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Today, President Biden announced an additional $4.5 billion in student debt cancellation for over 60,000 borrowers through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, bringing the number of public service workers who have had their student loans cancelled to over 1 million people during the Biden-Harris Administration. Before President Biden and Vice President Harris took office, only 7,000 borrowers had ever received forgiveness through PSLF. Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration’s significant improvements to the PSLF program, over 1 million teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officials, nurses, servicemembers, and other public service workers who have dedicated their lives to serving their communities are getting the student debt relief they are entitled to under the law. Last week, President Biden met with a kindergarten teacher who has been paying her loans for 12 years and let her know that she is one of the 1 million people approved for PSLF under his Administration, and over $46,000 of her loans are being cancelled. In total, the Biden-Harris Administration has approved $175 billion in student debt relief for nearly 5 million borrowers through various actions.

From Day One of their Administration, President Biden and Vice President Harris vowed to fix the student loan system and make sure higher education is a ticket to the middle class – not a barrier to opportunity. Already, the Biden-Harris Administration has delivered life-changing relief to students and families. While Republican elected officials try every which way to block millions of their own constituents from receiving student debt relief – even proposing to get rid of the PSLF program altogether – President Biden and Vice President Harris are fighting to provide borrowers student debt relief and making higher education affordable.

Delivering Life-Changing Relief to Over 1 Million Public Servants

In 2007, Congress enacted bipartisan legislation creating PSLF to recognize the critical role public servants play in our communities and support them in their service. Under PSLF, people who dedicate at least 10 years of their careers to giving back to their communities – like teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officials, nurses, and servicemembers – can get relief on their student loans. However, the program was poorly implemented. Many public servants found out that they had spent years in the wrong student loan repayment plan or did not take out the right type of loan and were therefore ineligible for PSLF and denied forgiveness. Before the start of the Biden-Harris Administration, only 7,000 people had ever received forgiveness through PSLF and the rejection rate, in part due to administrative errors and difficult processes, was as high as 98% in some years. Public servants were also being told that, because they didn’t file the right forms years ago, there was nothing for them to do but keep paying their loans longer than the program requires.

Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, the Biden-Harris Administration has significantly improved the PSLF program to help more borrowers than ever before. This includes establishing and implementing new regulations to help borrowers earn more credit toward PSLF, simplifying criteria to help borrowers certify employment, creating fairer eligibility criteria, and providing borrowers the opportunity to apply for reconsideration of previous denials. The Biden-Harris Administration launched the Limited PSLF Waiver, providing public service workers affected by the pandemic with the opportunity to get PSLF credit for prior payments on their federal student loans regardless of repayment plan or loan type. To simplify the application process for borrowers, the Biden-Harris Administration made it so borrowers and employers can complete the entire PSLF application and submit required forms online, made it easier for borrowers to find qualifying employers and get necessary signatures verifying employment, and recently, announced new steps to allow borrowers to manage all aspects of their PSLF journey on StudentAid.gov.

Thanks to these improvements, as of today, over 1 million public service workers have been approved for debt cancellation through PSLF. The Department of Education today also released new state-by-state data showing how many borrowers have had their loans approved for cancellation under PSLF in each state under the Biden-Harris Administration.

Economic Benefits of Student Debt Relief for Public Service Workers

Today, the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) published a new analysis underscoring that the Biden-Harris Administration’s student debt policies not only benefit borrowers, but also the entire economy.

The CEA highlights that PSLF has the potential to deliver considerable benefits to those who receive it – including the ability to buy a home, start a business, and improve overall financial health. In addition, the CEA analysis shows how the PSLF program strengthens the public sector by making it more feasible for students with postsecondary debt to pursue and remain in public service careers that are essential to our economy and communities.

Despite these benefits to the U.S. economy and hard-working Americans, Republican elected officials have tried to stop the Biden-Harris Administration every step of the way, and have even attempted to end PSLF altogether, which would block millions of dedicated public servants from receiving the student debt relief they have earned. President Biden and Vice President Harris will not stop fighting for our nation’s dedicated public servants.

Encouraging Public Servants to Take Advantage of the PSLF Program

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is also announcing a series of new steps to encourage public servants across the nation to take advantage of the PSLF program.

A number of public sector unions, including the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), National Education Association (NEA), and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), are amplifying today’s announcement through member-to-member outreach, social media campaigns, and more, and are encouraging people to sign up for PSLF:

• AFT will be encouraging its members to sign up for student debt clinics to help members get on track with PSLF, with a goal of reaching another 500 teachers and nurses by the end of the year. This is on top of the 34,000 members AFT has reached since starting their student debt clinic series.
• NEA will continue to help its members with the NEA Student Debt Navigator, a tool that provides 1-on-1 support for NEA’s members who need additional support with their PSLF application, or any other federal program related to student loans. Since the launch of the Student Debt Navigator, over 48,000 NEA members have signed up to receive support.
• To celebrate this milestone, AFSCME will launch a new interactive map on its website, detailing PSLF forgiveness across the country based on Department of Education data. Additionally, AFSCME will update its online resources to facilitate applications for PSLF and create a social media toolkit its members can use to promote PSLF and forgiveness on their own social media platforms.
• To encourage people to take advantage of the PSLF program, the Department of Education will send emails from President Biden to public servants who have received PSLF, encouraging them to share their stories to raise awareness about the benefits of the program. The Biden-Harris Administration will also share information about PSLF with federal employees to encourage more people to enroll in PSLF.
• The Department of Education is reaching out to governors and mayors across the country to encourage state and local public service workers to take advantage of the PSLF program.

These new steps are in addition to previous actions by the Administration including working with over 15 major federal agencies to develop PSLF agency action plans. In implementing these plans, federal agencies have encouraged thousands of additional federal employees to take advantage of the PSLF program through extensive social media campaigns, principal-level engagement, engagement with stakeholder groups, press, and mass email communications.

Building On an Unparalleled Record of Student Debt Relief

Today’s announcement is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader set of actions to reduce the burden of student debt and ensure that student loans are not a barrier to educational and economic opportunity for students and families. President Biden and Vice President Harris secured a $900 increase to the maximum Pell Grant award – the largest increase in more than a decade.  Since taking office, the Biden-Harris Administration has approved through various actions $175 billion in student debt relief for nearly 5 million Americans, each of whom have been approved for an average of roughly $35,000 in student debt cancellation. These actions have benefitted borrowers in every state, territory, and congressional district in the United States.

This approved relief includes:

• $74 billion for over 1 million borrowers through the PSLF program.
• $56.5 billion for more than 1.4 million borrowers through Income-Driven Repayment, including the Saving on a Valuable Education SAVE plan. This includes administrative adjustments to income-driven repayment that brought borrowers closer to forgiveness and addressed longstanding problems due to past inaccuracies and the misuse of forbearance by loan servicers.
• $28.7 billion for more than 1.6 million borrowers who were cheated by their schools, saw their institutions precipitously close, or are covered by related court settlements.
• $16.2 billion for nearly 572,000 borrowers with a total and permanent disability.

###

The post FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces Over 1 Million Public Service Workers Have Received Student Debt Cancellation Under the Biden-Harris Administration appeared first on The White House.

Today, my Administration is approving another $4.7 billion in student debt cancellation for over 60,000 public service workers – bringing the total number of Americans who have had their debt cancelled under Public Service Loan Forgiveness during my Administration to over 1 million people.

Public service workers – teachers, nurses, firefighters, and more – are the bedrocks of our communities and our country. They dedicate their careers to giving back to others, and were given the promise of student debt forgiveness after 10 years of public service and 10 years of payments under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. But for too long, the government failed to live up to its commitments, and only 7,000 people had ever received forgiveness under Public Service Loan Forgiveness before Vice President Harris and I took office.

We vowed to fix that, and because of actions from our Administration, now over 1 million public service workers have gotten the relief they are entitled to under the law.

Today’s announcement comes on top of the significant progress we’ve made for students and borrowers over the past three years. That includes approving debt cancellation for nearly 5 million Americans across all our various debt relief actions; providing the largest increases to the maximum Pell Grant award in over a decade; fixing Income-Driven Repayment so borrowers get the relief they earned; and holding colleges accountable for taking advantage of students and families.

From day one of my Administration, I promised to fight to ensure higher education is a ticket to the middle class, not a barrier to opportunity. I will never stop working to make higher education affordable – no matter how many times Republican elected officials try to stop us.

###

The post Statement from President Joe Biden on Student Debt Cancellation for Over 1 Million Public Service Workers Under the Biden-Harris Administration appeared first on The White House.

Today, President Biden announced an additional $4.5 billion in student debt cancellation for over 60,000 borrowers through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, bringing the number of public service workers who have had their student loans cancelled to over 1 million people during the Biden-Harris Administration. Before President Biden and Vice President Harris took office, only 7,000 borrowers had ever received forgiveness through PSLF. Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration’s significant improvements to the PSLF program, over 1 million teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officials, nurses, servicemembers, and other public service workers who have dedicated their lives to serving their communities are getting the student debt relief they are entitled to under the law. Last week, President Biden met with a kindergarten teacher who has been paying her loans for 12 years and let her know that she is one of the 1 million people approved for PSLF under his Administration, and over $46,000 of her loans are being cancelled. In total, the Biden-Harris Administration has approved $175 billion in student debt relief for nearly 5 million borrowers through various actions.

From Day One of their Administration, President Biden and Vice President Harris vowed to fix the student loan system and make sure higher education is a ticket to the middle class – not a barrier to opportunity. Already, the Biden-Harris Administration has delivered life-changing relief to students and families. While Republican elected officials try every which way to block millions of their own constituents from receiving student debt relief – even proposing to get rid of the PSLF program altogether – President Biden and Vice President Harris are fighting to provide borrowers student debt relief and making higher education affordable.

Delivering Life-Changing Relief to Over 1 Million Public Servants

In 2007, Congress enacted bipartisan legislation creating PSLF to recognize the critical role public servants play in our communities and support them in their service. Under PSLF, people who dedicate at least 10 years of their careers to giving back to their communities – like teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officials, nurses, and servicemembers – can get relief on their student loans. However, the program was poorly implemented. Many public servants found out that they had spent years in the wrong student loan repayment plan or did not take out the right type of loan and were therefore ineligible for PSLF and denied forgiveness. Before the start of the Biden-Harris Administration, only 7,000 people had ever received forgiveness through PSLF and the rejection rate, in part due to administrative errors and difficult processes, was as high as 98% in some years. Public servants were also being told that, because they didn’t file the right forms years ago, there was nothing for them to do but keep paying their loans longer than the program requires.

Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, the Biden-Harris Administration has significantly improved the PSLF program to help more borrowers than ever before. This includes establishing and implementing new regulations to help borrowers earn more credit toward PSLF, simplifying criteria to help borrowers certify employment, creating fairer eligibility criteria, and providing borrowers the opportunity to apply for reconsideration of previous denials. The Biden-Harris Administration launched the Limited PSLF Waiver, providing public service workers affected by the pandemic with the opportunity to get PSLF credit for prior payments on their federal student loans regardless of repayment plan or loan type. To simplify the application process for borrowers, the Biden-Harris Administration made it so borrowers and employers can complete the entire PSLF application and submit required forms online, made it easier for borrowers to find qualifying employers and get necessary signatures verifying employment, and recently, announced new steps to allow borrowers to manage all aspects of their PSLF journey on StudentAid.gov.

Thanks to these improvements, as of today, over 1 million public service workers have been approved for debt cancellation through PSLF. The Department of Education today also released new state-by-state data showing how many borrowers have had their loans approved for cancellation under PSLF in each state under the Biden-Harris Administration.

Economic Benefits of Student Debt Relief for Public Service Workers

Today, the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) published a new analysis underscoring that the Biden-Harris Administration’s student debt policies not only benefit borrowers, but also the entire economy.

The CEA highlights that PSLF has the potential to deliver considerable benefits to those who receive it – including the ability to buy a home, start a business, and improve overall financial health. In addition, the CEA analysis shows how the PSLF program strengthens the public sector by making it more feasible for students with postsecondary debt to pursue and remain in public service careers that are essential to our economy and communities.

Despite these benefits to the U.S. economy and hard-working Americans, Republican elected officials have tried to stop the Biden-Harris Administration every step of the way, and have even attempted to end PSLF altogether, which would block millions of dedicated public servants from receiving the student debt relief they have earned. President Biden and Vice President Harris will not stop fighting for our nation’s dedicated public servants.

Encouraging Public Servants to Take Advantage of the PSLF Program

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is also announcing a series of new steps to encourage public servants across the nation to take advantage of the PSLF program.

A number of public sector unions, including the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), National Education Association (NEA), and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), are amplifying today’s announcement through member-to-member outreach, social media campaigns, and more, and are encouraging people to sign up for PSLF:

• AFT will be encouraging its members to sign up for student debt clinics to help members get on track with PSLF, with a goal of reaching another 500 teachers and nurses by the end of the year. This is on top of the 34,000 members AFT has reached since starting their student debt clinic series.
• NEA will continue to help its members with the NEA Student Debt Navigator, a tool that provides 1-on-1 support for NEA’s members who need additional support with their PSLF application, or any other federal program related to student loans. Since the launch of the Student Debt Navigator, over 48,000 NEA members have signed up to receive support.
• To celebrate this milestone, AFSCME will launch a new interactive map on its website, detailing PSLF forgiveness across the country based on Department of Education data. Additionally, AFSCME will update its online resources to facilitate applications for PSLF and create a social media toolkit its members can use to promote PSLF and forgiveness on their own social media platforms.
• To encourage people to take advantage of the PSLF program, the Department of Education will send emails from President Biden to public servants who have received PSLF, encouraging them to share their stories to raise awareness about the benefits of the program. The Biden-Harris Administration will also share information about PSLF with federal employees to encourage more people to enroll in PSLF.
• The Department of Education is reaching out to governors and mayors across the country to encourage state and local public service workers to take advantage of the PSLF program.

These new steps are in addition to previous actions by the Administration including working with over 15 major federal agencies to develop PSLF agency action plans. In implementing these plans, federal agencies have encouraged thousands of additional federal employees to take advantage of the PSLF program through extensive social media campaigns, principal-level engagement, engagement with stakeholder groups, press, and mass email communications.

Building On an Unparalleled Record of Student Debt Relief

Today’s announcement is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader set of actions to reduce the burden of student debt and ensure that student loans are not a barrier to educational and economic opportunity for students and families. President Biden and Vice President Harris secured a $900 increase to the maximum Pell Grant award – the largest increase in more than a decade.  Since taking office, the Biden-Harris Administration has approved through various actions $175 billion in student debt relief for nearly 5 million Americans, each of whom have been approved for an average of roughly $35,000 in student debt cancellation. These actions have benefitted borrowers in every state, territory, and congressional district in the United States.

This approved relief includes:

• $74 billion for over 1 million borrowers through the PSLF program.
• $56.5 billion for more than 1.4 million borrowers through Income-Driven Repayment, including the Saving on a Valuable Education SAVE plan. This includes administrative adjustments to income-driven repayment that brought borrowers closer to forgiveness and addressed longstanding problems due to past inaccuracies and the misuse of forbearance by loan servicers.
• $28.7 billion for more than 1.6 million borrowers who were cheated by their schools, saw their institutions precipitously close, or are covered by related court settlements.
• $16.2 billion for nearly 572,000 borrowers with a total and permanent disability.

###

The post FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces Over 1 Million Public Service Workers Have Received Student Debt Cancellation Under the Biden-Harris Administration appeared first on The White House.

Today, my Administration is approving another $4.7 billion in student debt cancellation for over 60,000 public service workers – bringing the total number of Americans who have had their debt cancelled under Public Service Loan Forgiveness during my Administration to over 1 million people.

Public service workers – teachers, nurses, firefighters, and more – are the bedrocks of our communities and our country. They dedicate their careers to giving back to others, and were given the promise of student debt forgiveness after 10 years of public service and 10 years of payments under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. But for too long, the government failed to live up to its commitments, and only 7,000 people had ever received forgiveness under Public Service Loan Forgiveness before Vice President Harris and I took office.

We vowed to fix that, and because of actions from our Administration, now over 1 million public service workers have gotten the relief they are entitled to under the law.

Today’s announcement comes on top of the significant progress we’ve made for students and borrowers over the past three years. That includes approving debt cancellation for nearly 5 million Americans across all our various debt relief actions; providing the largest increases to the maximum Pell Grant award in over a decade; fixing Income-Driven Repayment so borrowers get the relief they earned; and holding colleges accountable for taking advantage of students and families.

From day one of my Administration, I promised to fight to ensure higher education is a ticket to the middle class, not a barrier to opportunity. I will never stop working to make higher education affordable – no matter how many times Republican elected officials try to stop us.

###

The post Statement from President Joe Biden on Student Debt Cancellation for Over 1 Million Public Service Workers Under the Biden-Harris Administration appeared first on The White House.

Washington Crossing Historic Park
Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania

3:53 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Hi, everyone.  (Applause.)  Hi.  Hi, everyone.  Good afternoon.  (Applause.)  Good afternoon, Pennsylvania.  Good afternoon, everyone.  (Applause.)  Good afternoon. 

Bob and Kristina, thank you so very much for that introduction and for your friendship.  And as I’ve said to all the friends and leaders on the stage with me — we had a chance to speak ahead of time — I thank you all for everything that you are doing and the courage you are showing. 

You know, this is an extraordinary climate right now and — and I think we all recognize the — the courage that you are each showing to speak out so publicly and to put — as we are saying, because we truly believe it — country over party.  So, thank you all. 

And can we please applaud — (applause) — Bob and Kristina and all of the folks on the stage.  Please.  Thank you.  Thank you.  Truly.  Truly.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

So, if you all have a seat, please do sit.  (Laughs.)  Yes. 

So, as I think everyone here knows, we meet in a place that holds a very special meaning for our country.  Here, on Christmas night, 1776, General George Washington and over 2,000 troops crossed the icy Delaware River in darkness, then marched to Trenton, where they surprised an outpost of enemy soldiers and achieved a major victory in the American Revolution. 

And after we won the war and achieved our independence, delegates from across the nation gathered not far from here in Philadelphia to write and to sign the Constitution of the United States.  (Applause.)

And we remember and reflect on what that moment was, knowing that leading up to that, that work to write, to compose the Constitution of the United States — that work was not easy. 

The founders often disagreed, often quite passionately, but in the end, the Constitution of the United States laid out the foundations of our democracy, including the rule of law, that there would be checks and balances, that we would have free and fair elections, and a peaceful transfer of power.  (Applause.)

And these principles and traditions have sustained our nation for over two centuries — sustained because generations of Americans from all backgrounds, from all beliefs, have cherished them, upheld them, and defended them.  And now the baton is in our hands.

So, I am joined today by over 100 Republican leaders from across Pennsylvania and across our country — (applause) — who are supporting my candidacy for president of the United States, and I am deeply honored to have their support. 

Some served in state houses, some in the United States Congress.  Some worked for other Republican presidents and presidential nominees, including Mitt Romney, John McCain, George W. Bush, George H.W. Bush, and Ronald Reagan.  (Applause.)  And some, today, served in Donald Trump’s own administration. 

We also have with us Republican voters from here in Pennsylvania and beyond who have been active in their Republican parties for years, who have supported Republican candidates up and down the ticket. 

Now, I say all that to make an obvious point.  In a typical election year — (laughter) — you all being here with me might be a bit surprising — dare I say, unusual.  But not in this election — not in this election.  Because at stake in this race are the democratic ideals that our founders and generations of Americans before us have fought for.  At stake in this election is the Constitution of the United States it very self. 

We are here today because we share a core belief that we must put country before party.  (Applause.) 

     AUDIENCE:  USA!  USA!  USA!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Indeed.  Because we cha- — and we chant that with such great pride, because we all know we all have so much more in common than what separates us.  (Applause.) 

And at some point in the career of the folks who join me on stage, one of the other things that we have in common is, in our careers, we have each sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States.  (Applause.)

And so, we know that sacred oath must always be honored and never violated, and that we should expect anyone who seeks the highest office in our land would meet that standard. 

We here know the Constitution is not a relic from our past but determines whether we are a country where the people can speak freely and even criticize the president without fear of being thrown in jail or targeted by the military — (applause); where the people can worship as they choose, without the government interfering — (applause); where you can vote without fear that your vote will be thrown away.  (Applause.)

