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     America’s children deserve every opportunity to live fulfilling and healthy lives, and nutritious meals are key components in building those lives.  During National School Lunch Week, we reaffirm that the health and well-being of our Nation’s children are a national priority.  We recommit to doing everything we can to end child hunger.  And we celebrate school nutrition professionals, who do the critical work of planning, preparing, and serving nutritious school meals to more than 30 million students each day.

      Healthy school lunches benefit our Nation’s students and their families.  Fueled by a good lunch, students can better focus in the classroom and be set up for success throughout the rest of their day.  Free and reduced-price school meals provide families with some breathing room.  And for families that live in areas where there are no grocery stores with healthy food options nearby, school meals can be a lifeline — offering children reliable, nutritious meals.

     My Administration is committed to putting a healthy school lunch within reach of all our Nation’s children, no matter their family’s income.  That is why we are giving more schools the option to make free school meals available to every student, and we published a final rule updating nutrition standards for school meals to improve children’s health.  For the first time since 1975, we modernized the Thrifty Food Plan, making a healthy diet more affordable for the millions of families with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.  These actions are a part of our national strategy to end hunger and reduce diet-related diseases by 2030.  That plan includes the goal of expanding access to healthy, free school meals to nine million more kids — working toward a future where every kid has access to one.  We also hosted the first White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health in over 50 years.  Since then, we have galvanized over $10 billion in external commitments dedicated to ending hunger and reducing diet-related diseases in children and families across the country.  Furthermore, we are giving schools the resources they need to purchase food from local farmers and ranchers and cook meals from scratch — giving kids healthier options and powering our rural economy.

     My Administration is taking steps to ensure our Nation’s children and families do not go hungry and can afford healthy food.  This year my Administration launched SUN Bucks — also referred to as Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer — to provide families with money to buy groceries when school is out, reaching an estimated 21 million children.  My American Rescue Plan expanded the Child Tax Credit, slashing child poverty by nearly 50 percent and helping keep food on the table for millions of families during the pandemic.  I continue to call on the Congress to restore the enhanced Child Tax Credit to ensure families have the money they need to feed and care for their kids.

     During National School Lunch Week, we recognize how important school lunches are to kids and families alike and recommit to expanding access to healthy, free school meals to support the health of the next generation.  And we thank all the school staff, school nutrition professionals, educators, and school leaders, whose tireless work nourishes the future leaders of our Nation. 

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 13 through October 19, 2024, as National School Lunch Week.  I call upon all Americans to recognize and commemorate all those who operate the National School Lunch Program with activities that raise awareness of the steadfast efforts in support of the health and well-being of our Nation’s children.

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

                        JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on National School Lunch Week, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

     America’s children deserve every opportunity to live fulfilling and healthy lives, and nutritious meals are key components in building those lives.  During National School Lunch Week, we reaffirm that the health and well-being of our Nation’s children are a national priority.  We recommit to doing everything we can to end child hunger.  And we celebrate school nutrition professionals, who do the critical work of planning, preparing, and serving nutritious school meals to more than 30 million students each day.

      Healthy school lunches benefit our Nation’s students and their families.  Fueled by a good lunch, students can better focus in the classroom and be set up for success throughout the rest of their day.  Free and reduced-price school meals provide families with some breathing room.  And for families that live in areas where there are no grocery stores with healthy food options nearby, school meals can be a lifeline — offering children reliable, nutritious meals.

     My Administration is committed to putting a healthy school lunch within reach of all our Nation’s children, no matter their family’s income.  That is why we are giving more schools the option to make free school meals available to every student, and we published a final rule updating nutrition standards for school meals to improve children’s health.  For the first time since 1975, we modernized the Thrifty Food Plan, making a healthy diet more affordable for the millions of families with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.  These actions are a part of our national strategy to end hunger and reduce diet-related diseases by 2030.  That plan includes the goal of expanding access to healthy, free school meals to nine million more kids — working toward a future where every kid has access to one.  We also hosted the first White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health in over 50 years.  Since then, we have galvanized over $10 billion in external commitments dedicated to ending hunger and reducing diet-related diseases in children and families across the country.  Furthermore, we are giving schools the resources they need to purchase food from local farmers and ranchers and cook meals from scratch — giving kids healthier options and powering our rural economy.

     My Administration is taking steps to ensure our Nation’s children and families do not go hungry and can afford healthy food.  This year my Administration launched SUN Bucks — also referred to as Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer — to provide families with money to buy groceries when school is out, reaching an estimated 21 million children.  My American Rescue Plan expanded the Child Tax Credit, slashing child poverty by nearly 50 percent and helping keep food on the table for millions of families during the pandemic.  I continue to call on the Congress to restore the enhanced Child Tax Credit to ensure families have the money they need to feed and care for their kids.

     During National School Lunch Week, we recognize how important school lunches are to kids and families alike and recommit to expanding access to healthy, free school meals to support the health of the next generation.  And we thank all the school staff, school nutrition professionals, educators, and school leaders, whose tireless work nourishes the future leaders of our Nation. 

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 13 through October 19, 2024, as National School Lunch Week.  I call upon all Americans to recognize and commemorate all those who operate the National School Lunch Program with activities that raise awareness of the steadfast efforts in support of the health and well-being of our Nation’s children.

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

                        JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on National School Lunch Week, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

Roosevelt Room

1:21 P.M. EDT
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Well, folks, Kamala and I have just received a briefing from senior leaders across our administration from Hurricane Helene and — and Hurricane Milton.  And to state the obvious, I’m sure you feel the same way, our heart goes out to all those folks who — who’ve lost not only personal property but their homes and some lost lives — and grieving after the aftermath of the — the tornados, brutal winds, record downpours, and historic flooding. 
 
I must have spoken in the last three days to 50 to 75 members of the — in Cali- — from North Carolina all the way down to Florida, talking to mayors and county executives and — anyway, it’s just — it’s amazing what’s going on. 
 
And, you know, this is the third major storm — third major storm to hit California — I mean, excuse me, Florida, in three months.  And experts estimate that as — and it’s early — early estimates — it could be more; it could be less — but estimates that it’s caused damages around $50 billion from Hurricane Milton alone — just alone, $50 billion.
 
And I want everyone in the impacted areas to know we’re going to do everything we can to let you — help you pick back up the pieces and get back to where you were. 
 
We’ve been in constant contact, calling and reaching out to over 40 state and local officials, as I said, and they — they need — we have to give them a little bit of hope.  I mean, some of you have been through crises.  You know the one thing you wonder about when things are really bad is, is there hope?  Is — is anybody coming?  What’s going to happen?  And that’s what — that’s what’s happening right now.  State and local officials are — are doing everything they can to help these folks recover.
 
At my request, the primary focus of today’s briefing has been on the power restoration and debris removal, because there are urgent needs. 
 
Milton left over 3 million people without power, but with the dedication of 50,000 powerline workers — 50,000 powerline workers from 43 states and the country of — and Canada have stepped up and come down to help and to restore — they’ve already restored power to 1 million people so far. 
 
And, by the way, if you ever watch these guys and women climb these poles in the middle of nowhere, this is — anyway, they’re — they’re risking this while they’re doing this work. 
 
And I’ve — we just spoke to the CEOs of the public and private electric utilities to thank them for surging their — their restoration crews to people urgently needing power, even in the communities they don’t serve.  That’s one of the points: A lot of these folks are going into the communities they have — they don’t serve at all and just volunteering.  And the energy sector is real. 
 
And, by the way, our secretary, Jennifer Granholm, of Energy, is — she calls it a “mini NATO,” a — a commitment to mutual assistance and another shining example of Americans — literally someone — when push comes to shove, they stand up and take care of one another.
 
We’re going to continue to prioritize this effort until everyone is reconnected and back online. 
 
We’ve been able to get this work done quicker because of critical infrastructure investments we’ve made, but when I was vice president — both when I was vice president and since I’ve been president to harden the grid — the grid — you all know it, but “the grid” meaning, for your listeners, the electric power grid that transmits power — harden the grid by incorporating innovative technologies like burying transmission lines underground, replacing wood power poles with concrete power poles that don’t snap in the wind. 
 
