May 4, 2024

East Room

5:18 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Hello, hello, hello.

Please have a seat.

I think I told my buddy John Kerry, for the first two years, every time I heard "Hail to the Chief," I'd turn and look around, "Where the hell is he?"

Anyway, it's great to see you all. And on behalf of Jill, Kamala, and Doug, thank you all for being here in one of our favorite events at the White House.

Sixty-one years ago, President Kennedy established the Presidential Medal of Freedom to recognize, quote, "any person who has made an especially meritorious contribution to the security of national int- -- and national interests of the United States or world peace, cultural, or other significant public, pri- -- public or private endeavors."

You know, in the first class of -- of medal recipients was a great, great American writer, E.B. White. Years after receiving the medal, he received a letter from someone who was losing faith in humanity. And E.B. White replied, and I quote, "Relentless- -- relentlessness, curiosity, inventiveness, ingenuity have led to deep trouble. We can only hope that these same traits will enable us to claw our way out. Hang on to your hat, hang on to your hope, and wind the clock, and tomorrow is another day."

Today, we have another extraordinary honor to bestow one of the nation's highest civilian honors of 19 incredible people whose relentless curiosity, inventiveness, ingenuity, and hope have kept faith in a better tomorrow.

You know, we see that faith in Father Greg Boyle, who has changed countless lives as pastor of a disadvantaged Catholic parish in Los Angeles. Father, you -- through your pioneering gang intervention programs.

You know, I always kid, I went to -- I was taught by the Norbertines in -- in a public school. Well, you know, they always were worried we were going to go to Jesuit colleges because they said you guys are too liberal.

Thank God for the Jebbies. Thank God.

That's what my staff ha- -- hates me doing: ad libbing.

Your service as a Jesuit priest over four decades reminds us of the power of redemption, rehabilitation, and our obligation to those who have been condemned or counted out. Thank you, Father Greg, for your amazing grace. Thank you.

For some of you today, I know from personal experience that you wish you never had to be at an event like this one without a piece of your soul having been gone.

Judy Shepard, it's been 25 years, Judy, since you last spoke [DEL: of :DEL] [to] your beloved Matthew. Your husband, Dennis, is here today as well. The brutal murder of your son galvanized a movement in a -- into a law in his name -- protect LBG- -- LB -- LGBTQ Americans. Your relentless advocacy is a reminder that we must give hate no safe harbor and that we can turn it into purpose and that pain you felt into significant purpose. You've done just that. Thank you.

And, today, we honor Medgar Evers and his family's pain and purpose -- an Army veteran who worked tirelessly to end segregation in Mississippi to deliver the promise of America to all Americans; a patriot who was gunned down by the poison of white supremacy. But his spirit endures.

Joining us is Medgar's daughter, Reena, who was just -- was eight -- eight years old when she walked out and saw Daddy in the driveway -- was taken from her four days before Father's Day. She's here on behalf of the family and her mother, Mer- -- excuse me -- her mother, Myrlie, who was unable to attend -- to travel today.

I want to thank Myrlie for her work to seek justice for Medgar and -- and for forging her own civil rights legacy -- not just Medgar's, her own civil rights legacy.

In 2021, in this very room, I signed one of the most important laws of my presidency, making Juneteenth the first new federal holiday since Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The first person I handed the pen to was Ms. Opal Lee, the grandmother of the movement that helped make it possible.

Juneteenth is a day of profound, profound weight and power to remember the original sin of slavery and the extraordinary capacity to emerge from the most painful moments with a better vision of ourselves. Ms. Opal Lee made it her mission to make history, not erase it. And we're a better nation because of you, Opal. Thank you.

Born in Philadelphia, the cradle of our democracy, Dr. Clarence B. Jones wielded a pen as a sword and gave words to the movement that generated in freedom for millions of people. A speechwriter for and lawyer for Dr. King, he helped define the enduring ideas included in the "Dream" that will be ever for- -- engraved in the ethos of America. Letting freedom ring, Dr. Clarence B. Jones. Thank you, Dr. Jones.

And before social media and clickbait news -- -- Phil Donahue broadcast the power of personal stories in living rooms all across America. He helped change hearts and minds through honest and open dialogue. And over the course of a defining career in television and through thousands of daily conversations, Phil Donahue steered the nation's discourse and spoke to our better angels. I wish you were still speaking there, pal. It made a big difference.

From finance to media to philanthropy, Michael Bloomberg has revolutionized our economy. He's transformed how we consume information. He's changed us. He's challenged us, as well, to solve the toughest challenges from gun violence to climate change. And as mayor, he rebuilt the city of New York after 9/11, channeling our spirit of resilience as a nation and a beacon to the world. Michael, thank you, Mr. Mayor. Thank you for a career of service.

I first met Katie Ledecky in 2012. I thought, "My God, what an athlete." She won her first Olympic gold at age 15. And though -- through hard work and humility, she's won 10 Olympic medals -- 10 -- 21 world championship titles and became the greatest female swimmer of all time. She continues to compete this summer in the Par- -- [DEL: Par :DEL] [Paris] Olympics at age 27, which some say is old for swimming. I think -- -- 27 -- don- -- don't let age get in your way. I mean, you know what I mean?

