Joe Biden White House - Consolidated Releases

May 2, 2024

In the morning, the Vice President will receive briefings and conduct internal meetings with staff. These meetings will be closed press.

In the afternoon, the President and the Vice President will receive the President's Daily Brief. This meeting in the Oval Office will be closed press.

Then, the Vice President will attend a ceremony where the President will present the Presidential Medal of Freedom to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the country. This ceremony in the East Room will be covered by the in-town pool and pre-credentialed media.

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May 2, 2024

Remarks as Prepared for Delivery by First Lady Jill Biden at National Teachers of the Year State Dinner

The East Room

Thank you, Secretary Cardona. Miguel, Joe and I are so grateful for your work – when you're around, it's hard not to feel excited for our future. You know that education can change lives, and you're fighting every day for our students and their educators.

Second Gentleman Emhoff – Doug – You're the best second gentleman ever. And I'm so glad to be able to call you a fellow teacher.

Secretaries Becerra and Buttigieg, Carolina, Chasten – thank you, and the other administration officials here, for taking the time to be here tonight.

And we have so many incredible members of Congress joining us who have come out of the classroom or worked in education. I'm grateful to have you here – and we're all grateful for your work to support our educators.

Welcome to the White House! And the first-ever Teachers of the Year State Dinner.

Tonight, we celebrate you. Because teaching isn't just a job. It's a calling.

And all of you were called to this profession for a reason. You believe that a better world is possible – and you make that world real, one student at a time. As you sit here tonight, you don't just represent yourselves – you represent your entire communities, parents, students, and educators, who thought you were the best of them, and they selected you.

And none of that could happen without the support of our unions.

Randi, Becky – thank you for always showing up for your members. We're all so grateful for your leadership.

To CCSSO leaders here: we couldn't do this without you. You are treasured partners.

And CCSSO worked with your principals to present you with a gift from home – the surprise that was on each of your seats tonight. We're so grateful for all their hard work.

As I've traveled the country as your first lady, it's been my honor to meet so many incredible educators in classrooms and student centers and libraries.

Teachers who redid their lesson plans overnight during the pandemic and came to the rescue as students faced a crisis like never before. Teachers who support our military kids as they start over in their newest school, because the average military kid changes schools between six and nine times before they graduate from high school. Teachers who are helping students find career paths that will change their lives – leading dual enrollment courses, and providing hands-on learning in science labs and carpentry classrooms, so students can take a first step toward a career they love.

I always knew that Joe would be the education President. And he's delivered on his promises: An amazing Secretary of Education who comes out of the public school classroom. Following a devastating pandemic, he reopened our schools safely and quickly, making historic investments in public schools to support our teachers, the academic and mental health needs of students, community schools, and career and technical education. He fixed student loan relief for public servants.

And he's fighting to make sure educators are paid what they're worth. Since Joe took office, 30 states and DC have increased teacher pay!

To answer this call of service, is in itself, an act of hope. You look at your students and don't just see who they are today – you see all the possibility of tomorrow. You help them find the light within themselves. And that light lives on in all of you. Tonight, as I look out at the glow of these candles, you all shine so brightly. This room represents potential – the glittering hope ahead – what we give to the next generation.

When I was a little girl, my grandmother would sometimes take me to school with her, a one room schoolhouse in a small town in South Jersey. She loved her work, and her students loved her in return. And she used to call her students to class with a big brass bell.

When she died, she didn't leave behind a giant estate. But what I inherited from her – what I still have to this day – is that bell.

And I sometimes think about the way her legacy resonated into the world like waves of sound, changing those who heard its ring.

I think of every student she taught, and wonder what amazing things they grew up to do. Perhaps they are public servants working to make our communities a little stronger, a little fairer. Perhaps they are doctors saving lives, or architects building our cities, or scientists working to solve global challenges.

And of course, there's at least one teacher.

Today, all of you ring your own bell – pulling each person you teach into a harmony that never ends.

Right now, someone out there is a better thinker because of you. Someone is standing a little taller because you helped her find the confidence she needed. Someone is working a little harder because you pushed him to try. Someone is kinder because you showed her what that meant. And someone is braver because you helped him find his courage.

Never stop ringing that bell. Never forget that, student by student, the lives you change go on to change the world.

Let's raise a glass: to you.

Cheers.

Nestled among the Smoky Mountain peaks and rolling hills, sits Rogersville City School. And at that school, in a classroom lined with pictures of her students, there's a teacher like no other: Missy Testerman. For the last 31 years, she has supported students there, not just as learners, but as members of the community.

When their families need help going to the bank, she takes them. When students need to learn how to make a phone call, she teaches them. When the plumbing was making the entire school smell – she brought educators and community members together to get it fixed.

And, years ago, when she realized students weren't performing well academically – despite incredible teachers who were trying each day – she turned the first six weeks of school into Bootcamp Academy – where students learn how to understand questions and expectations – so they can learn how to learn. And her students thrived. She recruited colleagues, and suddenly, everyone was doing bootcamp academy – and students soared.

I'm honored to have Missy representing our profession.

As her students say: "She makes everyone feel important." "She helps us feel more welcome." "She made sure I was taken care of." "She makes me smile all the time." "She's the best."

Please welcome, your National Teacher of the Year, Missy Testerman.

May 2, 2024

This evening, First Lady Jill Biden will host the first-ever "Teachers of the Year" State Dinner at the White House. This event will honor the 2024 National Teacher of the Year, Missy Testerman from Tennessee, and the State Teachers of the Year from across the country for their excellence in teaching and commitment to students' learning. The Council of Chief State School Officers oversees the National Teacher of the Year Program, which identifies exceptional teachers across the country.

The following is a complete list of expected guests:

FIRST LADY OF THE UNITED STATES, DR. JILL BIDEN

The Honorable Mala Adiga, Deputy Assistant to the President and Policy Director to the First Lady

Mrs. Kylie Altier, Louisiana Teacher of the Year & Mr. Garrett Altier

Ms. Kim Anderson

Mr. Zachary Arenz, New York Teacher of the Year & Mr. David Jarmusz

Mrs. Renée Atkinson, South Carolina Teacher of the Year & Mr. Johnson Atkinson

Mrs. Jillian Balow

Ms. Beth Barkley, District of Columbia Teacher of the Year & Ms. Dawn Barkley

Ms. Astral Battiste, U.S. Virgin Islands Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Sharnelle Molloy

Mr. Ronald Beaupre

Ms. Colette Beausoliel, Guam Teacher of the Year & Ms. Sharon Beausoliel

The Honorable Xavier Becerra, Secretary of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services & Dr. Carolina Reyes

The Honorable Anthony Bernal, Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the First Lady

Dr. Ellen Bernstein

Dr. Roy Biñas Basa, New Mexico Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Rozel Jaena Basa

Ms. Leslie H. Blatteau

Mrs. Jen Bramson

Mrs. Sarah Brown

Ms. Sarah Brown Wessling

Mr. Taylor Bussinger, Kansas Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Jill Bussinger

The Honorable Pete Buttigieg, Secretary of Transportation & Mr. Chasten Buttigieg

Mr. Noel Candelaria

Dr. Liza Caraballo-Suarez

The Honorable Jessica Cardichon, Special Assistant to the President for Education

The Honorable Miguel Cardona, Secretary of Education, U.S. Department of Education

Mr. Efrain Casillas, Arizona Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Evelyn Casillas

Mr. Joshua Chard, Maine Teacher of the Year & Mr. Robert Gauthier

Ms. Donna M. Chiera

Ms. Tanya T. Coats

Mrs. Sharon Cole, West Virginia Teacher of the Year & Mr. Chris Cole

Mr. Brian Michael Collins, Wisconsin Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Cynthia Collins

Mrs. Mary Kay Connerton, Maryland Teacher of the Year & Mr. Robert Connerton

Mr. John Corbin, Wyoming Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Melissa Corbin

Mrs. Aimée Couto, Rhode Island Teacher of the Year & Mr. Adam Couto

Mr. Casey Cuny, California Teacher of the Year & Mr. Dylan Cuny

Mr. Kevin James Dailey, Kentucky Teacher of the Year & Dr. Jessica Brownfield

Mr. Kevin Dalton

Mr. John Danielson

Ms. Evelyn DeJesus

Dr. Paolo A. DeMaria

Mrs. Elizabeth Duclos, New Hampshire Teacher of the Year & Mr. Jeremy Duclos

The Honorable Carlos Elizondo, Deputy Assistant to the President and White House Social Secretary

Mr. Douglas Emhoff, Second Gentleman of the United States

Ms. Jasmine Estes

Ms. Brooke Evans

Ms. Marcella Fitisone, American Samoa Teacher of the Year & Mr. Lancelot Tei

Ms. Kiana Foster-Mauro, Connecticut Teacher of the Year & Ms. Jennifer Mauro

Ms. Margaret Frank

Mrs. Jackie Freitas, Hawaiʻi Teacher of the Year & Mr. Robert Freitas

Mrs. Kerrie Ann Gill, Department of Defense Education Activity Teacher of the Year & Mr. Andrew Gill

Ms. Julie Green

Mr. Cory Hafer, Delaware Teacher of the Year & Dr. Jocelyn Hafer

Ms. Andrea Hajek

Mr. Ryan Hardesty, Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Melissa Hardesty

Mr. David Hartsook

Mr. George J. Hawkins, Esq., South Dakota Teacher of the Year & Ms. Stacy Hawkins

The Honorable Jahana Hayes, U.S. Representative

The Honorable Chrissy Houlahan, U.S. Representative

Mr. Michael Houston, Minnesota Teacher of the Year & Ms. Amy Mousel-Houston

Mr. Aaron D. Huff

Mr. Roque C. Indalecio, Northern Mariana Islands Teacher of the Year & Mr. Andrew Romolo Orsini II

Mr. Fedrick Ingram

Ms. Candice Chavice Jackson, Michigan Teacher of the Year & Mr. Joseph Jackson

Mr. Edwin Jarnagin

Mr. Eric Jenkins, Indiana Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Kristen Jenkins

Mr. Mark Jewell

Ms. Deyon Johnson

Mrs. Yvonne Johnson

Mrs. Kimberly Samaria Jones, North Carolina Teacher of the Year & Mr. Joshua Norris

Mr. Jeff Keller, Virginia Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Courtney Keller

Mr. Gregory Kester, Missouri Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Amy Kester

Mr. Kevin Kicking Woman, Montana Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Joni Kicking Woman

Mr. Tom Klaameyer

Dr. Julie Kochanek

Ms. Kim Kohlhaas

Mr. Steve Kromer

Dr. James Lane

Ms. Nicole Lazarte

Mr. Dan Leeds

The Honorable Suzanne Lee, U.S. Representative

Mr. Mark Lowrie, Ohio Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Celina Lowrie

Dr. Eric G. Mackey

Mr. Fekru Makonnen

Ms. Aziza Malik, Vermont Teacher of the Year & Mr. Kevin Mailepors

Mrs. Carly Maloney, Utah Teacher of the Year & Mr. Jacob Maloney

Ms. Traci Manuel, Oklahoma Teacher of the Year & Ms. DeArnetta Ward

Ms. Gladys M'rquez

The Honorable Cindy Marten, Deputy Secretary of Education

Mr. Ron Martin

Mrs. Jessica May, Colorado Teacher of the Year & Ms. Nancee Deason

Mr. Braeden Mayrisch

Ms. Shannon McCann

Mr. Beau McCastlain, Arkansas Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Dedra McCastlain

Ms. Melissa McGrath Mandato

Mrs. Margaret Reed Millar

Dr. Carissa Miller

Ms. Ann Mincks, Iowa State Teacher of the Year & Mr. Muneer Al Azzawi

Ms. Jennifer Mishory, Senior Advisor to the First Lady on Workforce Development and Education

Dr. Christyan Mitchell

Mr. Dan Montgomery

Dr. Jonathan Moore

Ms. Briana Morales, Illinois Teacher of the Year & Mr. Phillip Gordon

Ms. Lisa Morgan

Ms. Princess Moss

Ms. Sana-Alyse Muhammad

Mr. Joe Nappi, New Jersey Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Cristina Nappi

Ms. Janai Nelson

Mr. Jeff Norris, Alabama Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Sarah Norris

Mrs. Laura-Jeanne Penrod, Nevada Teacher of the Year & Dr. Tonia Holmes-Sutton

Mrs. Blaire Penry, Washington Teacher of the Year & Mr. Travis Penry

Mrs. Sheila Peterson, North Dakota Teacher of the Year & Mr. Jay Peterson

Ms. Rebecka Peterson, 2023 National Teacher of the Year

Mr. Scott Phillips, Nebraska Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Carissa Phillips

Ms. Jacqueline Pogue Lyons

Ms. Rebecca Pringle

Mrs. Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Education

Mr. Paul Rice

Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez

Ms. Peyton Rodriguez

Mr. Robert V. Rodriguez

Ms. Jennifer Rose

Mrs. Tabatha Rosproy, 2020 National Teacher of the Year

Ms. Christine Sampson-Clark

Mrs. Miriam Schneider

Mr. Amit Sevak

Ms. Shital C. Shah, Director of Strategic Partnerships, U.S. Department of Education

Ms. Nicoletta Skaggs

Mrs. Louise Smith, Mississippi Teacher of the Year & Mr. Brian Smith

Dr. Malbert Smith

Mr. Bertrand Sosa

Mr. Roy Sosa

The Honorable Molly M. Spearman, South Carolina State Superintendent of Education

Mr. Sean M. Spiller

The Honorable Mark Takano, U.S. Representative

The Honorable Neera Tanden, Assistant to the President and Domestic Policy Advisor

Mrs. Missy Testerman, National Teacher of the Year & Mr. David Testerman, Mr. Andrew Testerman, Ms. Caroline Testerman & Ms. Aileen Mendez

Mrs. Taniece M. Thompson-Smith, Texas Teacher of the Year & Mr. Theron M. Smith

Ms. Christy Todd, Georgia Teacher of the Year & Dr. Drew Todd

Ms. LaWanda Toney, Deputy Chief of Staff, Strategic Communications and Partnerships, U.S. Department of Education

Mr. Arthur Valentine

Mr. Trent Van Leuven, Idaho Teacher of the Year & Mrs. Cara Jo Van Leuven

Dr. Mandy Vance, Oregon Teacher of the Year & Mr. Paul Vance

Dr. Margie Vandeven

Mrs. Cat Walker, Alaska Teacher of the Year & Mr. Ben Walker

Mrs. Jessah Walker

Mr. De'Shawn Washington, Massachusetts Teacher of the Year & Ms. Shakeeda Bartee

Mrs. Randi Weingarten

The Honorable Frederica Wilson, U.S. Representative

Dr. Donna L. Wright

Ms. Stephanie Yoon

Mr. Peter Zamora

May 2, 2024

In an excerpt from her prepared remarks, Dr. Biden welcomes teachers to the White House, saying: "Tonight, we celebrate you, because teaching isn't just a job. It's a calling, and all of you were called to this profession for a reason. You believe that a better world is possible – and you make that world real, one student at a time. To answer the call of teaching, is in itself, an act of hope. You look at your students and don't just see who they are today – you see all the possibility of tomorrow. You help them find the light within themselves, and that light lives on in all of you."

As a classroom teacher for over 30 years, Dr. Biden continues to teach English and writing at Northern Virginia Community College, where she has been a professor since 2009. From championing teacher recruitment and retention, opportunities for career-connected learning, and more affordable options for education after high school, including free community college, Dr. Biden continues to shine a spotlight on educators and the teaching profession. This is the fourth year Dr. Biden has welcomed the National and State Teachers of the Year for a celebration at the White House.

The Council of Chief State School Officers , the U.S. Department of Education, American Federation of Teachers, and the National Education Association are supporting this event. CCSSO oversees the National Teacher of the Year Program, which identifies exceptional teachers across the country, recognizes their effective work in the classroom, engages them in a year of professional learning, and amplifies their voices.

More information about the program and a list of the 2024 State Teachers of the Year can be found HERE .

First Lady Jill Biden and Social Secretary Carlos Elizondo worked with White House Chief Floral Designer Hedieh Ghaffarian to create a guest experience that honors the 2024 Teachers of the Year and celebrates our nation's educators. Each of the 2024 State Teachers of the Year will receive a commemorative brass bell from the First Lady, continuing a tradition she started in 2021 in honor of her grandmother, a fellow educator and the person who inspired her to become a teacher. Irises, the official state flower of Tennessee, Mrs. Testerman's home state, will be incorporated in the floral arrangements. A personalized gold painted apple will serve as the place card holder at the place settings for the 2024 Teachers of the Year. The décor will be inspired by classrooms across the country, and the official flags of the states and territories of the 2024 State Teachers of the Year will line the East Portico entrance, greeting honorees and guests upon arrival to the White House. Organized by each

teacher's school principal, when the 2024 Teachers of the Year arrive to their seats, they will be surprised with a handmade, personalized thank you note from their students, fellow teachers, and school leadership.

May 2, 2024

Elaine Marie Clegg, of Idaho, to be a Director of the Amtrak Board of Directors for a term of five years, vice Yvonne Brathwaite Burke, term expired.

Abigail L. Dressel, of Connecticut, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Angola, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe.

Marcus D. Graham, of Tennessee, to be a Member of the Farm Credit Administration Board, Farm Credit Administration, for a term expiring May 21, 2028, vice Glen R. Smith, term expired.

James Holtsnider, of Iowa, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Independent State of Samoa.

Matthew Kaplan, of Maryland, to be Federal Cochairperson of the Great Lakes Authority.

Tonya Parran Wilkerson, of Maryland, to be Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, vice Ronald S. Moultrie, resigned.

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April 18, 2024

Tonya P. Wilkerson, Nominee to be Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security

Abigail L. Dressel, Nominee to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Angola, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe

James Holtsnider, Nominee to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Independent State of Samoa

Elaine Marie Clegg, Nominee to be a Member of the AMTRAK Board of Directors

Ronald L. Batory, Nominee to be a Member of the AMTRAK Board of Directors

Marcus D. Graham, Nominee to be a Member of the Farm Credit Administration

Matthew Kaplan, Nominee to be Federal Cochairperson of the Great Lakes Authority

Tonya P. Wilkerson, Nominee to be Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security

Tonya P. Wilkerson serves as the ninth Deputy Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. Wilkerson brings a wealth of knowledge and over three decades of experience across the intelligence community, including leadership skills, experience across multiple mission areas, and deep expertise in the space sector.

Wilkerson previously served as the Associate Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency for Science and Technology. She also held many prominent positions within the National Reconnaissance Office, spanning a range of activities including research and development, acquisition, and operations.

Wilkerson has a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and a Master of Engineering Management from George Washington University.

Abigail L. Dressel, Nominee to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Angola, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe

Abigail L. Dressel, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service with the rank of Minister-Counselor, is currently the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Previously, she served as Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Maputo, Mozambique. Prior to that, she was Counselor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassies in Colombia and Brazil. As the Director of the Office of International Media Engagement in the Bureau of Public Affairs, Dressel led the U.S. Department of State's outreach to major international media outlets. Previous assignments include tours at the U.S. Embassies in Lisbon, Portugal; Luanda, Angola; Lima, Peru; and San Salvador; El Salvador. Prior to joining the Foreign Service, Dressel worked in international development. A native of Connecticut, Dressel holds a bachelor's degree from the George Washington University. She speaks fluent Spanish and Portuguese.

James Holtsnider, Nominee to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Independent State of Samoa

James Holtsnider is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Counselor. He currently serves as Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait City, Kuwait. Previously he was the Deputy Director of the Office of Iranian Affairs in the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. Earlier, Holtsnider was the Management Officer of the U.S. Mission in Somalia. He also served in Afghanistan as a Political Advisor to the U.S. military's Regional Command East in Bagram and in Iraq as a Provincial Action Officer on U.S. Provincial Reconstruction Team Ninewa, Mosul, Iraq. Holtsnider has also had assignments at the U.S. Embassy in Rome, Italy as a General Services Officer, at the U.S. Embassy in Tunis, Tunisia as a Consular Officer, and as a Special Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources. Prior to joining the State Department, Holtsnider served for six years in the U.S. Marine Corps. Holtsnider received his bachelor's degree

from the University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado and his master's degree from Princeton University. He speaks Italian and French.

Elaine Marie Clegg, Nominee to be a Member of the AMTRAK Board of Directors

As the CEO of Valley Regional Transit, Elaine Marie Clegg provides leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for Treasure Valley's public transportation authority ensuring the directives of the Board of Directors are achieved. Clegg has been a public servant focused on transportation and land use for over 25 years, with nearly 20 years on the Boise City Council where she led many initiatives, including the Elaine Clegg City of Trees Challenge and an effort to reestablish passenger rail in Idaho and the greater Northwest.

As a city council member Clegg served on numerous boards, executive boards, advisory committees, and councils. She has held the Chair or President position on the boards of Valley Regional Transit, COMPASS, the Association of Idaho Cities at the state level, and the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations, and National League of Cities Transportation Infrastructure Services Committee nationally.

Clegg also led the statewide non-profit Idaho Smart Growth, serving on national non-profit boards while advocating and planning better transportation and land use policy and implementation, assisting over 50 Idaho communities directly to improve transportation plans, networks and programs. Since 1998 Clegg has worked to improve access and mobility across modes in the policies of the reauthorizations of the Surface Transportation Bill, including gaining support for establishing the Safe Routes to School Program and enhancing the rail portion of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Born and raised in Boise, Idaho, Clegg lives in Boise with her husband, where she frequently walks, bikes, rides the bus, and, drives when she must. She loves spending time with her five children, their spouses, and her 14 grandchildren.

Ronald L. Batory, Nominee to be a Member of the AMTRAK Board of Directors

Ronald L. Batory is a career professional with more than 45 years of field and system experience in the railroad industry. He spent the first 23 years of his career working for both eastern and western Class 1 railroads in addition to serving along with a court appointed Trustee's successful oversight of a regional railroad bankruptcy. In 1994 he was appointed President of The Belt Railway Company of Chicago, a multiple owned subsidiary of then nine competing Class 1 carriers. His leadership success of serving their needs in Chicago Gateway led to CSX and Norfolk Southern Corporation later recruiting him to Consolidated Rail Corporation in preparation of their STB approved partitioning of the eastern carrier and establishing the Shared Assets Areas. He was later appointed President & Chief Operating Officer for the entire corporate entity. Upon his retirement in 2017, he pursued public service in Washington, District of Columbia, Batory was nominated and appointed as Administrator of The

Federal Railroad Administration.

Batory is a graduate of Adrian College, with a bachelor's degree along with a master's degree from Eastern Michigan University. He serves on various governing and advisory boards associated within the sectors of both industry and education. Batory resides in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with his wife, Barbara.

Marcus D. Graham, Nominee to be a Member of the Farm Credit Administration

Marcus D. Graham has served as Deputy Administrator for Field Operations since January 2021, leading the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency-Field Operations. He is responsible for the supervision and oversight of agency's network of over 2,100 state and county offices and provides leadership to more than 18,000 employees. Graham has efficiently delivered agency programs, administrative operations, and the use of agency resources to all states and Puerto Rico. He has successfully onboarded 50 diverse regional appointed State Executive Directors that provide effective program delivery and customer service to all producers, farmers, and ranchers. Additionally, Graham has created retention and recruitment incentives and hiring programs to support existing and future agency employees.

Before joining USDA as Deputy Administrator, Graham served at USDA for more than two decades. He has worked on the county, state, and national levels with the Farm Service Agency in various positions, including Legislative Director-Office of External Affairs, Senior Policy Advisor to the FSA Administrator, and Senior Loan Specialist in the Farm Loan Division. In addition to his FSA employment, Graham served on the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry under Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow where he assisted on legislation for the Farm Bill's Title V-Credit Title.

Graham graduated from Tennessee State University with a Master of Science in Agribusiness and a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness and Economics. He also is a graduate of the President's Management Council Interagency Rotation Program and Graduate School USA's Executive Leadership Program.

Matthew Kaplan, Nominee to be Federal Cochairperson of the Great Lakes Authority

Matthew Kaplan has a deep knowledge of the Great Lakes region's economic development, infrastructure and environmental needs, and the opportunities for the newly created Great Lakes Authority. As a longtime member of Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur's staff, Kaplan worked extensively on advancing the interests of the entire Great Lakes region in Congress and throughout the federal government. Kaplan was a key advisor to Congresswoman Kaptur in her leadership of the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, the Bipartisan and Bicameral Great Lakes Task Force, and in drafting the legislation to create the Great Lakes Authority. In that role, he worked with stakeholders from industry, labor, academia, and communities across the Great Lakes on issues such as managing invasive species, marshaling federal resources for economic development and developing alternative energy opportunities. Kaplan also taught and mentored undergraduate students in a politics course at Oberlin College.

Kaplan currently serves as a Senior Attorney at the Natural Resources Defense Council where he coordinates federal strategy on regenerative agriculture. He previously served as an Honors Attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice, and as a law clerk for the senior judges of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals. He is a graduate of the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law and Oberlin College.

May/ 2 / 2024

Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Ohio and ordered Federal assistance to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by tornadoes on March 14, 2024.

The President's action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in the counties of Auglaize, Crawford, Darke, Delaware, Hancock, Licking, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Richland, and Union.

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

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

Mr. Toney L. Raines of the Federal Emergency Management Agency has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

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

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

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

May 2, 2024

AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

AGENCY ADMINISTRATOR MICHAEL REGAN

Aboard Air Force One

En Route Charlotte, North Carolina

12:46 P.M. EDT

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All right, hi, everybody. I just got -- I just got a couple things at the top, and then I'll hand it over to the Administrator.

So, as you all know, we're on our way to Charlotte, where the President will meet with the families of the law enforcement officers who were killed in the line of duty as well as those who were wounded. As the President said, these are heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice to rush into harm's way to protect us.

We mourn for the fallen heroes and their loved ones. And we pray for the recoveries of the courageous officers who were wounded.

As you've heard the President say many times, we must do more to protect our law enforcement officers. That means providing them with the resources they need to do their jobs and keep us safe, and it means taking additional action to combat gun violence and prevent future tragedies.

Afterwards, we will -- we will head to Wilmington, North Carolina, where President Biden will announce $3 billion to replace toxic lead pipes and deliver clean drinking water to communities across the country. That investment includes $76 million from the President's Bi- -- Bipartisan Infer- -- Infrastructure Law for the lead pipe replacement across North Carolina.

President Biden believes that every American should be able to turn on the tap and -- and drink clean and safe water. Today's announcement is part of the historic $15 billion in dedicated funding for lead pipe replacement provided by the President's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Joining me here is the EPA Administrator, Michael Regan, to talk about today's trip to his home state and the Biden-Harris administration's ongoing work to ensure every American can access clean, safe water.

Administrator, over to you.

ADMINISTRATOR REGAN: Thank you.