To reduce the impact of extreme weather and climate change, we have to continue making these investments.  We were just talking about it with the utility companies and with our team here and with — with the secretary. 
 
You know, over the years, the past several years, Florida has taken the money, back when we — I got when we were vice president — when I was vice president, to invest in putting these lines underground.  It costs a hell of a lot more to put the lines underground than it does up in the air, but — up to six times more or seven times more — but it makes sense, be- –and anybody who says, “We don’t want to spend the money,” think of the three storms.  Ev- — after every damn storm, it’ll wipe out the power grid; you’ve got to rebuild it.  And so, if you can keep it so it’s not wiped out, it makes a long-term savings.
 
And the other thing that’s a big deal is debris removal.  FEMA and the Corps of Engineers and the Florida National Guard are now on the ground helping the state clear debris — debris to reopen roads and critical ports as well. 

I mean, s- — you’ve seen the pictures.  Some of you have been there.  You see wh- — for example, in North Carolina, where half a mountain comes down and the bridge rolls into the water, and you’ve got — you’ve got piles.  I mean, you — you see at the end of a — end of a river in a cul-de-sac.  I mean, piles are three, four, five feet high with all kinds of debris in there.  It’s going to take a lot of time and money to remove it.
 
But the Army Corps and the Florida National Guard in Florida are on the ground helping clear this debris and reopen the roads.  A- — and so, we can make — they have to do it for other reasons, to make critical deliveries of food, water, and tarps and lifesaving supplies.
 
The Coast Guard is leading the effort to reopen the Port of Tampa, which you — as you all know, because we’ve — everybody’s been covering it and they’ve done a good job of doing it — covering it because it’s a port that delivers a lot of — a lot of fuel that goes into the region and goods that are necessary.  It’s critical for the economy of the region.
 
And — and, again, let me say that the misinformation out there is not only just disgusting, but it — it’s dangerous and it’s misleading.  And, again, the first thing it does — and I mean this sincerely.  I don’t — a lot of you have been through these crises, some of you personally.  But people desperately want hope — “Tell me it’s going to be okay.”  “Tell me it’s going to be okay.”  And they’re in real trouble, a lot of them.
 
And to hear this malarkey you’re hearing from some of the people we — I won’t even get into, but — I’ll lose my temper. 
 
But, anyway, the truth is we’re providing all the resources that are needed.
 
Let me close with this.  I want to thank you again to our brave first responders, powerline workers, state and local officials, and neighbors helping neighbors and so many more. 
 
Look, it’s a team effort.  I know that sounds corny, but it really is a team effort and everybody in the game here.
 
We — we’re looking at it very seriously, and we’re working together.  And it’s made a big difference.  I think we’ve saved lives — not me, but we, all of those folks out in the field have saved lives.   
 
But there’s more to do, and we’re going to do everything in my power to get it done.  And the fact of the matter is that we’re in a situation where — well —
 
SECRETARY GRANHOLM:  She’s (inaudible) —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I — I know.  I’m going to go to the vice president in a second. 
 
The — she — she’s my boss here.  (Laughter.)  (Inaudible.)
 
SECRETARY GRANHOLM:  I wasn’t sure if you saw it.  (Laughs.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We’re — we’re going to be —
 
THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Mr. President —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Wa- — hang on one second, Madam Vice President.
 
THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Sure.  (Laughs.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We’re going to — we’re going to be going to the Congress.  We’re going to need a lot of help, going to need a lot more money as we — as we identify specifically how much is needed.
 
So, I’m just telling everybody now.  I don’t want to hear the — this is going to be the end of it. 
 
So — and so, with that, I’ll le- — I’ll yield to the president — I mean, the vice president.  (Laughter.)
 
THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, Mr. President.  And thank you to all of the men and women represented at the agencies that are represented by the members of the president’s Cabinet for the work that they’ve been doing around the clock.
 
In the wake of Hurricane Milton, we have, of course, witnessed widespread devastation.  Homes and neighborhoods have been severely damaged.  Millions of people are without power and thousands without clean water.
 
To the people of Florida, and — you must know — and to the — all of those in the region, our nation is with you.  We see your incredible strength and resilience, and we are working around the clock to keep you safe.  We continue to coordinate resources with local and state authorities, including food, water, medical supplies, and generators, and we will continue to work with the teams on the ground to restore water and power as quickly as possible.
 
In the coming days and weeks, President Biden and I will make sure that the communities that are there on the ground and have been affected will have the resources they need not only to respond to the storm but also to recover.  And we will continue to keep communities in Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, and across the Southeast — ensured that they will recover from Hurricane Helene.
 
Finally, I will say once again, as Secretary Mayorkas and I have discussed, to any company or individual that is using this crisis to jack up prices through illegal fraud or price gouging, whether it be at the gas pump, the airport, or the hotel counter, we will be monitoring, and there will be a consequence.
 
The bottom line is this.  We are in this for the long haul, and the support and the coordination between federal, state, and local authorities and leaders has been extraordinary and will continue for as long as it takes.
 
I thank you all.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.
 
(Cross-talk.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Holler louder.  Holler louder.  I can’t hear you. 
 
Q    Mr. President, are you worried about —
 
Q    The misinformation that you’ve been talking about that you’re so worried about?  Do you —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Say again.
 
Q    The misinformation that you’ve been —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Yes.
 
Q    — talking about related to this hurricane and the recovery efforts.  Do you think it’s temporary, or do you think and worry that this might be a permanent state of being for this country?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I think it’s a permanent state of being for some extreme people, but I don’t think it’s what the country is about.  It’s — we’re — we’re breaking through it.  We’re breaking through with the truth. 
 
And if you’ve noticed — and I’ve really been proud of — I’ve been on the phone, talking with a lot of Republican mayors and governors.  They’re standing up saying this is — not — not Joe Biden, but conservative, hardcore Republican governors, hardcore Republican mayors standing up and saying, “It’s got to stop.  It’s got to stop.”
 
And — and I — I believe it’s — there’s nothing permanent about it.  I am pleased that more Americans are coming together in a purely voluntary way.  I mean, this is who the hell we are.  When America is in trouble, we all jump in and try to help, help your neighbor.  And that’s ma- — bas- — basically what’s happening. 
 
But what — the thing that bothers me the most is there’s a lot of people who get caught in these crises who are basically alone — you know, widowers, wi- — widowers, people in hospitals, people who are all by themselves.  And they don’t know — and they lose contact, and they get — and they just get scared to death — scared to death.  And — anyway.
 
So, I think it’s a — I think those who have been spreading these lies to try to undermine the opposition are going to pay a price for it.
 
Q    Mr. President, are you worried about this effect —
 
Q    But do you think Donald Trump is singularly to blame for all of this?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  No, he’s not singularly — but he’s just the biggest mouth.
 
Q    Mr. President, will you ask —
 
Q    Mr. President, have you spoken to Speaker Johnson —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  No, I haven’t —
 
Q    — on calling Congress back?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  — but we’re going to — I’ve spoken to Republicans who want to speak to Speaker Johnson.  And I think Speaker Johnson is going to get the message that he’s got to step up, particularly for small businesses. 
 
Q    Do you plan to meet with DeSantis in Florida?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I — I’ve spoken to him.  If he’s a- — if he’s available, yeah.  He’s been very cooperative.  I’ve had no — we’ve had — we got on very, very well. 
 
(Cross-talk.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Let me —
 
Q    Are you as- — are you asking Israel to stop hitting U.N. peacekeepers?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Absolutely, positively. 
 
Q    What — what about nuclear —
 
Q    Mr. President, will you — will you approve Mr. Trump’s request to use military aircraft in the final stages of the campaign?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I’m sorry?
 
Q    Will you approve Mr. Trump’s request to use military aircraft in the final stages of the campaign?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  As long as he doesn’t ask for F-15s.  No, I’m being facetious. 
 
Look, I’ve told the department to give him every — every single thing he needs for his — at any other — as — as he were a sitting president, give all that needs.  If it fits within that category, that’s fine.  But if it doesn’t, he shouldn’t.

1:34 P.M. EDT

The post Remarks by President Biden and Vice President Harris on the Federal Government’s Response to Hurricanes Milton and Helene appeared first on The White House.