Katie, age is just a number, kid. And I -- and I can't wait to welcome you back to the White House with more wedals -- medals from Team USA. I really mean it, Katie. You're the best. The finest woman swimmer in American history.

Jim Thorpe, a one-of-a-kind champion. I grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania, hearing from my grandpop, A- -- his name was Ambrose Finnegan. And, you know, he -- he was an All-American at Santa Clara playing football back in 1905. And I grew up always hearing about Jim Thorpe -- I'm serious -- as the greatest ath- -- not just the greatest ball player, the greatest athlete of all time. He talked about him all the time.

In 1912, he became the first Native American athlete to win an Olympic gold medal. He set world records in the decathlon. He was a professional football player, a professional baseball player, a professional basketball player. Jim Thorpe showcased unparalleled -- unparalleled athleticism, and he transcended rac- -- transcended racial barriers and the power of perseverance, sheer will, and determination.

Thank you, Lynn, who is Jim's oldest living grandchild, for accepting this medal on his behalf. He was incredible. Incredible guy.

After hearing my grandpop, I used to go to sleep in Scranton thinking, "God, I wish I could meet him." I'm not -- incredible. Anyway. I'm going to get carried away here.

For most, the American Dream: to be successful in whatever endeavor you choose here on Earth. For Dr. Ellen Ochoa, this is a dream from the heavens -- her dream from the heavens. A granddaughter of Mexican immigrants, Ellen is the first Hispanic woman to go to space, ushering a whole new age of space exploration and -- and proving what it means for every generation to dream, to reach for the stars, and to get there. And I tell you what, you're getting there, kid. Thank you so much. Thank you .

And, Dr. Jane Rigby, a daughter of my home state

of Delaware, I might add -- -- she's not only -- she's not only -- the only person receiving this medal, she's a -- she is a -- you know, it's not the reason she's getting it is because she's from Delaware; although, I keep .

She is a groundbreaking astrophysicist in charge of the most powerful telescope ever launched into space. Did you ever see some of the images? They're breathtaking -- lightyears -- millions of lightyears away.

She's also a long-time advocate of inclusivity in the sciences. By piecing -- by [DEL: piercing :DEL] [piecing] together and -- everything that she's done and by making sure that the grand story of the universe and unlocking the secrets of the galaxies, Dr. Rigby sparks a sense of wonder deep in our souls.

You ought to see some of the photographs -- I mean, some of those telescopes. It's -- it's mindboggling to me.

For embodying the American Dream and helping Americans reach theirs also, we want to ar- -- honor a very good friend of mine, who is not here today: Frank Lautenberg. An Army veteran from New Jersey and the longest-serving senator, who I served with, Frank is remembered as a tireless advocate for consumers, public health, and safety.

Bonnie, thank you for being here to accept the medal on Frank's behalf.

Teresa Romero embodies the essential truth about America: We're a nation of immigrants where everyone is entitled to be treated with dignity and respect. The first Latina to become president of a national union in the -- a national union in the United States, she made a life better for thousands of farmworkers who put food on our tables -- all of them. And protecting them from extreme heat, securing overtime pay, she shows us what it means to be a champion for dignity to work.

And when -- I told you, when I ran the first time in 1972 to the United States Senate, he was organizing farmworkers in the state of Delaware. And Nixon won my state by 60 percent of the vote, but I was down and championing -- just learning from him. And guess what? I won anyway.

But anyway, thank you very much for all you've done.

Over four decades and on and off the screen, Michael Yeoh -- Michelle Yeoh, excuse me, has shattered stereotypes and glass ceilings to enrich and enhance American culture. Her roles transcend [DEL: gender :DEL] [genres], cultures, and lan- -- and languages -- martial -- from martials arts to romantic comedies to science fiction -- to show us what we have -- all have in common. As the first Asian actor to win an Oscar as Best Actress, she bridges cultures not only to entertain but also inspire and open hearts. And that's what she keeps doing. Congratulations.

Another inspiration -- not just to me, but to Bob Dole -- -- God love him -- was Elizabeth Dole. You're a trailblazer, Elizabeth -- the first woman in nearly every public service position you held over four decades. You served -- I served with her in the United States Senate. And she's a fierce advocate for military and families and their caregivers. She's a true partner who -- and her beloved Bob was a dear friend, who I miss dearly. And he was a friend, as you know. I loved him. Thank you. Thanks.

Elizabeth, the country owes you a deep debt of gratitude -- a significant debt of gratitude.

Throughout a defining career in public service, this guy, Al Gore, has demonstrated a love of country that showed the world how to lead. I worked with Al when he was a senator and as -- when he was vice president. After winning the popular vote, he accepted the outcome of a disputed presidential election for the sake of unity and trust in our institutions. That, to me, was amazing what you did, Al. I won't go into that, but -- .

And Al has continued to serve by leading a global movement to fight climate crisis, earning him the Nobel Prize in 2007. God love him.