All of this and more depends on whether or not our leaders honor their oath to the Constitution.  I have sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution six times, including as vice president, as a United States senator, and as the top law enforcement officer of the largest state in our country.  (Applause.) 

And I have never wavered from upholding that oath.  And this is a profound difference between Donald Trump and me — he who violated the oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and, make no mistake, he who, if given the chance, will violate it again. 

Donald Trump lost the 2020 election.  (Applause.)  And he refused to accept the will of the people and the results of a free and fair election. 

He sent a mob — an armed mob — to the United States Capitol, where they violently assaulted police officers, law enforcement officials, and threatened the life of his own vice president.  And he refused to engage in the peaceful transfer of power. 

Were it not for the courage and patriotism of Vice President Pence that day, Donald Trump might have actually succeeded in overturning the will of the American people.  Let’s reflect on that. 

And now Donald Trump is telling us how he intends to use power if he is elected again.  He has stated that one of the biggest threats America faces is, quote, “the enemy from within” — the —

AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — “the enemy from within.” 

But know where that language hearkens back to.  Understand and let us be clear about what he is saying.  He considers any American who doesn’t support him or bend to his will to be an enemy to our country. 

And further, he says that, as commander in chief, he would use our military to go after them.  Honestly, let that sink in: use of the American military to go after American citizens. 

And we know who he would target first, because he has at- — targeted them and attacked them before: journalists whose stories he doesn’t like, nonpartisan election officials who refuse to cheat by finding extra votes for him, judges who insist on following the law instead of following him. 

It is clear Donald Trump is increasingly unstable and unhinged.  (Applause.)  And he is seeking unchecked power. 

Consider what his closest advisers have said.  His national security advisor, two defense secretaries, his former chief of staff, his own vice president all have warned America, Donald Trump is unfit to serve.  Or listen to General Milley, Donald Trump’s top general.  He has called Trump, and I quote, “fascist to the core,” and said, quote, “No one has ever been as dangerous to this country.” 

So, think about that.  General Milley served in uniform for more than 40 years, commanding American forces around the world.  He has confronted some of America’s worst enemies.  And he is saying no one has ever been as dangerous to our country as Donald Trump. 

America must heed this warning, because anyone who tramples on our democratic values, as Donald Trump has; anyone who has called for the, quote, “termination” of the Constitution of the United States, as Donald Trump has, must never again stand behind the seal of the president of the United States.  (Applause.)  Never again.  Never again. 

And to those — and to those who are watching, if you share that view, no matter your party, no matter who you voted for last time, there is a place for you in this campaign.  (Applause.)  The coalition we have built has room for everyone who is ready to turn the page on the chaos and instability of Donald Trump.

And I pledge to you to be a president for all Americans.  (Applause.)  And I take that pledge seriously.  I take that pledge quite seriously. 

So, as I’ve mentioned, many of you know, I spent a career as a prosecutor, in law enforcement.  And I will tell you, I never asked a victim or a witness, “Are you a Republican, or are you a Democrat?”  I never asked of anyone who needed help, if anyone who deserved attention, where were they registered and who did they vote for.  The only question I ever asked was, “Are you okay?”

And that is the k- — the kind of president I pledge to you that I will be.  (Applause.)  That is my pledge to you.  Because we have too much to do and too much good work to do to be relegated to — to requiring each of us to be in some silo, disconnected from each other.  There’s too much good to be done.

And the challenges that we face as a nation require us — if we truly want to create solutions and strengthen our nation, the approach truly requires that we understand we’re all in this together.  This is so much more than rhetoric or a campaign.  (Applause.)  It really is about tapping into the spirit of who we are as Americans, because we are all in this together.  We are all in this together. 

And so, I pledge to be a president who actively works to unite us around our highest aspirations.  I pledge to b- — you to be a president who is realistic and practical and has common sense and to always fight for the American people — (applause) — unlike Donald Trump, who, frankly, as we have seen, cares more about running on problems than fixing problems. 

I want to fix problems, which means working across the aisle.  It requires working across the aisle.  It requires embracing good ideas from wherever they come. 

That is why I have pledged to appoint a Republican in my Cabinet.  (Applause.)  That is why I have pledged to establish a council on bipartisan solutions to recommend to me commonsense solutions to some of the most pressing issues facing our country.  (Applause.)  Because nobody has a corner on the good ideas.  (Laughter.)  They actually come from many places. 

And one should — especially if they want to be a leader, one should welcome those ideas — (applause) — and those ideas which are about, in particular, strengthening the middle class, securing our border, defending our freedoms, and maintaining our leadership in the world.  (Applause.)

And all of this is to also say that I believe, for America to be the world’s strongest democracy, we must have a healthy two-party system.  (Applause.)  Because it is when we have a healthy two-party system that leaders are then required to debate the merits of policy and to work, yes, across the aisle regularly and routinely to get things done. 

And I have experienced firsthand how important and rewarding that kind of bipartisan cooperation can be.  So, I’ll tell you.  When I was a United States senator, I served on the Senate Intelligence Committee.  It was actually my favorite committee for a number of reasons but specifically this.  There, we dealt with some of the most pressing issues affecting national security.  There, we would talk about hot spots around the world and what we needed to do to focus on keeping America safe and secure.  And to do that, we would review classified information, which required us to meet in a secure room.  Adam, you know, it’s called a SCIF.  (Laughter.)  Okay.

When we would go in that room, with all due respect, no cameras were allowed — (laughter) — no press.  And we would roll up our sleeves and get to work.  I’m telling you, senators of both parties would walk in that room, take off their suit jackets, roll up their sleeves, have a cup of coffee on the table, and we would have real conversations — real conversations, as Americans, because we understood that what happened in that room, well, the stakes were so high.  And therefore, it could not be — we could not afford to let it be about whether one was a Democrat or a Republican.  The stakes were too high. 

We were in that room, and it was all about us as Americans, about doing what is in the best interest of the safety and security of our nation.  I loved that work. 

And it was what we have as the theme of today.  It was country over party in action — in action.  (Applause.) 

So, I know it can be done.  And that is the standard of leadership and the aspiration that I have in terms of how we will work when, with your help, I am elected president of the United States.  (Applause.)  So —

AUDIENCE:  Kamala!  Kamala!  Kamala!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, thank you.  Thank you. 

     So —

AUDIENCE:  Kamala!  Kamala!  Kamala!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Got to get to work.  We got to get to work.  (Laughter.)

So, let me just say an obvious point.  There’s a fundamental choice in this election, a very fundamental choice: a choice between the leadership that I pledge to offer to America — leadership that brings folks together, that builds consensus and focuses on making life better for you, with the knowledge that we have so much more in common than what separates us; and on the other hand, the choice of someone who I think we can guarantee will sit in the Oval Office plotting retribution, stew in his own grievances, and think only about himself and not you. 

So, as I have said, our campaign is not a fight against something; it is a fight for something.  (Applause.) 

     It is a fight for the fundamental principles upon which we were founded.  It is a fight for a new generation of leadership that is optimistic about what we can achieve together — Republicans, Democrats, and independents who want to move past the politics of division and blame and get things done on behalf of the American people. 

And when it all comes down to it, I know we are all here together this beautiful afternoon because we love our country.  (Applause.)  We love our country. 

And — and we are here because we know the deep privilege and pride that comes with being an American and the duty that comes along with it — (applause) — and the duty that comes along with it. 

     Imperfect though we may be, America is still that shining city upon a hill that inspires people around the world.  (Applause.)  And I do believe it is one of the highest forms of patriotism to fight for the ideals of our country.  (Applause.)

So, to people from across Pennsylvania and across our nation, let us together stand up for the rule of law, for our democratic ideals, and for the Constitution of the United States.  And in 20 days, we have the power to chart a new way forward, one that is worthy of this magnificent country that we are all blessed to call home. 

Thank you all.  May God bless you.  And may God bless the United States of America.  (Applause.)

Thank you all.  Thank you all.  (Applause.)

                         END                    4:17 P.M. EDT

The post Remarks by Vice President Harris at a Campaign Event | Washington Crossing, PA appeared first on The White House.

Washington Crossing Historic Park
Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania

3:53 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Hi, everyone.  (Applause.)  Hi.  Hi, everyone.  Good afternoon.  (Applause.)  Good afternoon, Pennsylvania.  Good afternoon, everyone.  (Applause.)  Good afternoon. 

Bob and Kristina, thank you so very much for that introduction and for your friendship.  And as I’ve said to all the friends and leaders on the stage with me — we had a chance to speak ahead of time — I thank you all for everything that you are doing and the courage you are showing. 

You know, this is an extraordinary climate right now and — and I think we all recognize the — the courage that you are each showing to speak out so publicly and to put — as we are saying, because we truly believe it — country over party.  So, thank you all. 

And can we please applaud — (applause) — Bob and Kristina and all of the folks on the stage.  Please.  Thank you.  Thank you.  Truly.  Truly.  Thank you.  (Applause.)

So, if you all have a seat, please do sit.  (Laughs.)  Yes. 

So, as I think everyone here knows, we meet in a place that holds a very special meaning for our country.  Here, on Christmas night, 1776, General George Washington and over 2,000 troops crossed the icy Delaware River in darkness, then marched to Trenton, where they surprised an outpost of enemy soldiers and achieved a major victory in the American Revolution. 

And after we won the war and achieved our independence, delegates from across the nation gathered not far from here in Philadelphia to write and to sign the Constitution of the United States.  (Applause.)

And we remember and reflect on what that moment was, knowing that leading up to that, that work to write, to compose the Constitution of the United States — that work was not easy. 

The founders often disagreed, often quite passionately, but in the end, the Constitution of the United States laid out the foundations of our democracy, including the rule of law, that there would be checks and balances, that we would have free and fair elections, and a peaceful transfer of power.  (Applause.)

And these principles and traditions have sustained our nation for over two centuries — sustained because generations of Americans from all backgrounds, from all beliefs, have cherished them, upheld them, and defended them.  And now the baton is in our hands.

So, I am joined today by over 100 Republican leaders from across Pennsylvania and across our country — (applause) — who are supporting my candidacy for president of the United States, and I am deeply honored to have their support. 

Some served in state houses, some in the United States Congress.  Some worked for other Republican presidents and presidential nominees, including Mitt Romney, John McCain, George W. Bush, George H.W. Bush, and Ronald Reagan.  (Applause.)  And some, today, served in Donald Trump’s own administration. 

