity of work.  You work hard.  You deserve, at the point that you’re going to retire, to be able to retire with dignity.  And we have to value the skill.

You know, my opponent, he doesn’t understand the importance of unions at all.  No, but he’s — he just gives a lot of mouth.  He —

PARTICIPANT:  He’s got to care about people to understand them.

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  He gives a lot of talk about what he cares about, but on the issue specifically of what is good for unions and union labor, he’s been awful.  You look at what he did when he was at — president with the NLRB, the National Labor Relations Board — a bunch of union busters. 

You look at — when he talked to his buddies, like his billionaire buddies — remember, he did the tax cut for billionaires and big corporations.  He’s not workin- — he’s not working for or concerned about working people, middle-class people.  And then when he’s talking to his buddy, he li- — he jokes about, “Yeah, if they’re striking, you should fire them.” 

But what I know America understands about union labor is it’s just about fairness and it is about dignity.  Wherever I go, I tell people: Look, if you’ve got a five-day workweek, if you’ve got sick time, if you’ve got vacation time, if you have a pension, thank a union member.  Thank unions.  Because whether somebody’s a member of a union or not, union labor and hard work is a — so much of what fought for workers’ rights across the board.

So, look, I’m here.  I’m here for you.  We have an election coming up in eight days.

PARTICIPANT:  That you’re going to win.  (Applause.)

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  And we are going — we are going to win.  You know what?  We are going to win. 

We may have bloody knuckles by the end of it, but we’re winning.  We’re winning.

And — and because we stand for certain basic principles, and we know — we know when we know what we stand for, we know what to fight for.

     PARTICIPANT:  You’re here.  He’s not.

     THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Right.  Right.  It’s —

     PARTICIPANT:  Save our country from him.

     PARTICIPANT:  Please.

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, I’m — and you’re right.  I mean, you look at — you look at how he just deg- — he — he talks down to the American people.  He — he degrades who we are as America, in- — instead of fighting for who we are in terms of our capacity. 

I look at our young leaders.  They deserve to have a leader and a president of the United States who is not only optimistic but ambitious about what we can do.  Donald Trump just recently talked about how he would get rid of CHIPS — the number of jobs for the painters union members, building trades members, writ large; what we did with the Inflation Reduction Act, the jobs we’ve created there; the work that we’ve done that’s been about partnering with the private sector to create incentives for them to put the money into it and also prioritizing, as I always will, letting them know, “As we create these jobs, put them through your apprenticeship programs.  Let’s make those union jobs and good-paying jobs.”

All of that is at stake, but it’s a — it’s also about an approach and a value in character.  And right now, you know, I’ve been saying: Look, imagine January 20th, because there will be — one of us is going to be elected, and one of us is going to be sitting in the Oval Office on January 20th. 

And it’s a choice on many levels, including whether you want Donald Trump sitting in the Oval Office, stewing over his enemies list —

     PARTICIPANT:  No, no, no, no, no.

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — or what we’re going to do together, which is there, focused on American workers and American families, on our to-do list.

 So, we got a lot at stake.  We are going to win.  (Applause.)

                         END                      5:21 P.M. EDT

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