Roosevelt Room

1:21 P.M. EDT
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Well, folks, Kamala and I have just received a briefing from senior leaders across our administration from Hurricane Helene and — and Hurricane Milton.  And to state the obvious, I’m sure you feel the same way, our heart goes out to all those folks who — who’ve lost not only personal property but their homes and some lost lives — and grieving after the aftermath of the — the tornados, brutal winds, record downpours, and historic flooding. 
 
I must have spoken in the last three days to 50 to 75 members of the — in Cali- — from North Carolina all the way down to Florida, talking to mayors and county executives and — anyway, it’s just — it’s amazing what’s going on. 
 
And, you know, this is the third major storm — third major storm to hit California — I mean, excuse me, Florida, in three months.  And experts estimate that as — and it’s early — early estimates — it could be more; it could be less — but estimates that it’s caused damages around $50 billion from Hurricane Milton alone — just alone, $50 billion.
 
And I want everyone in the impacted areas to know we’re going to do everything we can to let you — help you pick back up the pieces and get back to where you were. 
 
We’ve been in constant contact, calling and reaching out to over 40 state and local officials, as I said, and they — they need — we have to give them a little bit of hope.  I mean, some of you have been through crises.  You know the one thing you wonder about when things are really bad is, is there hope?  Is — is anybody coming?  What’s going to happen?  And that’s what — that’s what’s happening right now.  State and local officials are — are doing everything they can to help these folks recover.
 
At my request, the primary focus of today’s briefing has been on the power restoration and debris removal, because there are urgent needs. 
 
Milton left over 3 million people without power, but with the dedication of 50,000 powerline workers — 50,000 powerline workers from 43 states and the country of — and Canada have stepped up and come down to help and to restore — they’ve already restored power to 1 million people so far. 
 
And, by the way, if you ever watch these guys and women climb these poles in the middle of nowhere, this is — anyway, they’re — they’re risking this while they’re doing this work. 
 
And I’ve — we just spoke to the CEOs of the public and private electric utilities to thank them for surging their — their restoration crews to people urgently needing power, even in the communities they don’t serve.  That’s one of the points: A lot of these folks are going into the communities they have — they don’t serve at all and just volunteering.  And the energy sector is real. 
 
And, by the way, our secretary, Jennifer Granholm, of Energy, is — she calls it a “mini NATO,” a — a commitment to mutual assistance and another shining example of Americans — literally someone — when push comes to shove, they stand up and take care of one another.
 
We’re going to continue to prioritize this effort until everyone is reconnected and back online. 
 
We’ve been able to get this work done quicker because of critical infrastructure investments we’ve made, but when I was vice president — both when I was vice president and since I’ve been president to harden the grid — the grid — you all know it, but “the grid” meaning, for your listeners, the electric power grid that transmits power — harden the grid by incorporating innovative technologies like burying transmission lines underground, replacing wood power poles with concrete power poles that don’t snap in the wind. 
 
To reduce the impact of extreme weather and climate change, we have to continue making these investments.  We were just talking about it with the utility companies and with our team here and with — with the secretary. 
 
You know, over the years, the past several years, Florida has taken the money, back when we — I got when we were vice president — when I was vice president, to invest in putting these lines underground.  It costs a hell of a lot more to put the lines underground than it does up in the air, but — up to six times more or seven times more — but it makes sense, be- –and anybody who says, “We don’t want to spend the money,” think of the three storms.  Ev- — after every damn storm, it’ll wipe out the power grid; you’ve got to rebuild it.  And so, if you can keep it so it’s not wiped out, it makes a long-term savings.
 
And the other thing that’s a big deal is debris removal.  FEMA and the Corps of Engineers and the Florida National Guard are now on the ground helping the state clear debris — debris to reopen roads and critical ports as well. 

I mean, s- — you’ve seen the pictures.  Some of you have been there.  You see wh- — for example, in North Carolina, where half a mountain comes down and the bridge rolls into the water, and you’ve got — you’ve got piles.  I mean, you — you see at the end of a — end of a river in a cul-de-sac.  I mean, piles are three, four, five feet high with all kinds of debris in there.  It’s going to take a lot of time and money to remove it.
 
But the Army Corps and the Florida National Guard in Florida are on the ground helping clear this debris and reopen the roads.  A- — and so, we can make — they have to do it for other reasons, to make critical deliveries of food, water, and tarps and lifesaving supplies.
 
The Coast Guard is leading the effort to reopen the Port of Tampa, which you — as you all know, because we’ve — everybody’s been covering it and they’ve done a good job of doing it — covering it because it’s a port that delivers a lot of — a lot of fuel that goes into the region and goods that are necessary.  It’s critical for the economy of the region.
 
And — and, again, let me say that the misinformation out there is not only just disgusting, but it — it’s dangerous and it’s misleading.  And, again, the first thing it does — and I mean this sincerely.  I don’t — a lot of you have been through these crises, some of you personally.  But people desperately want hope — “Tell me it’s going to be okay.”  “Tell me it’s going to be okay.”  And they’re in real trouble, a lot of them.
 
And to hear this malarkey you’re hearing from some of the people we — I won’t even get into, but — I’ll lose my temper. 
 
But, anyway, the truth is we’re providing all the resources that are needed.
 
Let me close with this.  I want to thank you again to our brave first responders, powerline workers, state and local officials, and neighbors helping neighbors and so many more. 
 
Look, it’s a team effort.  I know that sounds corny, but it really is a team effort and everybody in the game here.
 
We — we’re looking at it very seriously, and we’re working together.  And it’s made a big difference.  I think we’ve saved lives — not me, but we, all of those folks out in the field have saved lives.   
 
But there’s more to do, and we’re going to do everything in my power to get it done.  And the fact of the matter is that we’re in a situation where — well —
 
SECRETARY GRANHOLM:  She’s (inaudible) —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I — I know.  I’m going to go to the vice president in a second. 
 
The — she — she’s my boss here.  (Laughter.)  (Inaudible.)
 
SECRETARY GRANHOLM:  I wasn’t sure if you saw it.  (Laughs.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We’re — we’re going to be —
 
THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Mr. President —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Wa- — hang on one second, Madam Vice President.
 
THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Sure.  (Laughs.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  We’re going to — we’re going to be going to the Congress.  We’re going to need a lot of help, going to need a lot more money as we — as we identify specifically how much is needed.
 
So, I’m just telling everybody now.  I don’t want to hear the — this is going to be the end of it. 
 
So — and so, with that, I’ll le- — I’ll yield to the president — I mean, the vice president.  (Laughter.)
 
THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, Mr. President.  And thank you to all of the men and women represented at the agencies that are represented by the members of the president’s Cabinet for the work that they’ve been doing around the clock.
 
In the wake of Hurricane Milton, we have, of course, witnessed widespread devastation.  Homes and neighborhoods have been severely damaged.  Millions of people are without power and thousands without clean water.
 
To the people of Florida, and — you must know — and to the — all of those in the region, our nation is with you.  We see your incredible strength and resilience, and we are working around the clock to keep you safe.  We continue to coordinate resources with local and state authorities, including food, water, medical supplies, and generators, and we will continue to work with the teams on the ground to restore water and power as quickly as possible.
 
In the coming days and weeks, President Biden and I will make sure that the communities that are there on the ground and have been affected will have the resources they need not only to respond to the storm but also to recover.  And we will continue to keep communities in Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, and across the Southeast — ensured that they will recover from Hurricane Helene.
 
Finally, I will say once again, as Secretary Mayorkas and I have discussed, to any company or individual that is using this crisis to jack up prices through illegal fraud or price gouging, whether it be at the gas pump, the airport, or the hotel counter, we will be monitoring, and there will be a consequence.
 
The bottom line is this.  We are in this for the long haul, and the support and the coordination between federal, state, and local authorities and leaders has been extraordinary and will continue for as long as it takes.
 
I thank you all.
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you.
 
(Cross-talk.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Holler louder.  Holler louder.  I can’t hear you. 
 
Q    Mr. President, are you worried about —
 
Q    The misinformation that you’ve been talking about that you’re so worried about?  Do you —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Say again.
 