We also have with us Republican voters from here in Pennsylvania and beyond who have been active in their Republican parties for years, who have supported Republican candidates up and down the ticket. 

Now, I say all that to make an obvious point.  In a typical election year — (laughter) — you all being here with me might be a bit surprising — dare I say, unusual.  But not in this election — not in this election.  Because at stake in this race are the democratic ideals that our founders and generations of Americans before us have fought for.  At stake in this election is the Constitution of the United States it very self. 

We are here today because we share a core belief that we must put country before party.  (Applause.) 

     AUDIENCE:  USA!  USA!  USA!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Indeed.  Because we cha- — and we chant that with such great pride, because we all know we all have so much more in common than what separates us.  (Applause.) 

And at some point in the career of the folks who join me on stage, one of the other things that we have in common is, in our careers, we have each sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States.  (Applause.)

And so, we know that sacred oath must always be honored and never violated, and that we should expect anyone who seeks the highest office in our land would meet that standard. 

We here know the Constitution is not a relic from our past but determines whether we are a country where the people can speak freely and even criticize the president without fear of being thrown in jail or targeted by the military — (applause); where the people can worship as they choose, without the government interfering — (applause); where you can vote without fear that your vote will be thrown away.  (Applause.)

All of this and more depends on whether or not our leaders honor their oath to the Constitution.  I have sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution six times, including as vice president, as a United States senator, and as the top law enforcement officer of the largest state in our country.  (Applause.) 

And I have never wavered from upholding that oath.  And this is a profound difference between Donald Trump and me — he who violated the oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and, make no mistake, he who, if given the chance, will violate it again. 

Donald Trump lost the 2020 election.  (Applause.)  And he refused to accept the will of the people and the results of a free and fair election. 

He sent a mob — an armed mob — to the United States Capitol, where they violently assaulted police officers, law enforcement officials, and threatened the life of his own vice president.  And he refused to engage in the peaceful transfer of power. 

Were it not for the courage and patriotism of Vice President Pence that day, Donald Trump might have actually succeeded in overturning the will of the American people.  Let’s reflect on that. 

And now Donald Trump is telling us how he intends to use power if he is elected again.  He has stated that one of the biggest threats America faces is, quote, “the enemy from within” — the —

AUDIENCE:  Booo —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  — “the enemy from within.” 

But know where that language hearkens back to.  Understand and let us be clear about what he is saying.  He considers any American who doesn’t support him or bend to his will to be an enemy to our country. 

And further, he says that, as commander in chief, he would use our military to go after them.  Honestly, let that sink in: use of the American military to go after American citizens. 

And we know who he would target first, because he has at- — targeted them and attacked them before: journalists whose stories he doesn’t like, nonpartisan election officials who refuse to cheat by finding extra votes for him, judges who insist on following the law instead of following him. 

It is clear Donald Trump is increasingly unstable and unhinged.  (Applause.)  And he is seeking unchecked power. 

Consider what his closest advisers have said.  His national security advisor, two defense secretaries, his former chief of staff, his own vice president all have warned America, Donald Trump is unfit to serve.  Or listen to General Milley, Donald Trump’s top general.  He has called Trump, and I quote, “fascist to the core,” and said, quote, “No one has ever been as dangerous to this country.” 

So, think about that.  General Milley served in uniform for more than 40 years, commanding American forces around the world.  He has confronted some of America’s worst enemies.  And he is saying no one has ever been as dangerous to our country as Donald Trump. 

America must heed this warning, because anyone who tramples on our democratic values, as Donald Trump has; anyone who has called for the, quote, “termination” of the Constitution of the United States, as Donald Trump has, must never again stand behind the seal of the president of the United States.  (Applause.)  Never again.  Never again. 

And to those — and to those who are watching, if you share that view, no matter your party, no matter who you voted for last time, there is a place for you in this campaign.  (Applause.)  The coalition we have built has room for everyone who is ready to turn the page on the chaos and instability of Donald Trump.

And I pledge to you to be a president for all Americans.  (Applause.)  And I take that pledge seriously.  I take that pledge quite seriously. 

So, as I’ve mentioned, many of you know, I spent a career as a prosecutor, in law enforcement.  And I will tell you, I never asked a victim or a witness, “Are you a Republican, or are you a Democrat?”  I never asked of anyone who needed help, if anyone who deserved attention, where were they registered and who did they vote for.  The only question I ever asked was, “Are you okay?”

And that is the k- — the kind of president I pledge to you that I will be.  (Applause.)  That is my pledge to you.  Because we have too much to do and too much good work to do to be relegated to — to requiring each of us to be in some silo, disconnected from each other.  There’s too much good to be done.

And the challenges that we face as a nation require us — if we truly want to create solutions and strengthen our nation, the approach truly requires that we understand we’re all in this together.  This is so much more than rhetoric or a campaign.  (Applause.)  It really is about tapping into the spirit of who we are as Americans, because we are all in this together.  We are all in this together. 

And so, I pledge to be a president who actively works to unite us around our highest aspirations.  I pledge to b- — you to be a president who is realistic and practical and has common sense and to always fight for the American people — (applause) — unlike Donald Trump, who, frankly, as we have seen, cares more about running on problems than fixing problems. 

I want to fix problems, which means working across the aisle.  It requires working across the aisle.  It requires embracing good ideas from wherever they come. 

That is why I have pledged to appoint a Republican in my Cabinet.  (Applause.)  That is why I have pledged to establish a council on bipartisan solutions to recommend to me commonsense solutions to some of the most pressing issues facing our country.  (Applause.)  Because nobody has a corner on the good ideas.  (Laughter.)  They actually come from many places. 

And one should — especially if they want to be a leader, one should welcome those ideas — (applause) — and those ideas which are about, in particular, strengthening the middle class, securing our border, defending our freedoms, and maintaining our leadership in the world.  (Applause.)

And all of this is to also say that I believe, for America to be the world’s strongest democracy, we must have a healthy two-party system.  (Applause.)  Because it is when we have a healthy two-party system that leaders are then required to debate the merits of policy and to work, yes, across the aisle regularly and routinely to get things done. 

And I have experienced firsthand how important and rewarding that kind of bipartisan cooperation can be.  So, I’ll tell you.  When I was a United States senator, I served on the Senate Intelligence Committee.  It was actually my favorite committee for a number of reasons but specifically this.  There, we dealt with some of the most pressing issues affecting national security.  There, we would talk about hot spots around the world and what we needed to do to focus on keeping America safe and secure.  And to do that, we would review classified information, which required us to meet in a secure room.  Adam, you know, it’s called a SCIF.  (Laughter.)  Okay.

When we would go in that room, with all due respect, no cameras were allowed — (laughter) — no press.  And we would roll up our sleeves and get to work.  I’m telling you, senators of both parties would walk in that room, take off their suit jackets, roll up their sleeves, have a cup of coffee on the table, and we would have real conversations — real conversations, as Americans, because we understood that what happened in that room, well, the stakes were so high.  And therefore, it could not be — we could not afford to let it be about whether one was a Democrat or a Republican.  The stakes were too high. 

We were in that room, and it was all about us as Americans, about doing what is in the best interest of the safety and security of our nation.  I loved that work. 

And it was what we have as the theme of today.  It was country over party in action — in action.  (Applause.) 

So, I know it can be done.  And that is the standard of leadership and the aspiration that I have in terms of how we will work when, with your help, I am elected president of the United States.  (Applause.)  So —

AUDIENCE:  Kamala!  Kamala!  Kamala!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, thank you.  Thank you. 

     So —

AUDIENCE:  Kamala!  Kamala!  Kamala!

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Got to get to work.  We got to get to work.  (Laughter.)

So, let me just say an obvious point.  There’s a fundamental choice in this election, a very fundamental choice: a choice between the leadership that I pledge to offer to America — leadership that brings folks together, that builds consensus and focuses on making life better for you, with the knowledge that we have so much more in common than what separates us; and on the other hand, the choice of someone who I think we can guarantee will sit in the Oval Office plotting retribution, stew in his own grievances, and think only about himself and not you. 

So, as I have said, our campaign is not a fight against something; it is a fight for something.  (Applause.) 

     It is a fight for the fundamental principles upon which we were founded.  It is a fight for a new generation of leadership that is optimistic about what we can achieve together — Republicans, Democrats, and independents who want to move past the politics of division and blame and get things done on behalf of the American people. 

And when it all comes down to it, I know we are all here together this beautiful afternoon because we love our country.  (Applause.)  We love our country. 

And — and we are here because we know the deep privilege and pride that comes with being an American and the duty that comes along with it — (applause) — and the duty that comes along with it. 

     Imperfect though we may be, America is still that shining city upon a hill that inspires people around the world.  (Applause.)  And I do believe it is one of the highest forms of patriotism to fight for the ideals of our country.  (Applause.)

So, to people from across Pennsylvania and across our nation, let us together stand up for the rule of law, for our democratic ideals, and for the Constitution of the United States.  And in 20 days, we have the power to chart a new way forward, one that is worthy of this magnificent country that we are all blessed to call home. 

Thank you all.  May God bless you.  And may God bless the United States of America.  (Applause.)

Thank you all.  Thank you all.  (Applause.)

                         END                    4:17 P.M. EDT

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Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Alaska and ordered Federal assistance to supplement state, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by flooding from August 5 to August 6, 2024.

The President’s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in the City and Borough of Juneau.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the flooding in the City and Borough of Juneau.

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

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

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state 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.

###

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

Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Alaska and ordered Federal assistance to supplement state, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by flooding from August 5 to August 6, 2024.

The President’s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in the City and Borough of Juneau.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the flooding in the City and Borough of Juneau.

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

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

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state 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.

###

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

Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer traveled to Port-au-Prince, Haiti on October 16 to meet with senior Haitian officials, and leadership of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission and the Haitian National Police (HNP) to drive progress on security and governance efforts. Mr. Finer was joined by a senior U.S. delegation from the Department of State, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Agency for International Development, and the National Security Council.  During separate meetings with members of the Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) and Prime Minister Garry Conille, Mr. Finer expressed condolences for the tragic loss of innocent life in the recent gang-led massacre in Pont-Sondé and reiterated the U.S. commitment to support Haitian-led efforts to restore security and pave the way toward free and fair elections.  Mr. Finer also commended the TPC for the transition of the presidency to President Leslie Voltaire on October 7, while noting that all Haitian officials must continue to put country over party and deliver on their promise to work for all Haitians.