Al, history is going -- history is going to remember you for many reasons. Among them will be your honesty, your integrity, and the legacy of your service. So, thank you, Al. You're first rate. Thank you.

I've served and work closely as Senator and as Vice President and then as President with this guy: John Kerry -- John Kerry. I was Vice -- I was Vice President when he was Secretary of State. And in my administration, he led our efforts to -- across the globe, the first Special Presidential Envoy for Climate.

Throughout six decades -- throughout six decades of service to the nation, John, as a soldier, a senator, a statesman -- John Kerry was a patriot of the highest order. I can personally attest that my dear friend has as much moral courage in his pursuit of American politics as he did physical courage that earned him a Silver Star in Vietnam. You're the real deal, John. You are the real deal, pal. I have enormous admiration.

In my view -- excuse the point of personal privilege -- the last two guys I mentioned both should have been standing here at this podium.

A beloved daughter of a congressman and the mayor of Baltimore -- as my dad, who was in Baltimore, would say, Baltimore -- -- -- Nancy Pelosi grew up knowing the power and purpose of politics. A historic figure as the first woman Speaker of the House of Representatives, she used her superpowers to pass some of the most significant laws in our nation's history.

On January 6 th, Nancy stood in the breach and defended democracy. And with her husband, Paul, they stood up to extremism and absolute -- with absolute courage -- physical courage.

Nancy is a brilliant, practical, principled, and determined leader. Her accomplishments are overwhelming. And I predict -- and I've said this to her for a while -- history will remember you, Nancy, as the greatest Speaker of the House of Representatives ever. I mean it. We've had some great Speakers, Nancy, but I love you, kid. I really do love you. You're the best. You're the best.

De Tocqueville said, "If America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great." That's one of Jim Clyburn's favorite quotes. Always grounded in faith, family, and service, Jim has guided South Carolina and our country with a steady hand and an honest heart for over the last half century. And I could say this without fear of contradiction: I would not be standing here as President and making these awards were it not for Jim. I mean that sincerely. And neither of us would be standing here without Emily Clyburn, a woman of enormous character, who we all miss.

We're a great nation, Jim, because we have good people, like Jim and Emily Clyburn and our honorees today, all of them. My fellow Americans, Jim is the best. Thank you, Jim.

What I had to keep doing when I was writing these introductions is make them shorter and shorter and shorter because there's so much more to say about each one of them, but we'd be here for 12 hours. But you all know how incredible they are -- an incredible group of people.

And so, ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Americans, I congratulate the Presidential [DEL: Freedom of Medal :DEL] [Medal of Freedom] recipients and now -- and their families for their relentlessness and curiosity.

And now I'm going to make sure we provide those medals and put them around your necks. So, thank you very much.

MILITARY AIDE: Michael R. Bloomberg. From the son of a bookkeeper and secretary to a visionary business leader and public servant, Michael Bloomberg epitomizes American industry and innovation. He revolutionized the financial information industry with the Bloomberg Terminal, and Bloomberg News modernized the way information is reported and received by the public. As a three-term mayor of New York City, he transformed schools, transportation, public health, and more. As a philanthropist, his contributions on everything from gun safety to climate change remind us of our responsibility to our communities, our country, and the world.

Gregory J. Boyle. Inspired by his Jesuit teachers, Father Greg Boyle has dedicated his life to healing and hope. As a young priest assigned to one of Los Angeles's most underserved parishes, he founded Homeboy Industries, now the largest gang rehabilitation and re-entry program in the world. It has helped thousands of Angelenos turn their lives around, connecting them to jobs, counseling, and a warm-hearted community where all are welcome and cherished. Answering Jesus's call to serve the "least of these," Father Greg is a testament to the power of God's healing love and America's enduring grace.

James E. Clyburn. The son of a South Carolina preacher, Jim Clyburn is a beacon of moral clarity. A graduate of South Carolina State University, this student of history became a teacher and movement leader for a fairer and freer America. His dignity and decency are surpassed only by the love shared with his dear Emily, who marched with him, and often ahead of him, from classrooms to Congress. Through three decades in the House of Representatives, he has transformed the lives of millions of Americans by passing groundbreaking laws for all our families. Jim Clyburn is touched by the divine, and his march brings us closer to a more perfect Union.

Elizabeth Dole. A singular trailblazer, Elizabeth Dole was the first woman to hold nearly every position she had. Over the course of four decades in public service, she served as the Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of Labor, President of the American Red Cross, and senator from North Carolina. She established a preeminent foundation dedicated to supporting America's military caregivers. Known for breaking barriers and building bridges, Elizabeth Dole has paved a path for generations of Americans to serve with honor and dignity.

Phil Donahue. From Irish-Catholic roots in Cleveland, Phil Donahue rose to transform television and reshape the national conversation. Over 29 years, nearly 7,000 episodes, and 20 Emmys, he pioneered the live daytime talk show, holding a mirror up to America. He interviewed everyone from our greatest stars to our forgotten neighbors, uniting us around the toughest issues of our time. Insatiably curious and accepting, he saw every guest as worthy of interest and worked to build understanding, bringing us to see each other not as enemies but as fellow Americans.