Listen, really excited to join the President today for this big announcement. As you all know, this is the third installment of five. We are giving out or investing into grants that will amount to $15 billion in total. This is the third year, so the President has already put out $9 billion to erase these lead service lines in our country.

It's a really big step. We all know that there is absolutely no safe level of lead in our drinking water. It has tremendous disadvantages and impacts on our children and our elderly, especially.

And so, today is a really good day to make this announcement. And glad to be joining the President.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay. Go ahead.

Q Yeah, Karine. So, the President last night talked about Japan or --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Can you just ask the Administra- -- anybody -- any questions for the Administrator?

Q I got one.

Q Yeah.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, and then -- and then I'll take -- and then I'll take.

Q Okay. Thank you, thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay. Go ahead.

Q How long is it going to take to get all the lead pipes out of the country?

ADMINISTRATOR REGAN: Well, you know, the President has pledged that we will have 100 percent lead pipe removal within a 10-year period. We believe that with this $15 billion we're investing, plus the regulatory action we're taking at EPA, in addition to the training that we're providing to municipalities and the technical assistance, we believe that we can get 100 percent lead pipe removal done within a 10-year window in this country.

Q Do you have a percentage of where you are right now to that 100 percent?

ADMINISTRATOR REGAN: Well, we're still gathering a lot of intel. Part of these billions of dollars is to help ensure that we know exactly where all the lead pipes are.

We've seen those numbers grow. We've seen those numbers change over the past three years. As the states refine those numbers and get us that data, we will have a better understanding of where we are and how much further we have to go.

Q So, yeah --

Q Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thank you, Administrator. Thank you so much.

Yes.

Q So, yeah, thank you, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No worries. No worries.

Q So, the -- the President last night described Japan as "xenophobic" along with China and Russia. Was that intentional? And does -- does the President want to apologize to Japan?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, I think the broader -- the broader -- the broader case that he was trying to make, which I think most -- most leaders and allies across the globe understand, is he's -- he was trying -- he was saying that when it comes to -- when it comes to -- when it comes to who we are as a nation, we are a nation of -- of immigrants. That is in our DNA.

And -- and so -- and you've heard the President say this, and you've heard us say it more as an administration. It's in -- it makes us better. We are stronger for it because of the fact that in our DNA we are a nation of immigrants. And I think that's probably very important to note as well. And that's what he was --

Q The President --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- the broader sense he was trying to make.

Q The President said today that, "There are always those who rush in to score political points. This isn't a moment for politics." Did he feel political pressure to speak out now? And it's notable that he's doing it after Donald Trump has started to ramp up his criticism of how the President has responded to these campus protests. Why did it take him so long to make this --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean --

Q -- remarks today?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, I want to be careful because you asked me about Donald Trump, who's also -- of course, the former President, but also a candidate in this -- in this presidential cycle for -- for the other side, obviously. And so, I want to be really, really mindful.

But the President, when it comes to something like this, he doesn't need to follow anyone or follow someone else. We've been really consistent, I believe, in stating that when it comes to -- to violence, violence is not protected. As you heard from the President, there's no place for violence.

We believe Americans -- all Americans have the right to peacefully protest, and -- and that's important, just as long as within the law. And so, the President wanted to make sure -- once again, he has spoken multiple times about that, calling out hateful rhetoric -- in this case, calling out antisemitism. That is, indeed, hateful rhetoric.

And we're going to continue to do that as an administration. We've done that. We've done that the last three years. It has nothing to do with anybody -- following anyone's lead. The President, if anything, has been a leader on this.

And so, you've heard directly from the President, and you just laid out something that he said -- right? -- which is, you know, violence is not protected. We are not an authoritarian nation. And -- and he wanted to make sure that his voice, once again, was very clear on that.

Q I want to try one more time on --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- on Japan.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q You know, he made the comments last night lumping them in with China and Russia, calling them "xenophobic." He's opposed this Nippon Steel acquisition of U.S. Steel. The U.S. has initiated a national security review of that transaction. It's something that's typically reserved for U.S. adversaries.

Is there a concern that he is pushing a key U.S. ally in a region and a key bulwark against China away from the U.S.? Is there concern that that relationship is being harmed by these off-the-cuff remarks?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, a couple of things. I mean, he was making a broader point, as I was saying earlier, when I was answering Karen's question about this country. And our allies and partners know very well that -- how much this president respects them. As you know, in regards to Japan, they were just here for the state visit. That U.S.-Japan relationship is -- is an important relationship. It's a deep, enduring -- enduring alliance.

And -- and so, we're -- certainly, we -- we share a commitment to democratic values and strong bounds of friendship between our -- our peoples. And this was evidenced by, like, as I just said, with the recent -- recent state dinner visit.

And so, he was making a more broad comment, speaking about this country and speaking about how important it is to be a country of immigrants and how it makes our country stronger. And so, that's what he was talking about.

As it relates to our relationship with our allies, that continues. Obviously, we have a strong relationship with -- with -- with India, with -- with Japan. And the President, if you just look at the last three years, has certainly -- certainly has focused on that diplomatic -- those diplomatic relationships.

Q And yet, Karine --

Q Karine --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- the word "xenophobic" is a very pejorative and negative word, particularly to use against an ally. Is that what he meant?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, he -- I think he was -- I think -- look, the President was very clear. And I think -- I --

Q He wasn't very clear.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well -- well --

Q I mean, that's why we're asking you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, no, I -- well, look, here's what I'm saying. He was talking about what -- who we are as a country. Right? He was talking about the importance about being in a country of immigrants, especially as you see the attacks that we have seen very recently, in the last couple of years, on -- those attacks on immigrants, in particular.

And so, it is important for us to remember that we are a country of immigrants. I'm explaining where he's -- what he -- what he was talking about and how he was -- what he was focusing on in those comments: country of immigrants, it makes us stronger, it is important to let -- to -- to be very clear about that.

And the President is always going to be really clear on -- on -- on speaking to, you know, issues that matter to the American people. We are a country of immigrants. That matters. And we've seen these attacks. And so, the -- the President is never going to shy away from that.

Go ahead, Michael.

Q Karine, would he phrase it again the same way? Would he phrase it again the same way?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You know, that is up to the President. You know, he is -- he is -- he is the President. Whatever -- however he sees a message -- wanting to share a message to the American people, he will do so. And so, I can't speak to -- I can't speak to that.

But go ahead, Michael.

Q The U.S. frequently condemns crackdown on -- crackdowns on protests in other countries, whether it's China, Iran, Hong Kong. Can you help us understand why you see those crackdowns differently than what is happening here in the U.S. where the police are arresting protestors?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You said that we have cracked down on protests?

Q No, no. The U.S. has condemned other countries.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You know, I -- look, I -- we have seen other countries protests, and we've always said it is the right for -- for citizens to protest. I mean, I -- you know, I think -- I don't -- I don't think that we have gone as far. I would have to see the example of what you're -- you're using in asking me this question.

What I can speak to is what we've been very consistent about. Right? You heard the President said it is our right to peacefully assemble. It is a right -- it is part of what makes us a country of freedom. Right? We are -- you know, which is really important. But it has to be peaceful. It has to be peaceful. It has to be within the law.

And we will continue to say that Americans have the right to peacefully protest. Violence is not protected. We are not an authoritarian nation. That's what you heard from the President. And so, as long as it's done in a peaceful way within the law, we're always going to support that.

Q Karine, Donald Trump said that by admitting refugees from Gaza, the President seems determined to create the conditions for an October 7 th-style attack in the U.S. What's the White House response to that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, all you have to do -- I'm going to be mindful. Again, he is a presidential candidate -- he, being Donald Trump -- and I cannot speak to -- speak to anything that's related to 2024.

I mean, look, what I'll say more broadly, you have seen this President's commitment after what we saw on October 7 th, what we saw Hamas -- a terrorist organization -- do. You know, we saw more than 1,200 people who were murdered and killed by this terrorist organization, and the President stepped in and offered assistance to our friends, obviously, in Israel.

And -- and we have always said that we are committed to Israel's security. It is ironclad. You saw that, again, when you saw Iran launch missiles and drones attacking Israel. And we've been really committed to making sure that, again, Israel's security is -- is ironclad, as it relates to our relationship.

And so, I -- you know, I obviously disagree with that statement, but also need to be super, super mindful of -- of how we speak to this.

Look, and you know -- we say this: The -- the President has a long couple-of-decades relationship with Prime Minister Netanyahu. They have -- they have spoken more than -- more than I be- -- almost -- almost more than a dozen times -- almost less -- right under 20. And so, that relationship continues. Certainly, that commitment continues.

And, look, what we're trying to do right now is get a hostage deal so that we can get to a ceasefire, so that we can get these hostages home, and so that we can get that humanitarian aid into Gaza, to the people of Gaza who truly need it. We need to make sure that we create an en- -- an en- -- we create an environment where we get more humanitarian aid in and we get to a ceasefire.

And we've also said -- the President has been very consistent about this: He wants to see a two-state solution. We're -- actually have a plan. We're actually trying to execute a plan, and the President is doing that through diplomacy.

Q But the accusation that the U.S. could be less safe if there were refugees brought into the United States --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, this goes --

Q -- what is the White House response?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- this goes back -- I mean, this goes back to the first question -- right? -- where I was saying that this is a country of immigrants. This is what is -- makes us stronger, right? And I think that's really important.

And as we -- you know, I don't have any announcement to make on refugees. I was asked about Palestinian refugees, specifically, yesterday. Don't have an announcement. We're always looking at every option.

I mentioned that there were 1,800 Americans -- American citizens, Palestinian Americans that we tried to certainly get home or come -- come to the States after October 7 th. We were trying to make sure that we got that done, and we've been successful in many ways.

And, look, you know, as it relates to vetting and making sure that we are vetting folks who are coming to do that, that is something that we take very, very seriously.

But to -- to make such a broad statement, we got to be really mindful. I also have to be, you know, really mindful in how I answer that question.

Q Karine, the former President said in an interview published yesterday that it was -- he wasn't sure that he would honor the result of the 2024 election. What's your response to that? And what steps is the administration taking to ensure that the election results are counted accurately and certified at the end of the process, no matter who wins?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, again, got to follow the law. Got to be really careful not to comment on the campaign from here.

President Biden is committed to the rule of law and protecting American democracy. The dangerous election denial conspiracy theories fanned -- fanned by figured -- [DEL: figured :DEL] [figures] on the right cost brave law enforcement officers their lives. We saw that on -- on January 6 th of 2021. There is no place for attacking our Constitution and putting our fellow Americans in danger. There is no place for putting -- putting yourself above your entire country.

Like President Biden has previously committed, he will accept the will of the American people. That is a commitment from the President.

Again, I've got to be super mindful responding to this.

Q Karine, do we have any updates on the hosta- -- hostage negotiations? It seems like the President has been optimistic that you're getting close in the last couple days.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, we -- you saw Secretary Blinken in the region. He has met with regional partners there.

You've heard from us how it's important for Hamas to take the deal. There's a deal on the table; they need to take it. I just went through how important it is to get that hostage deal that would lead to a ceasefire, that would get more humanitarian aid, that would get those -- those hostages home. Let's not forget, there are American hostages that are -- that are still being held by Hamas, and we need to get them home to their loved ones.

We're going to continue to be optimistic. Those diplomatic conversations are going to continue. I don't have anything else to share.

But Hamas -- it's on the table. It is [on] Hamas to take that deal. It is on the table.

Q Karine, what is --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- the administration's position on the antisemitism bill that passed the House yesterday? Some -- sorry -- some lawmakers expressed concerns that, you know, it could infringe on free speech. I'm just wondering if that's a concern of the administration. Would the President sign it --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look ---

Q -- if it gets to his desk?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- and I said this before, Joe Biden has -- you know, has been -- has fought antisemitism his whole entire life. Fighting back against the abhorrent poison of antisemitism is what motivated him to run for president after what he saw -- the vile antisemitism that we saw in -- on the streets of Charlottesville in Virginia. He became the first president to ever create and implement a National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism.

So, he welcomes congressional action in this fight. And so, we understand there are several bills being discussed, and so we're going to be careful on weighing in on -- here. But obviously, he welcomes -- he welcomes the effort that's being taken at this moment.

Q Karine, could you speak to the timing of the President's remarks today? You know, why wait until after police had moved in -- in New York and California and arrested all these protesters?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, look -- look, you've heard from the President. I think that's important to note. He was very clear, and he basically re- -- has reiter- -- -iterated everything that we have said, everything that he has said since day one. And violence should be -- any type of violent rhetoric or violence should be called out. Any form of hate -- in this case, antisemitism; that is a form of hate -- should be called out. We've been very consistent here.

And Americans have the right to peacefully protest as long as it's within the law, and violence is not protected.

And so, I think you've heard -- this is not the first time that you've heard the President speak to this. And so, he'll continue to do so. We will continue to do so as an administration. We --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I have to sit down. Thanks.

Q Because I asked yesterday, has there been any follow-up or a- -- not follow-up -- has there been any outreach from the White House to any of the campuses -- administrators, leaders on these campuses?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything to read out at this time.

But thank you, guys.

Q Thanks, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All right. I'll see you on the ground.

1:03 P.M. EDT

May 2, 2024

Last month, Vice President Harris was in Philadelphia for a roundtable conversation about the historic steps that she and President Biden have taken to forgive student loan debt for millions of Americans. In February, she returned to Pittsburgh to announce funding for clean water infrastructure that is helping to remove lead pipes and ensure more children and families have access to clean, safe drinking water.

Additional details about Wednesday's event and instructions for how to RSVP are forthcoming.

# # #

May 2, 2024

Roosevelt Room

11:07 A.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning.

Q Good morning.

THE PRESIDENT: Before I head to North Carolina, I wanted to speak a few moments about what's going on on our college campuses here.

We've all seen the images. And they put to the test two fundamental American principles.

Excuse me.

The first is the right to free speech and for people to peacefully assemble and make their voices heard. The second is the rule of law. Both must be upheld.

We are not an authoritarian nation where we silence people or squash dissent. The American people are heard. In fact, peaceful protest is in the best tradition of how Americans respond to consequential issues.

But -- but neither are we a lawless country. We are a civil society, and order must prevail.

Throughout our history, we've often faced moments like this because we are a big, diverse, free-thinking, and freedom-loving nation.

In moments like this, there are always those who rush in to score political points. But this isn't a moment for politics. It's a moment for clarity.

So, let me be clear. Peaceful protest in America -- violent protest is not protected; peaceful protest is. It's against the law when violence occurs.

Destroying property is not a peaceful protest. It's against the law.

Vandalism, trespassing, breaking windows, shutting down campuses, forcing the cancellation of classes and graduations -- none of this is a peaceful protest.

Threatening people, intimidating people, instilling fear in people is not peaceful protest. It's against the law.

Dissent is essential to democracy. But dissent must never lead to disorder or to denying the rights of others so students can finish the semester and their college education.

Look, it's basically a matter of fairness. It's a matter of what's right. There's the right to protest but not the right to cause chaos.

People have the right to get an education, the right to get a degree, the right to walk across the campus safely without fear of being attacked.

But let's be clear about this as well. There should be no place on any campus, no place in America for antisemitism or threats of violence against Jewish students. There is no place for hate speech or violence of any kind, whether it's antisemitism, Islamophobia, or discrimination against Arab Americans or Palestinian Americans.

It's simply wrong. There is no place for racism in America. It's all wrong. It's un-American.

I understand people have strong feelings and deep convictions. In America, we respect the right and protect the right for them to express that. But it doesn't mean anything goes. It needs to be done without violence, without destruction, without hate, and within the law.

You know, make no mistake: As President, I will always defend free speech. And I will always be just as strong in standing up for the rule of law.

That's my responsibility to you, the American people, and my obligation to the Constitution.

Thank you very much.

Q Mr. President, have the protests forced you to reconsider any of the policies with regard to the region?

THE PRESIDENT: No.

Thank you.

Q Mr. President, do you think the National Guard should intervene?

THE PRESIDENT: No.

11:11 A.M. EDT

May 2, 2024

The Mayflower Hotel

Washington, D.C.

6:03 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: My name is Joe Biden. I work for Tammy Duckworth.

Folks, I want to thank Tammy for that introduction -- most of all, for her friendship and her partnership. And, Raja, your partnership and leadership in the House has been invaluable.

Excuse me. I've got a bit of a cold.

And I also want to thank Senator Ma- -- where is Mazie? She -- where is Mazie Hirono?

AUDIENCE MEMBER: She --

THE PRESIDENT: She was here. I was saying hi to her a little bit earlier. Thank her for her friendship as well.

And Congressman Ted Lieu is also here. And I know several other members are on their way and couldn't her- -- be here because of votes.

I want to thank you all and all of our co-hosts and all of you for your support. So many of you were with me from the beginning, back in 2019.

I'm honored and t- -- to join you on this first day of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Folks, I'm honored to see that heritage across most of the diversem- -- and I -- let me say it another way. I told you, when I got elected, I was going to have an administration that looked like America. Well, guess what? It does. It does, starting with Kamala doing an incredible job as Vice President.

And I also want to thank Katherine Tai, who's here today. Katherine, you were here, anyway. There you are.

As we enter the spring, we genuinely feel the excitement and momentum being built in the campaign. So far, 1.5 million individual people have contributed to our campaign, 550,000 of them being brand-new contributors, and 97 percent of all those contributors contributed less than $200. It's a real genuine movement.

And we're ra- -- we're ramping up the campaign headquarters and field offices, hiring staff all across the country. And we're way ahead of Donald Trump's MAGA Republicans, which have done virtually nothing so far.

And while the press doesn't write about it, momentum is -- momentum is clearly in our favor, with polls moving toward us and away from Trump. Just lack we- -- last week, the Mor- -- the Marist Poll had us up by three among all voters, six for the -- points for the likely voters; Florida Atlantic poll has us up four, et cetera.

But you and I both know, this far out, the polls don't mean a lot. They don't mean a lot. People are really going -- don't really begin to focus focus until they get closer to September.

But I know not everyone is feeling the enthusiasm. The other day, a defeated-looking man came up to me and said, "Mr. President, I'm being crushed by debt. I'm completely wiped out." And I had to look at him and say, "Donald, I'm sorry; I can't help you." "I'm not able to help you."

Trump is in trouble, and he knows that. Last week, I was in Florida, where today we're implementing -- they're implementing the most extreme abortion bans in the country -- one of them. He's only one -- the only one person responsible is Donald Trump.

After bragging about he's the reason Roe v. Wade was overturned on television, on camera, making the case, he's now worried the voters are going to hold him accountable for all the cruelty and chaos he's created.

Well, I have news for Trump. They are going to hold him accountable. They are going to hold him accountable.

Today, a six-week ban in Florida. And then Trump did a long interview in TIME Magazine. I -- it's coming out. You got to read it. It's a mandatory reading. And he s- -- he said in that magazine -- he said states should monitor women's p- -- now, get this: States should monitor women's pregnancies and prosecute those who violate abortion bans. Monitor women's pregnancies?

That's not all. He said, in a quote, "A lot of people liked it when I said I want to be a dictator for one -- on day one." Asked if he thought violence would occur if he lost, and his response was, "It all depends."

He calls the insurrectionists who are in prison -- he calls them "patriots," and if reelected, he wants to know -- let everybody know he's going to pardon every one of them -- his quote -- every one of them.

Trump says when he loses again in November, there will be -- if he loses, but he will -- there will be a "bloodbath." And he means it. And said a whole lot more in that TIME interview. You got -- TIME Magazine. I guess it comes out next week, if I'm not mistaken. You got to read it.

Look, chaos is nothing new to Trump. His entire presidency for four years was chaos. Trump is trying to make the country forget just how dark and unsettling things were when he was president. But we'll never forget.

We'll never forget lying about the pandemic, telling the Amer- -- because th- -- remember that interview he did -- honest interview; he got exposed -- telling them he knew it was -- the pandemic was deadly? And he -- what did he tell people? It was mentioned already: Inject bleach.

Well, all that bleach apparently injected into his hair instead of his arm.

We'll never forget the rise of anti-Asian hate crimes during the pandemic. And I'm proud to have signed the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act with your support.

We'll never forget his love letters with Kim Jong Un and his admiration for Putin.

Here's what he said in that TIME interview: He may not come to the -- he said he may not -- if he were president again, not come to the aid of an ally attacked in Europe or Asia if he felt the country wasn't paying enough for their own defense. Isn't that wonderful? A President of the United States of America.

Do you want to go back to any of that? I don't think so.

Look how far we've come: 15 million new jobs -- a record for any one term for a President of the United States. Because of you, historically low levels of unemployment for Asian Americans, while Asian American unemployment nearly doubled under Trump.

We're seeing record small-business creation, including among Asian Americans. In fact, we've increased loans to Asian American businesses through the Small Business Administration by one third since Trump left office.

Because we expanded the Child Care Tax Credit during the pandemic -- not one -- I might add, not one Republican voted for it -- we cut Asian American child poverty by 25 percent -- a record low.

More people have health insurance today than ever before in the history of this country, including among Asian Americans.

We took on Big Pharma -- I've been fighting them since I was a senator, and we finally won -- to lower prescription drug costs, like insulin. It used to cost $400 a month; now it's 35 bucks a month. It only costs them 10 bucks to make it.

Folks, when I originally got that law passed, it affected everyone, not just the elderly. If I'm elected again, it's going to affect everybody. All Americans should be -- I could put you on Air Force One, fly you to any -- if you had a prescription from an American drug company, fly you to any major capital in the world, and I can get you that same prescription for 40 to 60 percent less.

Look, we made the most significant investment in climate ever. And I signed the most significant gun safety law in 30 years, which I know matters with the community as they mourned -- as we mourned with you in Atlanta and Monterey Park.

I could go on. The point is we're lowering costs, expanding opportunities, protecting freedoms for the communities. We're keeping our commitments and our communities safe in combating anti-Asian hate. But a lot more is at stake.

Look, Trump is determined -- determined to terminate the Affordable Care Act. Why? Because of -- it's Obamacare expanded. He can't stand anything associated with Barack Obama.

He's determined to get rid of my climate law. Why? Because oil companies hate it. He said in that TIME interview, his -- he has two goals, one of which is to drill, drill, drill. He's determined to cut taxes for the very wealthy while cutting Social Security and Medicare and do so much to -- other damage.

Look, I proposed the most comprehensive immigration reform in decades while Trump is saying immigrants "poison the blood of the country," looking at many of you when he says it.

But the biggest threat Trump poses is to our democracy. Above all, what's at risk in 2024 are the freedoms and our democracy.

Let me close with this. This election is about competing values and competing visions in America. Trump values and visions are one of anger, hate, revenge, and retribution. That's not hyperbole.

I have a very different set of values that leads -- like you do -- leads me to a very different vision of America: one of hope and optimism. That's the heart of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islanders' story of our nation -- in our nation.

I see an America where we defend democracy, not diminish it. I see an America where we protect our freedoms and not take them away. I see an America where the economy grows from the middle out and the bottom up and where working people have a fair shot, where healthcare is a right, not a privilege. And I see a future where we save the planet from the climate crisis and our country from gun violence.

Folks, this election is about freedom, America, and democracy. That's why I badly need you.

You know, one of the reasons why our economy is growing is because of you and many others. Why? Because we welcome immigrants. We look to -- the reason -- look, think about it. Why is China stalling so badly economically? Why is Japan having trouble? Why is Russia? Why is India? Because they're xenophobic. They don't want immigrants.

Immigrants is what makes us strong. Not a joke. That's not hyperbole. Because we have an influx of workers who want to be here and just contribute.

This community's vote will be critical in -- from Virginia to Georgia to Nevada. I know we can do a lot together -- a lot more.

And I've never been more optimistic about our future. We just have to remember who we are. We're the United States of America, for God's sake. There's nothing beyond our capacity when we act together.

Think about it. We're the only nation in the history -- modern history of the world that's come out of every crisis stronger than we went in -- stronger than we went in every time we've stood together.

And we're standing together, I promise you. You have my commitment. I'll never leave the value set I've laid out for you, I guarantee you.

Thank you all for what you're doing. Thank you for the enormous contributions you've made to this American society.

And whether you're immigrants or not, whether you're the children of immigrants, like I am, the fact of the matter is you're what makes America what it is. Not a joke. It's not a joke.

So, God bless you all. And may God protect our troops.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

6:15 P.M. EDT

May 2, 2024

Vice President Harris kicked off her Economic Opportunity Tour on Monday with a moderated conversation in Atlanta, GA. During each stop of the multi-state tour, the Vice President will highlight how the Biden-Harris Administration has built economic opportunity, supported communities, and delivered historic investments for the American people. This includes making unprecedented investments in small businesses and achieving the fastest creation of Black-owned small businesses in more than 30 years, creating a record number of jobs, increasing access to capital for underserved communities, investing in infrastructure, erasing

medical debt, forgiving more student loan debt than any administration in history and boosting investments in education, making housing more affordable, lowering child care costs, and increasing the wealth of American families. She is being joined on the tour by Administration officials, members of Congress, and local leaders.

Vice President Harris visited Grand Rapids in February to hold a roundtable conversation as part of her nationwide Fight for Reproductive Freedoms tour. Last year, she traveled to Ann Arbor for a moderated conversation about addressing the climate crisis. She also visited Detroit in the fall of 2022 while highlighting job training programs.

Media interested in covering Monday's Economic Opportunity Tour stop in Detroit should RSVP HERE by 5:00 p.m. ET on Friday, May 3.

Media interested in covering the Vice President's arrival at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport should RSVP HERE by 5:00 p.m. ET on Friday, May 3.

# # #

May 2, 2024

Our nation's teachers prepare and inspire the next generation of leaders who are critical to our future. President Biden has been clear since day one that to address these long-standing staffing challenges facing our schools, exacerbated by the pandemic, teachers, paraprofessionals, and other school staff need to be paid competitively and treated with the respect and dignity that they deserve, including through improved working conditions for staff and learning conditions for students.

Later today, First Lady Jill Biden, a life-long educator, will host the first-ever Teachers of the Year State Dinner at the White House to honor the 2024 National Teacher of the Year , Missy Testerman, and state teachers of the year from across the United States for their excellence in education.

The Biden-Harris Administration has strengthened the teaching profession by:

Encouraging states to increase teacher pay, with 30 states and the District of Columbia taking action to raise teacher pay. To support COVID-19 recovery, the Administration secured $130 billion for the largest-ever investment in public education in history through the American Rescue Plan provided to more than 15,000 school districts and secured nearly $2 billion in additional Title I funding to date; both funding streams can be used to support teacher salaries in our most underserved schools. These funds can also be used to support high-quality teacher pipeline programs and hire more professionals across the education workforce.

Fixing the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, which has helped nearly 876,000 borrowers engaged in public service – such as teachers – have their federal student loans forgiven. Prior to the Biden-Harris Administration, only 7,000 borrowers had received relief under this program.