In his meeting with MSS and HNP leadership, Mr. Finer underscored our continued commitment to rally international support and provide the tools necessary to restore security and rule of law in Haiti.  To ensure that the MSS has the resources that it requires, the United States is by far the largest contributor to support the MSS mission to date.  Following the Haitian government’s request to the UN Security Council to authorize a UN peacekeeping mission to take over from the MSS at an appropriate time, Mr. Finer reassured Haitian officials of U.S. support for such a transition.

The United States remains the largest contributor of humanitarian aid to the Haitian people through our UN and NGO partners, while also supporting the renewal of the HOPE/HELP trade preferences program as soon as possible to spur greater economic prosperity in Haiti.

###

The post Readout of Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer’s Trip to Haiti appeared first on The White House.

Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer traveled to Port-au-Prince, Haiti on October 16 to meet with senior Haitian officials, and leadership of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission and the Haitian National Police (HNP) to drive progress on security and governance efforts. Mr. Finer was joined by a senior U.S. delegation from the Department of State, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Agency for International Development, and the National Security Council.  During separate meetings with members of the Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) and Prime Minister Garry Conille, Mr. Finer expressed condolences for the tragic loss of innocent life in the recent gang-led massacre in Pont-Sondé and reiterated the U.S. commitment to support Haitian-led efforts to restore security and pave the way toward free and fair elections.  Mr. Finer also commended the TPC for the transition of the presidency to President Leslie Voltaire on October 7, while noting that all Haitian officials must continue to put country over party and deliver on their promise to work for all Haitians.

In his meeting with MSS and HNP leadership, Mr. Finer underscored our continued commitment to rally international support and provide the tools necessary to restore security and rule of law in Haiti.  To ensure that the MSS has the resources that it requires, the United States is by far the largest contributor to support the MSS mission to date.  Following the Haitian government’s request to the UN Security Council to authorize a UN peacekeeping mission to take over from the MSS at an appropriate time, Mr. Finer reassured Haitian officials of U.S. support for such a transition.

The United States remains the largest contributor of humanitarian aid to the Haitian people through our UN and NGO partners, while also supporting the renewal of the HOPE/HELP trade preferences program as soon as possible to spur greater economic prosperity in Haiti.

###

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MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE

SUBJECT:       Delegation of Authority Under Section 614(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 621 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (FAA), I hereby delegate to the Secretary of State the authority under section 614(a)(1) of the FAA to determine whether it is important to the security interests of the United States to furnish up to $14 million in assistance to Ukraine without regard to any provision of law within the purview of section 614(a)(1) of the FAA.

You are authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

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MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE

SUBJECT:       Delegation of Authority Under Section 614(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 621 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (FAA), I hereby delegate to the Secretary of State the authority under section 614(a)(1) of the FAA to determine whether it is important to the security interests of the United States to furnish up to $14 million in assistance to Ukraine without regard to any provision of law within the purview of section 614(a)(1) of the FAA.

You are authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post Memorandum on Delegation of Authority Under Section 614(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 appeared first on The White House.

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
Detroit, Michigan

12:27 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, about last night.  So, Donald Trump — I — I found it to be quite bizarre — actually called himself the “father of IVF.”  And if what he meant is taking responsibility, well, then, yeah, he should take responsibility for the fact that one is three women in America lives in a Trump abortion ban state. 

What he should take responsibility for is that couples who are praying and hoping and working toward growing a family have — have been so disappointed and — and harmed by the fact that IVF treatments have now been put at risk.

What he should take responsibility for is what we have been seeing across the country since he hand-selected three members of the United States Supreme Court, and they undid the protections of Roe v. Wade — Wade.

What he should take responsibility for is that he has been trying to take away the protections against preexisting conditions for, for example, women who are survivors of breast cancer. 

So, let’s not be distracted by his choice of words.  The reality is his actions have been very harmful to women and — and families in America on this issue. 

     Q    Madam Vice President, Donald Trump did a rally —

     Q    Madam Vice President, do you agree with President Obama’s recent suggestion that Black men may be hesitant to vote for you because you’re a woman?

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Let me first say that I am very proud to have the support of former President Barack Obama.  And I think that the important point that I will make over and over again is I don’t assume to have the votes of any demographic locked down.  I have to earn their vote, and I am going to work, as I’ve been, to earn that vote and to win on November 5th.

     Q    That particular dynamic —

     Q    Ma’am, there’s been a lot of recent questions about Donald Trump’s –

THE PRESIDENT:   Once again.

     Q    There’s been a lot of recent questions based on an event he did recently.  He played music for about 30 minutes straight.  Just questions about his mental fitness for office at this point.  Do you think Donald Trump needs to take a cognitive test?

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, I’m going to say what I have said publicly and will say many times based on my observations and, I think, the observations of many.  Donald Trump is increasingly unstable, and as has been said by the people who have worked closely with him, even when he was president, he’s unfit to be president of the United States.

     Q    Do you support the letter the administration sent Israel threatening legal action over military aid?  Are you —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I —

     Q    Do you su- —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I’ve issued my statement about that, yeah.

     Q    Are you — are you supporting calling off military aid if the situation in Gaza does not improve?

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I don’t believe that’s what the letter said.

     Q    Or what kind of legal action do you support?

     THE VICE PRESIDENT:  We’ll take it one step at a time if necessary. 

     Q    Are you —

     Q    Madam Vice President, the Chinese military has been doing drills around Taiwan, and Xi Jinping visited the province across from Taiwan.  It’s raising pressure, obviously, on Taiwan. 

What is your position were there to be an invasion of Taiwan by the Chinese military under — if you were president at the time?

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, let me restate the point I’ve made many times.  I believe in the One China policy, and I believe that there — and that Taiwan has an — a right to defend itself.

     Q    Would the American —

     Q    As a Calif- —

     Q    Would the American government provide arms for the Taiwanese —

     Q    As a California voter, how will you vote on the “Get Tough on Crime” Measure 36 — Proposition 36?

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I have not voted yet, and I’ve actually not read it yet.  But I’ll let you know. 

     Thank you.

                        END                12:30 P.M. EDT

The post Remarks by Vice President Harris Before Air Force Two Departure | Detroit, MI appeared first on The White House.

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
Detroit, Michigan

12:27 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, about last night.  So, Donald Trump — I — I found it to be quite bizarre — actually called himself the “father of IVF.”  And if what he meant is taking responsibility, well, then, yeah, he should take responsibility for the fact that one is three women in America lives in a Trump abortion ban state. 

What he should take responsibility for is that couples who are praying and hoping and working toward growing a family have — have been so disappointed and — and harmed by the fact that IVF treatments have now been put at risk.

What he should take responsibility for is what we have been seeing across the country since he hand-selected three members of the United States Supreme Court, and they undid the protections of Roe v. Wade — Wade.

What he should take responsibility for is that he has been trying to take away the protections against preexisting conditions for, for example, women who are survivors of breast cancer. 

So, let’s not be distracted by his choice of words.  The reality is his actions have been very harmful to women and — and families in America on this issue. 

     Q    Madam Vice President, Donald Trump did a rally —

     Q    Madam Vice President, do you agree with President Obama’s recent suggestion that Black men may be hesitant to vote for you because you’re a woman?

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Let me first say that I am very proud to have the support of former President Barack Obama.  And I think that the important point that I will make over and over again is I don’t assume to have the votes of any demographic locked down.  I have to earn their vote, and I am going to work, as I’ve been, to earn that vote and to win on November 5th.

     Q    That particular dynamic —

     Q    Ma’am, there’s been a lot of recent questions about Donald Trump’s –

THE PRESIDENT:   Once again.

     Q    There’s been a lot of recent questions based on an event he did recently.  He played music for about 30 minutes straight.  Just questions about his mental fitness for office at this point.  Do you think Donald Trump needs to take a cognitive test?

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, I’m going to say what I have said publicly and will say many times based on my observations and, I think, the observations of many.  Donald Trump is increasingly unstable, and as has been said by the people who have worked closely with him, even when he was president, he’s unfit to be president of the United States.

     Q    Do you support the letter the administration sent Israel threatening legal action over military aid?  Are you —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I —

     Q    Do you su- —

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I’ve issued my statement about that, yeah.

     Q    Are you — are you supporting calling off military aid if the situation in Gaza does not improve?

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I don’t believe that’s what the letter said.

     Q    Or what kind of legal action do you support?

     THE VICE PRESIDENT:  We’ll take it one step at a time if necessary. 

     Q    Are you —

     Q    Madam Vice President, the Chinese military has been doing drills around Taiwan, and Xi Jinping visited the province across from Taiwan.  It’s raising pressure, obviously, on Taiwan. 

What is your position were there to be an invasion of Taiwan by the Chinese military under — if you were president at the time?

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Well, let me restate the point I’ve made many times.  I believe in the One China policy, and I believe that there — and that Taiwan has an — a right to defend itself.

     Q    Would the American —

     Q    As a Calif- —

     Q    Would the American government provide arms for the Taiwanese —

     Q    As a California voter, how will you vote on the “Get Tough on Crime” Measure 36 — Proposition 36?

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  I have not voted yet, and I’ve actually not read it yet.  But I’ll let you know. 

     Thank you.

                        END                12:30 P.M. EDT

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President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke today with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine to discuss U.S. support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. President Biden updated President Zelenskyy on his efforts to surge security assistance to Ukraine over the remainder of his term in office. Today, the President announced a $425 million security assistance package for Ukraine that includes additional air defense capability, air-to-ground munitions, armored vehicles, and critical munitions to meet Ukraine’s urgent needs. In the coming months, the United States will provide Ukraine with a range of additional capabilities, including hundreds of air defense interceptors, dozens of tactical air defense systems, additional artillery systems, significant quantities of ammunition, hundreds of armored personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles, and thousands of additional armored vehicles, all of which will help to equip Ukraine’s armed forces. President Zelenskyy updated President Biden on his plan to achieve victory over Russia, and the two leaders tasked their teams to engage in further consultations on next steps.