Reena Evers, accepting on behalf of Medgar Wiley Evers. Medgar Evers was willing to face death to give America new life. An Army soldier, he fought for freedom abroad during World War Two. At the height of the Civil Rights Movement, he was a crusading lawyer fighting for equality at home, investigating lynchings, organizing voter drives, and dismantling school segregation. The life he chose to live and the risks he took to do right are a reminder of the history he made and our charge to keep. In a life cut too short, Medgar Evers's legacy casts a ray of light on our quest to redeem the soul of our nation.

Al Gore. Over a lifetime of service, Al Gore has been an Army serviceman, senator, vice president, presidential nominee, and a visionary climate statesman. In a historic act of selflessness and love for country, he accepted the outcome of a disputed election for the sake of our unity and the strength of our democracy. Through his Nobel Peace Prize-winning leadership, he inspires millions to confront the existential threat of climate change. He is a model of American resilience, proof that what matters most is the courage to take on a cause bigger than ourselves.

Clarence B. Jones. The Philadelphia son of domestic workers and a former foster child, Clarence Jones became the wordsmith for a movement. A doer of the Word, he was an Army soldier on the frontlines in the battlefield and a civil rights lawyer on the frontlines in the courtroom. Wise and unflinching, Clarence Jones's lyrical prose and prophetic life shows us all the enduring power of the idea of America. An advisor and speechwriter to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., he helped write a new American Declaration to ensure "we hold these truths to be self-evident" is forever linked with "I Have a Dream."

MR. JONES:

MILITARY AIDE: John Forbes Kerry. John Kerry's public service spans seven decades and seven continents. He demonstrated courage fighting in a war and equal courage fighting against it. A decorated naval officer who volunteered for combat, he made peace with the country for which he'd fought on the battlefield. Elected five times to the Senate by the people of Massachusetts, he was the Democratic Party's presidential nominee and came within one state of victory. The son of a foreign officer, diplomacy --

MR. KERRY:

MILITARY AIDE: The son of a foreign officer, diplomacy is in his DNA. As Secretary of State, he worked for peace, negotiated arms control, and forged the historic Paris Agreement on climate change. He built on that work as the first-ever Special Presidential Envoy for Climate. His bold and relentless public service reflects his enduring belief in America, where our best days are still to come.

Bonnie Lautenberg, accepting on behalf of Frank R. Lautenberg. Frank Lautenberg was a patriot of the Greatest Generation. Born in a family of Jewish immigrants, he enlisted in the Army at 18 and served in Europe during World War Two. After graduating college on the G.I. Bill, he built and ran one of the world's most successful software companies. He later became New Jersey's longest-serving senator. As a strong advocate for consumer protection, the environment, and safe transportation, he took on the danger of secondhand smoke and fought for healthcare for people living with HIV/AIDS. When history called, Frank Lautenberg answered.

Opal Lee. Two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, freedom for enslaved Americans was finally enforced in Galveston, Texas, marking the nation's first Juneteenth. In that same town, Opal Lee was born six decades later. Growing up in a home that was burned down by a racist mob, she understood that history must never be erased. A teacher and advocate, she helped lead a movement with the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation. More than 150 years after that day in Galveston, Texas, she stood next to another American president, who followed her lead and made Juneteenth a federal holiday. The nation thanks Opal Lee, the "grandmother of Juneteenth."

Kathleen Genevieve Ledecky. A humble leader, Olympian, and champion of unparalleled determination, Katie Ledecky is the most decorated female swimmer in history with 10 Olym- -- -- with 10 Olympic medals and counting. An athletic prodigy from a swimming family, she captured the world's admiration with her punishing strokes and unmatched stamina, pushing through and setting the highest standards for some of the toughest races ever known. Powered by faith, family, and teamwork, Katie Ledecky is a symbol of perseverance and strength with a heart of gold that shines for the nation and for the world.

THE PRESIDENT: They once told me .

MILITARY AIDE: Ellen Ochoa. A granddaughter of Mexican immigrants, Ellen Ochoa lived up to their dreams that anything is possible in America. The first in her family to go to college, she became a groundbreaking aeronautical engineer, inventor, and astronaut on her way to becoming the first Hispanic woman to travel to space. In addition to nearly 1,000 hours in orbit, she is the second woman to serve as director of NASA's renowned Johnson Space Center. A beloved trailblazer and mentor, Dr. Ochoa continues to inspire people around the world to reach for the stars and achieve their dreams.

Nancy D'Alesandro Pelosi. After raising five children with her beloved husband, Paul, and leading the California Democratic Party, Nancy Pelosi became San Francisco's tireless champion in Congress. As the first woman Speaker of the House, she has shepherded some of our nation's most consequential laws by keeping coalitions together and standing with and up to presidents of both parties. Her resolve on January 6 th, 2021, helped guide America through one of our darkest days. For her efforts to protect freedom and democracy, Nancy Pelosi will be known forever as the greatest Speaker of the House in American history.