Q    The misinformation that you’ve been —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Yes.
 
Q    — talking about related to this hurricane and the recovery efforts.  Do you think it’s temporary, or do you think and worry that this might be a permanent state of being for this country?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I think it’s a permanent state of being for some extreme people, but I don’t think it’s what the country is about.  It’s — we’re — we’re breaking through it.  We’re breaking through with the truth. 
 
And if you’ve noticed — and I’ve really been proud of — I’ve been on the phone, talking with a lot of Republican mayors and governors.  They’re standing up saying this is — not — not Joe Biden, but conservative, hardcore Republican governors, hardcore Republican mayors standing up and saying, “It’s got to stop.  It’s got to stop.”
 
And — and I — I believe it’s — there’s nothing permanent about it.  I am pleased that more Americans are coming together in a purely voluntary way.  I mean, this is who the hell we are.  When America is in trouble, we all jump in and try to help, help your neighbor.  And that’s ma- — bas- — basically what’s happening. 
 
But what — the thing that bothers me the most is there’s a lot of people who get caught in these crises who are basically alone — you know, widowers, wi- — widowers, people in hospitals, people who are all by themselves.  And they don’t know — and they lose contact, and they get — and they just get scared to death — scared to death.  And — anyway.
 
So, I think it’s a — I think those who have been spreading these lies to try to undermine the opposition are going to pay a price for it.
 
Q    Mr. President, are you worried about this effect —
 
Q    But do you think Donald Trump is singularly to blame for all of this?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  No, he’s not singularly — but he’s just the biggest mouth.
 
Q    Mr. President, will you ask —
 
Q    Mr. President, have you spoken to Speaker Johnson —
 
THE PRESIDENT:  No, I haven’t —
 
Q    — on calling Congress back?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  — but we’re going to — I’ve spoken to Republicans who want to speak to Speaker Johnson.  And I think Speaker Johnson is going to get the message that he’s got to step up, particularly for small businesses. 
 
Q    Do you plan to meet with DeSantis in Florida?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I — I’ve spoken to him.  If he’s a- — if he’s available, yeah.  He’s been very cooperative.  I’ve had no — we’ve had — we got on very, very well. 
 
(Cross-talk.)
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Let me —
 
Q    Are you as- — are you asking Israel to stop hitting U.N. peacekeepers?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  Absolutely, positively. 
 
Q    What — what about nuclear —
 
Q    Mr. President, will you — will you approve Mr. Trump’s request to use military aircraft in the final stages of the campaign?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  I’m sorry?
 
Q    Will you approve Mr. Trump’s request to use military aircraft in the final stages of the campaign?
 
THE PRESIDENT:  As long as he doesn’t ask for F-15s.  No, I’m being facetious. 
 
Look, I’ve told the department to give him every — every single thing he needs for his — at any other — as — as he were a sitting president, give all that needs.  If it fits within that category, that’s fine.  But if it doesn’t, he shouldn’t.

1:34 P.M. EDT

The post Remarks by President Biden and Vice President Harris on the Federal Government’s Response to Hurricanes Milton and Helene appeared first on The White House.

     This Blind Americans Equality Day, we honor the immense contributions of blind and low vision Americans, who help power our economy and push our Nation forward.  And we recommit to ensuring every blind and low vision person in this country has a fair shot at the American Dream.

     Throughout my decades in public service, I have strived to build an America that works for all Americans.  It is why I was proud to co-sponsor the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act — a civil rights law that banned discrimination against people with disabilities in many areas of public life.  I remain proud of its lasting legacy today.  However, there is still more to do to ensure that blind and low vision Americans have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.  From transportation to online job applications, public services are too often designed in ways that are inaccessible for people with disabilities.  And less than half of blind or low vision Americans are employed.

     My Administration is committed to ensuring blind and low vision Americans have equal opportunities.  To that end, I signed an Executive Order to prioritize diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the Federal Government and to identify the barriers faced by job applicants and employees with disabilities.  We are also requiring Federal agencies to prioritize website accessibility so the Government can truly deliver for all Americans.  These are important steps toward making the Federal Government the gold standard for fair, accessible, and decent practices in the workplace.  Furthermore, my Administration is ensuring that blind and low vision Americans hired by the Federal Government are paid a fair wage.  That is why we ended the use of unfair sub‑minimum wages in Federal contracts.  At the same time, we are working to increase hiring for people with disabilities in every sector by helping governments, businesses, and nonprofits access Federal funds to hire more disabled Americans.  

     I am also working to make public spaces more accessible for blind and low vision Americans.  Through my Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are investing $1.75 billion — the largest amount ever — in making transit and rail stations more accessible.  The General Services Administration also adopted the United States Access Board’s new guidelines to ensure people with disabilities have access to the over 300,000 Federal Government buildings.  And the National Institutes of Health designated people with disabilities as a population with health disparities, opening up new research opportunities that will focus on health issues and unmet needs for blind and low vision Americans.

     This Blind Americans Equality Day, may we recommit to advancing accessibility and opportunities for blind and low vision Americans, who do so much for our Nation and deserve every opportunity to thrive. 

     By joint resolution approved on October 6, 1964 (Public Law 88-628, as amended), the Congress authorized October 15 of each year as “White Cane Safety Day,” which is recognized today as “Blind Americans Equality Day,” to honor the contributions of blind and low vision Americans.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2024, as Blind Americans Equality Day.  I call upon all the people of the United States — including all government officials, educators, and volunteers — to mark this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
eleventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
 
 
                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on Blind Americans Equality Day, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

     This Blind Americans Equality Day, we honor the immense contributions of blind and low vision Americans, who help power our economy and push our Nation forward.  And we recommit to ensuring every blind and low vision person in this country has a fair shot at the American Dream.

     Throughout my decades in public service, I have strived to build an America that works for all Americans.  It is why I was proud to co-sponsor the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act — a civil rights law that banned discrimination against people with disabilities in many areas of public life.  I remain proud of its lasting legacy today.  However, there is still more to do to ensure that blind and low vision Americans have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.  From transportation to online job applications, public services are too often designed in ways that are inaccessible for people with disabilities.  And less than half of blind or low vision Americans are employed.

     My Administration is committed to ensuring blind and low vision Americans have equal opportunities.  To that end, I signed an Executive Order to prioritize diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the Federal Government and to identify the barriers faced by job applicants and employees with disabilities.  We are also requiring Federal agencies to prioritize website accessibility so the Government can truly deliver for all Americans.  These are important steps toward making the Federal Government the gold standard for fair, accessible, and decent practices in the workplace.  Furthermore, my Administration is ensuring that blind and low vision Americans hired by the Federal Government are paid a fair wage.  That is why we ended the use of unfair sub‑minimum wages in Federal contracts.  At the same time, we are working to increase hiring for people with disabilities in every sector by helping governments, businesses, and nonprofits access Federal funds to hire more disabled Americans.  

     I am also working to make public spaces more accessible for blind and low vision Americans.  Through my Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are investing $1.75 billion — the largest amount ever — in making transit and rail stations more accessible.  The General Services Administration also adopted the United States Access Board’s new guidelines to ensure people with disabilities have access to the over 300,000 Federal Government buildings.  And the National Institutes of Health designated people with disabilities as a population with health disparities, opening up new research opportunities that will focus on health issues and unmet needs for blind and low vision Americans.

     This Blind Americans Equality Day, may we recommit to advancing accessibility and opportunities for blind and low vision Americans, who do so much for our Nation and deserve every opportunity to thrive. 

     By joint resolution approved on October 6, 1964 (Public Law 88-628, as amended), the Congress authorized October 15 of each year as “White Cane Safety Day,” which is recognized today as “Blind Americans Equality Day,” to honor the contributions of blind and low vision Americans.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2024, as Blind Americans Equality Day.  I call upon all the people of the United States — including all government officials, educators, and volunteers — to mark this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
eleventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
 
 
                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on Blind Americans Equality Day, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

On October 27, 2006, by Executive Order 13413, the President declared a national emergency pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States constituted by the situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has been marked by widespread violence and atrocities that continue to threaten regional stability.  The President took additional steps to address this national emergency in Executive Order 13671 of July 8, 2014.