The leaders committed to intensify security assistance planning alongside international partners in order to ensure that Ukraine has the equipment it needs to prevail. As part of this effort, in November 2024, President Biden will host a virtual leader-level meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, where the leaders will coordinate with international partners on additional assistance for Ukraine.

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The post Readout of President Biden’s Call with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine appeared first on The White House.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke today with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine to discuss U.S. support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. President Biden updated President Zelenskyy on his efforts to surge security assistance to Ukraine over the remainder of his term in office. Today, the President announced a $425 million security assistance package for Ukraine that includes additional air defense capability, air-to-ground munitions, armored vehicles, and critical munitions to meet Ukraine’s urgent needs. In the coming months, the United States will provide Ukraine with a range of additional capabilities, including hundreds of air defense interceptors, dozens of tactical air defense systems, additional artillery systems, significant quantities of ammunition, hundreds of armored personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles, and thousands of additional armored vehicles, all of which will help to equip Ukraine’s armed forces. President Zelenskyy updated President Biden on his plan to achieve victory over Russia, and the two leaders tasked their teams to engage in further consultations on next steps.

The leaders committed to intensify security assistance planning alongside international partners in order to ensure that Ukraine has the equipment it needs to prevail. As part of this effort, in November 2024, President Biden will host a virtual leader-level meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, where the leaders will coordinate with international partners on additional assistance for Ukraine.

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President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. will travel to Germany from October 17-18, where he will meet with German leaders to further strengthen the close bond the United States and Germany share as Allies and friends and coordinate on geopolitical priorities, including Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression and events in the Middle East.  The President will also reaffirm our shared commitment to democracy and countering antisemitism and hatred; advance cooperation on the economy, trade, and technology; and strengthen our Euro-Atlantic alliances and partnerships.
  
The first week of December, President Biden will also separately travel to Luanda, Angola, where he will celebrate the transformation of the U.S.-Angola relationship, recognize Angola’s role as a strategic partner and regional leader, and discuss increased collaboration on security, health, and economic partnerships—including the G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment support for the Lobito Corridor—that deliver for both our peoples. 

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The post Statement from White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on President Biden’s Travel to Germany and Angola appeared first on The White House.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. will travel to Germany from October 17-18, where he will meet with German leaders to further strengthen the close bond the United States and Germany share as Allies and friends and coordinate on geopolitical priorities, including Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression and events in the Middle East.  The President will also reaffirm our shared commitment to democracy and countering antisemitism and hatred; advance cooperation on the economy, trade, and technology; and strengthen our Euro-Atlantic alliances and partnerships.
  
The first week of December, President Biden will also separately travel to Luanda, Angola, where he will celebrate the transformation of the U.S.-Angola relationship, recognize Angola’s role as a strategic partner and regional leader, and discuss increased collaboration on security, health, and economic partnerships—including the G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment support for the Lobito Corridor—that deliver for both our peoples. 

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The post Statement from White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on President Biden’s Travel to Germany and Angola appeared first on The White House.

James S. Brady Press Briefing Room

11:56 A.M. EDT

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Hey.  Good afternoon, everybody. 

Q    Good afternoon.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Oh, it’s chilly in here. 

Q    Mm-hmm.

Q    (Inaudible.)

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I’m hearing comments in the back, but — okay.  So, the Biden-Harris administration’s response and recovery efforts continue to deliver for the people of North Carolina, Florida, and all communities affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.  Federal assistance for communities affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton has surpassed $1.8 billion.

Over the weekend, the president visited Florida to personally survey the damage caused by Milton, speak with families affected by the storm, and meet with state and local officials to ensure they were getting the resources they need.

And this afternoon, at 4:15 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will hold her daily press briefing to provide further details on our efforts to help communities respond, recover, and rebuild in the wake of these disasters.

As the president has said, we are in this for the long haul, and we will be there as long as it takes. 

That said, we need Congress to do its job.  Yesterday, you heard from the president that the Small Business Administration’s disaster loan program, which is a critical lifeline to small businesses, homeowners, renters affected by — by disasters, has been exhausted.

Americans should continue to apply for these loans, and SBA will continue to process them and disburse assistance as soon as Congress does its job and provides the needed funding.

Tomorrow, President Biden will travel to Berlin, Germany, where he will meet with German leaders, President Steinmeier and Pre- — and Chancellor Scholz, underscoring the strong relationship that the United States shares with Germany and the full range of global issues that we are tackling together.

The close relationship between President Biden and Chancellor Scholz have built — has — have built has been critical to helping us make progress on behalf of the American people and to making the world a safer place.

We have worked together closely to strengthen our economies for both our people and provide critical support for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russian aggression as Germany has been the second-largest provider of aid to Ukraine after the United States.

Chancellor Scholz’s bold decision to participate in the prisoner swap this — this summer, as you all know, which he did as President Bi- — at President Biden’s request, was vital to returning wrongfully detained Americans, including Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, and Germans to their families.  And we need to continue to work closely together to defend democratic values around the world.

On that note, President Biden will speak with President Zelenskyy shortly, if not already, and will announce a significant new security assistance package for Ukraine today, as part of our ongoing effort to surge U.S. support to Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.

The two leaders al- — also will also discuss the leader-level Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which will hold — which will be held next month, to continue to get Ukraine the support it needs to prevail in this conflict.  We will have a readout of that call soon as we — as well as more details on the military aid package.

Some additional news.  In the first week of December, the president will also travel to Angola, where he will celebrate the transformation of the U.S.-Angola relationship, recognize Angola’s role as a strategic part- — strategic partner and regional leader, and meet with President Lourenço about ways to increase our collaboration on security, health, and economic partnerships.

The value of strong alliances and partnerships in the defense of freedom has never resonated more — in Europe, in Africa, and beyond.  These visits demonstrate the president’s unwavering commitment to revitalize these relationships for our shared security and prosperity.

With that, Aamer, kick it off to you.

Q    Yeah.  On the Germany trip tomorrow.  When will he be coming back?  And I’m presuming the conversation with President Zelenskyy today, does that obviate the need for them to meet while he’s in Europe? 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Well, that — they’re not going to have an opportunity to meet while he is in Europe, and this is one of the reasons the president is calling him ahead of time. 

What I will say is we’ll certainly have more details on the trip in the next several hours, on what that looks like, what tomorrow is going to look like, and the specifics of — of the president’s engagement in Germany tomorrow — the next two days. 

Q    And can I ask, with concerns of the Secret Service being so stretched right now and the various security needs with the two assassination attempts, has the president considered maybe putting this trip off until after Election Day or perhaps even dialing back some of the Delaware travel just to — to help lighten the load on the Secret Service? 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, what I will say is I’m not going to get into the specifics of the Secret Service and — and how it does its business in protecting, obviously, the principles.  That’s not something for me to speak to from here. 

What I will say is that the president believes that this — has felt very strongly about this trip, about one of our partners, allies, that has been steadfast, certainly, in partnership with — as it relates to Ukraine’s defense.  And the president really wanted to make sure to go to Germany to thank Chancellor Scholz directly.  And so, that was one of the reasons to do that trip. 

I’m not going to get into specifics of — of Secret Service and — and how they move forward and how they go about protecting the principles.  That’s not something that I’m going to speak from here.

Q    Just one last one.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Sure.

Q    President Biden, yesterday, spoke of Harris cutting her own path —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    — as president if she’s elected.  Does he feel he’s held her back?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  No, not at all.  Look, the president has always been — I’m going to be — you know, not going to speak to politics from here.  But what I can say more broadly is that every bo- — every president has the opportunity to cut their own path, and the president has been really clear about passing the torch and seeing Vice President Harris as a leader from day one — on day one.

And — and he understands how this all works, right?  He said this yesterday as well.  He was loyal to Barack Obama, but he also got an opportunity to cut his own path as president.

And so — and that’s what he believes Kamala is going to do.  And that’s her — that’s his words — right? — when calling her, Kamala, the vice president.

And so, she’s been loyal to him, and this is something that he shared, and he understand that she will cut her own path.  And I think that’s just the way it goes.  Right?  I think that’s the process that we’re seeing right now, that we’re living it, that you all are covering every day since the president decided to step aside from this election and pass the torch to the vice president. 

And so, I think that’s what you’re hearing from this president.  He’s incredibly proud of her.  He has supported her from day one.  He has said many times the best decision that he made in 2020 was asking her to be his running mate. 

Go ahead, Nancy.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  A couple questions about this letter from the Biden administration to the Israeli government suggesting that U.S. aid to Israel may be at risk if they don’t change their posture on humanitarian aid into Gaza.  Is there anything that we should know about the timing of this letter?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.  So, look, I — I’m going to take a step back just for a second because — and I know my — my colleagues over at National Security Council spoke to this, if not yesterday, certainly over the past couple of days. 

And, look, the administration did something similar back in April, and — and that — that was received — that letter that we did back in April was received with a constructive response from the Israelis.  And so, this is very similar. 

What we have seen — the — the trigger — the reason why we’re doing this is we have seen a decrease in aid — in very important, critical aid into Gaza.  And so, we sent out the letter from, obviously, Department of Defense and also the State Department that went to the — to both secretaries’ counterparts.  And so, we’re having those discussions. 

I would speak to them.  I would speak to the DOD and State Department on their timing.  But it is certainly connected to what we have seen, which is a decrease of humanitarian aid in Gaza.  And so, we wanted to address that with Israel. 

Q    Have you gotten any response from the Israeli government to this letter, or any sign that they are taking it seriously?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, I don’t have anything right now to preview or to announce or to — to lay out for you at this time.  What I can say is the last time we did this, back in April, we did see a con- — constructive response.  And so, that’s what we want to see this time around. 

Q    Is the administration really willing to halt military aid to Israel if you don’t see a significant improvement in humanitarian aid flowing to Gaza?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I’m not going to get into hypotheticals from here.  Like I said, we did it back in April.  This — sent a letter, very similar — a — a letter — a letter from both the State Department and the Department of Defense.  We got a constructive response.  That’s what we’re hoping to see.  We wanted to address this. 

This is connected to a decrease of humanitarian assistance — aid that is very, very much needed in Gaza, as you all know.  And so, that’s what — that — this is a — a — we’ve done this before, it’s worked, and so we’re — we’re doing this again.  And so, we want to see a constructive response. 

Go ahead.