Jane Rigby. A daughter of the great State of Delaware, Jane Rigby's passion for astronomy began as a child peering at the stars through a small telescope in a soybean field. Following her instinct and imagination, she has become a pioneering astrophysicist, now managing the James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful telescope ever launched into space. A brilliant and prolific author, Dr. Rigby is an inspiration and tireless champion for the LGBTQI+ community. In both her professional and personal life, Dr. Rigby reminds us to never lose our sense of wonder, hope, and spirit of adventure as Americans.

THE PRESIDENT:

MILITARY AIDE: Teresa Romero. A trailblazing labor leader, Teresa Romero is a champion for farmworkers across the fields, orchards, and vineyards of America who feed and fuel our nation. Born in Mexico, she has built an American life in service to others, standing up for one of our most vulnerable yet essential groups of workers and giving them the voice, hope, and inspiration to push for change. With grace under fire, her fight for safe working conditions, fair pay, and a path to citizenship is bringing us closer to realizing the full promise of America as a nation of immigrants.

Judy Shepard. Judy Shepard took a mother's most profound pain and turned her son's memory into a movement. Matthew Shepard's brutal death 25 years ago shocked the conscience of our nation and galvanized millions of Americans to stand against anti-LGBTQI+ hate. Together, with her husband, Dennis, their courageous advocacy has since driven tremendous progress in our laws and culture, giving young people and their families strength and hope for the future. The Shepard family's compassion reflects the best of America, where everyone is equally deserving of dignity and respect.

Gail Lynn Hannon, accepting on behalf of James Francis Thorpe. Jim Thorpe was the country's original multisport athlete and one of the greatest stars in American history. A member of the Sac and Fox Nation, he embodied his given name, "Bright Path," and became the first Native American to win an Olympic gold medal. He broke the world record in the decathlon and captured the public's awe as a professional football, baseball, and basketball player. He demonstrated moral courage time and time again as he overcame shameful bigotry. Jim Thorpe's story reminds us of enduring contributions of Tribal history to American history and the ongoing work of healing the souls of our nations.

Michelle Yeoh. Michelle Yeoh is one of the most acclaimed actresses of our time. For four decades, she has faced and shattered stigma and stereotypes to forge a groundbreaking career as one of the most versatile performers in the world, becoming the first Asian to win the Academy Award for Best Actress. Her efforts to advance gender equality, conservation issues, and global health have been felt around the world. Equal parts performer and pioneer, Michelle Yeoh continues to enrich American culture and inspires us to believe in possibilities on the big screen and beyond.

THE PRESIDENT: I tell you what, it makes you proud to be an American, doesn't it?

Let's give one more round of applause for this year's Presidential Freedom recipients.

6:05 P.M. EDT

The Vice President will be in Washington, DC this weekend and has no public events scheduled.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 3, 2024

On Saturday, May 4, the Vice President will return to Las Vegas, NV for her fifth visit to the state this year and her 13 th since being sworn in. Following political events, she will return to Washington, DC.

On Sunday, May 5, the Vice President will be in Washington, DC and has no public events scheduled.

May 3, 2024

On Saturday, May 4, the Vice President will return to Las Vegas, NV for her fifth visit to the state this year and her 13 th since being sworn in. Following political events, she will return to Washington, DC.

On Sunday, May 5, the Vice President will be in Washington, DC and has no public events scheduled.

May 3, 2024

James S. Brady Press Briefing Room

1:52 P.M. EDT

Q Oh, my goodness.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, my goodness. I wonder why.

Good afternoon, everybody.

Q Good afternoon.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Happy Friday. Don't say things don't get exciting in here sometimes.

I really -- there's no introduction that really is needed here. I have a special guest, as you can see. Mark Hamill has decided to join us on this wonderful Friday, and I am really excited to turn it over to Mr. Hamill.

Here you go.

MR. HAMILL: Just for -- okay. How many of you had "Mark Hamill will lead the press briefing" on your bingo card? Hands? Yeah, me either.

And look, I just got to meet the President. He gave me these aviator glasses to me.

Q What a treasure.

MR. HAMILL: I love the merch. Love it all.

But listen, I just wanted to say I was honored to be asked to come to the White House to meet the President -- the most legislatively successful president in my lifetime. And, you know, I don't have to go through the list -- the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the PACT Act, the CHIPS Act, all of that -- Inflation. Fifteen million jobs. Look, it's all good.

I mean, I was really thrilled to meet the entire staff because you know it's not just one person. It's like a composite endeavor. And all these people -- my goodness. You know, I mean, I have no idea -- I had no idea just what went into what is on his plate on a daily basis.

So, that's pretty much it. I'm open to questions, although no "Star Wars" questions, please.

But I want to say once again how grateful I am. And it just shows you that one person can be so influential and so positive in our lives. And again, thank you so much.

And, Peter Baker, I loved your book.

Yes.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Wow!

Q Thank you, Mark Hamill, for being here. What did you ask -- what did you talk about with the President?

MR. HAMILL: Well, first of all, I only expected to be there for like five minutes. He showed us all these photographs. And, you know, it was really amazing to me because, you know, I was -- I was invited to the Carter White House, and I came. And then I came to the Obama White House, but I never was invited into the Oval Office. And it was a large gathering. So, this one was really extra special.