     The situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States.  For this reason, the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13413 of October 27, 2006, as amended by Executive Order 13671 of July 8, 2014, must continue in effect beyond October 27, 2024.  Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency with respect to the situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo declared in Executive Order 13413, as amended by Executive Order 13671.

     This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE,

    October 11, 2024.

The post Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Democratic Republic of the Congo appeared first on The White House.

On October 27, 2006, by Executive Order 13413, the President declared a national emergency pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States constituted by the situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has been marked by widespread violence and atrocities that continue to threaten regional stability.  The President took additional steps to address this national emergency in Executive Order 13671 of July 8, 2014.

     The situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States.  For this reason, the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13413 of October 27, 2006, as amended by Executive Order 13671 of July 8, 2014, must continue in effect beyond October 27, 2024.  Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency with respect to the situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo declared in Executive Order 13413, as amended by Executive Order 13671.

     This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress.

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

THE WHITE HOUSE,

    October 11, 2024.

The post Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Democratic Republic of the Congo appeared first on The White House.

Dear Mr. Speaker:   (Dear Madam President:)

Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency unless, within 90 days prior to the anniversary date of its declaration, the President publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Congress a notice stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond the anniversary date.  In accordance with this provision, I have sent to the Federal Register for publication the enclosed notice stating that the national emergency with respect to the situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo declared in Executive Order 13413 of October 27, 2006, as amended by Executive Order 13671 of July 8, 2014, is to continue in effect beyond October 27, 2024.

The situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has been marked by widespread violence and atrocities that continue to threaten regional stability, continues to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States.  Therefore, I have determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13413, as amended by Executive Order 13671, with respect to the situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

                              Sincerely,

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post Letter to the Speaker of the House and President of the Senate on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Democratic Republic of the Congo appeared first on The White House.

Dear Mr. Speaker:   (Dear Madam President:)

Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency unless, within 90 days prior to the anniversary date of its declaration, the President publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Congress a notice stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond the anniversary date.  In accordance with this provision, I have sent to the Federal Register for publication the enclosed notice stating that the national emergency with respect to the situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo declared in Executive Order 13413 of October 27, 2006, as amended by Executive Order 13671 of July 8, 2014, is to continue in effect beyond October 27, 2024.

The situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has been marked by widespread violence and atrocities that continue to threaten regional stability, continues to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States.  Therefore, I have determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13413, as amended by Executive Order 13671, with respect to the situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

                              Sincerely,

                              JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post Letter to the Speaker of the House and President of the Senate on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Democratic Republic of the Congo appeared first on The White House.

Teleconference

11:07 A.M. MST

     THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, Douglas.  Thank you, my darling husband. 

And I want to thank you in front of all of the friends for all of the leadership that you have shown and the inspiration that you have given so many and, in particular, our young people.  Many of you may know, Doug has been visiting everything from summer camps to youth organizations and reminding our young leaders of the importance of their pride and their strength, especially at moments like this.  So, thank you, Doug.

And it is wonderful to be with so many friends during the High Holidays.  And my wish, of course, for everyone is that you have a good New Year ahead and an easy fast.

Now, I know this year, as Ilan said, the High Holidays come at a particularly difficult time. 

And earlier this week, of course, we marked the one year since the brutal Hamas terrorist attack on October 7.  And I know it has just rekindled what has been an enduring and deep fear among Jews not just in Israel but in the United States and around the world.

And I know how the existence of a secure, democratic homeland for the Jewish people means so much for Jews and all of us, regardless of where they live.

I will never forget October 7, and the world must never forget.  And we all must work to ensure nothing like the horrors of that day can ever happen again.

To that end, as president, it is my pledge that I will always ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself from Iran and Iran-backed terrorists.  And I will always support Israel’s right to defend itself.  My commitment to the security of Israel is unwavering.

And this — as Doug has said, as Ilan knows — has been a lifelong commitment, starting, as many of you know, when I was a young girl and collected donations on behalf of the Jewish National Fund to plant trees for Israel.  Many of you probably recall those little blue boxes.

And, as president, I will always work to ensure the safety and security of the people of Israel and Jewish people here in the United States and around the world. 

When it comes to the war in Gaza, we have seen so much suffering and pain over the past year, and it is time to bring the conflict to an end.  And I am working to ensure it ends such that Israel is secure, the hostages are released, the suffering in Gaza ends, and the Palestinian people can realize their right to dignity, freedom, and self-determination. 

We are not giving up on a ceasefire and hostage deal.  We cannot.  And I will never stop fighting for the release of all the hostages, including, of course, the seven American citizens, living and deceased, who are still held.  We are fighting for them every day.  As Ilan and Doug have mentioned, I have met and spent time with their families.  And we cannot and will not rest until all the hostages are home. 

We know Hamas is not the only threat Israel faces.  On October 8, Hezbollah began launching rockets at Israel, and the Houthis in Yemen began targeting Israeli cities. 

And what is the common thread?  Well, we all know: Iran, which has now also directly attacked Israel twice.

I am clear-eyed.  Iran is a destabilizing and dangerous force. 

When Donald Trump was president, he let Iran off the hook.  After Iran and its proxies attacked U.S. bases and American troops, Trump did nothing.  And he pulled out of the nuclear deal without any plan, leading to an unconstrained Iranian nuclear program. 

On the other hand, our administration struck Iranian proxies in Iraq and Syria when they attacked American troops, and we are the first administration to ever directly defend Israel. 

On April 13, I joined President Biden and our national security team for more than five hours as we and a coalition of nations that we brought together responded to Iran’s unprecedented attack.  And then, of course, last week, on October 1st, I was in the Situation Room for more than three hours coordinating in real time with our military leadership as our forces intercept milsi- — missiles over the skies of Israel. 

Make no mistake, as president, I will never hesitate to take whatever action is necessary to defend American forces and interests from Iran and Iran-backed terrorists, and I will never allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon. 

Diplomacy is my preferred path to that end, but all options are on the table. 

And let’s be clear.  Donald Trump is not only a threat on the world stage.  As we have seen a rise in antisemitism in our own country, Trump has espoused dangerous and hateful antisemitic tropes, creating fear and division.  He praised some of the neo-Nazi marchers in Charlottesville as, quote, “very fine people.”  He reportedly said Hitler did some, quote, “good things.” 

I have spent my entire career fighting antisemitism.  I prosecuted hate crimes as a district attorney.  I continued this work as attorney general of California, where I published an annual report on hate crimes to ensure that policymakers and law enforcement respond with a sense of urgency and an understanding of the ubiquity of the problem. 

And as vice president, I am proud to be implementing the first-ever National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism, which, of course, Doug was an extraordinary leader in making sure would be created. 

And as president, I will do everything in my power to combat antisemitism whenever and wherever we see it. 

On the topic of antisemitism, I know, across the country, many Jewish parents, grandparents are worried for their children who are on college campuses.  And I know many Jewish students have feared attending class in recent months. 

As we know, in a democracy, everyone has a right to make their voices heard.  I believe in the freedom of speech.  I also believe there is no place for hate or violence in our country. 

When individuals participate in calls to violence and harassment against Jews, that is antisemitism, and I condemn it.  When Jews are targeted because of their beliefs or identity and when Israel is singled out because of anti-Jewish hatred, that is antisemitism, and I condemn it. 

     Each university must ensure all students and faculty are safe and secure on campus. 

In the United States of America, we can and we must ensure people can peacefully make their voices heard, while we also stand up for the rule of law and stand up against hate, and this is a priority for me. 

     In conclusion, I will say, everyone, I believe, should have the freedom to practice their religion and express their faith and the freedom to be safe from violence and fear.  In many ways, that is what we are fighting for in this election. 

     Ours is a fight for freedom, like the freedom of a woman to make decisions about her own body, like the freedom to be safe from gun violence, like the freedom to love who you love openly and with pride. 

     So, to the friends gathered, I know part of the reason we are on this call together is we love our country.  And I do believe it is the highest form of patriotism, of an expression of love for our country to fight for the ideals of our country. 