Returning schools to pre-pandemic staffing levels. While teacher shortages remain, staffing at schools has recovered above pre-pandemic levels, including 40 percent more social workers and 25 percent more nurses, providing critical supports to students that also helps support teaching and learning.

Expanding Registered Teacher Apprenticeship programs to 34 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, providing an affordable and high-quality path to become a teacher in communities across the country.

Securing a total of nearly $2.7 billion of investment in teachers in the Fiscal Year 2024 budget to help states and communities address teacher shortages, including in areas such as special education, Career and Technical Education, and bilingual education, and in underserved communities, through increased teacher recruitment, support, and retention.

Additional details on these actions are described further below.

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is announcing new actions to support teachers:

Establishing a new technical assistance center to help states and communities increase teacher recruitment and retention. This week, the Department of Education will release a Notice of Final Priorities and a Notice Inviting Applications and for the Comprehensive Centers grant program, which will support a Center on Strengthening and Supporting the Educator Workforce. This new Center will provide universal and targeted intensive capacity-building services designed to support States as they in turn support their districts, schools and partners in designing and scaling practices that establish and enhance high-quality, comprehensive, evidence-based, and affordable educator pathways , and in improving educator diversity, recruitment, and retention.

Providing data from each Congressional district showing the effects of the Biden-Harris Administration's work to fix the PSLF program. The data released today shows the distribution across the country of $62.8 billion in approved debt relief across 876,000 borrowers in every state and Congressional district. These are individuals who worked for at least 10 years in public service while repaying their loans.

Increasing funding to support a strong pipeline of special education teachers. To date, the Administration has secured a $25 million increase in funding for the Personnel Preparation grant program under Part D of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act compared to the beginning of the Administration, a 28 percent increase dedicated to growing our nation's supply of special educators – a persistent shortage area. Funding under this grant can be used to support the preparation and development of special educators, including increasing the supply of special education faculty available to establish or scale up preparation programs for special educators at institutions of higher education. In the coming week, the Department will make about $10 million in new awards to grantees implementing programs under Part D of IDEA to help shore up the supply of special educators nationwide.

These announcements build on actions the Biden-Harris Administration have taken since day one to support our nation's teachers. To date, the Administration has:

Supported a strong educator workforce jobs recovery and helped rehire through the American Rescue Plan. As a result of the President's decisive action to provide our schools with historic funds through the American Rescue Plan, we now have more people working in public schools than before the pandemic. Our schools lost hundreds of thousands of local public education jobs in just three months during the pandemic. Since President Biden took office, schools have added 638,000 education jobs. As of March 2024, there were 23,000 more employees in local public education than in February 2020. But there is still work to do. Teacher shortages remain and vary significantly across communities, disproportionately impacting students of color, students with disabilities, English learners, and students from low-income backgrounds.

Increased investments by $112 million in preparing, recruiting, developing, and retaining teachers since the beginning of this Administration. As a result of the additional funds the Administration has secured in these programs since the beginning of the Administration and through FY23, an additional $112 million has been invested in supporting educators through Department of Education's competitive grant programs, in addition to the tens of billions invested in staffing through the American Rescue Plan. For example, the Administration has increased annual funding for the Teacher Quality Partnership Grant program by 34 percent, which supports year-long teacher residency programs that have been shown to increase teacher effectiveness, retention, and diversity.

Funded educator diversity efforts nationwide. The Administration has prioritized efforts to increase educator diversity across 15 competitive grant programs that support teacher preparation, development, recruitment, and retention. These programs awarded nearly $450 million to 263 grantees, 92 percent of which were to grantees that addressed specific priorities related to educator diversity. For example, this year the Department plans to award $15 million to fund up to 27 new awards to Historically Black Colleges and Universities , Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities , and Minority Serving Institutions through the Augustus F. Hawkins program, which works to increase the numbers of diverse personnel in early intervention, special education, and related services.

Expanded high-quality teacher preparation programs through Registered Teacher Apprenticeships. At the beginning of this Administration, there were no Registered Apprenticeship Programs for teachers. Today, there are registered programs in 34 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. These programs can serve to provide affordable and high-quality pathways into the profession, allowing apprentices to earn a salary and benefits while they prepare to become a teacher, including by scaling up evidence-based Grow Your Own and Teacher Residency programs, which help to increase teacher retention, effectiveness, and diversity.

Relieved teacher student loan debt through forgiveness, repayment, and grant programs. The Administration has approved almost $160 billion in student debt forgiveness for nearly 4.6 million borrowers through various actions, including $62.8 billion in forgiveness for almost 876,000 borrowers through fixes to PSLF. The Administration has also secured the largest increase to Pell Grants in a decade and launched the new SAVE plan – the most affordable student loan repayment plan ever. The Administration estimates that a first-year teacher with a bachelor's degree would save $17,000 in payments on the SAVE plan while seeking PSLF. This Administration also implemented changes to the TEACH Grant program to support teacher recruitment and retention in our most underserved communities. The TEACH Grant provides up to $16,000 to undergraduate and graduate students who commit to teaching in a high-need field and school serving students from

low-income backgrounds for four years.

Secured first-ever funding for the Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence Grants. The Department held the first-ever competition for the Augustus F. Hawkins Grant program, awarding $23 million to date to teacher preparation programs at HBCUs, TCCUs, and MSIs to increase the number of well-prepared teacher candidates, including teacher candidates of color and bilingual and multilingual educators, in the field. The Department is currently administering an additional competition for the Hawkins grant program with $15 million in funding available, with applications due in June 2024.

Launched a campaign to elevate the teaching profession and call for increasing teacher pay. The Department launched "Teachers: Leaders Shaping Lives" – a campaign to elevate the teaching profession and promote educator diversity. The new Public Service Announcement was developed in partnership with TEACH.org and the One Million Teachers of Color Campaign at the Hunt Institute. This Administration believes that educators should be treated with dignity and respect and receive the pay they deserve – and has encouraged all states to increase compensation so that teachers are paid a livable and competitive wage. Since the 2021-22 school year, 30 states and the District of Columbia have taken action at the state level to increase teacher pay.

Provided extensive Technical Assistance and Guidance on how to use federal and other resources to implement evidence-based strategies to support teacher preparation, recruitment, retention, development, and advancement. This includes; (1) establishing the Strengthening and Diversifying the Educator Workforce Workgroup which brings together States from across the country to share resources and discuss lessons learned and best practices for supporting teacher development, recruitment, retention and diversity; (2) updating guidance on the use of Perkins V funds to improve the recruitment, preparation, retention, and growth of future educators, including Career and Technical Education teachers; (3) issuing a collection of seven briefs outlining the most common challenges

related to recruiting and retaining teachers from underrepresented backgrounds or with certain certifications; (4) sharing best practices, key resources, and making data on job recovery, educator preparation, educator diversity, and compensation, and other related issues easier to access and use through the Department's Raise the Bar: Eliminating Educator Shortages website ; and (5) issuingguidance on how American Rescue Plan funds can be used to stabilize the teacher workforce and support teacher well-being.

May 2, 2024

"Donna Hayashi Smith brings years of experience to this position, along with unique perspectives from serving under five administrations. She understands the history and legacy of the White House, as well as the intricate innerworkings of the building itself," said First Lady Jill Biden. "I look forward to continuing our work together to preserve the White House's living history, increasing opportunities for Americans to see themselves reflected here, and making the "People's House" more accessible to the millions of people who visit our Nation's Capital each year."

Originally from Wahiawa, Hawaii, Ms. Hayashi Smith received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. In 1990, she moved to Washington, D.C. for a Smithsonian Institution minority fellowship at the National Museum of American History and was hired as a museum aide at the National Museum of American Art a year later. Shortly after arriving at the White House, Hayashi Smith earned a Master of Arts degree in Museum Studies at the George Washington University while continuing her work in the Office of the Curator. Ms. Hayashi Smith is the first Asian American to hold the title of Curator of the White House.

May 2, 2024

President Biden on track to conserve more lands and waters than any President in history

Since their first day in office, President Biden and Vice President Harris have delivered on the most ambitious climate and conservation agenda in history. This includes the President's America the Beautiful Initiative , which is supporting locally led conservation efforts across the country with a goal to protect, conserve, and restore at least 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. The Biden-Harris Administration has already conserved more than 41 million acres of lands and waters – putting President Biden on track to conserve more lands and waters than any President in history.

Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's unprecedented commitment to protect America's natural wonders for future generations, honor areas of cultural significance to Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples, and expand access to nature, President Biden will sign proclamations expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. Together, these actions will protect nearly 120,000 acres of lands in California of scientific, cultural, ecological, and historical importance, adding unparalleled value to these already beloved national monuments and expanding outdoor access to nearby underserved and disadvantaged communities. The proclamation for the Berryessa Snow Mountain expansion also renames the ridgeline at the heart of the expansion, previously known as "Walker Ridge," to Molok Loyuk, which means Condor Ridge in the language of the area's Patwin people.

These expansions honor Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples by protecting sacred ancestral places and their historically important features, while conserving our public lands, protecting scientific features, including critical wildlife habitat and migration corridors, safeguarding clean water, and supporting local economies. Federal, state, and local leaders, Tribal governments, Indigenous communities, and a coalition of community-based and conservation organizations came together to advocate for the additional protections for both of these national monuments. The sites protected through these expansions will ensure that future generations can experience, learn from, and enjoy these irreplaceable resources.

Vice President Harris has been a critical leader on efforts to ensure protections for California public lands, including the lands protected by these proclamations. In 2018, then-Senator Harris introduced the "San Gabriel Mountains Foothills and Rivers Protection Act," the first Senate proposal to expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. In addition, then-Senator Harris introduced the "Protecting Unique and Beautiful Landscapes by Investing in California Lands Act," a legislative package of three bills, including the "San Gabriel Mountains Protection Act," that together would have increased protections and access for over 1 million acres of California lands, including nearly 600,000 acres of new wilderness and over 100,000 acres of new national monument lands. The proclamation that the President is signing today will permanently protect the lands in the San Gabriel Mountains covered by those bills.

Since taking office, the Biden-Harris Administration has established or expanded seven national monuments and restored protections for three more ; created four new national wildlife refuges and significantly expanded five more ; protected the Boundary Waters of Minnesota

, the nation's most visited wilderness area; safeguarded Bristol Bay in southwest Alaska; and withdrawn Chaco Canyon in New Mexico and Thompson Divide in Colorado from further oil and gas leasing which will protect pristine lands and thousands of sacred sites.

Expanding San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

President Biden is taking action to expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, which President Obama designated in 2014, near Los Angeles, California. The proclamation will add 105,919 acres of U.S. Forest Service lands to the south and west of the current monument's 346,177 acres; protect additional cultural, scientific, and historic objects; and expand access to outdoor recreation on our shared public lands for generations to come.

Since time immemorial, the rich landscape within the expansion area has sustained Indigenous peoples, including the people known as the Gabrielino, Kizh, or Tongva, and the Chumash, Kitanemuk, Serrano, and Tataviam peoples. Today, their descendants are part of Tribal Nations and other Indigenous peoples in the region, some of whose members continue to use the area for ceremonial purposes, as well as for collecting traditional plants important for basketry, food, and medicine.

The lands added to the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument contain spectacular cultural, geological, and ecological resources. A diversity of animals, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife, including numerous sensitive, threatened, and endangered species, live among the unique geological and ecological features of the area, including its unusual canyons, chapparal and coastal sage scrub lands, riparian woodlands, and conifer forests. These lands also provide homes to some of California's most imperiled and iconic birds, including the endangered California condor. The area includes key habitats that support wetland-dependent plant species, sensitive fish and amphibians, and migration corridors. The area also holds important geologic significance; the exceptional landscape of the San Gabriel Mountains, shaped by massive geologic forces over hundreds of millions of years, provides views deep into ancient earth.

Though it is adjacent to highly developed areas of Los Angeles, the expansion area includes highly secluded and largely undeveloped areas, such as the 4,700-acre Arroyo Seco inventoried Roadless Area--an iconic landscape feature. The expanded monument's natural lands and increased proximity to the city make it a unique place of rejuvenation and recreation for the people of the ever-changing urban and suburban communities of the greater Los Angeles region.

President Biden's proclamation directs the U.S. Forest Service to manage the area according to the same terms, conditions, and management as the original national monument designation, which respects grazing permits, water rights, existing infrastructure, military use of airspace, state management of wildlife, and wildfire response, among other things. The proclamation directs the Secretary of Agriculture to develop a management plan for expansion area, incorporating Indigenous Knowledge and maximum community input. With this designation, the U.S. Forest Service will establish a Federal Advisory Committee to provide information and advice regarding the development of the management plan and management of the expansion. The committee will include state agencies and local governments; Tribal nations and Indigenous communities with cultural, traditional, or ancestral ties to the area; recreational users; conservation organizations; wildlife, hunting, and fishing organizations; the scientific

community; business owners; and the general public in the region.

To better manage the high levels of visitation to this popular area, the Administration, alongside state and private partners, is also investing to improve outdoor recreation infrastructure, restore and protect resources, and increase staffing to create an improved visitor experience in the existing and expanded national monument.

Expanding Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument

President Biden will also sign a proclamation expanding the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, originally designated by President Obama in 2015, in northern California. This expansion honors Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples through the protection of this sacred California landscape and its historically and biologically important features, while conserving our public lands and growing America's outdoor recreation economy. The expansion will add 13,696 acres of public lands, managed by the Department of the Interior, to the monument's original 330,000 acres, which are jointly managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S Forest Service.

The expansion area includes the portion of Molok Luyuk that is outside the boundary of the existing monument. The striking 11-mile north-to-south ridgeline, sacred to the Patwin people, is dotted with a mosaic of unique geologic and hydrologic features. The ridge is flanked by iconic California chapparal-covered canyons, oak and cypress woodlands, and spring-fed meadows. Unusual and rare serpentine wetlands dot Molok Luyuk and its downward slopes are fed by the numerous seeps and springs scattered across the area, underpinning the region's prolific botanical richness--nearly 500 native California plant species have been identified within the expansion area, including at least 38 different special-status plants. Molok Luyuk also serves as a wildlife corridor for species such as tule elk, mountain lions, and bears, and is home to iconic species such as bald and golden eagles. Conserving this area fortifies protection for the scientifically critical north-south migration corridor provided by

the existing monument.

The name Molok Luyuk recalls a time when California condors were a common sight soaring above the ridge, and the Patwin people would celebrate them with dances and ceremonies. On a clear day, the highest points of Molok Luyuk offer a commanding view of the surrounding rugged and undeveloped landscape, encompassing Mount Shasta to the north, Mount Tamalpais to the southwest, and Sutter Buttes to the east. The view of the sun rising over Sutter Buttes to the east is central to the Patwin origin story. The expansion area contains evidence of occupation by Indigenous people for more than 10,000 years.

This expansion of the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument honors the Cachil Dehe Band of Wintun Indians, Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, and other Tribal Nations and Indigenous leaders who worked tirelessly to ensure protection of these sacred lands for generations to come. In order to reflect the historic, spiritual, and cultural significance of Molok Luyuk to the Patwin people, the President has also directed that the ridgeline be officially renamed Molok Luyuk. To further honor the ties of the Patwin people to these lands, the President's proclamation also directs the Secretary of the Interior to explore co-stewardship of the area with Tribal Nations.

The proclamation directs the Bureau of Land Management to manage the area according to the same terms, conditions, and management as the original national monument designation, which respects grazing permits, water rights, military use of airspace, state management of wildlife, and wildfire response among other things. It also directs the BLM to include the expansion area in the monument plan for the entire monument and to issue a travel management plan.

Background on Antiquities Act Designations

Today's expansions only reserve federal lands and do not affect the property rights of state or private land owners. Any existing state or private lands within the boundaries are not included in the monuments.

Today's designations mark President Biden's ninth and tenth uses of the Antiquities Act. President Theodore Roosevelt first used the Antiquities Act in 1906 to designate Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming. Since then, 18 presidents of both parties have used this authority to protect unique natural and historic features in America, including the Statue of Liberty, Colorado's Canyon of the Ancients, and the Grand Canyon.

May 2, 2024

President Biden believes that every American should be able to turn on the tap and drink clean, safe water. But over 9 million homes, schools, daycares, and businesses receive their water through a lead pipe, putting people at risk of lead exposure. Lead is a neurotoxin that can irreversibly harm brain development in children, and it can also accumulate in the bones and teeth, damage the kidneys, and interfere with the production of red blood cells needed to carry oxygen. Due to decades of inequitable infrastructure development and underinvestment, lead poisoning disproportionately affects low-income communities and communities of color. There is no safe level of exposure to lead. That is why the President made a commitment to replace every lead pipe in the country within a decade and coordinated a whole of government effort to deploy resources and leverage every tool across federal, state and local government to address lead hazards through the Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan

.

As part of this unprecedented commitment, President Biden is traveling today to Wilmington, North Carolina, to announce $3 billion through his Investing in America agenda to replace toxic lead pipes. This investment, administered by the Environmental Protection Agency , is part of the historic $15 billion in dedicated funding for lead pipe replacement provided by the President's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Today's announcement delivers funding to every state and U.S. territory to help address lead in drinking water while creating good-paying jobs, many of them union jobs. In addition, this program funding is part of the President's Justice40 Initiative, which set a goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities, and is helping address the inequities of lead exposure.

Additionally, to further reduce lead exposure, the Department of Housing and Urban Development is announcing today nearly $90 million in available funding to reduce residential health hazards in public housing, including lead-based paint hazards, carbon monoxide, mold, radon, fire safety, and asbestos, advancing the President's Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan.

Today's announcement from the EPA builds on more than $20 billion in water infrastructure investments that state and local governments have made through the President's American Rescue Plan. North Carolina has invested close to $2 billion from the American Rescue Plan in more than 800 clean water, wastewater, and stormwater projects across the state and is using another $150 million to test for and remove lead hazards in every school and child care center across the state, a historic effort to remove lead from North Carolina schools.

In Wilmington, North Carolina, President Biden will announce $76 million from his Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for lead pipe replacement across the state. The President will also meet with faculty and students at a Wilmington school that replaced a water fountain with high levels of lead with funding from his American Rescue Plan.

EPA estimates North Carolina has an estimated 370,000 lead pipes, and today the President will highlight his goal of replacing every lead pipe in the state. With today's new investment of $76 million, the President has now delivered $250 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to North Carolina for lead pipe replacement. This funding has already reached over 60 communities across the state to kick start lead pipe identification and replacement efforts.

One of these communities is Wilmington, North Carolina, which has already received over $4 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to identify and replace 325 lead pipes. Today, President Biden is announcing that the first Bipartisan Infrastructure Law-funded lead pipe replacement in Wilmington is now underway, kicking off this project for the city.

Progress Replacing Lead Pipes Across America

The Biden-Harris Administration is taking action to accelerate lead pipe replacement in communities across the country. The total lead pipe replacement funding announced by the Administration to date will replace up to 1.7 million lead pipes, protecting countless families and children from lead exposure.

To ensure that communities that bear most of the burden of lead exposure are not left behind in this opportunity, EPA and the Department of Labor are partnering directly with disadvantaged communities across the country to provide the support and technical assistance they need to secure funding for and execute lead pipe replacement initiatives. EPA has partnered with over 40 communities to date, and last November announced it would partner with 200 more communities through the EPA Get the Lead Out Initiative.

This work is also creating good-paying jobs, many of them union jobs, in replacing lead pipes – and accelerating the development of a skilled water workforce. Unions including the Laborers' International Union of North America , the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters, and the International Union of Operating Engineers are already training workers in lead pipe replacement and putting them to work on neighborhood blocks across the country. The EPA estimates that 200,000 jobs have been created by the Administration's investments in drinking water infrastructure alone.

In addition, last November, EPA issued a proposal to strengthen its Lead and Copper Rule that would require water systems to replace lead pipes within 10 years and drive progress nationwide toward reducing lead exposure.

The examples below highlight several communities where the Administration's investments are making an impact:

In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, $41 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has helped put the city on track to replace all its lead pipes within 10 years instead of the initially estimated 60 years. The city is using a high proportion of union labor to replace lead pipes, and will be one of four new White House Workforce Hub cities that were announced by President Biden last week.

Following a lead-in-water crisis, Benton Harbor, Michigan, successfully replaced all its lead pipes within just two years, fueled by $18 million in funding from the President's American Rescue Plan.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has received $42 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to replace lead pipes, and is on track to replace every lead pipe by 2026. Vice President Harris visited the city in February to highlight this progress in lead pipe replacement and announce new funding for clean water.

St. Paul, Minnesota, has received $16 million from the American Rescue Plan to replace lead pipes. This funding has enabled the city's Lead-Free St. Paul program to target the replacement of all lead pipes by 2032 at no cost to residents.

Cincinnati, Ohio, passed an ordinance to develop a program to replace all lead pipes in line with the President's goal, and authorized covering the cost of replacing private lead pipes that bring water to residents' homes. A $20 million investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will support this work.

Tucson, Arizona, received $6.95 million to develop a Lead Service Line inventory for their nine public water systems. The city will use this inventory to develop a plan to replace lead service lines in the community and improve drinking water quality for residents – many of whom live in low-income and disadvantaged communities.

Denver, Colorado, has replaced almost 25,000 lead service lines since the program launched in 2020. Denver plans to replace another 5,000 this year and is on target to replace 100% by 2031, accelerating its lead pipe replacement due to Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding.

Last week, at the White House Water Summit, the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative launched its new Great Lakes Lead Pipes Partnership with three of its members – Chicago, Illinois, Detroit, Michigan, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This first-of-its kind, mayor-led effort to accelerate lead pipe replacement in cities with the heaviest lead burdens will provide a collaborative forum for metropolitan areas in the Great Lakes to share emerging best practices to encourage faster, more equitable replacement programs and overcome common challenges, including reducing replacement costs, improving community outreach, and spurring water workforce development.

Broader Administration Actions to Deliver Clean Water

The funding announced today is part of the over $50 billion provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to upgrade the nation's water infrastructure – the largest investment in clean and safe water in American history. In addition, over $20 billion from the American Rescue Plan has been invested in water infrastructure, including lead pipe replacement, nationwide.

Beyond replacing lead pipes, these broader investments are helping to expand access to clean drinking water, improve wastewater and sanitation infrastructure, and remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances contamination in water. The Administration has launched over 1,400 of these projects to deliver clean water to date.

Delivering Clean Drinking Water. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests nearly $31 billion in funding to secure clean drinking water through infrastructure projects such as upgrading aging water mains and improving water treatment plants.

Improving Wastewater and Sanitation Infrastructure. Over 2 million people in the U.S. live without basic running water or sanitation systems in their homes. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests nearly $13 billion to improve wastewater, sanitation, and stormwater infrastructure.

Tackling PFAS Pollution in Water. Exposure to PFAS "forever chemicals" in drinking water is linked to severe health impacts including deadly cancers, liver and heart damage, and developmental impacts in children. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests $10 billion to address toxic PFAS pollution in water. In addition, this month EPA announced the first-ever national drinking water standard for PFAS , which will protect 100 million people from PFAS exposure.

Lowering Costs for North Carolina Families

As the President invests in all of America and all Americans, his agenda is lowering costs for North Carolina families:

Saving 2.2 million North Carolina Medicare beneficiaries money on prescription drugs, insulin, and vaccines.

Saving 1 million North Carolinians hundreds of dollars per year on health insurance.

North Carolina families will get lower utility bills thanks to $209 million in home energy rebates and new tax credits for energy-efficient appliances.

President Biden is taking on corporate rip-offs like junk fees to lower costs for North Carolina families on everything from airfares to event tickets to overdraft fees.

President Biden would lower housing costs with a $10,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers, expanded rental assistance, and by building more than 2 million homes.

President Biden would lower child care costs by guaranteeing child care for families making up to $200,000, with most families paying no more than $10 a day.

Congressional Republicans have no plan to lower costs--in fact, their plan would increase costs for North Carolinians by:

Increasing costs for health care, prescription drugs, and insulin by siding with Big Pharma to repeal the Inflation Reduction Act and Affordable Care Act and slash Medicare.

Cutting Social Security by $1.5 trillion and raising Medicare costs for seniors by transitioning Medicare to a system that would raise premiums.

Raising taxes for middle-class families by repealing the Inflation Reduction Act and Affordable Care Act.

Raising housing costs by cutting rental assistance and programs to build new homes.

May 1, 2024

The Vice President will receive briefings and conduct internal meetings with staff. These meetings will be closed press.

# # #

May 1, 2024

May 1, 2024

Remarks as Prepared for Delivery by First Lady Jill Biden at the 2024 NYSE Women's Health Summit

New York, NY

Thank you, Lynn. You lead this organization always looking to the future – for the next opportunity that will change our world. And today is just another example of that. I'm honored you invited me to be a part of the Women's Health Summit's second year.

It was an ordinary Saturday in an extraordinary life. I was in my office in the East Wing doing what community college teachers do on weekends – especially on a weekend so late in the semester: I was grading papers. Just like right now.

It was late April last year. Earlier that morning, I'd read in the New York Times that our country loses $1.8 billion in working time every year to the menopause symptoms that upend women's lives.

It struck me – I'd experienced those kinds of symptoms too, so had many of my friends, but, I thought, that's the way life is, isn't it?

And then, that afternoon, Maria Shriver, the former First Lady of California, came in for a meeting.

She wanted to talk about women's health. She told me that it's not just menopause symptoms that don't have enough treatment options. It's all of women's health – for our whole bodies, for our whole lives.

It's a problem that's so simple – yet often ignored: women's health is understudied and research is underfunded. As a result, too many of our medications, treatments, health products, and medical school textbooks are based on men.

This has created gaps in our understanding of conditions that mostly affect women, only affect women, or affect women and men differently, leaving women seeking health care in a medical world largely designed for men.

Women's health is about understanding those conditions. And the discoveries we make will give us insight into all of human biology and experience.

It was one of those moments that happen in life, where you learn something and you can never see the world the same way again.

Suddenly, the problem felt so familiar – because we all know it.

If you ask any woman in America about her health care, she probably has a story to tell. You know her.

She's the woman who gets debilitating migraines, but doesn't know why, and can't find treatment options that work for her.

She's the woman going through menopause, who visits her doctor and leaves with more questions than answers, even though half the country will go through menopause at some point in their lives.

She's the woman whose heart attack isn't recognized because her symptoms don't look like a man's, even as heart disease is the leading cause of death among women.

She's the woman who needs treatments, and affordable and easy-to-use products that help her stay healthy or feel better when health needs arise.

Over the last few months, I've visited research centers and universities, and I've spoken with doctors and scientists to understand the research questions we need to ask – and the answers they could find if we invest in women's health.