Q    Just one follow-up there. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    If — if the Israelis have 30 days to sort of make changes — a 30-day deadline — that’s after the election.  Doesn’t that take some of the bite out of this ultimatum?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I’m not going to — I’m not going to get into a timeline from here.  I’m not going to get into — into those types of specifics.  I would refer you to the State Department and Department of Defense. 

I think what’s important is — important here is to not forget: We’ve done this before back in April.  We want — we’ve seen a decrease of aid, and we certainly want to make sure that that is addressed.  That is why the letter went out.  That’s why we’re talking — we’re having those conversations with the Israelis.  And so, I’m going to leave it there. 

Q    Yesterday, former President Trump seemed to leave open the possibility that he has, in fact, talked to Vladimir Putin since leaving office.  What does the White House make of that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I’m not going to get into specifics about conversations with — with world leaders from here.  I’m not going to get into that — those specifics from here at all.

Q    Does the White House have any evidence that that could be true?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I don’t — I think I’ve answered this question before.  We don’t have any — any — anything to confirm.  That — that spetic- — that specific statement from the former president, I just don’t have anything else to add.

Q    If I can ask —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Sure.

Q    — domestically, President Obama seemed to indicate that he was worried some voters might be trying to make excuses for not voting for a woman.  I’ve heard that myself from a lot of voters out on the campaign trail. 

I understand you can’t talk about politics and the campaign.  But have you seen moments or do you believe that — that this has been a unique challenge for Vice President Harris in her role as vice president?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I mean, look, here’s the thing.  Here’s what I can say: Both this president and this vice president are very much proud of what they have been able to deliver for the Black community and many other communities.  Historic — historic results. 

Obviously, there’s always more work to be done, and that’s something that we say.  Whether it’s about the economy, whether it’s about health care, there’s always more work to be done. 

But we’re proud of what we have been able to see, when we think about record wealth, including, like, obviously, record wealth, employment, small businesses.  We’ve seen a boost in small-business applications within the Black community and other — just more broadly, not just the Black community. 

And so, we understand there’s more work to be done.  We’re certainly going to continue to do that work, and that’s what I can speak to.  And that is something that I know both this president and the vice president are very proud of doing.

Q    Do you think she’s had to overcome sexism as the first female vice president?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Look, I’m not going to — I’m not going to get into it from here.  What I can say is that we are all very proud of what the vice president has been able to accomplish with this president as a critical partner over the past four years.  And you don’t ha- — just have to look at her career as — almost four years, I should say — as vice president.  We look at her record as senator, as attorney general of California.  I think it’s been a — she’s had an impressive record.

And, you know — and she’s done that with everything — all the — the headwinds that come at her, she’s been able to get that done.

Go ahead.

Q    Is — you were talking about the — just to go back to the Germany trip.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    Is there any update on the Ramstein summit that was –is it postponed?  Is it canceled?  Or —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I don’t have an update for you on that.  I — I’m su- — I’ll be sure to check with the team, but I just don’t have anything on that.

Q    Is the president expected to have any meetings with any other foreign leaders during the trip?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  We’ll certainly have more to share.  Obviously, a big part of this meeting, of this trip — travel that he’s doing is going to be around Ukraine, the continuing support of Ukraine — of Ukrainians as they continue certainly to beat back Russia’s aggression.

And — and we’ve been very proud — the president has been very proud to do that and continue.  And, obviously, one of the reasons we’re going to Germany, as I — as I mentioned, which — Chancellor Scholz as a partner in that.

And so, we’ll — certainly, we’ll have more to share.  But just a little bit more broadly, I would state — I mentioned Russia’s war in Ukraine — managing the crises in the Middle East, maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region, strengthening the transatlantic alliance, illustrating that the relationship in — is both dynamic and also enduring.

And so, I think that’s important to note.  And the president, as I stated at the top, he wanted to make this trip.  This is a trip that he wanted to do to thank the chancellor for his support.  And so, that’s what you’re going to see from the two leaders, and we’ll certainly have more to share.

I will also state that at 4 o’clock, National Security Council will have a press call.  So, certainly, you should join that.

Q    Thank you.  Just one more to follow up —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    — on Aamer’s question on the president’s comments about the vice president last night.  The — Ron Klain told — told us in August that the White House could have done more to promote the vice president.  He said, quote, “We were all united behind the idea she should be successful.  We just didn’t find the path to do it.”  Does the president agree?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  What I will say is — and I think the — certainly, the first part of your quote, I — is — is something that I know to be true.  Like, the president has always wanted the vice president to be successful.  And she has been successful, and he could not be more proud of her as he is today.

I think what she — what he laid out yesterday — obviously, that was a political event that he — that he spoke at, but I think lays out his thinking, how he sees the vice president not just now but moving forward in what she’s trying to accomplish at this moment. 

And — and I think she has had a lot of successes to point to over the last three and a half years.  And I also stated her time — her record as a senator, her record as attorney general, as district attorney in — in San Francisco.  She’s had an impressive record.

And so, I — anything else beyond that, I certainly will leave it to the vice president and her team to speak specifically on.

Go ahead. 

Q    Just back to Ukraine.  It’s been more than a month now since the president told us that there were discussions about allowing Ukraine to fire long-range missiles deeper into Russian territory.  Is he heading into this conversation with Zelenskyy today and into this trip to Germany with a decision made on that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  What I will say is, look, the United States policy on that has not changed.  It has not changed.  But I think what’s important here is that we are committed.  We are — continue to be committed to Ukraine, to the Ukrainians having everything that it needs, especially on the battleground, as they are fighting against Russia’s aggression.  That is our commitment.  That is what you —

We — I just made an announcement — right? — just moments ago about an assistance — how much more we’re going to be providing as — as we understand what’s needed on the ground, on the battlefield.  And so, the president is probably talking to the — President Zelenskyy right now.  We are going to continue to show that support.  And I just don’t have anything to say.  Our policy has not changed beyond that.

Q    So, he’s decided against allowing that capability?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Look, I’ll say this.  In May, the president directed his team to ensure — right? — that Ukraine is able to use U.S.-supplied weapons for cross-border strikes so Ukraine can hit back against Russia — Russian forces that are — that are attacking them or preparing to attack them as part of their current Russian offense. 

It’s — it’s common sense, right?  It is common sense that they should be able to hit back against what’s hitting them and to deny Russian forces that are using staging locations just across the border a safe haven.  That was what we were able to do back in Ba- — in May. 

Our policy with respect — with respect to prohibiting the use of ATACMS or long-range strikes inside of Russia has not changed.  That is not going to change.  It has not changed at this — at this moment.  Don’t have anything else to preview, but we will continue to have conversations with the Ukrainians, providing what they — what they need on the battle- — on the battlefield.  That is a commitment.  We want to be there for the Ukrainians as they continue to beat back Russia’s aggression.

Q    All right.  And on the SBA funding.  It sounded, last week, when the president was talking about this, that he wanted Congress to come back early to pass more funding for the Small Business Administration, but he didn’t mention that in his statement last night.  Has he — has he given up on —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Well, what I will say —

Q    — calling Congress back?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  — what he did mention in his statement last night is that Speaker Johnson has said and is committed and promised that he was going to fund — promised that he was going to fund not just that but other disaster programs.  And so, he said that will be replenished by Congress.  And so, that’s the commitment that he made.  That’s what we want to see. 

And we want to also make sure that people out there who need — who need these particular resources, they continue to apply for loans, and the SBA is going to continue to process those application.  But Speaker Johnson made a commitment, and certainly we want to see that commitment follow through.

Q    Thanks.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Go ahead, Danny.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  Back to the Middle East.  The — the U.S. — specifically, the State Department — said yesterday that it was — the U.S. was opposed to the Israeli bombing of Beirut as it was being carried out at the moment.  Hours after that, there were fresh Israeli airstrikes on — on southern Beirut. 

Again, what gives you any confidence that Prime Minister Netanyahu is listening to what Washington is asking him to do? 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, look — and you’re right.  We have told Israel directly that we oppose any Israeli campaign to certainly — of near-daily strikes in densely populated area in Beirut.  We — you are correct.  That is something that we have been very clear about.

We — we also understand that what they’re conducting — the operations that they’re conducting to destroy Hezbollah infrastructure is — is targeted.  And so, we’ll continue to have those conversations with the Israeli government, and that is something that we will continue to do. 

And we have been really clear.  It is critical — it is critical that these operations be conducted in a way — in a way that does not threaten the lives of civilians.  Conversations that we will continue to have with the Israeli government — and let’s not forget, U.N. peacekeepers and also members of the Lebanese Armed Forces.

And so, we’ve been clear.  We’re going to continue to have those diplomatic discussions with the Israelis.

Q    And in the White House’s view, how did the — yesterday’s strikes — you know, what category did they fall into?  Acceptable or —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Look, I’m not going to get into characterizing each of these strikes.  It’s not what I’m going to do from here.  We’ve been very clear what we want to see.  We’ve been very clear about that from here, you — as you stated, from the State Department and Department of Defense as well.  And we will continue to have these discussions.

Go ahead.

Q    Thank you so much, Karine.  Does the White House have any indication or explanation on why the tensions is escalating in the Korean Peninsula?  And is the White House concerned about it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Say that last part.

Q    The Korea — the peninsula — Korea, the tension growing over there —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I mean, look —

Q    — is the White House concerned about it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Look, obviously, we’re always going to have concerns, and we’re always going to watch and monitor closely.  Don’t have anything specific to read out on the current — current situation there.  We are going to always, as I said, monitor, watch closely, and certainly be in coordination with our South Korean allies.

And so, look, we’re going to also continue to urge the North — North Korea to reduce tensions and — and seize any actions that could increase the risk of conflict.  And that is something that we’ve been pretty consistent here.

Q    And a follow-up and then I have one more.  Because their report is that Net- — North Korea is sending soldiers to fight with Russia in Kor- — in Ukraine.  Some are suggesting that there are around 3- to 7,000 soldiers already in few miles from the Ukrainian border.  Does the White House have any response or concern about it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Look, we’ve always said we’ve been concerned when we’ve always asked about — about other countries providing aid or assistance to Russia.  We’ve been very clear about that.

This is why the president took it very seriously on making — making sure that NATO was stronger and — and bringing more than 50 countries together to make sure that Ukrainians had the support that they need.