     Election Day is in 25 days, and early voting is already starting in some states.  So, let’s, please, in the spirit of the holidays and in the spirit of this moment, let’s please use these next 25 days to continue the work of building community and building coalitions.  Let’s remind each other we have so much more in common than what separates us. 

     And let’s implement that spirit by also texting our friends, family members, and neighbors to make sure they know the stakes and to make sure they know their power in this moment. 

     And as we continue to energize, organize, and mobilize, let us know that we are all in this together, in this fight for our democracy, for our country. 

     And as I always say, when we fight, we win. 

     Thank you all.  And please take care. 

Thank you. 

                               END                 11:16 A.M. MST

The post Remarks by Vice President Harris During a Call with Jewish Voters Marking High Holidays appeared first on The White House.

Teleconference

11:07 A.M. MST

     THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, Douglas.  Thank you, my darling husband. 

And I want to thank you in front of all of the friends for all of the leadership that you have shown and the inspiration that you have given so many and, in particular, our young people.  Many of you may know, Doug has been visiting everything from summer camps to youth organizations and reminding our young leaders of the importance of their pride and their strength, especially at moments like this.  So, thank you, Doug.

And it is wonderful to be with so many friends during the High Holidays.  And my wish, of course, for everyone is that you have a good New Year ahead and an easy fast.

Now, I know this year, as Ilan said, the High Holidays come at a particularly difficult time. 

And earlier this week, of course, we marked the one year since the brutal Hamas terrorist attack on October 7.  And I know it has just rekindled what has been an enduring and deep fear among Jews not just in Israel but in the United States and around the world.

And I know how the existence of a secure, democratic homeland for the Jewish people means so much for Jews and all of us, regardless of where they live.

I will never forget October 7, and the world must never forget.  And we all must work to ensure nothing like the horrors of that day can ever happen again.

To that end, as president, it is my pledge that I will always ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself from Iran and Iran-backed terrorists.  And I will always support Israel’s right to defend itself.  My commitment to the security of Israel is unwavering.

And this — as Doug has said, as Ilan knows — has been a lifelong commitment, starting, as many of you know, when I was a young girl and collected donations on behalf of the Jewish National Fund to plant trees for Israel.  Many of you probably recall those little blue boxes.

And, as president, I will always work to ensure the safety and security of the people of Israel and Jewish people here in the United States and around the world. 

When it comes to the war in Gaza, we have seen so much suffering and pain over the past year, and it is time to bring the conflict to an end.  And I am working to ensure it ends such that Israel is secure, the hostages are released, the suffering in Gaza ends, and the Palestinian people can realize their right to dignity, freedom, and self-determination. 

We are not giving up on a ceasefire and hostage deal.  We cannot.  And I will never stop fighting for the release of all the hostages, including, of course, the seven American citizens, living and deceased, who are still held.  We are fighting for them every day.  As Ilan and Doug have mentioned, I have met and spent time with their families.  And we cannot and will not rest until all the hostages are home. 

We know Hamas is not the only threat Israel faces.  On October 8, Hezbollah began launching rockets at Israel, and the Houthis in Yemen began targeting Israeli cities. 

And what is the common thread?  Well, we all know: Iran, which has now also directly attacked Israel twice.

I am clear-eyed.  Iran is a destabilizing and dangerous force. 

When Donald Trump was president, he let Iran off the hook.  After Iran and its proxies attacked U.S. bases and American troops, Trump did nothing.  And he pulled out of the nuclear deal without any plan, leading to an unconstrained Iranian nuclear program. 

On the other hand, our administration struck Iranian proxies in Iraq and Syria when they attacked American troops, and we are the first administration to ever directly defend Israel. 

On April 13, I joined President Biden and our national security team for more than five hours as we and a coalition of nations that we brought together responded to Iran’s unprecedented attack.  And then, of course, last week, on October 1st, I was in the Situation Room for more than three hours coordinating in real time with our military leadership as our forces intercept milsi- — missiles over the skies of Israel. 

Make no mistake, as president, I will never hesitate to take whatever action is necessary to defend American forces and interests from Iran and Iran-backed terrorists, and I will never allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon. 

Diplomacy is my preferred path to that end, but all options are on the table. 

And let’s be clear.  Donald Trump is not only a threat on the world stage.  As we have seen a rise in antisemitism in our own country, Trump has espoused dangerous and hateful antisemitic tropes, creating fear and division.  He praised some of the neo-Nazi marchers in Charlottesville as, quote, “very fine people.”  He reportedly said Hitler did some, quote, “good things.” 

I have spent my entire career fighting antisemitism.  I prosecuted hate crimes as a district attorney.  I continued this work as attorney general of California, where I published an annual report on hate crimes to ensure that policymakers and law enforcement respond with a sense of urgency and an understanding of the ubiquity of the problem. 

And as vice president, I am proud to be implementing the first-ever National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism, which, of course, Doug was an extraordinary leader in making sure would be created. 

And as president, I will do everything in my power to combat antisemitism whenever and wherever we see it. 

On the topic of antisemitism, I know, across the country, many Jewish parents, grandparents are worried for their children who are on college campuses.  And I know many Jewish students have feared attending class in recent months. 

As we know, in a democracy, everyone has a right to make their voices heard.  I believe in the freedom of speech.  I also believe there is no place for hate or violence in our country. 

When individuals participate in calls to violence and harassment against Jews, that is antisemitism, and I condemn it.  When Jews are targeted because of their beliefs or identity and when Israel is singled out because of anti-Jewish hatred, that is antisemitism, and I condemn it. 

     Each university must ensure all students and faculty are safe and secure on campus. 

In the United States of America, we can and we must ensure people can peacefully make their voices heard, while we also stand up for the rule of law and stand up against hate, and this is a priority for me. 

     In conclusion, I will say, everyone, I believe, should have the freedom to practice their religion and express their faith and the freedom to be safe from violence and fear.  In many ways, that is what we are fighting for in this election. 

     Ours is a fight for freedom, like the freedom of a woman to make decisions about her own body, like the freedom to be safe from gun violence, like the freedom to love who you love openly and with pride. 

     So, to the friends gathered, I know part of the reason we are on this call together is we love our country.  And I do believe it is the highest form of patriotism, of an expression of love for our country to fight for the ideals of our country. 

     Election Day is in 25 days, and early voting is already starting in some states.  So, let’s, please, in the spirit of the holidays and in the spirit of this moment, let’s please use these next 25 days to continue the work of building community and building coalitions.  Let’s remind each other we have so much more in common than what separates us. 

     And let’s implement that spirit by also texting our friends, family members, and neighbors to make sure they know the stakes and to make sure they know their power in this moment. 

     And as we continue to energize, organize, and mobilize, let us know that we are all in this together, in this fight for our democracy, for our country. 

     And as I always say, when we fight, we win. 

     Thank you all.  And please take care. 

Thank you. 

                               END                 11:16 A.M. MST

The post Remarks by Vice President Harris During a Call with Jewish Voters Marking High Holidays appeared first on The White House.

On October 1, Iran launched a ballistic missile attack against Israel.  This attack targeted Israel’s most populated city, Tel Aviv, and could have killed hundreds if not thousands of innocent people.  Fortunately, the attack was defeated and rendered ineffective thanks to the U.S. military working in partnership with Israeli Defense Forces.  Following that reckless attack, we made clear that Iran would face severe consequences.  We have since consulted with allies and partners, including a call between the President and his G7 counterparts, and today the Departments of the Treasury and State have announced new and significant measures to more effectively target Iran’s energy trade.  The new designations today also include measures against the “Ghost Fleet” that carries Iran’s illicit oil to buyers around the world. These measures will help further deny Iran financial resources used to support its missile programs and provide support for terrorist groups that threaten the United States, its allies, and partners.  

President Biden has consistently confronted Iran‘s destabilizing actions and will continue to do so.  Under the Biden-Harris administration, the United States has not lifted a single sanction on Iran and has designated over 700 individuals and entities connected to the full range of Iran’s destabilizing activities and support for terrorism across the Middle East and globally.  Today’s announcement has been coordinated with allies and partners, many of whom will announce their own measures to hold Iran accountable for its attack over the coming days.