All of you know that potential: In 2021, the Boston Consulting Group estimated that the size of the women's health market would grow from $9 billion to $29 billion in just eight years.

But those numbers don't tell the whole story. Because there's a cost to inaction.

Women spend more years of their lives in "poor health" than men. Time spent negotiating health conditions for which we need to find more answers. Time away from loved ones, time not spent following their dreams, or pursuing their careers.

We can change this. We can give hours and days and years back to women, and to the families who love them. Making it so women don't have to leave their careers because of treatable conditions. And it could add a trillion dollars annually to the world economy by 2040.

We have to invest in women's health. We can't afford not to.

That's why my husband, President Biden, is fundamentally changing how our nation approaches and funds women's health research. Last year, Joe and I launched the first-ever White House Initiative on Women's Health Research.

We're helping close the research gaps in women's health, so we can understand the science behind the conditions that so many women experience, building the knowledge that will create life-changing products and fuel innovation.

During his State of the Union, Joe called on Congress to make a bold investment to do just that – with $12 billion. And he signed an Executive Order to make sure that when the government funds studies, they include women from the beginning.

Earlier this year, ARPA-H – the agency Joe created to pursue health breakthroughs with lightning speed – launched its first-ever Sprint for Women's Health. Over this year, we will invest $100 million to fund transformative research and development.

We're "de-risking" investments in big ideas from researchers and start-ups – the ones that could revolutionize women's health – so that answers can get to the women who need them, quickly.

President Biden is taking a leap toward the future – making a change today that will open up all the possibilities of tomorrow with an all-of-government effort.

Investing in women's health matters to Joe – and to me. But we can't do this alone. We need industry to look ahead with that same vision.

The private sector – from entrepreneurs and investors, to companies like yours – is essential to bringing these discoveries to the marketplace, reaching millions of women who need solutions.

Thanks to leaders in this room, the momentum behind women's health feels unstoppable.

Thank you for being a part of this. We can't let this moment pass us by.

And together, we will build a health care system where women aren't an after-thought, but a first-thought. Where we leave doctors' offices with more answers than questions. Where we don't have to miss days of work or life for treatable conditions. Where no woman or girl has to hear, "it's all in your head," or, "it's just stress," ever again. Where women don't just survive, they lead long, healthy, and happy lives.

Thank you.

May 1, 2024

Jacksonville, Florida

2:27 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT: Hi, everyone. Hello. Hello. Good afternoon, everyone. Can we please give it up for Dr. Tien? Where is she?

I had the chance to spend some time with her this afternoon, and I thanked her for her courage and for the work that she and her colleagues are doing at this critical time in our country in the midst of this critical healthcare crisis. She has been an extraordinary leader. So, thank you, Dr. Tien, for all that you are.

And thank you to all the leaders who are with us today -- -- Leader Driskell, Leader Davis, Mayor Deegan -- -- and Democratic State Party Chair Nikki Fried. And a special thank you to all the organizers and advocates and elected leaders who have been on the forefront of this fight for so long.

So, listen, I think we all know this is a fight for freedom. This is a fight for freedom -- the fundamental freedom to make decisions about one's own body and not have their government tell them what they're supposed to do.

And as we know, almost two years ago, the highest court in our land -- the court of Thurgood and RBG -- took a constitutional right that had been recognized from the people of America, from the women of America. And now, in states across our nation, extremists have proposed and passed laws that criminalize doctors, punish women; laws that threaten doctors and nurses with prison time, even for life, simply for providing reproductive care; laws that make no exception for rape or incest, even reviving laws from the 1800 s.

AUDIENCE: Booo --

THE VICE PRESIDENT: Across our nation, we witnessed a full-on assault state by state on reproductive freedom.

And understand who is to blame. Former President Donald Trump did this.

AUDIENCE: Booo --

THE VICE PRESIDENT: Donald Trump handpicked three members of the United States Supreme Court because he intended for them to overturn Roe. And as he intended, they did.

Now, many of you here may recall I served on the Judiciary Committee as a United States senator, and I questioned two of those nominees. To one of them I asked, quote -- I will quote myself -- -- "Can you think of any law that give the government the power to make decisions about the male body?" And it will come as no shock to everyone here, he had no good answer. And that day, we all knew what was about to come, and it happened just as Donald Trump intended.

Now, present day, because of Donald Trump, more than 20 states have abortion bans, more than 20 Trump abortion bans. And today, this very day, at the stroke of midnight, another Trump abortion ban went into effect here in Florida. As of this morning, 4 million women in this state woke up with fewer reproductive freedoms than they had last night. This is the new reality under a Trump abortion ban.

Starting this morning, medical professionals like Dr. Tien could be sent to prison for up to five years for providing reproductive care even earlier in pregnancy -- reality under a Trump abortion ban.

Starting this morning, women in Florida became subject to an abortion ban so extreme it applies before many women even know they are pregnant -- which, by the way, tells us the extremists who wrote this ban either don't know how a woman's body works or they simply don't care.

Trump says he wants to leave abortion up to the states. He says "up to the states."

All right. So, here's how that works out. Today, one in three women of reproductive age live in a state with a Trump abortion ban, many with no exception for rape or incest.

Now, on that topic, as many of you know, I started my career as a prosecutor specializing in crimes against women and children. What many of you may not know is why.

So, when I was in high school, I learned that my best friend was being molested by her stepfather. And I said to her, "Well, you've got to come and live with us." I called my mother, and my mother said, "Of course, she does." And so, she did.

So, the idea that someone who survives a crime of violence to their body, a violation of their body would not have the authority to make a decision about what happens to their body next, that's immoral. That's immoral.

And one does not have to abandon their faith or deeply held beliefs to agree the government should not be telling her what to do.

And let us understand -- let us understand the impact of these bans, the horrific reality that women face every single day. Folks, since Roe was overturned, I have met women who were refused care during a miscarriage. I met a woman who was turned away from an emergency room, and it was only when she developed sepsis that she received care.

Now, I'm proud to be the first president or vice president in history to visit a reproductive health clinic. But around our country, since that decision came down, clinics have been forced to close. Think about it: Clinics that provide breast cancer screenings, contraceptive care, Paps, lifesaving care.

And I have seen firsthand, then, that this truly is a healthcare crisis. And Donald Trump is the architect.

And, by the way, that is not a fact he hides. In fact, he brags about it. He has said the collection of abortion bans in the state is, quote, "working the way it's supposed to." Just this week, in an interview, he said states have the right to monitor pregnant women to enforce these bans and states have the right to punish pregnant women for seeking out abortion care.

So, Florida, the contrast in this election could not be more clear. Basically, under Donald Trump, it would be fair game for women to be monitored and punished by the government, whereas Joe Biden and I have a different view.

We believe the government should never come between a woman and her doctor. Never.

And as much harm as he has already caused, a second Trump term would be even worse. Donald Trump's friends in the United States Congress are trying to pass a national ban. And understand: A national ban would outlaw abortion in every single state, even in states like New York and California.

And now Trump wants us to believe he will not sign a national ban. Well, I say, enough with the gla- -- gaslighting. Enough with the gaslighting. Because we all know if Donald Trump gets the chance, he will sign a national abortion ban.

And how do we know? Well, let's take a look at the evidence and follow the facts. Maybe as a former prosecutor, I like to say: We should really look at the evidence and follow the facts.

Okay. Congress tried to pass a national abortion ban in 2017. And the then-President, Trump, endorsed it -- 2017 -- and promised to sign it if it got to his desk.

And in that same interview he gave this week, he seemed perfectly fine signing a national ban that would make it illegal to receive IVF treatment.

Well, the great Maya Angelou once said, "When someone tells you who they are, believe them the first time." And Donald Trump has told us who he is.

So, here's what a second Trump term looks like: more bans, more suffering, less freedom. But we are not going to let that happen.

Because, you see, we trust women. We trust women to know what is in their own best interests. And women trust all of us to fight to protect their most fundamental freedoms.

And this November, up and down the ballot, reproductive freedom is on the ballot. And you, the leaders -- you, the people, have the power to protect it with your vote.

Donald Trump may think he can take Florida for granted. It is your power that will send Joe Biden and me back to the White House.

And when Congress passes a law that restores the reproductive freedoms of Roe, our President, Joe Biden, will sign it. Donald Trump was the president who took away the protections of Roe. Joe Biden will be the president who puts the protections of Roe back in place.

And it's going to take all of us to get there. And, by the way, momentum -- momentum is on our side. Just think about it. Since Roe was overturned, every time reproductive freedom has been on the ballot, the people of America voted for freedom.

From Kansas to California to Kentucky, in Michigan, Montana, Vermont, and Ohio, the people of America voted for freedom -- and not by little but often by overwhelming margins, proving also that this is not a partisan issue -- it's not a partisan issue -- and proving that the voice of the people has been heard and will be heard.

So, today, I ask: Florida, are you ready to make your voices heard?

Do we trust women?

Do we believe in reproductive freedom?

Do we believe in the promise of America?

Are we ready to fight for it?

And when we fight, we win.

God bless you and God bless the United States of America. Thank you all.

END 2:41 P.M. EDT

# # #

May 1, 2024

James S. Brady Press Briefing Room

12:57 P.M. EDT

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Good afternoon, everybody.

Q Good afternoon.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I just have a couple things at the top, and then we'll get going.

On May 7 th, the President will travel to Capitol Hill to deliver the keynote address at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum's Annual Days of Remembrance ceremony.

During the Days of Remembrance, we remember and mourn the 6 million Jews who were systematically murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators during World War Two.

The President will also discuss our moral duty to combat the rising scourge of antisemitism and the Biden-Harris administration's work to implementing the first-ever National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism to make real the promise of never, never again.

Today, Florida's extreme six-week abortion ban takes effect. That's before many women even know they're pregnant.

We should all be concerned that this extreme abortion ban will put desperately needed medical care even further out of reach for millions of women in Florida and across the South.

But it's not just Florida, and it's not just abortion under -- care under attack here. We are seeing the devastating impacts on women's reproductive freedom since Roe was overturned. In states across the country, women's health and lives now hang in the balance.

Twenty-one states have abortion bans in effect. In nearly all of these states, doctors can be charged with a fenaly -- a felony for simply doing their jobs.

One in three women in America now live in states with extreme abortion bans.

Over 380 bills restricting access to abortion care were introduced in states houses just last year.

At the federal level, congressional Republicans have proposed three -- three national abortion bans. IVF is under attack. Contraception is under attack. And women and families are fearful that their deeply personal medical data could be used against them.

All of this chaos and devastation was made possible by the former President, who worked very hard and got it done to overturn Roe v. Wade.

President Biden and Vice President Harris stand with the vast majority of Americans who believe that the right to choose is fundamental and that healthcare decisions should be made by a woman with the help of her doctor, not politicians.

They will continue to call on Congress to restore the protections of Roe v. Wade into federal law, the only way to ensure every woman can access the care she needs regardless of what state she lives in.

The reason we started early -- I know a lot of people are asking -- is because I -- I have a meeting with the President at about 1:30 or so, and so I'm going to try and get to everybody's questions, or as many questions as possible.

With that, Zeke.

Q Let's stick with "everybody."

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I know. I said it, and I was like, "Oh, darn."

Q There's Rosen.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, darn. There's Rosen in the back. To wit -- Mr. To Wit in the back.

Q Hi. Thank you, Karine --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead, Zeke.

Q Starting overseas real quick. I understand -- we understand Secretary Blinken is in -- in the region right now, but has the President, has the White House gotten any -- any indications for how Hamas might respond to this -- the ceasefire proposal? And how can -- what is the level of concern within the administration --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- that Hamas could respond in the negative?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, our position remains -- and we are going to be very consistent of what we've been saying -- is that we believe that there should be a ceasefire as part of this hostage -- hostage deal, and it should happen immediately --immediately. And there has not yet been a response from Hamas, as you know.

We believe that all efforts need -- need to be brought to bear to convince Hamas to accept that -- the proposal -- immediately and have made that clear to our partners in the region.

As you just stated, Secretary Blinken is in the region meeting with our -- with our regional partners. He is going to be holding an on-the-record presser in the one o'clock hour where he's going to be talking about the humanitarian aid that we've been able to get into -- get into Gaza for the people of Gaza, the all-important humanitarian aid. As you know, that -- it's a -- it's a dire situation there. So he'll speak to that.

And sh- -- and Hamas should just not continue to get in the way of much-needed relief for the people of Gaza. They need to move forward and -- and move forward with this deal. And that is going to be -- this deal is also going to, obviously, create an opportunity to get more of that humanitarian aid.

And let's not forget the innocent people who they took hostage -- over 200 -- and that includes Americans. They need to come home to the -- to their -- to their families, their loved ones. And we have, also, American hostages that are part of that -- part of that -- were part of that 200, as you all know.

So, Hamas needs to -- there's a deal at the table -- on the table: Hamas needs to take it.

Q And then, here at home, there's been some dramatic images, really, across the country over the last 24 to 48 hours, especially at the Columbia; UCLA, last night; University of Madison, Wisconsin; other campuses. Has the President been monitoring this?

And why have we not heard directly from the President about these protests that have taken over instit- -- institutions of higher learning across the country, the police responses, instances of violence? Why have we not heard directly from the President?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, a -- just a -- a couple of things. The President is -- is being kept regularly updated on -- on what's happening, as you just stated, across the country. He is monitoring the situation closely, so is his team.

And I would just add that no president -- no president has spoken more forcefully about combating antisemitism than this president.

Let's not forget, in 2017, he was very clear -- what we saw -- the antisemitic bile that we saw in Charlottesville, on the streets of Charlottesville -- he called that out. He called that out.

And one of the reasons he stepped into the 2020 election is because of what he saw, is because he wanted to -- he wanted to speak out and speak against what we were seeing in this country at that time. Democracy was under attack. Our freedoms were -- were under attack. And we're still fighting for that today, obviously.

But it -- he hasn't just done that by speaking, as you heard from my topper, he's taken action. He's taken action by moving forward with the first-ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. More than 100 new actions have -- were introduced, obviously, in that strategy, and that is how seriously this President takes it.

And I think what's important here is that he's taken action on this issue.

Q And just quickly, does the President support those police clearing operations, like we saw in New York, like we've seen on other -- seen on other college campuses?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, we've been very clear on that. Americans have the right to peacefully protest. They have the right to peacefully protest as long as it's within the law and that it's peaceful.

Forceful- -- forcibly taking over a building is not peaceful. It's just not. Students have the right to feel safe. They have the right to learn. They have to ri- -- the right to do this without dis- -- disruption. And they have a right to feel safe on campus. As I just said, they have the right to attend their commencement without feeling -- feeling unsafe.

And what we're seeing is a small percentage of students. That's what we're seeing. They should not be able to disturb or disrupt the academic experience that students have.

So, look, that's what -- that's how we see things. It is important that students and communities feel safe here. And at the same time, we are going to be really forceful here and continue to underscore how antisemitism is hateful speech. It is wrong. It is abhorrent. And we're going to continue to call that out.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. To follow on that. Has anyone from the administration been in touch with administrators, leaders at Columbia or any of these universities that are seeing these protests?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have any calls to read out at this time. Obviously, we're closely monitoring the situation. We are getting regularly -- regular updates, and we're just going to -- I'm just going to keep it there. Just don't have anything to share as far as calls or readouts.

Q On another topic. Has the White House received the recommendation from the DEA to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug? Can you comment on --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- and confirm that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, here is what I can say. I can say, as you know, last year -- I believe in early fall -- the President asked HHS and Department of Justice to look at reclassifying marijuana, to go -- to go through that process. They are -- that process continues.

D- -- DOJ is looking into that. I just want to be really mindful there. They're moving with that process.

I don't have anything more to say. And so, we'll just leave it there.

Q But you can't confirm that it's now at --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I -- I --

Q -- for the next phase of this?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I -- I cannot. All I can tell you is I would refer to DOJ. And what the President directed HHS and Department of Justice to do is to look at the classification of marijuana.

And let's not forget: This is something that the President talked about during his campaign. And he said no person, no American who possess marijuana -- only possesses marijuana should be -- go to jail.

It is affecting communities across the country, including communities of color. And so, this is why he -- he -- he asked HHS and Department of Justice to look into this. And that's what they're doing.

Q You mentioned campaign. Is this something the White House thinks can help the President right now in an election?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, I'm talking about the campaign in -- in --

Q I know. And I'm looking forward.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I -- I appreciate that. But I'm talking about the campaign and his cam- -- he -- this is a commitment, a promise that he made when he decided to run back in 2019. And he was very clear why it was important, he believed, to ask Department of Justice and HHS to review this. And that review continues, and so don't want to get ahead of what DOJ is -- how they're moving forward.

Go ahead, Weijia.

Q Thanks, Karine. As the administration considers bringing Palestinians here to the U.S. as refugees, do you know how many people that the U.S. hopes to relocate?

And, secondly, given the challenges getting in and out of Gaza, will the U.S. assist in physically bringing Palestinians here?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, let me just first start saying that we just don't have anything to announce at this time. But I do want to lay out a little bit and take a step back of what -- what we've been able to do since the beginning of the conflict. Right? We have helped more than 1,800 American citizens and their families leave Gaza, many of whom have come to the United States, many of that 18,000 is here.

And the President has said -- and as -- in his -- with his direction, we have also helped and will continue to help some particularly vulnerable individuals, such as children with serious health problems and children who were receiving treatment for cancer, get out of harm's way and receive care at nearby hospitals in the region.

And let's not forget, the Pre- -- the President, this -- this administration continues to be the largest contributor of humanitarian assistance. This is something that the Secretary is going to be talking about in this hour -- the Secretary assist- -- I'm sorry, the humanitarian assistance going into Gaza to address the conditions -- the humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

Obviously, as we know, they are very dire. And we are pressing hard to get more urgently needed aid in to more people as soon as possible. That's why this hostage deal is so critical besides, of course, getting the hostages home but also creating an opportunity to get that more additional humanitarian aid in and would lead to a ceasefire.

Now, in terms of the Refugee Admissions Program, which is what I believe you're asking me about, we are constantly evaluating policy proposals to further support Palestinians who are family members of American citizens and may want to come to the United States. So, we're evaluating it. I don't have anything to announce at this time.

Q And then a quick one on communications with protests and people related to protests. Has the President spoken to Mayor Adams since the NYPD became involved in dealing with them?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No. Understand the question. Don't have anything to read out as far as a conversation with the mayor from the President. But I think we've been very, very clear about what we're seeing on the ground. I've been answering these questions for the past couple of days.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks. You said the President is monitoring the situation. Is he aware of the reports that a fair number of the people arrested on several campuses are not students?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, that is something for, obviously, local government to speak to, local govern- -- pardon me, local -- local police at -- and law enforcement to speak to and what they're seeing and what they're reporting.

That is something that I can't speak to at this time. I've heard that reporting. But that is something for them to speak to at this time.

Q So, he's not aware of that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, he's getting regularly updated on the situation and what -- and monitoring. So, I assume that he's getting -- that's part of his update, but he is getting regularly updated on what's happening across the country and campuses.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. Because it's Federal Reserve decision day, I thought it'd be an opportunity to ask a for an updated view on the administration's view of central bank independence, but specifically because the President has, in recent months -- twice at least -- talked about the direction of interest rates.

I want to clarify: What is the administration's position on --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- that fine line between directing the Fed versus predicting their actions?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, the President is very, very clear. We've been clear since the beginning of this administration. And we believe that the Federal Reserve is independent. It is important that they have their independence as they're making that very important monetary policies that they have to make. And so, the President believes in independence.

When the President has spoken about that -- and I think I've said this, whether in a gaggle or here at the podium -- he's reflected a public interpretation of recent data. That's what he's speaking to.

But as far as the independence of the Federal Reserve, we -- we are very much -- very clear on that. The independence is -- is good for -- the Federal Reserve's independence is good for economics. And it benefits workers. It benefits families. It benefits businesses. And so, that's what we want to continue to make sure -- that they have their independence so they can make those really important decisions.

Q Okay. And a quick one, separately. I wanted to get the White House reaction to the news that Tesla has eliminated almost all of its Supercharger unit that was setting up the --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- EV battery plants across the U.S. How -- I mean, how do you think this impacts the goal of bringing 500,000 of those units to U.S. soil?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, so when it comes to any type of private company decisions, obviously, that's something that they have to make that decision on. What I will say broadly is that we -- you know, we brought together public and private sectors to build a convenient and reliable national charging network that everyone can use.

And so, since this President, since the Biden-Harris administration, more than 40 EV charging infrastructure companies have announced new or expanded manufacturing facilities in the U.S. And so, this is a evolving and competitive market where multiple companies are playing leading roles here. It's not just one company.

But -- so, want to be really careful on a -- on a private company's personnel decision or any type of de- -- decision that they have to make on behiv- -- of behalf of their business.

But we have -- believe that we have brought together both sides -- the public and -- and private sector -- to really deal -- to really speak to this and deal with this.

Go ahead, Gabe.

Q Thanks, Karine. I wanted to follow up on a previous question that was asked.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q And, respectfully, you didn't quite answer it. The question was: Why hasn't the President been more forceful --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- in talking about the protests?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q You talked about how he's talked about antisemitism. But specifically on the protests --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- why hasn't the President been more --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well -- no --

Q -- forceful on that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: And I hear that the question, Gabe, but, respectfully, the President has been one -- the -- no other president has spoken about antisemitism than this President.

Q But that's not -- that's not the question.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: What --

Q It's the protest.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: And I'm -- but I'm answering it in the way that I believe is the best way to answer your question, which is the President has been very, very clear. He's been clear about this. He's taken action. He put forth a -- a strategic plan to deal -- to counter antisemitism -- more than 100 new actions. And not just taking actions, but it is actions that -- across the administration. This is a whole-of-government process. Right?

We have the Department of Homeland Security that's involved. We have the Department of Education that's involved. We want to make sure that we're dealing with this -- not just words, not just speaking out, but taking action.

And so, look, the President is going to continue to monitor this. Obviously, he's going to continue to get regularly updated on this. We have spoken from this administration. You've heard from the Vice President; you've heard from the Second Gentleman. You've also heard from this President, who has taken questions on this.

And what we believe -- and we're very clear on this -- is that peacefully protesting within the law is something that every American should have the right to do. And we are also going to call out any type of antisemitism that we are hearing, that we are seeing -- the hate. That's something that we have done -- not just throughout this administration -- this President has done that throughout his -- his political career. And he's going to -- we're going to certainly continue to do that.

And so, look, that's ki- -- that's where we stand. I think that is a very forceful place to be when we say we have taken action. We have taken action here.

Q You -- you mentioned that the President has taken questions on this. Again, respectfully --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- he -- he hasn't. He did take a question where he said he condemns those who don't understand what's going on with the Palestinians. I know you've been asked about that.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q But since you brought up Charlottesville, what do you say to those critics who say that he is trying to have it both ways -- that he's essentially, you know, trying to talk about both antisemitism and what's going on with the Palestinians?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I would say to those critics is -- no, he's not doing a both-sides scenario here. When you think about Charlottesville, you think about the -- the vile antisemitism that we heard on the streets of Charlottesville -- right here -- in Virginia -- right? -- not far from here -- the President and many of us wanted to make sure that was called out.

Somebody died. A young woman lost her life. And when the President saw that, it put him in a situation where he believed it was the right thing to speak against that. He wrote an op-ed that was in The Atlantic, because about that -- about that. He decided to run because of what he saw in Charlottesville. And that was just vile, nasty rhetoric.

And you had, you know, a former president talk about both sides. There was no "both sides" here. None. Absolutely none.

As it relates to the Palestinians, he was talking about the humanitarian -- a dire humanitarian situation that we're currently seeing. I just mentioned the Secretary -- Secretary Blinken is going to be talking about the humanitarian aid that we are trying to get into Gaza for the people of Gaza. We're trying to get this hostage deal done so that we can get hostages home and create an environment to get humanitarian aid that would lead -- also, the hostage- -- it would lead to a ceasefire.

Those things are not the same. They're just not the same -- fundamentally not the same. And it is in bad faith -- it is in bad faith to say that.

Go ahead, Anne. Oh --

Q Oh, ac- -- no, no, no.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE:

Q It's fine. I have a -- I do -- had a similar question. But I believe you addressed it. I am also just curious: What are you meeting with POTUS about? You mentioned you were meeting.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Fair enough.

Well, as you know, the President is going to go to North Carolina tomorrow. So, that's going to be an important trip. And so, we'll be discussing that.

Okay. Go ahead. Yeah.

Q Oh, great. Okay. These protests that have been going on on college campuses, we're hearing that some of them are starting to wane a little bit. But they're not just a one-day protest; this has been going on for quite some time. Is there some concern within the Biden administration that this may be eroding public view -- if the court of public opinion may be turning against what the President is standing for and that maybe they're not hearing the antisemitism message?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, we have been very consistent from this administration about antisemitism, calling out hateful speech. Antisemitism is hateful speech. Calling out hateful rhetoric, violent rhetoric, that is something -- when it pops up, when we hear about it, from this administration, we've been pretty consistent on calling that out. That should not be -- we should not be seeing this on campuses, in communities. It should not be part of the political discourse.

I think we've been very clear during -- throughout this administration, before this administration, throughout this President's career: We have to call that out.

I can't speak to polling. I can't speak to what is weighing in this poll. What I can speak to is what this President is going to continue to do, and what this administration is going to continue to do is call out -- call out this hateful speech, including antisemitism -- again, which is hateful speech. It is abhorrent. We got to call it out.

Go ahead.

Q Karine, what's your currently assessment of the risk to the U.S. milk and meat supply from the bird flu epidemic in cattle?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yep. So, I know that the Department of Agriculture has been on top of this. I know that they are not seeing any -- any concerns to -- to milk or any of the cattle or the meat -- or meat that we are be- -- that we are consuming. Well, I don't consume any meat, but some of you all -- -- you out there.

And so, obviously they are taking this very seriously. They are monitoring the situation. As far as -- as far as we understand it to be is that they believe that milk and -- and consuming meat is safe.

Q And from an inflation standpoint, is there any concern that there might be supply disruptions in that area that might lead to higher prices?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, as you know, you know, what -- because of the pandemic, there was a supply chain disruption. The President took action -- the American Rescue Plan -- which only, obviously, Democrats voted for -- the President signed -- helped deal with supply chain.

There is a -- a task force that was created to deal -- to make sure that, during the pandemic, that supply chain was dealt with in a way so that we can get out of this pandemic, get our -- the economy -- get back on our feet with the economy.

Look, this is something we're going to monitor. I don't have anything to share on -- on the question of inflation. We're -- obviously, we're going to continue to closely monitor.

Q And then, on another subject, the flooding in Kenya. I'm curious if there's any relief that's planned from the administration and whether it's affecting plans for the state visit later this month.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, a couple of things on that. So, obviously, we extend our deepest condolences to the families, loved ones, and communities who have been impacted by the catastrophic flooding in East Africa -- obviously not just Kenya -- over the past month.