You just heard me speak about an assistance that — another assistance package that we are going to be speaking more about delivering, and that is a conversation that the pres- — President Biden is having with President Zelenskyy.  And that is going to be a really important part of the conversation that the president has when he’s in Germany.

So, we’re going to continue to provide assistance, show our support for Ukraine, stand by the Ukrainians.  And so, that’s going to be our focus in the next couple of days and continued focus, obviously, since the past almost two years now.

Q    And just the last one.  You are announcing international trips for the next few months.  Is President Biden going to Brazil for the G20, and does the White House believe that Vladimir Putin should be arrested if he goes to Brazil for the G20?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I don’t have anything to share on either of those questions that you asked me.

Go ahead, Jared.

Q    On the call with Zelenskyy.  I know earlier today Zelenskyy made public parts of that victory plan.  I assume he’d already shared it with President Biden.  But one of those elements is an immediate invitation to NATO.  Does the White House, the president have a response to — to that proposal?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Look, what I will say — and I’ve been very clear about this.  Look, we’re going to let — we’re going to let the Ukrainians speak to their victory plan.  That’s their plan.  We’ll let them speak to it.

What we’re going to continue to do is show our support for the Ukrainians on the battlefield as they continue to beat back Russia’s aggression.  I don’t have anything else to share beyond that.  But we’ll let them speak to their plan directly.

Go ahead.

Q    Yeah.  (Clears throat.)  Excuse me.  Thanks, Karine.  Yesterday, President Biden talked about Trump’s rally, in which he stood up on the — the stage and listened to various musical tunes, and said the former president has, quote, “snapped” and “become unhinged.”  Can you elaborate what he’s concerned about there?  Does he have concerns that Trump lacks the mental fitness to — to be able to go back —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I mean —

Q    — into the White House?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  — I don’t have anything to add.  I think the president was very clear on what he felt and saw and was — and was sharing with all of you.  I don’t think there’s anything more to add.

Q    But does he feel — does he have concerns about his — the former president’s mental fitness?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  I — I don’t have anything else to add.  I think the president speaks loud and clear and directly for himself, and so I’d let his words stand.

Go ahead.

Q    Thanks, Karine.  Senator — Senator Rick Scott and Senator Rubio have proposed $20 billion to replenish the Disaster Relief Fund.  Has the president seen that proposal?  Would he sign it if it did pass?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, look, as you know, when we — when we tried to do, originally, the CR, we had a robust — robust component in that CR to make sure that the Disaster Relief Fund was replenished.  That didn’t go through.  We were disappointed by that, obviously.

And — and so, what we want to see, I’m not going to put a number to it.  That is something that’s going to be worked out. What we want to see is Congress, when they come back, to actually do that — to actually replenish the Disaster Relief Fund.

It is important to do so.  While we have the fundings right now, to do the work that FEMA needs to do, that this administration needs to do to impacted areas, we know that there’s going to be a shortfall and we’re going to need more funding.

I’m not going to get into a number.  I have not spoken to the president or the Office of Leg Affairs about this particular proposal that has been brought for- — forth, but the president has been very clear.

I just talked about the SBA and how that — that funding is now exhausted.  The speaker made a promise — the Speaker Johnson made a promise that, when Congress returns, that they’re going to replenish the Disaster Relief Fund and also make sure that CBA has what it needs to really address the needs of — of Americans who have been impacted in — in — on the ground.

Q    Is there a timeline for when FEMA would know how much the administration wants to use?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Say that one more time.

Q    Is there a timeline for when FEMA would have an estimate for how much money they’re looking for?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, I would — I would refer you directly to FEMA about that specific timeline, a number that’s needed.  What we are very clear about is we need to make sure that we have funding — additional funding for the Disaster Relief Fund.  That’s why we included it in the CR.

As you know, it was a robust number.  We wanted to see that get through.  It did not get through.  And we — we are seeing these storms coming through and what they’re doing and how they’re devastating areas.  The president was able to survey, obviously, what occurred in — in Florida after Hurricane Milton.

And so, we want to make sure those funds are there.  Speaker Johnson made a promise.  He said that that was going to happen.  So, that’s what we want to see.

I know.  I think we have to start wrapping up soon.

Q    Just to follow up on the president’s comments about the vice president cutting her own path if elected. 

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Yeah.

Q    I know the two of them speak regularly, but just wondering if the two have specifically had conversations about how she would do that if elected, whether the president is offering advice or whether she’s asked for guidance in that arena.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, I don’t have any details to spe- — to their specific conversations.  As you know, the president and the vice president work closely together, as I just talked about the two hurricanes that came through.  You saw them working side by side in dealing with the impacts of the hurricane and making sure that we’re responding to folks on the ground.

And, look, they’re going to continue to work closely together.  The president knows what it’s like to be the vice president and knows what it takes to be the vice president and what’s needed there. And so, he is certainly very proud of the work that she’s been able to do.  I’m not going to get into details or specifics of private conversations that they have.

Go ahead, Annie.

Q    Oh, thanks so much.  The automaker Stellantis has said that they are considering expanding a factory in Mexico.  I’m wondering if the White House has any response to this possibility and whether you can address concerns that domestic jobs may be lost or — or moved overseas.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  So, look, last year, as you know, we applauded UAW and also Stellantis for coming together after hard, good-faith — which is what we always love to see — negotiations and also re- — reaching a historic agreement that secured record raises, greater retirement security, and investment in the future.

And so, that included a commitment to reopen and expand production in communities that were devastated by previous plant closures.

And so, look, what we want to see is Stellantis, certainly, deliver on those commitments to the UAW and to the communities, and so — not just any communities but communities that have long supported the industry.  That’s what we want to see.

And so, we want Stellantis to keep their commitment.  Again, we were very proud to see that very good-faith negotiation that occurred and what was delivered.  And so, that’s what we want to see at the end of the day.

I know we have to go. 

AIDE:  Yeah.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Okay.  We have to go.  Sorry, guys.

Q    Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:  Thanks, everybody.

12:25 P.M. EDT

The post Press Briefing by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre appeared first on The White House.

The Biden-Harris Administration continues its response and recovery efforts across the Southeast and Appalachia following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Nearly 8,000 Federal personnel remain on the ground working side-by-side with State and local officials to help survivors with recovery and rebuilding.

As part of our commitment to remaining with impacted communities as long as it takes, under President Biden’s direction, the Administration has already approved more than $1.8 billion in assistance for hurricane recovery efforts.

This includes assistance for individuals – including funding for temporary housing, essential needs like food, water, baby formula, and other emergency supplies – as well as public assistance to states for costs related to debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, and courthouses.

In North Carolina, where the Administration continues to surge resources, more than $100 million in assistance has been approved for more than 77,000 survivors.

This funding supplements additional investments announced by President Biden during his visit to Florida this weekend, where he awarded more than $600 million from the Department of Energy to six projects across the Southeast to enhance the reliability and resilience of the electric grid in the face of more extreme weather events.

Specific funding for impacted communities includes:

For those affected by Hurricane Helene, FEMA has approved over $911 million, which includes $581 million in assistance for individuals and affected communities and over $330 million for public assistance costs like debris removal and other activities to save lives, protect public health and safety, prevent damage to public and private property, and restore public infrastructure.

For individual assistance related to Hurricane Helene, specific funding approved includes:

• Florida: More than $213 million for 71,000 survivors
• South Carolina: More than $132 million for 146,000 survivors
• Georgia: More than $119 million for 118,000 survivors
• North Carolina: More than $100 million for 77,000 survivors
• Tennessee: More than $11.8 million for 2,400 survivors
• Virginia: More than $4.7 million for 1,500 survivors

For those affected by Hurricane Milton, FEMA has already approved over $620 million, which thus far includes $16 million in assistance for individuals and affected communities and over $604 million in public assistance.  

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has offered over $48 million in tentatively approved disaster loan funding to survivors of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The SBA also has hundreds of staff working on the ground supporting communities in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia in 48 disaster recovery centers, as well as in loan processing and customer service centers. 

Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout impacted states:

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are opening throughout the affected communities to provide survivors with in-person assistance. These centers serve as “one stop shops,” offering help with applications for FEMA assistance, information on available resources from other Federal agencies, and guidance on navigating the recovery process. Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams remain on the ground in neighborhoods in all affected states helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary resources.

Survivors can visit Disaster Recovery Centers in the following cities/towns:

Florida:

• Twelve Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Bradenton, Branford, Glen Saint Mary, Homosassa, Lake City, Largo, Live Oak, Madison, Perry, Sarasota, and Tampa, and more will open in the coming days and weeks. DRCs will support survivors impacted by both Helene and Milton. In addition, 120 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

North Carolina:

• Six Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Asheville, Bakersville, Boone, Lenoir, Marion and Sylva. FEMA expects to open up to ten more Disaster Recovery Centers in impacted communities in the coming days. More than 1,200 FEMA staff are on the ground, and 379 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

Georgia:

• Four Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Valdosta, Douglas, Sandersville and Augusta. 152 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

South Carolina:

• Six Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Anderson, Greenville, Barnwell, Batesburg, Easley, and North Augusta. 92 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

Tennessee:

• One Disaster Recovery Center is open in Erwin. 48 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

Virginia:

• Four Disaster Recovery Centers are open in Damascus, Dublin, Independence, and Tazewell. 57 Disaster Survivor Assistance Team members are going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors.

Additional assistance to agriculture producers includes:

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that people in parts of Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee recovering from Tropical Storm Helene may be eligible for food assistance through the USDA’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP). Approximately 982,930 households in Georgia, 152,572 households in North Carolina and 54,692 households in Tennessee are estimated to be eligible for this relief to help with grocery expenses. Through this program, which USDA makes available through states in the aftermath of disasters, people who may not be eligible for SNAP in normal circumstances can participate if they meet specific criteria, including disaster income limits and qualifying disaster-related expenses.

USDA also announced additional assistance to help agriculture producers impacted by Hurricane Helene in the recovery process. Producers will receive over $233 million in indemnities for losses from Hurricane Helene. These payments will directly help farmers and rural communities recover.

Currently, Hurricane Helene estimated indemnities by state include:

• Georgia: $207.7 million 
• Florida: $12.8 million
• Alabama: $5.0 million 
• North Carolina: $4.1 million 
• South Carolina: $4.1 million
• Virginia: $61,000

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