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On October 1, Iran launched a ballistic missile attack against Israel.  This attack targeted Israel’s most populated city, Tel Aviv, and could have killed hundreds if not thousands of innocent people.  Fortunately, the attack was defeated and rendered ineffective thanks to the U.S. military working in partnership with Israeli Defense Forces.  Following that reckless attack, we made clear that Iran would face severe consequences.  We have since consulted with allies and partners, including a call between the President and his G7 counterparts, and today the Departments of the Treasury and State have announced new and significant measures to more effectively target Iran’s energy trade.  The new designations today also include measures against the “Ghost Fleet” that carries Iran’s illicit oil to buyers around the world. These measures will help further deny Iran financial resources used to support its missile programs and provide support for terrorist groups that threaten the United States, its allies, and partners.  

President Biden has consistently confronted Iran‘s destabilizing actions and will continue to do so.  Under the Biden-Harris administration, the United States has not lifted a single sanction on Iran and has designated over 700 individuals and entities connected to the full range of Iran’s destabilizing activities and support for terrorism across the Middle East and globally.  Today’s announcement has been coordinated with allies and partners, many of whom will announce their own measures to hold Iran accountable for its attack over the coming days.

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President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Prabowo Subianto on October 20, 2024, in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The Honorable Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations, will lead the delegation.

Members of the Presidential Delegation:

The Honorable Kamala Shirin Lakhdhir, United States Ambassador to the Republic of Indonesia

The Honorable Don Graves, Deputy Secretary of Commerce, U.S. Department of Commerce

Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. Department of Defense

The Honorable Daniel J. Kritenbrink, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, U.S. Department of State

The Honorable Mira Rapp-Hooper, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for East Asia and Oceania, National Security Council, The White House

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President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Prabowo Subianto on October 20, 2024, in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The Honorable Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations, will lead the delegation.

Members of the Presidential Delegation:

The Honorable Kamala Shirin Lakhdhir, United States Ambassador to the Republic of Indonesia

The Honorable Don Graves, Deputy Secretary of Commerce, U.S. Department of Commerce

Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. Department of Defense

The Honorable Daniel J. Kritenbrink, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, U.S. Department of State

The Honorable Mira Rapp-Hooper, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for East Asia and Oceania, National Security Council, The White House

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     On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we honor Indigenous peoples’ strength, courage, and resilience.  We celebrate the vast contributions of Indigenous communities to the world.  And we recommit to respecting Tribal sovereignty and self-determination and working to usher in a new era of our Nation-to-Nation relationships.

     The history of America’s Indigenous peoples is marked by perseverance, survival, and a deep commitment to and pride in their heritage, right to self-governance, and ways of life.  Since time immemorial, Indigenous peoples have built and sustained powerful Tribal Nations, cultivated rich cultures, and established vibrant communities.  And their discoveries and knowledge still benefit us today.  But because of our Nation’s failed policies of the past, generations of Native peoples have faced cruelty, violence, and intimidation.  They were forced to leave their homelands, prohibited from speaking their own languages and practicing their sacred traditions, and forced into assimilation.  Indigenous lives were lost, livelihoods were ripped away, and communities were fundamentally altered.  Despite the trauma and turmoil, Indigenous peoples have persisted and survived.  Their stories are testaments to the bravery and resolve of generations to preserve their heritage, cultures, and identities for those to come after them. 

     Today, Indigenous peoples lead in every way, share their histories, and strengthen their communities.  They are also stewarding lands and waters, growing our shared prosperity, and celebrating the good of our Nation while pushing us to tell the full truth of our history.  Indigenous peoples have long served in the United States military, fighting for democracy.  And Indigenous communities continue to be an integral part of the fabric of the United States, contributing so much to our shared prosperity.

     I remain committed to writing a new and better chapter in our history.  To make this new era of self-determination a reality, we must honor the solemn promises the United States made to fulfill our trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations and work together to rebuild Tribal economies and institutions. 

     From day one, I have worked to include Indigenous voices at the table in all we do.  I have appointed Native Americans to lead across the Federal Government, including the Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland — America’s first Native American Cabinet secretary — and so many others serving in key roles in my Administration.  I was proud to re-establish the White House Council on Native American Affairs to help coordinate policy.  Together, we have taken historic steps to improve the consultation process between Federal agencies and Tribal Nations.  

     I also believe that Tribal Nations know best what is right for their communities, and they do better when they make their own decisions.  That is why I signed an Executive Order to respect the Nation-to-Nation relationship by ensuring Federal agencies respect the autonomy of tribes, cutting red tape so Tribal leaders can deliver for their communities.  At the same time, we are strengthening the Buy Indian Act so that Federal agencies get more goods and services from Native-owned businesses.  These initiatives will help grow Tribal economies while respecting Tribal sovereignty and Tribal Nations’ right to build a future on their own terms. 

     Since I came into office, the Federal Government has made record investments in Tribal Nations.  My American Rescue Plan -‑ the largest direct Federal investment in Tribal Nations ever — helped provide COVID-19 vaccinations to Tribal communities and got our economy going again.  My Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is the single biggest investment in Tribal roads, bridges, water, high-speed internet, electricity, irrigation, environmental cleanup, and more.  My Inflation Reduction Act is the biggest investment in fighting climate change ever, anywhere in the history of the world.  It is helping Tribal communities lead in the transition to clean energy and mitigate the impact of droughts, wildfires, and rising sea levels that threaten Native lives and precious homelands.  My Administration has also provided increased resources to fight the opioid epidemic and expand access to crisis care in Tribal communities.  Given that Native American women are two times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than White women, my Administration has taken significant steps to improve maternal health.  And my Administration also secured the first-ever advance funding for the Indian Health Service so hospitals can plan ahead, order supplies, and hire doctors.
 
     When my Administration reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act in 2022, we included historic provisions to reaffirm Tribal sovereignty and expand Tribal jurisdiction in cases where outside perpetrators harm members of their Nation.  And recognizing the ties of Indigenous peoples across North America, I supported a Trilateral Working Group with Canada and Mexico to ensure Indigenous women and girls in all three countries can live free from violence. 

     My Administration is also preserving important ancestral Tribal lands and waters.  I have protected and conserved more than 42 million acres of our Nation’s lands and waters.  I established, expanded, or restored 11 national monuments — including Bears Ears National Monument, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Avi Kwa Ame National Monument, Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni-Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument, Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, and others containing sites considered sacred to Tribal Nations.  We are advancing the proposed Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, which stretches along 116 miles of California coastline and has been home to coastal, ocean-going Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples for tens of thousands of years.  My Administration has also signed over 190 co-stewardship or co-management agreements with Tribes, and we are working to sign more.

     On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we recognize that it is hard work to heal the wrongs of the past and to change course and move forward, but together, nothing is beyond our capacity.  May we take pride in the progress we have made to establish a new era of Tribal sovereignty and Indigenous self-determination — one grounded in dignity, respect, and friendship.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 14, 2024, as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.  I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.  I also direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse history and the Indigenous peoples who contribute to shaping this Nation.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eleventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
 
 
                               JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.
 

The post A Proclamation on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

     On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we honor Indigenous peoples’ strength, courage, and resilience.  We celebrate the vast contributions of Indigenous communities to the world.  And we recommit to respecting Tribal sovereignty and self-determination and working to usher in a new era of our Nation-to-Nation relationships.

     The history of America’s Indigenous peoples is marked by perseverance, survival, and a deep commitment to and pride in their heritage, right to self-governance, and ways of life.  Since time immemorial, Indigenous peoples have built and sustained powerful Tribal Nations, cultivated rich cultures, and established vibrant communities.  And their discoveries and knowledge still benefit us today.  But because of our Nation’s failed policies of the past, generations of Native peoples have faced cruelty, violence, and intimidation.  They were forced to leave their homelands, prohibited from speaking their own languages and practicing their sacred traditions, and forced into assimilation.  Indigenous lives were lost, livelihoods were ripped away, and communities were fundamentally altered.  Despite the trauma and turmoil, Indigenous peoples have persisted and survived.  Their stories are testaments to the bravery and resolve of generations to preserve their heritage, cultures, and identities for those to come after them. 