The U.S. is supporting some response efforts, particularly through the U.S. Agency for International Development -- USAID -- Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance.

For example, in Kenya, US- -- USAID has provided $600,000 to Kenya Red Cross Society, the Government of Kenya's lead responder for emergency flood response. That's in addition to more than $40 million that USAID has provided to humanitarian organizations in Kenya, who also have flexibility to respond to the current floods this year.

So, we continue to offer our continued and -- and resolute support to all who have been impacted and are closely monitoring the situation.

We do not see this impacting the state visit, as you just mentioned, on May 23 rd. But we're going to continue to offer our assi- -- our assistance and support.

Go ahead.

Q Thank you, Karine. The President, in less than three weeks, is going to be delivering commencement addresses at both Morehouse and West Point. What sort of environment is the White House preparing for the President to encounter there?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, when you speak about environment, security, or anything like that, that's something for the Secret Service to speak to. I can't speak to that. What I can say is the President is very much looking forward to speaking to graduates --

Q What mood does he expect to encounter on campus?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: What mood?

Q I know you can't talk about --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, I -- I mean, look, I don't want to get into hypotheticals here. I -- you know, the President is hoping to encounter and deal -- and see family members and students who are thrilled and excited to be celebrating an important day. He's going to be celebrating that day with them, talking about their future, you know, hoping to deliver remarks that hit home for these graduates and -- and their families.

It's a special day. It's a special day. And so, he's looking forward to doing that. He did two -- two commencement speeches last year, two before then -- before that -- before -- before 2023, obviously. And so, this is something that he looks forward to doing.

I can't speak to the mood. I can't speak to security situation. I can't speak to that. I can't get into hypotheticals. I can speak to how important that moment is going to be. And the President certainly looks forward to it.

Q But is it the White House's expectation that some of the -- the current frustration on campus will have subsided by that time?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I --

Q And if so, why?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, I don't have a crystal ball to look into and look into the future. I just don't. I -- I that is not something that I have the ability of doing.

What I can say is this is an important day. This is an important month -- important month, yes, graduation month -- but important day for these graduates. And he's -- you know, as the President tends to do when he speaks at graduation, he's going to meet the moment.

Q And just to follow up on a question about some of the reports from police that the protesters that were arrested in New York were not students. Yesterday, John Kirby said that there was no intelligence to support the idea that there were bad actors involved in some of these protests. Does the intelligence still support that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm just going to be really mindful. I'm just not going to speak to that. There's local -- local enforcement -- local law enforcement on the ground. So I'll -- will -- I will speak to that.

I think what I can say, more broadly: This is a painful moment -- and we understand that -- for many communities, and we know that these kinds of charged moments pose challenges for law enforcement. And the President continues to believe, as I've said multiple times, that Americans have the right to peacefully protest within the law. That is their right. It is part of our freedoms here in America.

And at the same time, we are going to condemn anti- -- anti- -- antisemitism. We believe that is hate speech. We -- it is abhorrent. And we're going to continue to condemn that.

Q Thank you.

Q To -- what -- with that said, I mean, does the President believe New York Mayor Adams and leaders of Columbia University and City College of New York acted appropriately by having the protesters at those colleges as- -- colleges arrested and their encampments forcibly shut down?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: That is a decision for colleges and universities to decide on.

The law enforcement, if you think about local law enforcement, they know what's going on on the ground. They have a better sense of what's going on on the ground. And, obviously, they have to make decisions.

We are talking about protecting students and making sure that they feel safe on campus. We're talking about a small group of students who are disrupting that ability for students to have that academic experience. That's what we're talking about here.

We believe, and I will continue to say this, Americans have the right to peacefully protest within the law. That is incredibly important. And we also have to condemn hate. We have to condemn antisemitism. That is something that this President believes.

We also understand, as I just stated to your colleague, that many communities -- this is a painful time and is a very charged -- charged environment, charged moments. When you see those type of charged moments, they do pose challenges for law enforcement. But that is their decision to make.

Q But when we look nationwide, you know, all these protests erupting at college campuses, has the response, you know, been the appropriate response, or has it been, you know, too harsh?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So look, there's probab- -- there's going to be local investigations. There's going to be cases on this. And I don't want to get ahead of that. I can't go into every case here.

What I can say is, in these charged moments, we understand how difficult it is. We understand how -- how painful it is in this moment and how, because of that -- because of those -- of that -- those charged moments, it can be challenging for law enforcement.

At the same time, students have to be allowed, Americans have to be allowed to peacefully protest. That is important. That is part of our freedoms here in America. We got to make sure that we continue to say that. We believe, in this administration, that we have to continue to say that and call out any antisemitism that we see. It is dangerous. It is abhorrent. We got to call that out.

Q Karine --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead. I'll .

Q Thanks, Karine. On a different topic. Would the President encouraged Democrats to help protect Speaker Johnson from being ousted from his role if Marjorie Taylor Greene were to make good on her threat to --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We've --

Q -- move forward next week?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We've been very clear. When it comes to internal leadership discussions in Congress, we just do not get involved. That is for Democratic -- Democratic leadership to speak to. That's not something we get involved in.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. I'm wondering if the White House has any response to the reports of violent clashes on UCLA's campus last night that there were -- there was a group of counter-protesters that tried to forcibly dismantle the pro-Palestine encampment and the clash that resulted afterwards.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, what I can say more broadly: Any form of violence, we are going to denounce. We're going to call out violent rhetoric. Any type of -- of violence, we have to call out. That doesn't change anything. We're going to continue to do that.

Go ahead.

Q Yeah, on that trip to North Carolina, does the President plan to visit the victims of Charlotte's mass shooting?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Don't have anything to share at this time. We'll have more later.

Go ahead, Jon.

Q To wit. Just to -- just a follow-up --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Fair. Fair enough.

Q -- a follow-up with that question with --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah. Which one? North Carolina?

Q North Carolina

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay.

Q Yeah, North Carolina. So, already on the schedule is the visit to Wilmington, North Carolina. It's expected that the President will also travel to Charlotte as well. Has the President reached out to the families of those law enforcement --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- individuals who were killed in that tragic incident the --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, here --

Q -- other day?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Here is what I will say: I don't have any -- any details to share with you at this time. But the President -- and you saw this in his statement yesterday -- he talked about the fou- -- four law enforcement officers. They were heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. That's what you see. When they put on the uniform and the badge every day, they are putting their lives on the line, and they made the ultimate sacrifice.

So, obviously, we pray for -- for them. We pray for their families and others who were -- who were injured as a result of this senseless violence -- senseless violence. And so, we're continuing -- we'll continue to keep them in [DEL: their :DEL] [our] prayers.

As it relates to North Carolina tomorrow, I just don't have anything to share at this time.

Go ahead.

Q I have a question on Elon Musk's China visit. He concluded a surprise visit recently, meeting with senior Communist Party officials and made some deals with -- to work with the Chinese technology companies. Is the White House worried that the U.S. advanced electric vehicle technology will be in China's hands? And would the administration look into the deal if there is a national --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I --

Q -- security concern?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm going to be really careful. Elon Musk is a private citizen. I'm just not going to speak to his travels from here. I'm just not going to speak to it.

Go ahead. Go ahead, Adam.

Q Hi. Thanks. I wanted to follow up once more on Gabe's question, because I think the way that --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- you responded leaves maybe the impression that the White House views antisemitism as synonymous with the protests as a whole. That's the only issue you're going to --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, I was -- I was very clear about --

Q So --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: There's a small number of students who are causing the disruption, and I've been very clear about that. And we have to make sure that we create a safe environment -- a safe environment is created for students to -- to learn, for students to be able to go to graduation. I've been very clear: a small number of students.

Q So, I -- so, maybe this specific question because --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, sure. Sure, sure.

Q What -- what is the White House -- how do they -- how does the White House view the protests themselves, the causes behind them, the frustrations behind them? How do -- does White House view those as legitimate?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, topline here: Every -- every American has the right to peacefully protest within the law. That is something that we believe. Seizing buildings, taking over buildings is not peacefully protesting. I think we've been very, very clear about that. That is not peacefully protesting.

Students have the right to attend class and feel safe and feel like they are in a safe campus environment. That's what we want to see.

And I've also said over and over again, we believe that it is a small percentage of students who are causing this disrupt- -- disruption, and they're causing a disruption that -- that really takes away from students' academic experience -- might take away, for some, their commencement experience, which is supposed to be a really important day for many of these graduates.

And so, at the same time, we're going to continue to underscore that antisemitism should be called out. It is hate speech, and that should not be allowed -- not on college campuses, not in communities, not in the political discourse. And so, been very clear about that, and we're going to continue to do so.

Q And in terms of, you know, the causes that are driving these protests -- the frustration --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- with the war in Gaza, the frustration with U.S. support for Israel and this offensive -- does the White House view the drivers of these protests as legitimate?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We believe and understand -- understand that this is a painful moment for many communities. We get that. I mean, we say that over and over again. That's why the President and senior White House officials here have had multiple conversations with members of that -- of those communities -- to hear from them, to listen to them.

And we also believe people have the right -- Americans have the right to peacefully protest. That is part of what -- freedoms here in America, that's what it all means. It is important to be able to peacefully protest within the law.

Hate speech should not be allowed. We should condemn that. That's what this administration has always been consistent about and clear about. And we're going to continue to do that.

Go ahead.

AIDE: Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh.

Q Thank you, Karine. Some of these encampments, they had matching tents. We're being told that there are professional outside agitators involved. We don't know if they're being paid to sow chaos by domestic folks or foreign entities. Does President Biden want his administration to find out who is funding some of these protests?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: What I can say -- I -- you know, I cannot -- I cannot speak to the organizations that are being reported -- that -- that's on the ground. That is not something for me to speak to. That is obviously something that local governments -- local official -- I keep saying "local government" -- local officials are going to speak to. They'll have better information on that.

What we have said -- and I don't think I've iterated that yet from here -- is that the DOJ and FBI is going to continue to offer support to universities and colleges with -- in respect to federal laws. So, that is something that the DOJ and FBI is doing.

As far as local organizations and what is all being reported on the ground, that is something that I'm -- that local law enforcement certainly is looking into.

Q And I understand that President Biden historically has spoken very forcefully about antisemitism, but this week he's not. He's MIA. Is he that worried about losing the youth vote with these protestors?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm going to be mindful. You're talking about "youth vote." You're talking about 2024.

Q Support of young people.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, no, no. I -- I have to say what I have to say and just give me a second. So, I'm not going to speak about --

Somebody's doorbell? Is that a doorbell?

Q An alarm.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: An alarm. Okay. All right.

And I'll speak more broadly. I can't speak to youth pe- -- youth and support and voters. That's not something I can do from here.

The President has taken a lot of policy actions here that he knows that young people care about. And a lot of those actions are popular with those young folks, whether it's giving a little bit of breathing room with student debt relief.

So- -- we made an announcement today, matter of fact, and we are going to continue to do that because we think it's important as families or as an American and you coming out of college and you want to build a family, buy a home, you have the opportunity to do that and not be crushed by student debt. The President understands how important it is to deal with that issue.

Climate change -- something that young people really, truly care about. One of the crises that the President said he came in to having to deal with was the climate change crisis. This is a president who has taken more -- have taken aggressive, aggressive action to deal with climate crisis.

Look, I can't speak to -- I can't speak to youth voters or their support. What we're going to do is continue to take actions that we believe helps all Americans in all communities.

Q And you mentioned what he said in 2017, after Charlottesville. He said about Trump's response then, "Charlottesville, for me, was a moment where I thought silence would be complicity."

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q So, how does he explain, how you explain --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- his silence this week?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: The President has not been silent on this issue when it comes to hate speech, antisemitism. He started --

Q He -- he has.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Wait. He started -- he launched the first-ever antisemitism -- Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, something that no other president did. No other president

do --

Q In the time since, a school building on a -- at an Ivy League campus got taken over.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: And I -- and we call that out. And we said: That is not peacefully protesting. Taking over a building at a university is -- or a college is not peacefully protesting.

And we've been very clear. We've been very clear -- taking more than a hundred new actions to deal with antisemitism in this administration, no one has ever done that before. Not any other administration has ever done that before.

Q Does he think it's working? You're talking about 2017 --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We're going to continue -- we're going to continue --

Q -- vile, antisemitic rhetoric --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We're going to continue to do the work. And it's not just here in the White House. We're talking about DOJ. We're talking about Homeland Security. Right? We're talking about Department of -- Department of Education, talking and working with campuses and colleges to deal with this issue.

We have seen a uptick in antisemitism in the last, certainly, several months and in the past year. And we have to call that out. And it is not okay. It is not okay.

Go ahead, Phil.

Q Thank you. Two quick questions here. You've made the distinction between the President's support for peaceful protest and, say, less-than-peaceful protests. I'm curious, what is the President's view and what is the view of the White House on some of these college campuses where we've seen the U.S. flag torn down and the Palestinian flag replace it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: What I will say is this. Americans have the right to peacefully protest within the law -- within the law. And we have to re- -- we have to also respect that, you know, we cannot disturb campuses in the way of taking over buildings, in the way that we have seen. That is not peacefully protest. It's just not.

And, you know, look, we have seen some really vile, hateful -- hateful language used against the Jewish community -- Jewish Americans in this country. It is a dangerous time for that community. And we have been very clear about what we need to do to fight that hate but also condemn that hate.

And so, we're going to continue to do that. And as it relates to what's happening, obviously, the actions that colleges and universities are -- are taking, obviously, it's up to them. They're on the ground. But we're going to continue to call that out.

Q And then zooming out just a little bit here. You know, not all of these protesters have expressed antisemitism, but some have. And I'm -- I'm curious: Does the President believe that at, perhaps, some of these universities that higher education has gone off the rails, that, you know, something more fundamental has gone wrong on these college campuses?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, I wouldn't go that far. And I've been -- and you said it in your question to me. It is a small percentage of students who are causing this disruption. And students should be -- feel safe to go to school. They should be -- feel safe to be able to have that all-important academic experience. They should be able to have -- and have their commencement and be able to have their families and loved ones show up for them on that important day.

And I wouldn't go that far in your question because, as I stated and you stated, we believe it's a small number of students who are causing this disruption. And if they are going to protest, Americans have the right to do it in a peaceful way within the law. And we're going to continue to call out hateful speech as we have been.

Q One more. One more, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thanks, everybody. Thanks, everyone.

1:38 P.M. EDT

May 1, 2024

The Biden-Harris Administration has taken aggressive action to accelerate project permitting and environmental reviews. As part of the Administration's all-of-government effort to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of federal permitting processes, yesteday the White House Council on Environmental Quality finalized a rule to reform and simplify the federal environmental review process while ensuring strong environmental protections, robust community engagement, and better coordination with states, Tribal Nations, and local governments. This builds on the Administration's progress toward accelerating the federal permitting process, ensuring that industry can move forward with key investments and projects, including building out clean energy and transmission,

while also being responsible stewards of the environment and protecting communities.

See coverage below:

The New York Times: Biden Administration Moves to Speed Up Permits for Clean Energy

[Coral Davenport, 4/30/24]

The Biden administration on Tuesday released rules designed to speed up permits for clean energy while requiring federal agencies to more heavily weigh damaging effects on the climate and on low-income communities before approving projects like highways and oil wells. The rules announced Tuesday could help to more quickly carry out Mr. Biden's signature climate law, the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, which includes at least $370 billion in tax incentives to expand renewable energy, such as wind and solar power, as well as electric vehicles.

Reuters: US reforms environmental law to speed up clean energy, infrastructure approval

[Timothy Gardner, 4/30/24]

The White House on Tuesday reformed the U.S. environmental review process for major projects that officials said would speed up approval of anything from power transmission from wind and solar farms to semiconductor manufacturing. It also creates ways for agencies to establish the fastest and most common form of environmental review, known as categorical exclusions, such as for transmission lines in areas where the land has already been disturbed and does not require more clearing of trees and habitats.

E&E: Biden revamps permitting in boost for clean energy

[Kevin Bogardus, 4/30/24]

On Tuesday, the White House finalized its "Phase 2" revisions for the National Environmental Policy Act's regulations, which top officials believe will speed up permitting for key infrastructure projects while maintaining environmental protections… The rule implements last year's debt ceiling deal that Biden negotiated with GOP leaders, including setting clear deadlines and page limits for environmental reviews as well as establishing one lead agency to handle such reviews.

Politico: Biden administration finalizes update to NEPA permitting law

[Zack Colman, 4/30/24]

The updates to the National Environmental Policy Act aim to address concerns from both parties that the nation's permitting laws are hampering efforts to add clean power to the electric grid, establish a domestic critical minerals supply chain and build manufacturing hubs for semiconductors, clean energy, batteries and electric vehicles. Administration officials pitched the new rule as necessary for hitting President Joe Biden's climate goals while preserving meaningful community participation in the environmental review process.

The Hill: White House finalizes permitting reform rule included in debt ceiling deal

[Zack Budryk, 4/30/24]

The final rule also includes provisions to improve community engagement in the environmental review process, undoing a 2020 Trump administration rule that critics have said imposed excessive hurdles for public comment during the process. Environmental groups praised the Biden administration for the final rule, saying it restored enforcement strength to the National Environmental Policy Act that had been previously rolled back.

Axios: Biden completes permitting rule

[Ben Geman, 4/30/24]

The White House today unveiled final rules to speed up permitting for infrastructure projects -- including transmission and low-carbon energy. Accelerating timelines that often drag on for years would help realize the goals of the Democrats' 2022 climate law and the bipartisan 2021 infrastructure deal.

Bloomberg Law: Biden Issues Permitting Changes to Speed Clean Energy Build Out

[Stephen Lee, 4/30/24]

The Biden administration on Tuesday will finalize its second set of changes to the nation's environmental permitting rules, part of an ongoing bid to speed the build-out of renewable energy infrastructure.

Common Dreams: Biden Restores, Expands Bedrock Environmental Law Gutted by Trump

[Jessica Corbett, 4/30/24]

In a clear demonstration of how U.S. President Joe Biden's priorities differ from those of his GOP predecessor, the Democrat on Tuesday finalized a two-part push to revive and strengthen a landmark environmental law eviscerated by the Trump administration in 2020.

May 1, 2024

Additional details to follow.

May 1, 2024

While my predecessor looked the other way when colleges defrauded students and borrowers, I promised to take this on directly to provide borrowers with the relief they need and deserve. Over the last three years, my Administration has approved nearly $29 billion in debt relief for 1.6 million borrowers whose colleges took advantage of them, closed abruptly, or were covered by related court settlements, compared to just 53,500 borrowers who had ever gotten their debt cancelled through these types of actions before I took office. And in total, we have approved debt cancellation for nearly 4.6 million Americans through various actions.

Today's announcement builds on all we've done to fix broken student loan programs and bring higher education more in reach. That includes: providing the largest increases to the maximum Pell Grant in over a decade, fixing Public Service Loan Forgiveness and Income Driven Repayment so borrowers get the relief they are entitled to under the law, launching the SAVE Plan – the most affordable repayment plan ever, and pursuing new plans that would cancel student debt for more than 30 million Americans when combined with everything we've done so far.

We will never stop fighting to deliver relief to borrowers, hold bad actors accountable, and bring the promise of college to more Americans.

May 1, 2024

access this essential benefit.

Losing the monthly Affordable Connectivity Program benefit will have drastic, meaningful impacts on American households, according to survey data collected by the Federal Communications Commission. More than three-quarters of surveyed ACP households say losing their ACP benefit would disrupt their service by making them change their plan or drop internet service entirely. More than two thirds of households had inconsistent internet service or no internet service at all prior to ACP, and this number is even higher for surveyed households residing in rural areas. These respondents also reported that ACP has enabled them to schedule or attend healthcare appoints, apply for jobs, complete work, and do schoolwork.

During the month of May, as funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program runs out, millions of households will receive only a partial subsidy on their internet bills and some will receive no discount at all if their provider opts out of the partial benefit.

At this crucial time, the White House is encouraging providers to take steps to keep their consumers connected by offering low-cost or no-cost plans or providing discounts.

On October 25, 2023, President Biden sent Congress a supplemental request for $6 billion to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program. Despite that request, Republicans in Congress have failed to act. Without action from Republicans in Congress, this program will sunset at the end of May and tens of millions of Americans may no longer be able to afford high-speed internet service. It is time for Republicans in Congress to step up for families across the country.

See below for the state-by-state breakdown of the number of households that will see a $30 or $75 per month increase on their internet bill if Congressional Republicans fail to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program. This breakdown includes estimates of percentages of households enrolled in ACP in every Congressional District.

· Alabama

· Alaska

· American Samoa

· Arizona

· Arkansas

· California

· Colorado

· Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

· Connecticut

· DC

· Delaware

· Florida

· Georgia

· Guam

· Hawaiʻi

· Idaho

· Illinois

· Indiana

· Iowa

· Kansas

· Kentucky

· Louisiana

· Maine

· Maryland

· Massachusetts

· Michigan

· Minnesota

· Mississippi

· Missouri

· Montana

· Nebraska

· Nevada

· New Hampshire

· New Jersey

· New Mexico

· New York

· North Carolina

· North Dakota

· Ohio

· Oklahoma

· Oregon

· Pennsylvania

· Puerto Rico

· Rhode Island

· South Carolina

· South Dakota

· Tennessee

· Texas

· U.S. Virgin Islands

· Utah

· Vermont

· Virginia

· Washington

· West Virginia

· Wisconsin

· Wyoming

April / 30 / 2024

The President's action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in the counties of Hughes, Love, and Murray.

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

Federal funding is also available to State, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance in the counties of Hughes, Love, and Murray.

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

Mr. Benjamin Abbott of the Federal Emergency Management Agency has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Damage assessments are continuing in other areas, and more counties and additional forms of assistance may be designated after the assessments are fully completed.

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

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

April 30, 2024

At 12:45 PM ET, as part of National Small Business Week, the Second Gentleman will visit a local small business. This visit to Warshaw Hardware in New York, NY will be open to pre-credentialed media.

At 4:15 PM ET, the Second Gentleman will participate in a fireside chat on gender equity at Global Citizen NOW. The Second Gentleman will discuss the importance of investing in economic opportunities for women. This event at Spring Studios in New York, NY will be open to pre-credentialed media.

April 30, 2024

At 10:55 AM ET, the Vice President will depart Washington, DC en route to Jacksonville, FL. This departure from Joint Base Andrews will be pooled press.

At 12:45 PM ET, the Vice President will arrive in Jacksonville, FL for her second visit to the state in 2024. This arrival at Jacksonville International Airport will be pooled press and open to pre-credentialed media.

At 2:45 PM ET, the Vice President will deliver remarks about the fight for reproductive freedoms. These campaign remarks will be pooled press and open to pre-credentialed media.

At 4:40 PM ET, the Vice President will depart Jacksonville, FL en route to Washington, DC. This departure from Jacksonville International Airport will be pooled press.

At 6:20 PM ET, the Vice President will arrive in Washington, DC. This arrival at Joint Base Andrews will be pooled press.

# # #

April 30, 2024

society, and other stakeholders to address drivers of conflict and break costly cycles of instability. The Administration is also investing in evidence-based, adaptive, and innovative programs at the local level, aimed at strengthening social inclusion, government responsiveness, service delivery, and security.

Promoting Peace and Preventing Violent Extremism in Coastal West Africa

Working with Congress, the Administration has committed more than $300 million to advance implementation of the ten-year plan to promote stability in the region. As part of this effort, the U.S. and Germany are pursuing a multi-donor partnership in Benin, Ghana, and Togo to counter violent extremism and build trust between communities, governments, and security forces.

USAID partners with more than one hundred local organizations across Benin, Ghana, and Togo to reduce violent conflict by investing in community-based approaches, such as inter-ethnic savings and loans associations and mediation committees. These communities report a 41 percent increase in peacefully resolved conflicts and improved engagement on community stability by local authorities.

The Department of Defense advances civil-military engagement in this priority region with the addition of two persistent Civil Affairs Teams as well as engagements with Benin and Togo through the State Partnership Program. The Department of State has also significantly increased security cooperation with Benin and Côte d'Ivoire to address terrorist threats. The United States became a contributing board member of the multilateral International Counterterrorism Academy based in Côte d'Ivoire which facilitates learning and sharing of best practices among regional security actors.

The Millennium Challenge Corporation is continuing to advance economic growth to promote stability in Coastal West Africa by developing and expanding critical infrastructure and related sectors. Last year, MCC and the Government of Benin celebrated the completion of the $423 million Benin Power Compact to expand access to energy, which is expected to benefit 11 million people over the next 20 years. MCC is currently developing a Regional Transport Compact with the Government Benin, which is contributing $204 million to complement MCC's investment of $202 million, to reduce transportation costs along the economic corridor extending from the Port of Cotonou. In addition, MCC is currently implementing a $525 million compact with Cote d'Ivoire to grow the education and transportation sectors and a $35 million Threshold Program with Togo to improve citizens' access to high quality and affordable Information and Communications Technology services.

Treasury is also facilitating exchanges between USAID, the Department of State, and the African Development Bank to advance AfDB's new country strategy for Ghana.

Strengthening Recovery and Resilience in Mozambique

The ten-year plan aims to support the Government of Mozambique's plans to promote reconciliation, recovery, and inclusive and sustainable development in historically marginalized and conflict-affected northern areas.

In January, USAID and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation joined efforts to marshal more than $32 million to promote market-based farming in Mozambique's Nacala Corridor. This partnership is expected to increase incomes and jobs, particularly for women and youth in conflict-affected northern Mozambique.

MCC is currently implementing a $537 million Connectivity and Coastal Resilience Compact with the Government of Mozambique, which is expected to benefit an estimated 57 million people with inclusive economic growth, strengthened climate and coastal resilience, and improved agricultural value chains and transportation infrastructure.

The Department of Defense provides training and equipment towards maritime security, counter narcotics, and illicit trafficking, aimed at supporting more resilient and responsive security forces. These activities build upon existing regional maritime security programs advancing maritime domain awareness and logistics and sustainment. The Department of State has increased assistance with the Mozambican military to address terrorist threats and maritime security.

Addressing Immediate Needs While Advancing Community Engagement to Increase Security and Prosperity in Haiti

The Haiti ten-year plan recognizes the critical need to address the immediate security crisis as part of its phased approach to long-term stability. Helping Haiti restore security and democracy, especially at this critical moment, remains a top priority for the Biden Administration.

In alignment with the plan's phased approach, the U.S. continues to support the expeditious deployment of the Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti.

The United States also continues to support Haitians in advancing their political process to pave a path towards free and fair elections through programs aimed at strengthening citizen security, community development and resilience, addressing sexual violence, advancing Women, Peace, and Security, and encouraging meaningful dialogue.