Q All right, sir.

MR. HAMILL: So -- yes.

Q Did President Biden bring up "Star Wars," too, sir?

MR. HAMMILL: Well, you know, I called him "Mr. President." He said, "You can call me 'Joe.'" And I said, "Can I call you 'Joe-bi-Wan Kenobi'?" He liked that.

But listen, I'm not really here to dominate. I have to turn it back over to our wonderful press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre. So, thank you all so much.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thank you.

MR. HAMILL: All right, thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thank you.

MR. HAMILL: Okay.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thank you so much for being here. I got to get those shades.

Q Tell him only hope.

Q

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thank you, guys. Thank you.

No one ever claps for me when I get off the podium. Just saying.

Q

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I know. The unexpected -- expect the unexpected.

I don't even know where to go from there, but I do have -- now I feel very by myself. Let's let the team come in. Thank you. Thank you, Sam, for joining.

MR. MICHEL: Sure.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All right. Okay.

I do have a couple of things before we get into -- turn -- turn it into some serious business and take your questions. Thank you so much for indulging us today. We thought that might be a nice thing to do for you all to see Mark Hamill, as he was here, as you just heard, visiting from -- with the President -- President Biden -- President here today.

So, today marks World Press Freedom Day, an occasion that highlights the importance of a free press, both of our democracy here in the United States and for our societies around the world.

From exposing corruption and human rights abuses to covering communities and conflicts the world over, gen- -- journalists risk their lives every day in the pursuit of truth -- in the pursuit of truth.

In a statement this morning, President Biden reaffirmed his commitment to support and take action in defense of media freedom. The Biden-Harris administration has already launched a robust government-wide campaign and built a coalition of countries to counter the proliferation and misuse of commercial spyware which has been misused against journalists and continues to provide legal and other support for media who face persecution around the world.

The President also called again for the immediate, unconditional release of all journalists who have been detained around the world, including the Wall Street Journal's Evan Gershkowi- -- Gershkovich, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's Alsu Kurmasheva, and of course Austin Tice in Syria.

In the coming weeks, the President will take executive action in response to the global crackdown on press freedom, declare it a grave threat to national security, and authorize measures, including sanctions and visas bans, against those who attempt to silence the press.

The United States stands by media around the world and will continue to do our part to support their important work.

Today, we also have another important day event happening later today. The President -- President Biden is naming 19 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian honor presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States; world peace; or other significant societal, public, or private endeavors.

We're honored to have these individuals or members of their families come to the White House today to celebrate their service.

President Biden often says there is no- -- nothing beyond our capacity when we act together. These 19 Americans consistently demonstrated over their careers the power of community, hard work, and service.

Finally, this morning, Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona sent a letter to schools addressing the sharp rise in antisemitic hate on college campuses. His letter made clear to schools that not only is antisemitism abhorrent and unacceptable, it is also discrimination prohibited under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Secretary Cardona reminded schools that the Department of Education provides a number of resources -- including trainings, technical assistance -- to ensure that school environments are free of discrimination.

His letter comes one day after President Biden spoke to this very subject. As you all know, Americans have a right to free speech and peacefully protest. But -- but breaking into buildings, destroying property, and shutting down campuses is not peaceful protest. There is also no place on ca- -- college campuses or in America for antisemitism.

This administration will continue to defend free speech while standing up for the rule of law.

And, Josh, good to see you.

Q Good to see you, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All right.

Q May the Force be with you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: May the Force be with you, or, tomorrow, the 4 th be with you -- however you want to look at it.

Q Let's hope we've killed off the "Star Wars" jokes for the rest of the briefing.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I -- I doubt it. I feel like there's more to come in.

Q So, three subjects.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q First, a top orthopedic surgeon at Shifa has apparently died in Israeli custody. He was 50 years old. If medical personnel are not going to be exempt from the war, how can Gazans hope to have any medical care? And what can you say to other doctors working in that area?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: And so, look, that is devastating news and devastating to hear. And our hearts go out to friends and families -- his friend and families. That is certainly one of the hardest news that you can hear -- a family member can hear, especially as someone is providing care in this -- in this situation in Gaza, where we know humanitarian aid is dire and the innocent people of Gaza, the Palestinian citizens, obviously need that care. They need that assistance. So, it is obviously devastating to hear.

And the President has said, and has said very clearly, that when it comes to people who are citizens who are in Gaza providing that all-important care -- humanitarian aid, humanitarian care -- they need to be protected. They should be protected. And so, certainly, those conversations are going to continue.

We -- we believe that, certainly, Israel has made -- the Israeli government has taken efforts to do just that and has taken into account our concerns. And so, we're going to continue to have those conversations.

But it is heartbreaking to hear. I can't speak specifically to that case and what occurred. Obviously, someone's life was lost. And we have to be, certainly, mindful. And we're -- at this time, I can offer my condolences. And we want to make sure innocent lives -- innocent civilians of -- people who are, certainly, offering that humanitarian aid, their -- their lives are protected as they're doing so.