     Today, Indigenous peoples lead in every way, share their histories, and strengthen their communities.  They are also stewarding lands and waters, growing our shared prosperity, and celebrating the good of our Nation while pushing us to tell the full truth of our history.  Indigenous peoples have long served in the United States military, fighting for democracy.  And Indigenous communities continue to be an integral part of the fabric of the United States, contributing so much to our shared prosperity.

     I remain committed to writing a new and better chapter in our history.  To make this new era of self-determination a reality, we must honor the solemn promises the United States made to fulfill our trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations and work together to rebuild Tribal economies and institutions. 

     From day one, I have worked to include Indigenous voices at the table in all we do.  I have appointed Native Americans to lead across the Federal Government, including the Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland — America’s first Native American Cabinet secretary — and so many others serving in key roles in my Administration.  I was proud to re-establish the White House Council on Native American Affairs to help coordinate policy.  Together, we have taken historic steps to improve the consultation process between Federal agencies and Tribal Nations.  

     I also believe that Tribal Nations know best what is right for their communities, and they do better when they make their own decisions.  That is why I signed an Executive Order to respect the Nation-to-Nation relationship by ensuring Federal agencies respect the autonomy of tribes, cutting red tape so Tribal leaders can deliver for their communities.  At the same time, we are strengthening the Buy Indian Act so that Federal agencies get more goods and services from Native-owned businesses.  These initiatives will help grow Tribal economies while respecting Tribal sovereignty and Tribal Nations’ right to build a future on their own terms. 

     Since I came into office, the Federal Government has made record investments in Tribal Nations.  My American Rescue Plan -‑ the largest direct Federal investment in Tribal Nations ever — helped provide COVID-19 vaccinations to Tribal communities and got our economy going again.  My Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is the single biggest investment in Tribal roads, bridges, water, high-speed internet, electricity, irrigation, environmental cleanup, and more.  My Inflation Reduction Act is the biggest investment in fighting climate change ever, anywhere in the history of the world.  It is helping Tribal communities lead in the transition to clean energy and mitigate the impact of droughts, wildfires, and rising sea levels that threaten Native lives and precious homelands.  My Administration has also provided increased resources to fight the opioid epidemic and expand access to crisis care in Tribal communities.  Given that Native American women are two times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than White women, my Administration has taken significant steps to improve maternal health.  And my Administration also secured the first-ever advance funding for the Indian Health Service so hospitals can plan ahead, order supplies, and hire doctors.
 
     When my Administration reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act in 2022, we included historic provisions to reaffirm Tribal sovereignty and expand Tribal jurisdiction in cases where outside perpetrators harm members of their Nation.  And recognizing the ties of Indigenous peoples across North America, I supported a Trilateral Working Group with Canada and Mexico to ensure Indigenous women and girls in all three countries can live free from violence. 

     My Administration is also preserving important ancestral Tribal lands and waters.  I have protected and conserved more than 42 million acres of our Nation’s lands and waters.  I established, expanded, or restored 11 national monuments — including Bears Ears National Monument, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Avi Kwa Ame National Monument, Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni-Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument, Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, and others containing sites considered sacred to Tribal Nations.  We are advancing the proposed Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, which stretches along 116 miles of California coastline and has been home to coastal, ocean-going Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples for tens of thousands of years.  My Administration has also signed over 190 co-stewardship or co-management agreements with Tribes, and we are working to sign more.

     On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we recognize that it is hard work to heal the wrongs of the past and to change course and move forward, but together, nothing is beyond our capacity.  May we take pride in the progress we have made to establish a new era of Tribal sovereignty and Indigenous self-determination — one grounded in dignity, respect, and friendship.

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 14, 2024, as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.  I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.  I also direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse history and the Indigenous peoples who contribute to shaping this Nation.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eleventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
 
 
                               JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.
 

The post A Proclamation on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

     Today, we celebrate the proud heritage of Italian Americans in our Nation, whose contributions and character have shaped our country’s soul.

     I believe we are the only Nation in the world with a heart and soul that draws from old and new.  For some Italian-American families, the stories they share about their ancestors’ lives in this country stretch back generations.  They are stories about immigrants who left everything behind to sail across an ocean and chase the American Dream for the hope of a brighter future.  They are stories about ancestors who helped build this country and found America’s middle class — and their traditions and recipes still bring joy to their families today.  They are stories of Italian-American artists, laborers, lawmakers, and leaders who never gave up on the idea of America.  And for many Italian Americans, the story of Christopher Columbus’ voyage crossing the Atlantic from the Spanish port of Palos de la Frontera on behalf of Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II remains a source of pride.  But no matter if their families arrived here centuries ago or only recently, Italian Americans’ courage, strength, and character are woven into the rich tapestry of our country.

     For many Italian Americans, the lives of their ancestors in this country were not always easy.  In addition to the challenges of starting life in a new land, they also faced discrimination.  Columbus Day was founded by President Benjamin Harrison in 1892 in response to the horrific, xenophobic attack that took the lives of 11 Italian Americans the year before.  In the face of hate, Italian Americans persisted — advancing our Nation and challenging us to live up to our highest values. 

     My Administration also recognizes that Italian Americans are a source of strength in our country’s unshakeable alliance, strategic partnership, and deep friendship with Italy.  The ties between our countries are founded on our shared values and principles:  democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights.  Both of our nations take pride in standing with the brave people of Ukraine as they defend themselves against Russia’s illegal aggression.

     Today, may we honor the history and heritage of Italian Americans and all that they have done to help realize the full promise of America for generations.

     In commemoration of Christopher Columbus’ historic voyage 532 years ago, the Congress, by joint resolution of April 30, 1934, and modified in 1968 (36 U.S.C. 107), as amended, has requested the President proclaim the second Monday of October of each year as “Columbus Day.”

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 14, 2024, as Columbus Day.  I direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse history and all who have contributed to shaping this Nation.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
eleventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
 
                               JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on Columbus Day, 2024 appeared first on The White House.

     Today, we celebrate the proud heritage of Italian Americans in our Nation, whose contributions and character have shaped our country’s soul.

     I believe we are the only Nation in the world with a heart and soul that draws from old and new.  For some Italian-American families, the stories they share about their ancestors’ lives in this country stretch back generations.  They are stories about immigrants who left everything behind to sail across an ocean and chase the American Dream for the hope of a brighter future.  They are stories about ancestors who helped build this country and found America’s middle class — and their traditions and recipes still bring joy to their families today.  They are stories of Italian-American artists, laborers, lawmakers, and leaders who never gave up on the idea of America.  And for many Italian Americans, the story of Christopher Columbus’ voyage crossing the Atlantic from the Spanish port of Palos de la Frontera on behalf of Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II remains a source of pride.  But no matter if their families arrived here centuries ago or only recently, Italian Americans’ courage, strength, and character are woven into the rich tapestry of our country.

     For many Italian Americans, the lives of their ancestors in this country were not always easy.  In addition to the challenges of starting life in a new land, they also faced discrimination.  Columbus Day was founded by President Benjamin Harrison in 1892 in response to the horrific, xenophobic attack that took the lives of 11 Italian Americans the year before.  In the face of hate, Italian Americans persisted — advancing our Nation and challenging us to live up to our highest values. 

     My Administration also recognizes that Italian Americans are a source of strength in our country’s unshakeable alliance, strategic partnership, and deep friendship with Italy.  The ties between our countries are founded on our shared values and principles:  democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights.  Both of our nations take pride in standing with the brave people of Ukraine as they defend themselves against Russia’s illegal aggression.

     Today, may we honor the history and heritage of Italian Americans and all that they have done to help realize the full promise of America for generations.

     In commemoration of Christopher Columbus’ historic voyage 532 years ago, the Congress, by joint resolution of April 30, 1934, and modified in 1968 (36 U.S.C. 107), as amended, has requested the President proclaim the second Monday of October of each year as “Columbus Day.”

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 14, 2024, as Columbus Day.  I direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of our diverse history and all who have contributed to shaping this Nation.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
eleventh day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
 
                               JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The post A Proclamation on Columbus Day, 2024 appeared first on The White House.