Accelerating Grassroots, Bottom-up Stabilization Initiatives in Libya

In addition to addressing the current state of Libya's political impasse at the national level, the ten-year plan targets sub-national opportunities to promote reconciliation, reconstruction, citizen engagement, economic empowerment, and local governance, particularly in the historically marginalized south.

In the southern battle-scarred town of Murzuq, the United States has been instrumental in supporting a community-led reconciliation process. This led to the creation of a Roadmap for Peace and Reconciliation and establishment of the Steering Committee that serves as Murzuq's governing authority.

The United States is continuing to support efforts to promote transparent, accountable, and inclusive service delivery and capital investment planning – critical in fostering stability and supporting the development of Murzuq's reconstruction.

USAID supports Libyan entrepreneurs; micro, small, and medium enterprises; and historically marginalized groups to promote innovation, stronger business practices, and workforce skills that directly respond to market demands.

Elevating the Rights and Roles of Women and Youth for Sustainable Peace in Papua New Guinea

Through the ten-year plan, the United States elevates the rights and roles of women and youth in target communities in Papua New Guinea. Overcoming the marginalization and disempowerment of women and youth provides a critical opportunity for peacebuilding while addressing a key risk for instability.

USAID supports programs to strengthen communities' capabilities to respond to violence while also supporting equitable livelihood opportunities. The Department of State invests in efforts to address gender-based violence , including by improving law enforcement capacity on case management, increasing utilization of police services for GBV survivors, and improving services for GBV survivors.

The Department of State is expanding the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs into Papua New Guinea and is currently recruiting the inaugural cohort for the global exchange program that equips women with the practical skills needed to create sustainable businesses and enterprises.

The Department of Defense is delivering Women, Peace, and Security courses to train and develop a gender advisory workforce with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force focused on gender-based violence prevention and response.

For more information on our work to implement the Strategy, please visit this dedicated website .

"Cooperation and long-term investments in conflict prevention and stabilization are needed now more than ever to build peace across divided communities and boundaries. We must collectively bolster societal resilience to prevent and reduce the heavy human and financial costs of conflicts that undermine global peace, security, and sustainable development."

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

April 30, 2024

April 30, 2024

ON CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Via Teleconference

MODERATOR: Thank you. And thank you, everyone, for joining today's call this afternoon to preview the upcoming National Security Memorandum on Critical Infrastructure. On today's call, we have Caitlin Durkovich, Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy Homeland Security Advisor for Resilience and Response and Jen Easterly, Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

Just a few remarks at the top. Opening remarks from our two speakers here will be on the record. The following Q&A portion of the call will be on background and speakers will then be attributed at "senior administration officials." The call will also be held under embargo until 10:00 a.m. Eastern tomorrow morning. And by participating in today's call, you are agreeing to these ground rules.

I will now turn the call over to Caitlin to kick us off.

MS. DURKOVICH: Thank you very much, Michael. And good afternoon, everyone.

Tomorrow, President Biden will sign a national security memorandum or NSM to enhance the security and resilience of U.S. critical infrastructure from the rapidly evolving threat environment.

This is part of what we refer to as our all-hazards approach to the resilience of the nation. This new policy will replace a decade-old presidential policy document on critical infrastructure protection that was issued during the Obama administration and launch a whole-of-government effort to protect U.S. critical infrastructure against all current and future hazards, including climate change and threats from nation-state actors.

As background, the effort to draft this new policy began over a year ago and the process has included significant input from the private sector; our state, local, Tribal, and territorial partners; and other stakeholders and critical infrastructure experts from across the country.

The NSM takes several important new actions. First, it empowers the Department of Homeland Security to lead a whole-of-government effort to secure U.S. critical infrastructure with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency acting as the national coordinator for the security and resilience of U.S. critical infrastructure.

As part of this new responsibility, the Secretary of Homeland Security will be required to submit to the President a biennial National Risk Management Plan that summarizes U.S. government efforts to mitigate risks to the nation's critical infrastructure.

Second, it directs the U.S. intelligence community, consistent with the goals outlined in the 2023 National Intelligence Strategy, to collect, produce, and share intelligence and information with the owners and operators of critical infrastructure. The NSM recognizes private sector owners and operators of critical infrastructure are often our first line of defense against adversaries who target the nation's most critical assets and systems.

Third, it reaffirms the designation of 16 critical infrastructure sectors and specifies which federal departments or agencies are responsible for managing risks within each of those sectors.

Fourth, it elevates the importance of minimum security and resilience requirements within and across critical infrastructure sectors consistent with the National Cyber Strategy, which recognizes the limits of a voluntary approach to risk management in the current threat environment. It is important that we work together to set baseline security standards for the lifeline sectors on which the American way of life and our democracy depends.

The policy is particularly relevant today, given continued disruptive ransomware attacks, cyberattacks on U.S. water systems by our adversaries, and the frequent and repeated testimony of the FBI Director and other senior administration officials who have sounded the alarm about the ways our critical infrastructure is being targeted by our adversaries.

I'm joined on the call today by [senior administration official], who -- in addition to being an essential partner in drafting the policy, along with Director Easterly and her team -- can answer more questions about these cyberattacks.

Let me conclude by underscoring that America faces an era of strategic competition where state actors will continue to target American critical infrastructure and tolerate or enable malicious activity conducted by non-state actors.

In the event of crisis or conflict, we know that America's adversaries may attempt to compromise our critical infrastructure to undermine the will of the American public and impede the projection of U.S. military power abroad. Resilience, particularly for our most sensitive assets and systems, is the cornerstone of homeland defense and security.

And with that, I have the pleasure of turning it over to my colleague, Director Easterly, to talk more about the role of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency in this effort.

Jen, over to you.

MS. EASTERLY: Fantastic. Thanks so much, Caitlin. And good afternoon, everybody. I am really pleased to be there -- to be here today. It is a very important moment for our nation's critical infrastructure.

As Caitlin alluded to, the threat environment has changed significantly since PPD-21 was issued in 2013, shifting from counterterrorism to strategic competition, advances in technology like artificial intelligence, and malicious cyber activity from nation-state actors.

And in addition, since that period of time in 2013, the USG has significantly invested in critical infrastructure to include the establishment of CISA, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

So, this NSM really builds on important work that has been happening across the government and, in particular, CISA and agencies, working with industry undertaking a partnership to ensure that we can understand, manage, and reduce risk to the cyber and physical infrastructure that Americans rely on every hour of every day.

For CISA, the NSM means three things. First, CISA's role as national coordinator, which really reinforces what was in the CISA statute of 2018. And this responsibility requires CISA to coordinate that national effort to secure and protect critical infrastructure by coordinating with the sector risk management agencies with relevant departments and agencies, the private sector, state and local partners to reduce risk at scale.

And in this role, CISA develops guidance and provides risk assessments, cross-sector risk analysis, information sharing, and capacity building for government partners and for critical infrastructure owners and operators across the nation.

Second, CISA serves as an SRMA itself, providing institutional knowledge and specialized expertise for the eight critical infrastructure sectors and one subsector -- and that includes chemical, commercial facilities, critical manufacturing, emergency services, information technology, communication, dams, nuclear, and then, of course, the election subsector. And in this role, we support sector risk management, assess sector risk, and we share information on physical and cyber threats.

Finally, CISA will continue to support the work of our partners across the USG by leveraging existing relationships and processes and networks to share critical information and guidance and then provide additional guidance and resources to aid sector risk management agencies in the execution of the roles and responsibilities in the new NSM.

And I'll say the good news is that the work that is being directed in the NSM is underway. We've already reestablished the Federal Senior Leadership Council, known as the FSLC, and made impressive strides through robust collaborations across the interagency.

And so, that is a heavy lift, but work is already being done to define, modernize, and protect our critical infrastructure sectors.

In addition, as part of our role as national coordinator, we've already provided guidance and templates to sector risk management agencies to use in creating sector risk assessments and sector-specific risk management plans. And these are a resource for SRMAs to meet the requirements laid out in the NSM.

And then, finally, in our role as national coordinator, we've began the work to establish systemically important entities -- that critical infrastructure, which is prioritized based on the potential for disruption or malfunction to cause nationally significant and cascading negative impacts to national security and economic security or public health and safety. That SIE list will inform prioritization of federal activities, including risk mitigation efforts and other operational resources to non-federal entities.

So, we are very excited to see this NSM hit the street. And we look forward to our role as the national coordinator for critical infrastructure resilience and security and emphasizing that in all the work that we do.

Thank you.

MODERATOR: Thank you, Director Easterly.

We will now move on to the Q&A portion. As a reminder, this portion of the call will be on background and attributed to "senior administration officials."

We also have two other speakers on the line for this portion, [senior administration official] and [senior administration official].

And again, everyone will be attributed as "senior administration official."

[DEL: Moderator :DEL] [Operator], I think we're ready to open it up for Q&A. And then I'll just ask if you could just go to the first questioner when -- when they ask their question. Thank you.

Q Hey. Thank you all for holding this.

I just wanted to clarify. You said this reaffirms the current 16 critical infrastructure sectors. Does that mean that the status quo -- like, that no new infrastructure sectors were added? And if so, did -- in crafting this, were there deliberations or considerations to add new critical infrastructure sectors, like space?

Thank you.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: David, it's [senior administration official]. Thank you very much for that question. And I'll take the first part of it, which is: Yes, it, again, reaffirms the 16 critical infrastructure sectors. There are no changes.

I'm going to turn it over to [senior administration official] to let her kind of talk about the process that was undertaken to do the evaluation and to make the recommendations that the current structure remain the same.

So, [senior administration official].

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, absolutely.

Some will remember that in the FY 2021 NDAA, Congress essentially asked us to establish a process to regularly review and modify critical infrastructure, the sector structure at least every five years.

And we undertook that process through and produced a report: the 9002 Report. And then, based on the findings in that report, we worked with the Federal Senior Leadership Council to look at and revalidate both the sectors themselves, as well as the Sector Risk Management Agency.

And so, over a period of about the last year, we worked extensively and consultatively with all of those sector risk management agencies, and we ended with validating the 16 sectors and the sector risk management agencies.

So, a lot of work went into it, but I think the takeaway is that the processes that had been developed over the past decade to articulate those critical infrastructure sectors were sound processes, and we'll continue to use that Federal Senior Leadership Council as the central coordinating body as we look to implement all the tasks in the national security memorandum.

Q Hi. I wanted to see if you could elaborate more on entities and how you are addressing the Section 9 entities that were originally in the PPD-21 NSM back in 2013.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, I'm happy to take that, [senior administration official], if you like.

So, as you'll see --

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: As you'll see in the NSM, part of our role is to establish the systemically important entities, and I mentioned the specific role. So, we've actually been working on that over the past several years, since the Cyberspace Solarium Commission had written a report on what they called "SICI" -- systemically important critical infrastructure.

So, this will, in effect, replace what were the Section 9 entities. And we were very deliberate about working with the SMRAs to ensure that we were highlighting those entities across all of the sectors that are most critical to national security, economic security, and public health or safety in particular that could cause significant and cascading negative impacts.

So, that list is about -- it's less than 500 entities, but -- and we've been working to and we're finalizing revalidating that with industry as well. And similar to the Section 9 list, we, of course, are not going to make that public.

However, we're working very closely with SRMAs and industry to ensure that those particular entities are -- we're working closely with them to ensure they have the resources necessary to manage risk.

And I think the last thing I'd mentioned is Caitlin highlighted the importance of minimum standards for security. So, we'll be looking at those entities, in particular, with an eye towards the importance of establishing minimum cybersecurity standards.

MODERATOR: I think we're ready to go to the next question.

Q Thank you. Jason Miller, Federal News Network. Quick question. You mentioned the sharing of information. One of the big challenges has been with critical infrastructure over the years is sharing classified or sensitive but unclassified information because of security clearance challenges. What does the national security memorandum or what are you doing to address that ongoing issue to get enough people with enough information enough security clearances so they can actually act on it or has that been relatively solved over last few years?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I'm happy to start. And certainly, [senior administration official], please jump in. Thanks for the question, Jason.

So, as you probably know, we run the private sector clearance program for the government, so we work to get private-sector entities their clearances, and we have a pretty robust process to ensure that, if necessary, we can get private-sector partners cleared in.

I would say a couple of things, however. Kudos to the intelligence community. And we saw this around the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine. A lot of the information that critical infrastructure owners and operators needed to understand the threat and to take urgent action to improve the security and resilience of their infrastructure from potential retaliatory attacks by the Russian government, some of that information was helpfully declassified, which I know that the IC is looking to make sure that if the information can be safely declassified, then it is.

I would also say that during that same period of time, and we have replicated that model with the serious threats from Chinese cyber actors known as Volt Typhoon, we have held extensive briefings at various levels of classifications with cleared sector personnel to ensure that they are aware that we're aware, in 2022, of the Russian threat and are aware now of the serious Chinese threats to our critical infrastructure, specifically pre-positioning to disrupt or destroy critical infrastructure in the event of a major crisis.

So, I think this administration has made significant strides both in clearing people in, in declassifying information as necessary, and then also in providing classified briefings to ensure that critical infrastructure owners and operators are prepared for the full range of threats.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: This is [senior administration official].

OPERATOR: Next we'll --

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Pardon me.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I would just add that specifically in the NSM, there are some tasks to the ODNI specifically, that it works with the entire intelligence community to provide the President with an intelligence assessment on critical infrastructure within 180 days. And, of course, that -- we will work to share that with the owner and operator community, but also to provide the President with a report on information in an intelligence sharing.

And as part of that, ODNI is to work with CISA and the sector risk management agencies to develop a system for streamlining and coordinating outreach to and engagement with the owners and operators of infrastructure by developing policy, procedure, and guidance on these topics.

And I think as [senior administration official] alluded to, we have a lot of instructive emerging practices and lessons learned from what has happened in the first three years of this administration that, as we work to develop those policies and procedures, will be accounted for really, again, with the goal of making sure that those that are managing the risk to critical infrastructure and are on the frontlines have the intelligence and the information that they need to know to make investments, to invest in mitigation actions so we can adequately ensure the security and the resilience of these critical assets and systems.

Q Hi. Thank you for doing this. Can you just describe a bit more exactly what is changing for CISA? It did sound like some of those things that CISA is already doing. Is this just kind of like reaffirming like as a national coordinator, SRMA, the eight sectors, and the system of important critical -- SIE actually, not -- not .

And additionally, can you also -- are you calling for new standards? Or is there like -- is this another call for new standards or is this like a move to actually set, you know, standards across the line for critical infrastructure? Can you go over that as well, please? Thank you.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, I'll take the first one and then I'll turn it to [senior administration official] to talk about what the NSM calls for. And, Christian, as you know, the statute that established CISA in 2018 tasked us to manage -- to lead a national effort to secure critical infrastructure, but the presidential policy directive that was created in 2013 didn't mention anything about CISA's role because we weren't created yet.

So, in some sense, this does reinforce our statutory role, but extremely important that it lays out in presidential policy the specific roles that we have as both a national coordinator in terms of managing cross-sector risk to those 16 sectors, CISA's role as an SRMA, and then what we will -- the mechanisms that we will use -- for example, the FSLC, which was reinvigorated about a year and a half ago as a coordinating body to allow us to better manage risk across the various critical infrastructure sectors through the sector risk management agencies.

So, I think this helps to reinforce the statutory role we have. It reinforces the authorities that we have and, I think, really puts a spotlight on the fact that as critical infrastructure has evolved -- given the highly interdependent, highly connected, highly digitized, and, frankly, highly vulnerable nature of the critical infrastructure that Americans rely on every hour of every day -- having a coordinating element to really manage that cross-sector risk and drive down that cross-sector risk, I think it's incredibly important to the security of the nation.

I'll turn it to [senior administration official].

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks, [senior administration official]. And -- again, and I think underscoring the importance of CISA as the national coordinator for critical infrastructure security and resilience, it also underscores that SRMAs will serve as the day-to-day federal interface for their designated critical infrastructure sector and conduct that sector-specific risk management and resilience activity.

And, of course, as you mentioned, CISA is the SRMA sectors, but distinguishing CISA's role as national coordinator and then as the sector risk management agency for eight sectors.

Related to your question about new regulation. At the end of the day, the NSM is directing the Sector Risk Management Agencies to assess whether current and existing minimum requirements sufficiently address the vulnerabilities in their sectors.

These requirements are going to be developed or need to be developed in close coordination with the owners and operators of that infrastructure to ensure they are appropriate and proportionate to the vulnerability.

If an SRMA feels that it does not have the tools or authorities necessary to ensure effective implementation of those requirements, we have built in a process to help the SRMA be able to hold the sector accountable and, if need be, develop those minimum requirements.

Q Thank you. Very helpful. Appreciate it.

Q So, I do have a question about the 9002 Report. And one thing that it said was that there was, quote, "an opportunity to designate a space sector and a bio-economy sector depending on a review process." Unquote.

You talked a little bit about that report, [senior administration official], but I'm wondering if you can expand on why the review process did not end up finding that there was a need for those particular sectors, because they were called out in the report that CISA produced.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, absolutely. Thanks for the question. So, we did, in fact, highlight, as you said, in 9002 Report. As I mentioned, we had a pretty extensive process where we worked with the various sector risk management agencies to determine whether, in fact, space or bio-economy should become new sectors.

Ultimately, with respect to space, in particular, because space is really a part of so many different sectors, it did not, at this time, make sense to break space out as a separate sector. We're going to continue to manage space as a sector through a working group that we're a co-chair of. But -- and similarly, with bio-economy, the members of the FSLC did not think it needed to be called out as a separate sector.

However, through the FSLC, if there are significant changes, we will take a look to see if a formal designation as a sector or as a subsector makes sense going forward. And we won't need to wait for that statutory five years to make that assessment if there's a need or requirement. Just given what's happening across the landscape, we can make that judgment earlier.

MODERATOR: All right. Thank you so much. I'm just going to turn it quickly over to [senior administration official] for some closing remarks here.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Again, thank you. First of all, [senior administration official], thank you for joining us. Thank you for your partnership. And thank all of those who have joined us today to learn more about the policy.

This is a very important milestone for this administration. Again, it is the culmination of over a year of work, both convening the interagency and those federal agencies that are responsible for working with the private sector to help manage risks but others in academia and across the critical infrastructure sector.

Given the dynamic and complex risk environment, I very much feel that this policy prepares us for the next decade -- what the President calls a decisive decade -- and what lies out on the horizon and the acknowledgment that both more must be done to protect assets and that works with sectors but equally important look across sectors and work to understand those dependencies and interdependencies where there might be vulnerabilities and to shore up those vulnerabilities.

So, this is a very exciting moment. As somebody who worked on PPD 21, to have an opportunity to work on the evolution of that policy and to be able to have the President sign out what you will see tomorrow is very exciting.

So, thank you all. And we'll follow up as needed.

MODERATOR: Great. Thank you, [senior administration official]. Thank you, [senior administration official]. And thank you all for joining us today. follow-up questions, feel free to reach out to myself and the NSC press team, and we will get back to you. Thank you very much.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks so much.

April 30, 2024

James S. Brady Press Briefing Room

2:36 P.M. EDT

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

Q Good afternoon.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Happy Monday. Hopefully everyone is recovered from the weekend.

Q What happened over the weekend?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't know. I don't know. Nerd prom. I think that's what they call it.

Q You never know.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You never know.

Okay. So, I have a couple -- like, two things at the top, and then we can get into it.

So, I want to begin, actually, on a solemn note. Over the weekend, deadly storms devastated communities across the Midwest. We are praying for those impacted and the families who lost loved ones, as well as those who were injured.

The White House is coordinating with state and local officials, and we stand ready to provide support as needed.

FEMA will be on the ground today to assess the extent of the damage. And tomorrow, the FEM- -- FEMA Administrator will travel to Oklahoma to meet with state and Tribal leaders and hear directly from those who have been impacted.

We are grateful for the first responders and rescue teams who have been working around the clock. Residents should remain vigilant and continue to heed the instructions of local officials.

Turning to this week, today kicks off National Small Business Week. Under President Biden's leadership, we have empowered small businesses and small-business owners nationwide, leading to a small-business boom.

We have been -- we have seen historic growth in business applications over the last three years, and we're on pace to s- -- to set more records in 2024.

There have been more than 17 million new business applications filed during the Biden-Harris administration. Building on this progress, the Small Business Administration announced that our administration has awarded a record amount of federal contract dollars to small businesses. And we are releasing the third annual Small Business Boom Report, which shows how SBA has nearly doubled small dollar loans to small businesses compared to 2020.

To highlight this work, Vice President Harris is kicking off her new -- her -- her national Economic Opportunity Tour in Atlanta where she will meet with small-business owners who are taking advantage of how -- resources to help launch and scale their businesses.

The President and Vice President will continue fighting congressional Republicans' attacks on small businesses, including their attempts to cut SBA funding by 31 percent.

And I lied. I have one more thing for you, and then we'll get going.

Looking ahead to later this week, the President will travel to Wilmington, North Carolina, on Thursday to discuss how his [DEL: investigation :DEL] [investing] in Amer- -- in America is rebuilding our infrastructure and creating good-paying jobs in Wilmington and across the country.

We certainly will have additional information for all of you in the days ahead. And please stay tuned.

With that, hey, Darlene.

Q Hi. Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Hello.

Q Two foreign questions and then one quick domestic one.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Sure.

Q Does the White House see any forward progress with the latest hostage deal that Secretary Blinken described as "extraordinarily generous" on the part of Israel?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, a couple of things. As you know, we put out a readout yesterday that the President -- the call that the President had with Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu. And the significant focus of that -- of that call was obviously on securing the release of all hos- -- of all hostages and paving the way to a prolonged ceasefire that would provide relief to the people of Gaza.

In recent days, there has been new progress in talks. And currently, the onus is indeed on Hamas. There is a deal on the table, and they need to take it. We believe that all efforts need to be brought to bear to convince Hamas to accept the proposal immediately.

And so, to that end, just a little information for all of you. This afternoon, the President will speak with the Amir of Qatar and President of Egypt. Secretary Blinken, as just you noted in your question, is in the region right now to carry out the same message that I just laid out to you.

This has been a sustained effort. And the United States is not alone in this effort.

You saw our joint statement -- the joint statement last week with the 17 other world leaders demanding that Hamas release our citizens without delay.

And so, we're going to continue to have those conversation. It is a priority. It is a priority to get those hostages home. It is a priority to get to a ceasefire. And is -- obviously and a priority to get that all-important humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Q Would the U.S. or the White House see any potential arrests by the ICC as a -- as an aggravating factor in the negotiations?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, we've been really clear about the ICC investigation. We do not support it. We don't believe that they have the jurisdiction. And I'm just going to leave it there for now.

Q On U.S. and Mexico. The joint statement from President Biden and López Obrador today talked about agreeing to implement immediately concrete measures to significantly reduce irregular border crossings. Have those concrete measures already been agreed to? And can you give any detail on what they are?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yep. As you just mentioned, the President and the President of Mex- -- our President and the President of Mexico spoke yesterday. There was a joint statement that we put out. I'm going to be really careful here. I'm not going to get ahead of what was laid out in the statement.

But this is -- I would say this is a continued commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship that we have and the reg- -- regional cooperation. And let's not forget, that regional cooperation will benefit here -- us here in the United States but also the people of Mexico.

So, I'm not going to go beyond the readout, that joint statement that came out.

Go ahead, Mary.

Q Following up on that. Darlene mentioned Secretary Blinken did describe this new proposal as "extraordinarily generous." Can you explain a little what he meant by that? What about this -- this new proposal is so generous?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm not going to characterize the proposal. I'm not going to get into any of the specifics. But what we believe is that now is the time for Hamas to take this deal. It is on the table. It is time to -- is way past time to get these hostages home. It is way past time to get to a ceasefire. And we need to make sure we continue to get that humanitarian aid. As we know, it is a dire situation in Gaza.

I just don't have anything to share beyond what -- what S- -- the Secretary spoke to. He's going to, obviously, meet with regional partners as he's there to continue that pressure, to continue that conversation, to continue that diplomacy that -- that we -- that's needed in this time. But Hamas needs to take this deal.

Q And on another continuing conversation. Is there any update on this in-person meeting between Israeli and U.S. officials that keeps being pushed down?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Are you talking about the Rafah --

Q Yes.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- re- -- in regard to the Rafah operations?

Look, as you -- as you know, Israel had -- has a lot on their plate. They had to deal with what occurred with Iran. And so, they've been -- you know, they've been pretty -- pretty busy in -- in the last couple of weeks, having -- having to, you know, protect their security.

And so, we have had two virtual meetings that Jake Sullivan, the National Security Advisor, has led. We believe that they've been productive. We believe that -- that the Israeli government is taking our concerns into account. And those conversations are going to continue.

Q Is it still your expectation that there will, at some point, be --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We --

Q -- an in-person --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We would -- yes, we would like to have an in-person meeting. That is certainly what we would like to do. But in the meantime, we've had two important virtual meetings. And in -- in the readout yesterday, we mentioned that that -- that the Rafah -- potential Rafah operations did come up between the two leaders in their conversation.

Q And just on another topic. We're -- obviously, everyone's watching today what's going on at Columbia University. Has the President or anyone from the White House spoken to -- to university leadership? Is the President satisfied with how they're handling the situation?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I will say this. Look -- and -- and we've said this many times. This is nothing new. The President has always been clear that while Americans have the right to peacefully protest -- that's something that we believe here in this administration -- he stands squarely, squarely against any -- any rhetoric -- violent rhetoric; any hate -- hate threats; and physical intimidation and hate speech.

Obviously, we believe and we have said antisemitism is dangerous, it is hate speech, and it is abhorrent. And there is no place for antisemitism on campuses or any- -- anywhere else.

It is a painful moment. We get that. We get that it is a painful moment that Americans are dealing with. And free expression has to be done within the law. And, you know, we're going to continue to be very clear about that. That has not changed. We've been very consistent.

Go ahead, Jeff.

Q Thanks, Karine. Does the White House have a reaction to World Central Kitchen's decision to restart operations in Gaza?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Can I just fir- -- can I just first say that the work that humanitarian aid workers do is brave, is incredibly important, and it is good to hear that they are going back to deal -- to do the brave work that they continue to do not just in Gaza, obviously -- in Haiti and Sudan and many other places around the country -- around the globe, pardon me.

And -- and so, we are -- we're -- we're happy to hear that. As you know, the President had a conversation with the Prime Minister about making sure that we deconflict and protect the lives of humanitarian aid workers as they're out there being brave, offering assistance to -- to Palestinians in Gaza.

And so, we have seen some steps being taken by Israel to do just that. And we will always encourage and continue to have those discussions with Israel to do more.