Q Secondly, what can you say about reports that Israel has briefed the administration on its efforts to evacuate civilians before a Rafah invasion?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, what I can say this -- and we -- we've been pretty clear. We haven't seen a comprehensive plan -- a plan as it relates to their thinking on the Rafah operations. We have been also clear that -- of our concerns of a maj- -- any major operations -- military operations into Rafah.

We have said, and you all have heard us say, there's more than a million Palestinian civilians living in -- n- -- well, seeking refuge in -- in Rafah. And we want to make sure that they are -- their -- their lives are protected.

And so, that is important. And we want to s- -- we want to continue to have the conversations that we've been having with the Israeli government.

As you know, it's been -- those conversations have been led by the National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan. He was just here last week, as you all know, as well. And so, we had two virtual -- virtual conversations. We're hoping to have one in person. We want those conversations to continue.

We believe that they are going to take -- Israel government is going to take our concerns into account. But we have not seen a plan -- a comprehensive plan. And we want to make sure that those conversations continue, because it is important to protect those Palestinian lives, those innocent lives, those more than a million citizens who are seeking refuge in Gaza -- in -- in that part of Gaza -- in Rafah.

Q And -- and then, lastly, on campus protests. The President has drawn the line at violence, but he said he's not bringing in the National Guard. Does he think the police presence deters violence or exacerbates it?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, just to be very clear about the National Guard: That is something that governors decide on. That is a decision for them to make, when it comes to the National Guard. And so, I want to just reiterate that again from here.

And, look, we have always been very clear. When it comes to police presence on college and universities, that is certainly something that -- that universities and colleges have to make a decision on. That is something that they decide what is right to -- how -- right to -- to move forward on their campuses and colleges.

And we understand -- we understand how painful this moment is. We -- you've heard me say it: It is a incredibly charged time. It is a charged environment. And it is very difficult, because of that charged environment, for law enforcement.

We also believe and it is important that all Americans can peacefully protest within the law. They have to be able to do that. It is -- you heard from the President. It is -- it is part of our fundamental American principles, part of our -- or what make America's freedom -- right? -- to be able to -- to protest peacefully in this country.

And it is also important, which is the second part that the President talked about yesterday -- is the rule of law. We have to follow the rule of law. Violence is not protected here.

But Americans have the right to peacefully -- peacefully protest within the law. And we're going to be very consistent here.

And as I said, these are incredibly pain- -- incredibly painful time. And it is very charged moment. And we understand how difficult that could be.

And so, I'll just leave it there.

Is that your three topics?

Q Yes.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay. All right. Go ahead, Selina.

Q Thanks, Karine. So, you say that you haven't seen a comprehensive plan for Rafah, but I am told by a U.S. official that the U.S. has been briefed on some sort of initial plan. So, can you just tell us what the reaction was --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So --

Q -- to Israeli counterparts about that initial brief?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I'm going to be super mindful. These pri- -- these conversations are -- you know, these are diplomatic conversations. We don't read out in details, in specifics on -- on the conversations that we have with our -- with -- certainly with all of our counterparts here.

The last time there was a virtual meeting, we did have a readout there. But I don't want to go into details.

We have been very clear, in public and in private, that our concerns with a -- with a large military operation into Rafah -- we do not -- we're not in support of that.

And so, obviously, there's been conversations. There's been two virtual-led conversation led by the National Security Advisor on this particular topic, Rafah operations. We read out to all of you the last time that the President spoke with the Prime Minister of Israel, Rafah operations came up in that conversations.

We're not going to go into details from here. But I think we've made ourselves very clear. There are more than 1.1 -- 1.5 million Palestinians who are seeking refuge there. And so, we believe those lives need to be protected. And we're going to continue to have those conversations.

Q So, to be clear, the U.S. was not satisfied with whatever --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm not --

Q -- the U.S. was briefed on in this initial plan?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm just -- I'm not going to go into details or specifics from here. We've been clear about our concerns. We're going to continue to be clear about our concerns here. Those conversations are going to continue. And I'm just going to leave it there.

Q And just switching gears a little bit.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q A new ABC News/Ipsos poll found that nearly 4 in 10 Americans say the U.S. is doing too much to support Israel. That's up from about 3 in 10 in January. So, it is showing that support for Israel is declining as the war drags on. Is the President concerned about this?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm not going to go into every poll that comes out. That's for political pundits to do. I used to be one. I'm not one anymore, standing here at this podium.

But what I can say is that we saw what happened on October 7 th. We heard from Hamas, a terrorist organization, what they said that they would do. A leader from that organization said they want to see October 7 th happen again and again and again.

More than 1,200 souls were taken on that day. Two hundred -- more than two hundred Israelis, including some American hostages, were taken by Hamas. And, as you know, we are working very hard to get that hostage deal so that we can bring hostages home, including those American hostages, create a situation where we have a ceasefire -- right? -- so more humanitarian aid can go through.

That is incredibly important. We're doing -- we're working around the clock to get that done.

You saw Secretary Blinken in the region, meeting with regional partners. And so, that is certainly a priority and continues to be a priority for us.