And so, we are certainly encouraged by that -- by humanitarian aid workers from WCK going back out there -- and also encouraged by -- by the steps that -- that the Israeli government has taken to make sure that more humanitarian aid gets in.

Q Did you consult with them at all about that decision? And are you -- are you confident that -- that the aid workers are not going to be at further risk?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, we're going to con- -- again, we're going to continue to be very clear with the Israeli government on making sure that they are protected -- humanitarian aid workers are protected. And we have seen some progress in that -- in that deconflicting, and we've seen aid increase.

I do want to lay out a couple of things that in the aid -- humanitarian aid going in that we've seen increase: Overall, nearly 5,000 trucks have entered Gaza since early April. That includes almost 200 humanitarian and commercial trucks a day, on average, entering Gaza in the late three -- in the last three weeks. Some days, 400-plus truckloads enter. The United States conducted over 30 airdrops for relief supplies, including over 1 million meals, a hundred and forty-one thousand three- -- -- 141,300 bottles of water to Gaza as of April 28 th.

And a lot of that is because of the President stepping in and making very clear that we need to do more. And the -- the United States have -- have led in the effort on getting that humanitarian aid.

Q Just lastly, a follow-up on Mary's question.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q Does the White House support peaceful protesters at Columbia or elsewhere being threatened with being removed from -- from the school or being put on discipline or probation?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So --

Q Is that --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Sorry.

Q -- do you think that that --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm so sorry.

Q -- that that is fair?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, got to be super, super mindful. These are institutions -- some of them are private, some of them are public -- and it is up to their leadership -- university leadership and colleges to make that decision. Not going to weigh in on that from here.

We're going to continue to say all Americans have the right to peacefully protest. At the same time, we have to call out any hateful rhetoric that we hear. Antisemitism is wrong. And so, we're going to continue to -- to do that.

But universities and colleges make their own decisions. It is up to their leadership. We're not going to weigh in from here.

Go ahead, Weijia.

Q Thank you, Karine. Our new CBS News poll found that registered voters in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania believe that they would be financially better off if Trump wins. How do you explain that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm going to be careful because we're talking about vote- -- registered voters. We're talking about a candidate now -- obviously, the former President, who is now a candidate. I got to be mindful of the Hatch Act, and so can't -- can't speak to -- to that specifically.

But what I will say more broadly is we understand what Americans have gone through. We understand that the pandemic was a heavy, heavy burden on Americans. We understand that Putin's aggression into Ukraine caused inflation to rise -- right? -- pandemic caused inflation to rise, caused damages to the supply chain. And so, that's why the President took action.

The American Rescue Plan, obviously, was incredibly important in turning the economy around, dealing with the supply chains.

And we also understand that prices are still too high. They're still too high, so this is why you hear us talk about junk fees. This is why you hear us talk about lowering prescription du- -- drugs -- it is important -- making sure that big corporations and billionaires pay their fair share.

And so, we're going to do more work. And we're hoping that message gets through to the American people. That's why you've seen the President in New Hampshire; in Las Vegas; in Madison, Wisconsin, laying down that message to -- directly to the American people.

But there is a contrast here. There's a stark contrast to what we see what the President has been doing, this adma- -- administration -- the Biden-Harris administration -- and what Republicans are trying to do. They literally put out a budget that cuts Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and gives special interest groups, billionaires, and corporations a tax break. The President doesn't believe that.

So, that -- that's what I will say. I have to be really mindful to not speak specifically to that poll.

But, more broadly, that's what I can say, and I understand -- we understand what Americans are -- are feeling right now. That's why we're trying to do more.

Q Is the President frustrated that despite the fact that he continues to say --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- what he has done, that Ame- -- some Americans are not feeling the impact --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look --

Q -- of his policies?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- we have seen some consumer confidence go up over the past couple of months, and I think that's important to note. And so, that is out there -- that data is out there.

Look, this is a pr- -- we're talking about a president who understands what it feels like to sit around your kitchen table and have to make difficult decision. We get that. He gets that. This is why he's trying to build an economy from the bottom up, middle out. He's been very, very clear about -- this is a sympathetic president, so he gets it.

So, it's -- he's not going to be frustrated by that. What he's going to do is continue to do the additional work to lower cost and do everything that we can there and to go out there -- to go out there and speak directly to the American people. I think that's the most effective way to do that.

Q Just one quick follow-up --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Sure. Sure.

Q -- on Jeff and Mary. And correct me if you already answered th- --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Jeff and Mary?

Q On Jeff and Mary.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, Jeff and Mary, the -- your -- . I'm sorry. Your colleagues.

Q I know. It's a blur for everyone today.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: It felt -- it felt really -- it felt like, "Jeff and Mary?" Oh, gosh.

Q From the weekend. So --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I do know who -- who you guys are. I -- --

Q I'm sorry if I missed this. But --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- is the answer, no, the administration has not been in touch with anyone at Columbia?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I -- I don't have any readout. I should have -- I should have answered that in -- I believe that was Jeff's question. I -- I don't have any calls to read out to you of conversations with any university -- any university leaders at this time.

Obviously, the President is going to go speak at Morehouse. And so, we've been in touch with them because he's going to give -- deliver a commencement speech. He's looking forward to doing that. It is such an important moment in time for graduates. And he's going to go, obviously, to -- to West Point. Those are the two that he's doing.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks.

Q Thanks, Karine. I wanted to go back to last week. The administration announced that it was again delaying --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Last week?

Q I know. All the way back a few days ago.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All the way back.

Q The administration announced that it was again delaying a potential ban on menthol cigarettes.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q What do you say to critics that say this decision is prioritizing politics over health outcomes?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q And can you give a timeline for this decision to actually be made?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, Secretary Becerra obviously put out a statement on this, I believe on Friday.

And I'll say this. Look, the rule garnered a lot of attention -- historic attention and -- during the public comment period, obviously. And -- and so, we got an im- -- an immense amount of feedback. And this is including various comments and feedback from civil rights organizations and also the criminal justice movement. And we want to be really mindful to that.

And so, obviously, there's more conversations to be had. And we have to really address the concerns of civil rights leaders and also the criminal justice leaders and also the many, many Americans who wanted to make sure that their voices were being heard.

And so, it's going to take more time. I don't have a timeline. This is an OMB process. They're going to run through that process. And we just want to make sure that -- that

we deal with this significant policy issues that are in front of us right now.

Q The Secretary of State met with the Saudi Crown Prince today. Obviously, they were talking primarily about the hostage ceasefire deal. But I'm wondering, headed into the summer months, if that conversation or any conversation with the Saudis recently have touched on oil production and what you'd like to see from them.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, I don't have anything to say about -- about that piece. I think the State -- the State Department -- this is Blinken's trip -- if that came up, they will have more to say on that.

I don't want to lose -- to lose -- you know, to lose the importance of the Secretary Bli- -- being in the region right now. We have to get this hostage deal done. It's on the table for Hamas to -- to take. He's going to -- the Secretary is going to meet with regional partners.

And it is time to -- only Hamas is standing in the way right now. It is time to move. We got to get these hostages home. We got to get to a ceasefire. And we got to continue to get that humanitarian aid. It is dire. The situation is dire in Gaza, as you all know.

Q And a last quick one. The Washington Post had a lengthy story today detailing efforts by Indian intelligence services to carry out an assassination in the United States.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q Now that some of those -- I know you were asked about it when they were --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- when this first emerged. But now that the details are known, can you talk about how, if at all, this has impacted our relationship with India --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- what steps we may be taking to make sure that, you know, something like this doesn't happen?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, any specifics -- there's an investigation, as you know, going -- going on. So, as you just stated in your question to me, in a criminal investigation, De- -- Department of Justice obviously is running that, so anything specific to that, I would have to refer to the DOJ.

Look, India is an important strategic partner here in the United States for the -- of -- sorry, of the United States. So, we are pursuing an ambitious agenda to expand our cooperation in sev- -- in several areas.

As you know, we've been really consistent about that and have laid that out multiple times, whether it's a meeting here with the -- with the Prime Minister or a meeting abroad.

This is a serious matter, and we're taking that very, very seriously. The government of India has been very clear with us that they are taking this seriously and -- and will investigate. And we expect that accountability from the government based on that.

And so -- but we're going to continue to raise our concerns. That's not going to stop. We're going to continue to raise our concerns directly -- directly with the Indian government.

Go ahead, Gabe.

Q Karine, with regards to the ICC's potential warrants, I know you've said that it's the White House's position that the ICC does not have jurisdiction. But did the issue come up yesterday during the President's call with Prime Minister Netanyahu?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything to -- to read out beyond the readout. I don't have anything to lay out there.

Obviously -- and I said this moments ago -- the si- -- what was the -- what was significantly discuss- -- the primary focus of that call was obviously that hostage deal, getting to a ceasefire, getting humanitarian aid into Gaza -- that was incredibly important -- and, obviously, our continued support for -- for Israel's security. That continues to be ironclad, obviously, that -- we've shown that.

But we need to get to that hostage deal. We need to get the hostages home. We need to get to a ceasefire. And that was the primary conversation. And obviously, the Rafah operations was discussed as well.

Q Is the U.S. directly involved in any diplomatic effort to prevent those warrants from being issued?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything beyond that.

Look, we just don't -- we don't believe it's in the ICC jurisdiction in this situation. We do not support the investigation. And I think that kind of answers that question, when we say we do not support this and we do not believe it's in their -- in their jurisdiction --

Q And following up --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- ICC's jurisdiction.

Q And following up to -- excuse me.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, sorry.

Q I'm sorry.

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

Q I'm sorry to interrupt, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, no, no, no, no. I just have -- I have a little bit to say, but it's okay -- -- Gabe. Go ahead, Gabe.

Q Switching gears to another topic --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- and following up on what you said earlier about the protests at Columbia. Earlier you talked about how you didn't want to comment on what school administrators might do. But the protesters themselves have now defied that 2:00 p.m. deadline. Should they leave?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: The protesters themselves have --

Q At Columbia, yes. There was a deadline for them to leave by 2:00 p.m., and they have not done so. What does the White House think --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You mean that Columbia has -- has -- has said there is a 2:00 p.m. deadline --

Q Yes.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- for them? Okay.

I'm just not going to comment on leadership in -- in col- -- at colleges and university, their decisions. That's for them to decide.

We've been very clear. Americans have the right to pro- -- to peacefully protest. And we're going to continue to call out any type of hateful rhetoric, any type of potential hateful violence here. It has no place in America. Antisemitism we're going to call out. It is abhorrent. And -- and that is hate speech.

We're just going to be consistent. When it comes to those types of decisions on campuses, that is something for college, universities' leadership to decide on.

Q And finally, one more, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q As a dog lover -- as a dog lover yourself --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh. Oh, gosh.

Q What does the President and the White House think about Kristi Noem's upcoming book?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, I saw that. It's very sad. It's very sad. It's a sad story. That's all I have for you. It's -- it's sad.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. More broadly, is the White House concerned about safety issues at university graduations this year?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'll sa- -- look, I'll say this, and I kind of said this at the top: Commencement day for -- for college kids is such an important day. You all know that. I'm sure you all have experienced the -- how important it is that day, not just for you or for them, in this case, but for parents and loved ones who are here to -- to celebrate -- to celebrate their -- their loved one graduating from college. And that is really important.

You know, it is important that Americans are given the opportunity to peacefully protest. We have to make sure that is something that -- that is afforded to Americans. And -- and respecting what commencements are truly about, those things are really important.

You know, we hope that schools can -- can hold commencement celebrations while respecting difficult viewpoints that -- that we're seeing right now in these issues. And we understand that it is a painful, painful moment.

Q Are you -- is the White House in touch with -- or the Department of Education in touch with universities to check on their planning or security measures they might be taking?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I would refer to Department of -- of Education on that. I don't have anything to share at this time from here.

Go ahead, Asma.

Q Thanks, Karine. What is the administration's response specifically to the use of police force in some of these college campus protests? We saw this at Indiana University, Ohio State, Emory, UT Austin.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah. So, again, I'm going to be really repetitive here. It's -- Americans have the right to peacefully protest within the law. That is really important here.

Antisemitism is dangerous.

I know I've seen -- we've -- you've seen the -- the videos that have pretty much gone viral out there. And I can't speak to that. We may have more to say about those videos once we look into the -- once -- you know, we'd have to look into them. Just don't have anything to share beyond that.

But it is important. It is important for Americans to have the right to peacefully protest. We understand this is within the law. And we understand this is a difficult time, and we're going to call out any type of hateful rhetoric.

Q And so, does the administration think that police force or police presence we've seen so far is acceptable?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, as far as police presence, that's up to the colleges and the universities. That's for them to decide. And we have to be able to allow Americans to peacefully protest within the law. That is important, and that's what the President wants to see.

I can't comment on every case. I can't comment on everything that we're seeing out there.

What I can speak to is more broadly and what we want to see and what we've called out.

Q If I can shift gears real quick.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q I know there was discussion -- the President himself also referenced the idea -- of an immigration-related executive order. Is there any update on that front?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, and I've said this many times before, we believe the bipartisan proposal that came out of the Senate that Republicans rejected because of the former President saying that it hurts him politically, helps the President and not himself -- not Donald Trump -- that's what we saw. That proposal -- that proposal will do the significant work needed at the border, the significant work to move forward on a broken immigration system. That's what we want to see.

In the meantime, we always said that we don't believe it is -- it -- moving with an executive action is the way to go. We want to see that proposal. But we're always going to look at all options.

I don't have a decision to be made. I don't have anything to announce. But, you know, we're going to continue to call on -- call on Republicans, call on Congress to move that Senate pro- -- that bipartisan Senate proposal forward.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. A couple of questions for you on Saudi Arabia and also on Ukraine as well.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, yeah.

Q Secretary Blinken has obviously been in Riyadh discussing the Israel-Hamas war. He's also been discussing the Abraham Accords and normalization of ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel. How confident is the U.S. that those talks can be revived?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, we're going to continue to have those diplomatic conversation. It's important to do so. We're going to -- we got to be confident. We're going to be confident that we could -- that it gets to a place where -- you know, where we -- we are -- we have -- we have a solution here.

And so, I can't go beyond that. You know, the Secretary, as you said, is in Saudi Arabia. He's going to have -- really, I -- look, the important part about what we're trying to do this week and what you're seeing Secretary Blinken, what you've heard from the readout and heard me talk about -- you read yourself the readout from the President with his call to Prime Minister Netanyahu -- is to get to this hostage deal.

We got to get to this hostage deal so we can get to a ceasefire, get that all-important -- continue to get that humanitarian aid into Gaza. We know the situation in Gaza is dire. And they also had a conversation about the Rafah operations.

And so, that is really the focus here. That is the significant focus. It is important to get to that deal.

Q The U.S. also said that it's preparing -- preparing to offer a security package to Saudi. What would that entail?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything to share on that.

Q Okay. On Ukraine. Ukraine has lost more ground in the last couple of days as it awaits U.S. aid to get there. Is there any updates on the -- the state of those shipments?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, the aid into Ukraine is -- is ongoing. They have been receiving that security assistance. I'm going to be really mindful here because there are operational security that I want to be careful. And what we hope is it gets to the frontlines so that Ukraine could def- -- continue to defend itself.

And, like you said, they have lost ground. And so, we're hoping to get that security aid to -- to the brave pe- -- to the brave people in Ukraine. And so, look, it's ongoing. That aid is getting into -- into Ukraine. I want to be really, really mindful on speaking to operational security from here, from the podium. I would refer you to Department of Defense for anything further.

Okay. Go ahead, Gerren.

Q Thanks, Karine. First on, as you mentioned, the Vice President kicked off her Economic Opportunity Tour today in Atlanta, which is a majority Black city. Next week, she'll be in Detroit, another majority Black city. It seems like the administration is trying to reach Black Americans, in particular, as it relates to the economy.

Data suggests that Black Americans feel economically burdened and are not aware of some of the work that the administration has done. According to an Economist/YouGov poll, only 22 percent of Black Americans feel they are economically -- they feel like they're not economically better off than they were a year ago.

Does the White House fe- -- believe that this tour or hope that this tour will help change perceptions --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- amongst Black Americans as it relates to the economy?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, a couple of things. It's -- I think Weijia asked me this question, but a more broader sense of how people are feeling about the economy.

And we are very -- we think it's very important, the Biden-Harris administration, to go out there and to talk directly to the American people. We believe that if they hear from us, they will know exactly what we've been doing and how we've been delivering.

But we also understand that people are still feeling that prices are too high. They feel that the economy is not working for them. And so, we're going to lay out what we've done this past three -- three and a half years, almost, in this administration.

And as it relates to the Black community, when the President walked in, unemployment was above 9 percent. Now it's at a record low in the Black community. Now it's at a record low at around 5 percent. That's because of the -- the work that this President has done. Black wealth jumped up by 60 percent. That's important. That's because of the work that this President has done.

But we understand, especially as it relates to the Black community, housing is important. We understand that prices, again, are too [DEL: low :DEL] [high]. And so, we're going to do the work in the Black community, yes, but also for all communities.

And so, having that conversation -- and we believe this tour that the Vice President is going to do is -- is important.

But we're -- we're going to speak to all communities, Black communities and every other community out there, who have felt -- who have felt what the pandemic has done and what the high -- the high inflation that came after Russia's war into Ukraine.

And so, we're going to continue to do the work, whether it's, you know, talking about junk fees; lowering prescription drug costs, which we've been able to do -- continuing to do that, healthcare costs more broadly. This is incredibly important to this President.

Q And just one more question.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Sure.

Q The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace has a study that came out a few days ago. Amongst a study of Black Americans, 45 percent feel a connection to Palestinians, which aligns with reporting and data that suggests that Black Americans see a similarity between their historical subjugation and what the Palestinians are experiencing.

What is the White House's message to Black Americans who have distinctly supported this President and feel like his policies go against what they believe morally and see this connection to what's happening to Palestinians?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah. And it's the message that we have said to Arab Americans, Palestinian Americans, Muslim Americans, and many Americans here who -- who are looking at this moment and it is incredibly painful. We understand. This is a painful moment for many. And that's why White House officials, including this President, has had many conversations with communities, leaders of those communities to talk about -- to hear from them, to listen to them, and to talk about how to move forward.

And it is also why it is so important that the President spoke to the Prime Minister of Israel yesterday. That is also why it's important that we see the Secretary -- Secretary Blinken in the region this week to talk about how do we get to a hostage deal that will lead -- getting Americans home, getting hostages home to their loved ones -- but to also lead to a ceasefire.

We understand how important it is, and we get -- we get that the dire humanitarian aid -- that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire. That's why we've done an uptick and spoken -- direct conversations -- with the Israeli government on what we can do to put -- to get more aid in -- into Gaza. And so, that's what we're seeing.

And so, we got to get that hostage deal. We do.

Go ahead.

Q Thank you, Karine. I wanted to see if you could just elaborate on how the President is taking in some of the scenes from college campuses around the country. He doesn't have any public events on his schedule today. Is he watching some of the coverage? What's his reaction been?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, I can tell you, the President is -- like he does every day, is having meetings with his senior advisors, with his team here on an array of issues. I just mentioned that he's going to have conversations with leaders in -- in the Middle East region to talk about this hostage deal, to make sure that we get this done, get Americans home -- hostages home, more broadly -- and make sure we get to a ceasefire. That is something that is incredibly important that, you know, Americans want to see.

As you're talking about the -- the protesters, they want to see this war end.

And that's what the President wants to see: it get to a ceasefire. And so, he's focused on that. That's his focus.

I can't -- I can't speak to him catching any of what's happening on TV, but I can speak to the importance of the meetings that he's having and these two head-of-state calls that he's going to have this afternoon.

Q Last week, House Speaker Mike Johnson visited Columbia and said that after that visit he was going to be calling President Biden to discuss potential response, even the potential for a role for the National Guard. Did that conversation happen? And has the President weighed --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, look --

Q -- in on that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- I would refer you to the Speaker. I don't have a -- a call to speak to.

As it relates to the National Guard, I've been asked this question --

Q Did -- did that call happen?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have a --

Q Did they have a conversation?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have a call to -- to speak to.

Q Okay.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: What I can say is that, as it relates to the National Guard, that is something that is under the jurisdiction of governors.

And I know, if it wasn't last week -- I believe it was last week, actually, Governor Hochul spoke to that as it relates specifically to what's happening in New York. And so, I would refer you to -- to her office.

But National Guards, that's not under our jurisdiction; that's under governors.

Q And military aid for Israel. There is a May 8 th deadline for the Biden administration to certify that Israel is in compliance with international humanitarian law. Several bureaus within the State Department have reportedly raised serious concerns over what they call Israel's noncompliance. How is the President planning to make this decision? What meetings is he taking? What information is he evaluating? And when do you expect him to make a decision?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, I will say this: In that conversation that the Prime -- that -- that he had with the Prime Minister, he continued to -- to say that -- give the commitment that Israel's security is ironclad -- our commitment to Israel's security is ironclad. That will continue, and that is a commitment that the President has.

I'm not going to speak to a May [DEL: 6 th :DEL] [8 th] deadline. I'm -- that's not something I'm going to do at this time.

But, look, that -- the President has been very clear. As it relates to making sure that -- you know, that Israel conduct their operations in Gaza, to make sure that we're protecting innocent Palestinian lives, that -- two things could happen. Right? Two things can be true, which is making sure that Israel's security is ironclad. We saw what happened with Iran very recently. They live in a -- in a neighborhood that is -- that is tough, and they continue to -- they will continue to need that support.

So, two things can be true. We can give that commitment to the iron- -- ironclad commitment but also have those conversations with Israel about making sure that they conduct their operations in Gaza to make sure that we're protecting -- we're protecting innocent Palestinians.

Q But since the President's last called with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Congress --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Which was yesterday.

Q -- Congress -- well, but between the call two weeks ago or three weeks ago --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- and the call yesterday, Congress has newly authorized about $16 billion --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yep.

Q -- in additional military aid. Did President Biden communicate what it would take for the U.S. to begin dispersing some of that aid? Progressives have urged him to place conditions on it or to use it as leverage over Israel.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, I've been very clear. Two things could be true. We're going to have the ir- -- give our commitment to -- to Israel's security -- that is ironclad -- and also have those conversation with Israel about making sure that how they conduct their operations in Gaza protects innocent Palestinian lives, hence the conversation about Rafah -- the Rafah operations -- right? -- the two virtual calls that Jake Sullivan, our National Security Advisor, has led. And we're going to continue to have those conversations.

It is important. It is important that we protect Palestinian lives -- innocent Palestinian lives. As Israel continues to defend itself, it is important that they are able to do that, but we have to make sure that, also, in those conversations, that they conduct their operations in a way that innocent Palestinian lives are -- are happening.

I don't have anything beyond that. We've been consistent about that. I know Jake Sullivan spoke to this just last week when he was at the podium.

Q Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. Two topics, if I can. First, right before we came out here, there were reports of a shooting in Charlotte, North Carolina, involving law enforcement officials. Were you guys aware of that? Has the President --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No. No, that's -- that's actually the first time I'm hearing about that.

Q Okay.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Obviously, I don't -- want to be really mindful, since I don't have all the information. I'll certainly look into that and see -- and see what's going on there.

You know, police officer, law enforcement officers put their lives at risk every day. And -- and so, you know, that is -- if that is indeed true, it is very sad news.

And we also know gun violence is an epidemic in this country. That's why the President is doing everything that he can to make sure that we deal with this epidemic. And by -- as you know, signing two dozen executive orders, starting an -- an anti-gun violence White House office -- the first ever -- and passing the bipartisan -- a bipartisan legislation to deal with this.

We need to do more. We need to do a lot more, and we're going to continue to ask Congress to do so.

Q And then second topic. The Affordable Connectivity Program runs out of funding this week. What is the White House plan to get this renewed? Are there conversations about trying to get this included in the FAA reauthorization?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I got a couple things that I do want to say about that. Despite repeated calls with -- from President Biden, congressional Republicans have not extended the Affordable Connectivity Program. This essential program has helped millions of Americans participate in school and work, access healthcare, and stay connected with their loved ones and more.

We announced earlier this month that we are encouraging providers to take steps to keep their consumers connected at this crucial time by offering low-cost, no-cost plans.

We'll continue to push congressional Republicans to take action. And anything else to that I will refer you to FCC.

Q Right. But do you see it potentially ending up with the FAA reauthor- --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: FCC?

Q -- this is, like, the last big bill that could be --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, look, we are con- -- we contin- -- continue to call on -- obviously, continue to call on -- on Congress to act here and take action. And so, that's what we're going to continue to do.

But obviously, we've taken some steps so that consumers can protect themselves.

Go ahead, Danny.

Q Thanks, Karine. Just on Rafah. The readout yesterday from the call with Netanyahu said that the President had "reiterated his clear position," but it didn't say what it was. Can I just -- can you just clarify to us exactly what the position still is at this moment? Is this --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, I mean, it hasn't changed, Danny. We have concerns about a major military operations in Rafah. We've been very clear. There are more than 1 million Palestinians in Rafah, and we believe that they need to be protected. Whatever operation they -- they want to move forward when -- and we understand there are Hamas operators in the region. And we understand that there are concerns there.

And so, we have shared our -- our concerns with that. And we believe that they're going to take our concerns into account.

And we're going to continue to have those conversations. There were two virtual meetings that were led by Jake Sullivan, as I mentioned before.

But our position hasn't changed.

Q And is the position that you have concerns about that or that -- that the President would oppose an operation without a credible --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We have concerns. We have concerns about that. And we want to talk and discuss and continue having those conversations about what their potential plan might look like.

And we believe they're going to -- we're going to have further discussions and they're going to certainly take our concerns into account.

And so, I'll just leave it there.

Q And you haven't had the credible plan yet?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We have not seen a credible plan yet.

Go ahead.

Q Thank you so much. For the first time in public, the President urged Russia to release Alsu Kurma- --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q Sorry, I'm going to say that again. Alsu --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Alsu -- mm-hmm.

Q -- Alsu Kurmasheva --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- from detention in Russia. What prompted him to make this mention in public? And when will the administration declare her wrongfully detained?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, and you heard from the President, obviously. He talked about it during the White House Correspondents' Dinner. He believed it was an opportunity, speaking in front of all of you, to talk about what journalists have to go through and how brave it is for journalists to go out there and deliver -- really deliver the news and reporting to -- to the public. And it is important to lift that up. It is important to speak to that.

We believe -- and I've said this many times from this podium -- journalism is not a crime. It is not a crime. It is not a crime here. It's not a crime there, and it is not a crime anywhere.

And so, as it relates to her designation, that is something that the State Department has spoken about. And so -- and so, we're going to just leave that to the State Department.

Obviously, we've shared our concerns about her detention. And so, I would refer you -- refer you to them. And the State Department has -- has shared their concerns about their -- their -- her detention.

But it is a designation that the State Department makes.

Q Got it.

So, today, we heard China's government denying an accusation made by Secretary of State Blinken that they were seeking to interfere in the U.S. election. Does the White House share this concern? And what are you doing to combat it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, it -- the -- the Secretary is speaking on behalf of this administration. So, obviously, we share those concerns. But -- but we're going to continue to have those diplomatic conversation.

The Secretary, you know, is -- delivered a message there, and I just don't have anything beyond that.

Q And then, finally, you just mentioned two head-of-state calls this afternoon.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yep.

Q Who are they? Is one of them perhaps President Erdoğan, and -- -- are they still talking about a possible meeting?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything to share. I thought you were -- didn't you hear what I said about who he's -- he's going to be calling?

Q No, who is it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: The -- the Amir -- he's going to call the Amir and Egypt. Those are the two he's going to call today.

Q Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I know you're trying to get me to say about Erdoğan. I don't have anything to share on that.

Go ahead.

Q Karine, good afternoon. By all accounts, the FAFSA rollout was a mess -- the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. College -- our high school seniors depend on that for financial aid for college. Decision day is May 1 st. Who does the President blame for the mess?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Say that one more time. I'm sorry.

Q Who does the President blame?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: For --

Q For the FAFSA mess -- the Free Application for Federal Student Aid -- out of the Department of Education.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, we -- we take that very seriously. Obviously, our goal has been to make it easier for very -- you know, Americans who need that relief, as they're thinking about furthering their education and getting that college education.

And so, we want to make sure that it's easier for them to be able to get through that process to get that much-needed aid.

As it relates to FAFSA, we have -- we have said, yes, the process has not gone smoothly, and we're doing everything that we can to make it go smoother. We've been -- I know the Department of Education have put processes in place to make sure that that happens. And that's what we want to see.

We do not want to make it more difficult for Americans to get that much-needed aid. We want to make it easier. That's one of the reasons the President has talked about, you know, student debt relief, giving Americans a little bit of breathing room.

Now, obviously, this is on the other side of that. We want to make sure that Americans do have -- has -- have an easier process in getting that done.

Q Does the President still have confidence in the leadership at the Education Department after all this?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: The President has confidence in his Education Department.

Q And is he aware that applications -- FAFSA applications are down some 30 percent --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We understand.

Q -- impacting minority --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We unders- --

Q -- and low-income students?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We understand the impact. That's why we're doing everything that we can, the Department of Education is doing everything they ca- -- we can to rectify that issue. And we have.

Go ahead. Go ahead, Jon.

Q Thanks, Karine. As a result of those ongoing campus protests in the past few days, the main commencement at USC, the University of Southern California, has been canceled. Just today, final exams have been moved at GW Law School. What's your reaction to the repercussions of these protests and how they have impacted students on these two campuses, but also, likely, all across the country at both private and public universities?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, when it comes to decisions about commencements, decisions that universities and colleges are making, that's really up to them to make. That is a decision that they have to decide what's right for their student body, what's right for their community, and that is on them. So, want to be very clear about that.

As it relates to commencement -- and I've said this before -- look, you know, it is a special day. It is a very special day for students. The President is looking forward to speaking to Morehouse University. He's going to be at West Point later this month.

That's something that he -- that's important to him. And he knows how -- how -- what families and students are feeling at this time to wanting to celebrate that moment, especially as they're thinking about their last four years and moving -- and moving forward. And so -- so, he's looking forward to celebrating with them.

We continue to believe -- and I've said this multiple times already today -- is that peaceful -- peacefully protest, Americans should have the right to do so -- to peacefully protest. Whether it's at a commencement or at their school or anywhere in this country, it has to be done where we do not have hateful rhetoric, violent rhetoric.

We cannot -- we not -- we got to condemn those. That should not be allowed in this country anywhere. And so, we're going to be consistent on that. We're going to be -- we have been about condemning hateful rhetoric, hateful vio- -- hate has no place -- should have no place in America.

But those are decisions that are made by colleges and universities, their leadership.

Go ahead, Phil.

Q Thank you. Two topics quickly. When the President expanded the definition of Title IX to include gender identity, a handful of states, including Florida, announced that they were directing their public school systems to ignore that policy directive. First, what's the White House's response to their objections? And then, second, should we expect the administration to challenge state policies or laws that distinguish between biological males and females in high school sports?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, I'm -- there's a lot of litigations happening, so I need to be really careful.

So, I'll just say that every student deserves a right to feel safe in school. That's what -- that's what it should be all about: strengthening and restoring vital protections that the previous administration got rid of, when you think about the Title IX updates that you've seen from this administration.

And so, look, I don't have much more to share outside of that. The Department of Education has more information on that specific -- what -- the new announcements that we've made. But every student deserves to -- the right to feel safe. And I'm just going to leave it there.

Q And then a second topic. Last week, a Secret Service agent who was assigned to Vice President Harris's detail was removed from her duties after reportedly attacking the commanding agent in charge. Was the President made aware of that incident? And are there any steps that are being taken to ensure that the vetting is absolutely perfect --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- so that someone in that important of a detail --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- .

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I have to be really mindful and careful. That's something for Secret Service to speak to. I can't -- I can't go beyond that. I know --

Q Secret Ser- --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: And I know that they -- they put out a statement, and I believe, yes, the President is aware.

Q Great. Thank you.

Q Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay. Yeah. All right. Okay.

Go ahead, Monica.

Q Karine, there are two pieces of legislation that have been introduced that would take steps to counter antisemitism on college campuses and more broadly. Has the White House made a determination about which one it would support --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- or would both --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, I'm aware of those two pieces of legislation. Obviously, the President condemns antisemitism.

I don't want to get ahead of -- of our Office of Leg Affairs here. So, need to discuss with -- about those two pi- -- particular pieces of legislation.

Obviously, we've been very clear: We condemn antisemitism. We're going to continue to do that. It has no place. It is hate speech. And so, we're going to continue to do that. I want to be really mindful about getting ahead of -- of that.

Q Would the White House support having antisemitism monitors on college campuses?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I -- I need to be super mindful. As you know, we have -- we put out a strategic plan here on dealing with antisemitism because we understand that it has risen here in this country and we have to do everything we can to fight hate.

And so, we put a -- together a comprehensive plan. I just want to be mindful. I have not spoken to anybody about these two particular legislation. Don't want to get ahead of the team here.

But the President has been very clear -- very, very clear. I've said it multiple times throughout this pris- -- briefing that we condemn antisemitism and any form of hate.

Q Separately, what is the White House's backup plan for the President's Cancer Moonshot Initiative, since that funding appears not to have been replenished by Congress? Is the plan to go to the --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- private sector for help?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, Cancer Moonshot obviously is --is so important to not just the President, but the First Lady. It is a -- a -- it is an issue that is incredibly personal to them. And we want to make sure that we get to a place that, you know, cancer no longer is an issue in this country.

Don't have anything beyond -- beyond that. Don't have anything to lay out on what the next steps are, but it is a priority for this administration.

All right. Thanks, everybody.

Oh, Michael, go ahead. Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. Back on the ICC.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I know I was going to call on you. I forgot.

Q I'm just wondering how concerned is the admin- -- the ICC.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q I'm just wondering, how concerned is the administration that any potential charges against Israeli officials could maybe jeopardize the ceasefire talks?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, I -- I'm not going to go beyond with what I've said. We don't believe the ICC has the jurisdiction. We don't support this investigation. And I'm just going to have to leave it there for now.

Thanks, Michael.

Q Thanks, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All right. Bye, everybody.

Q Thank you.

3:28 P.M. EDT

April 30, 2024

Today, President Biden signed a National Security Memorandum to secure and enhance the resilience of U.S. critical infrastructure. The NSM will replace a decade-old presidential policy document on critical infrastructure protection and launch a comprehensive effort to protect U.S. infrastructure against all threats and hazards, current and future.

Thanks to the President's Investing in America Agenda, as well as the emergence of new technologies like artificial intelligence, America has a historic opportunity to build for the future. Good investments require taking steps to manage risk, and for our infrastructure, that means building in resilience to all hazards upfront and by design. Through the President's Investing in America Agenda, the Biden-Harris Administration has announced $448 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding – including over 51,000 infrastructure projects – and spurred $825 billion in private sector investment in industries including clean power, biomanufacturing, and clean energy manufacturing. Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law alone, the President has delivered $50 billion for infrastructure resilience specifically, including $8.7 billion from the PROTECT program to improve the resilience of transportation infrastructure and $4.5 billion through FEMA to fortify a range of infrastructure against

hazards. Through this $50 billion in resilience funding, the Administration has launched over 4,000 infrastructure resilience projects nationwide.

The NSM will help ensure U.S. critical infrastructure can provide the Nation a strong and innovative economy, protect American families, and enhance our collective resilience to disasters before they happen – strengthening the nation for generations to come. This NSM specifically:

Empowers the Department of Homeland Security to lead the whole-of-government effort to secure U.S. critical infrastructure, with the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency acting as the National Coordinator for Security and Resilience. The Secretary of Homeland Security will be required to submit to the President a biennial National Risk Management Plan that summarizes U.S. government efforts to manage risk to the Nation's critical infrastructure.

Directs the U.S. Intelligence Community, consistent with the goals outlined in the 2023 National Intelligence Strategy, to collect, produce and share intelligence and information with Federal departments and agencies, State and local partners, and the owners and operators of critical infrastructure. The NSM recognizes private sector owners and operators of critical infrastructure are often our first line of defense against adversaries who target the Nation's most critical assets and systems.

Reaffirms the designation of 16 critical infrastructure sectors and a federal department or agency as the Sector Risk Management Agency for each sector. SRMAs have the day-to-day relationships and sector specific expertise to lead risk management and coordination within the designated sectors. The named SRMAs for each sector can be found below.

Elevates the importance of minimum security and resilience requirements within and across critical infrastructure sectors, consistent with the National Cyber Strategy , which recognizes the limits of a voluntary approach to risk management in the current threat environment.

The Nation faces an era of strategic competition in which nation-state actors will continue to target American critical infrastructure – and tolerate or enable malicious activity conducted by non-state actors. In the event of crisis or conflict, America's adversaries may attempt to compromise our critical infrastructure to undermine the will of the American public and impede the functioning of the economy and projection of U.S. military power abroad. Resilience, particularly for our most sensitive assets and systems, is the cornerstone of homeland defense and security.

Further, the growing impact of climate change, including changes to the frequency and intensity of natural hazards, as well as supply chain shocks and the potential for instability, conflict, or mass displacement, places a strain on the infrastructure that Americans depend upon for their lives and livelihoods. This NSM seeks to fulfill the U.S. government's sacred obligation to the American people to protect our infrastructure and the prosperity and security of the Nation.

National Security Memorandum

2023 National Intelligence Strategy

Sector Risk Management Agencies

National Coordinator's Office

Department of Homeland Security, Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency

Chemical SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Commercial Facilities SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Communications SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Critical Manufacturing SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Dams SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Defense Industrial Base SRMA:

Department of Defense

Emergency Services SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Energy SRMA:

Department of Energy

Financial Services SRMA:

Department of the Treasury

Food and Agriculture SRMAs:

Co-Sector Risk Management Agencies: U.S. Department of Agriculture and Department of Health and Human Services

Government Services and Facilities SRMAs:

Department of Homeland Security and General Services Administration

Healthcare and Public Health SRMA:

Department of Health and Human Services

Information Technology SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Nuclear Reactors, Materials, and Waste SRMA:

Department of Homeland Security

Transportation Systems SRMAs: Department of Homeland Security and Department of Transportation

Water and Wastewater Systems SRMA:

Environmental Protection Agency

April 30, 2024

President Biden's Investing in America agenda is making once-in-a-generation investments in America's infrastructure and our clean energy future that are creating good-paying and union jobs, establishing and growing new industries in the United States, tackling the climate crisis, and helping lower costs for families.

To deploy these investments, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken aggressive action to accelerate project permitting and environmental reviews. The Administration has developed and is currently executing a Permitting Action Plan ; secured $1 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act to improve permitting; passed important reforms in the 2023 Fiscal Responsibility Act that made commonsense changes to the environmental review process, including setting deadlines for completion of reviews and making documents more readable by limiting their length; and took a number of administrative actions to simplify and accelerate the permitting process. By taking these actions, the Administration is ensuring that industry can move forward with key investments and projects,

including building out clean energy and transmission, while also being responsible stewards of the environment and protecting communities.

The Administration's focus on reforming federal permitting has led to real results. Thanks to President Biden's leadership, the time to complete the most extensive form of environmental review is already coming down: agencies are completing a higher proportion of environmental impact statements in under two years than under the previous Administration. The Biden-Harris Administration is also completing environmental assessments for projects faster than the previous Administration – for example, data from the Department of Transportation show that in the first three years, the Biden-Harris Administration completed environmental assessments in an average of 9.6 months compared to 15.4 months for the same number of projects during the Trump Administration.

The Biden-Harris Administration is also expanding the use of categorical exclusions, the fastest form of environmental review, bringing review timelines down from months or years to a matter of weeks for projects that have minimal environmental impacts. For example, over 99.5% of federal highway projects were covered by categorical exclusions in fiscal year 2022, meaning the vast majority of projects are moving forward using these faster reviews. The Administration has also expanded the use of categorical exclusions to expedite permitting in key sectors such as EV charging, broadband, CHIPS manufacturing, and clean energy projects.

In addition, the Biden-Harris Administration has surpassed a major renewable energy permitting goal more than 18 months ahead of schedule, with the Department of the Interior having permitted more than 25 gigawatts of clean energy projects on public lands well before a 2025 target date. DOI has also already approved the nation's first 10 gigawatts of large-scale offshore wind projects, in support of the President's goal of deploying 30 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030.

The Administration is continuing to develop new tools to expedite permitting of critical infrastructure, semiconductor manufacturing, and clean energy projects. Today the White House Council on Environmental Quality is finalizing the Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule, which simplifies and modernizes the federal environmental review process while fully implementing the new efficiencies Congress passed in the Fiscal Responsibility Act.

The actions outlined below reflect the all-of-government effort the Biden-Harris Administration has taken to accelerate federal permitting across seven key sectors – offshore wind, onshore renewables, transmission, transportation, semiconductors, broadband, and critical minerals – while ensuring strong environmental protections and robust community engagement.

Finalizing the Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule

Modernizing federal environmental reviews. The Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule fully implements new efficiencies in agency environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act that the Administration negotiated on a bipartisan basis and secured in the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023. These efficiencies include setting clear one- and two- year deadlines for agencies to complete environmental reviews, requiring a lead agency and setting specific expectations for lead and cooperating agencies, and creating a unified and coordinated federal review process. The rule also provides agencies with other new and faster tools to improve the efficiency and effectiveness

of environmental reviews. Together, these reforms will help accelerate America's clean energy future, rebuild our nation's infrastructure, strengthen our nation's energy security, and deliver on the President's Investing in America agenda.

Improve efficiency and speed: The rule accelerates the deployment of clean energy, transmission, clean water, broadband, semiconductor manufacturing, and other crucial infrastructure by setting clear environmental review deadlines and page limits as directed by the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Additional efficiencies include establishing new and more flexible methods for agencies to establish categorical exclusions to speed up projects without significant adverse effects -- from geothermal exploration to vehicle charging infrastructure installation -- and enabling lower levels of environmental review to accelerate approvals when a project sponsor or agency has opted to mitigate the effects of the project.

Addressing multiple priorities simultaneously rather than consecutively: Consistent with the Fiscal Responsibility Act, the rule expands the use of programmatic environmental reviews, which allow agencies to review the environmental impacts of categories of projects to speed up approvals for specific projects. This will help speed the build-out of everything from semiconductor manufacturing to clean energy projects. The rule also promotes the use of shared environmental analysis to discourage duplication of effort.

Advance stronger environmental outcomes: The rule addresses climate change, protects public health, and encourages better environmental outcomes by clarifying that agencies should consider climate change effects in environmental reviews and encourage identification of reasonable alternatives that will mitigate climate impacts. These provisions will help to ensure approvals are not only timely, but durable, because when environmental reviews are done right the first time, they won't have to be redone later on and are less likely to face successful legal challenges.

Promote meaningful public input and best practices: The rule helps ensure projects are built smart from the start by promoting early and meaningful engagement with communities, fostering community buy-in, reducing or avoiding conflict, and improving project design. The rule helps ensure projects are on a strong legal footing incorporating longstanding case law and best practices for collaboration and coordination across agencies, helping ensure projects move forward efficiently and with more certainty to deliver benefits to communities, workers, and project developers. Consistent with current best practices, it also directs agencies to consider environmental justice.

Reducing Bottlenecks Across Seven Key Sectors and Getting Results with Projects

Accelerating transmission projects. Last week, the Biden-Harris Administration finalized the Coordinated Interagency Transmission Authorizations and Permits rule that will help improve the efficiency of the federal permitting and authorization process for qualifying onshore transmission facilities. The Department of Energy CITAP program gives transmission developers a new option for a streamlined federal review process with a standard two-year schedule that can cut prior timeframes in half for

the most complex environmental reviews. For projects that use existing transmission rights-of-way, such as advanced reconductoring or siting solar or storage projects on previously developed areas, last week the DOE also announced new categorical exclusions, the most expedited form of environmental reviews, which enables speedier DOE reviews for projects that have minimal impact on the environment and public health. These recent steps build on recent project-specific progress, such as:

SunZia Southwest Transmission Project: This project will transport up to 4,500 megawatts of primarily renewable energy from New Mexico to markets in Arizona and California. After prior reviews and changes to the project route, the Bureau of Land Management completed the review for the permitted route in less than two years from notice of intent to record of decision, announcing approval in May 2023.

Speeding up renewable energy development on federal lands. In April, DOI finalized a rule that facilitates efficient and responsible renewable energy development by reducing fees for solar and wind projects on public lands by 80 percent--with additional incentives for use of project labor agreements and American-made materials. The rule also streamlines the process for the BLM to review applications in priority areas and delivers greater predictability for industry on how the BLM will issue and manage future leases for solar and wind development. This rule complements the BLM's ongoing efforts to update the Western Solar Plan through a Utility-Scale Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement

, with the goal of further streamlining the framework for siting solar energy projects. Also in April, the BLM adopted categorical exclusions

from the U.S. Forest Service and Department of the Navy to expedite the review and approval of geothermal energy exploration on public lands. These actions will help clean energy projects get permitted more quickly. The BLM continues to track progress through an online dashboard

. In addition to this work, several projects are moving forward including:

Dry Lake East Energy Center Solar Project: Earlier this month, the BLM announced approval of this solar and storage project in the Las Vegas region designed to generate up to 200 megawatts of clean electricity for the Nevada grid. BLM started an environmental assessment in 2023 and the project was approved a year later in 2024.

Cape Station Exploration Drilling Geothermal Energy Project: Cape Station is a geothermal energy project set to deliver 400 megawatts of carbon-free electricity in Beaver County, Utah. BLM completed the environmental assessment for the project within three months working closely with the developer, nearby communities, and state, county and local governments.

Accelerating offshore wind permitting and delivering the nation's first large-scale projects. Last week DOI announced a final rule that is expected to save offshore wind developers about $1.9 billion over 20 years by modernizing regulations for renewable energy development. DOI's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is also developing programmatic environmental impact statements for the New York Bight

and California

offshore wind lease areas, to streamline individual project reviews. Additionally, BOEM and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a joint strategy

to protect and promote the recovery of endangered North Atlantic right whales while responsibly developing offshore wind energy, and are deploying Inflation Reduction Act funding and working with industry and environmental stakeholders to advance whale detection and monitoring technologies.

These efforts will help continue a strong track record of responsible permitting progress. BOEM has already issued approvals for eight commercial-scale offshore wind projects--up from zero approved when President Biden took office. These eight project approvals total more than 10 gigawatts of offshore wind energy, enough to power nearly four million homes. South Fork Wind off New York recently finished construction, Vineyard Wind off Massachusetts has delivered its first power, and several other projects are expected to have construction milestones this year. An example project:

Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind: Under the Biden-Harris Administration, the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project completed all federal reviews and authorizations, including a record of decision from BOEM in October 2023, roughly 10 months faster than the Vineyard Wind and South Fork projects, which initiated review in 2018 under the previous Administration and did not reach approval until 2021 under this Administration.

Accelerating construction of high-speed internet projects. In March, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation extended a process for faster historic preservation reviews for communications infrastructure projects on federal lands to all such projects both on and off federal lands. This action will shorten historic preservation reviews from over a year to less than three months. In addition, in April, the Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration established and adopted a total of 36 new categorical exclusions that will unlock faster reviews for projects that do not have significant environmental effects. NTIA also developed and released apermitting and environmental mapping tool

to help grant recipients and others deploying infrastructure for high-speed Internet service to identify permit requirements and avoid potential environmental impacts. In addition, also in April, DOI issued a final rule to streamline approvals of broadband projects on BLM managed lands. Other projects are moving forward, such as:

DMCI Broadband: In October 2022 the U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded $6 million--through President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law--to DMCI broadband in Michigan to be used to deploy a fiber-to-the-premises network to connect 2,899 people, 94 farms, 56 businesses, and four educational facilities to high-speed internet in Branch and Hillsdale counties in Michigan. After being awarded funding in 2022, the environmental review and approval took less than two months.

Executing on environmental reviews for CHIPS Act-funded semiconductor fabrication plants. The Department of Commerce quickly took action, building an environmental team for the CHIPS office, which has adopted 11 categorical exclusions from the Department of Energy and initiated a programmatic environmental assessment that will enable qualifying projects to quickly move through necessary environmental approvals. An example project:

BAE Systems: In December 2023, BAE Systems Electronic Systems signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms for approximately $35 million in federal incentives under President Biden's CHIPS and Science Act to support the modernization of the company's Microelectronics Center in Nashua, New Hampshire. The project will replace aging tools and quadruple the production of chips necessary for critical defense programs. This project completed environmental review in just 31 days using a categorical exclusion.

Streamlining critical mineral permitting: Last year, the Permitting Council announced the first mining project that will receive FAST-41 coverage. FAST-41 coverage will allow critical mineral projects – which are vital to the clean energy transition – to apply for FAST-41 permitting assistance and benefit from facilitated coordination between the project sponsor, the lead agency, and the other Federal agencies that will play a cooperating role on the project's environmental review. This ensures the project has a clear timetable and coordinated approvals process. Other mining projects are moving forward, including:

Gibellini Vanadium Mine: The Gibellini Project, located in Eureka County, Nevada, will help provide the critical mineral vanadium, which is an important component in lightweight steel and has the potential to increase the life and reduce the cost of batteries when used in utility-scale wind and solar projects. This was the first primary vanadium mine to be permitted in the United States.

Accelerating and streamlining permitting for transportation projects. To expedite the environmental review of federally-funded electric vehicle charging station sites, the Department of Transportation adopted a DOE EV charging station categorical exclusion, accelerating environmental review processes for state and local governments seeking to build EV charging infrastructure. The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation also exempted most federally-funded or federally-permitted EV charging infrastructure from historic preservation reviews because it found that the effects of these activities are known and not significant. Earlier this month, DOT also announced its to encourage project sponsors to publish interactive environmental review documents that increase accessibility, transparency and use plain language. These online tools will save time and improve

the quality of documents through collaborative, real-time reviews between the public and agencies participating in a project's environmental review process. Other projects are moving forward, including:

Gateway Hudson Tunnel Project: This project, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will construct a new Hudson River Tunnel between New York and New Jersey and rehabilitate the 110-year-old rail tunnel that carries 200,000 passenger trips per day on New Jersey Transit and Amtrak along the Northeast Corridor. When the Obama Administration started the environmental review for this project it was slated to be finished in less than two years, but the previous Administration sat on the final review. The review was completed within the first five months of the Biden-Harris Administration and construction broke ground in 2023 on both sides of the Hudson River.

Investing in the Resources for Success

Thanks to President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, the Administration has had the opportunity to bring on the staff and begin development of the technology needed to execute and streamline permitting and environmental reviews.

The Administration quickly deployed additional resources to hire the Federal staff needed to achieve our permitting goals. Twelve agencies covering all seven sectors received funding to hire the necessary personnel. To date, the Permitting Council has allocated over $165 million from President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act appropriation to support federal agencies, including through staff positions that will help deliver more timely and efficient reviews and permits. Together we have increased the permitting workforce by 14%. In addition, the Permitting Council has made $5 million available to Tribal governments to support Tribal engagement in the environmental review and authorization process for FAST-41 covered projects.

Adopting new technology and tools to improve federal environmental review and permitting processes. Timely, informative environmental reviews that are guided by the best available science and help deliver positive environmental and community impacts will be improved with better technology. Yesterday, the Permitting Council announced $30 million in investments to agencies to help them complete timely environmental reviews and permits. These investments will facilitate meaningful public involvement and support agencies to better manage complex analysis and decision-making.

Promoting Stakeholder Engagement and Positive Community Outcomes

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to ensuring strong environmental protections and robust community engagement as it works to accelerate federal permitting. In line with the President's commitment to environmental justice, the Administration is working to ensure projects are built smart from the start by promoting early and meaningful engagement with communities, which fosters community buy-in, helps reduce or avoid conflict, and improves project design while protecting communities from pollution and environmental harms that can result from poor planning and decision making. Accelerating federal permitting is also crucial to advancing the President's Justice40 Initiative , which set a goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal climate, clean energy, affordable and sustainable housing, and other investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by

pollution. Some examples of the Administration's work to promote community engagement include:

Through the new Bipartisan Permitting Reform Implementation Rule, agencies are directed to consider environmental justice in environmental reviews and--for the first time in the regulations, but consistent with current best practices-- the rule encourages agencies to incorporate measures to avoid or reduce disproportionate effects on communities with environmental justice concerns, including the cumulative effects of pollution. The rule also requires agencies to identify a Chief Engagement Officer that will be responsible for facilitating the agency's community engagement for environmental reviews, making federal decisions more accessible and transparent to interested communities. Additionally, the rule ensures that Tribal Nations have opportunities to meaningfully engage in the environmental review process.

Federal agencies are prioritizing community input and engagement. For example, the Bureau of Land Management has reinstated all 100 of its Resource Advisory Committees during this Administration. These local advisory committees provide invaluable support to BLM and lead to sustainable outcomes as a result of community buy-in and engagement.

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation issued a Policy Statement on Indigenous Knowledge and Historic Preservation . These principles place an emphasis on respecting Indigenous Knowledge in all aspects of the agency's regulatory process and developing and maintaining a positive and mutually beneficial relationship with Tribal Nations, Native Hawaiian organizations, and other Indigenous Peoples. The policy also calls on the preservation community to ensure the appropriate amount of time and resources are dedicated to the identification, documentation, utilization, management, and safeguarding of Indigenous Knowledge, along with developing guidance to inform these activities.