Our commitment to Israel's security is ironclad, as I've said and we've said many times. They live in a tough neighborhood. And we saw what Iran did, right? They tried -- they -- they launched missiles and drones into Israel. And it wasn't just us that stepped in. It was leaders in the region that stepped in to make sure that they -- they were able to defend themselves at that time.

And so, we want to get that hostage deal. That's what we want to see. We want to make sure that -- that innocent Palestinian lives are protected. That's why we're looking into the Rafah operations and having those conversations.

But getting that hostage deal is so critical to bring hostages home, to get that humanitarian -- more humanitarian aid in and to have a ceasefire. And we are committed to doing that. And you see that from this President.

Go ahead.

Q Thank you, Karine. You said that the U.S. has been clear about concerns about invading Rafah. Has it been clear about potential consequences if Israel moves forward?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, I'm not going to go into -- I'm not going to go into speculations or what consequences might be. Our co- -- we've made our concerns publicly and privately to the Israeli government.

I just mentioned the -- the President had a conversation with the Prime Minister in his last -- in his last call with him and Rafah operations came up.

I'm not going to go into specifics. I'm not going to go into details.

We have been very clear. There are 1.5 million Palestinians who have -- who are seeking refuge in -- in Rafah, and we want to make sure those lives are protected, understanding that Israel needs to also defend itself and having those Hamas operators there -- we understand that they want to dismantle Hamas, and I understand that -- we understand that is a priority, obviously. And we are -- we are -- we -- we certainly appreciate that.

We also want to make sure that those 1.5 million lives -- Palestinian lives who are seeking refuge there are protected. And we believe there's a way to do that. And we're going to have those conversations.

I'm not going to get into specifics from here.

Q Okay. We have learned that the King of Jordan is meeting with President Biden here at the White House next week. Can you share any details and talk about what's on the agenda?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I can confirm the King -- that King Abdullah of Jordan will participate in a private meeting with President Biden at the White House next week while he is in town. I don't have any more details for you at this time.

Certainly, we will pr- -- we will provide a readout when that -- when that occurs. But I can confirm that that meeting is indeed happening next week.

Q And then, just to close the loop. What was Mark Hamill doing here today?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I think he said. He said he was meeting with -- he was having a meeting -- did you not like having him here?

Q No, I mean, that's not -- --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I was like --

Q -- we all loved seeing him --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: It sounded --

Q -- but --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: It sounded -- it sounded very -- kind of like, "Why? Why here?"

Q Well --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, he said it himself. I -- we -- we wanted to make sure that he provided -- which is one of the reasons he spoke to why he was here himself. He wanted to meet with the President. They had a meeting. And --

Q But about what?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, he -- I mean, you guys asked him questions.

They had a meeting about what the President has been able to do on behalf of the American people. Mark Hamill was in town. They met. I think it was -- it was important.

As someone -- you all -- you all know Mark Hamill. He is someone who has -- who is very much invested in our country, very much invested in -- in the direction of this country. And so, they had a -- you know, they had a meeting.

It was -- he ex- -- he went into that meeting -- and I thought -- we thought it would be fun for him to come out here and lighten up -- lighten up the room a little bit on a Friday. We also believe that you guys are s- -- there's some "Star Wars" fans in here.

But, you know, the President -- I mean, the President meets with a lot of people. There's a lot of people that come through the White House that the President has an opportunity to sit down and talk with. You just happened to -- you just happened to see Mark Hamill today because we thought it would be a nice gesture to have him come out and say hello.

But I wouldn't put to m- -- I really wouldn't put too much into it. He meets --

Q Okay.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- with a lot of people here.

Q Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

All right. Geez. Weijia is not happy about Mark Hamill being here. That's okay. I'm not going to tell him. He's not watching, probably. I won't tell him.

Q I don't -- I haven't seen --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Do you not --

Q -- the movies.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Do you not like "Star Wars"?

Q I will -- I --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You have not seen "Star Wars"?

Q I will now. I will now.

Q Booo --

Q I know.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: That's why that happened, folks. That's why I got the question.

Q I'm going to watch. I'm going to watch.

Q She's not alone.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, there's more.

Q What?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Wow. All right. I'm going to let that go. Let's continue.

Q Weijia, we have to talk after this. I have stories.

Q For the record, I .

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, thank you, Gabe. All right. Thank you, Gabe. We thought -- it's Friday, y'all. It's Friday. A little bit of -- you know, a little bit of fun -- "Star Wars" fun.

Go ahead, Gabe.

Q Thanks, Karine. I --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Let's transition to what you -- what you actually want to talk about.

Q Yes, let's transition.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q I want to pick up on what Selina had asked.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q Look, I know you said that you don't want to get into specifics, but just want to make sure we --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well --

Q -- we understand you and we're clear. You did say that Israel has not provided a comprehensive plan to invade Rafah. However, our reporting and reporting of some others --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- has suggested that they have briefed the White House on a plan. So, what you're saying -- by not saying "comprehensive" --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- you're saying that you have a plan, but you just don't think it's good enough.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: What I can say is that they have certainly -- there's been conversations that have happened over the last two virtual meetings. And what I can say is we have been clear in our position. We continue to be clear on our position. We've expressed our concerns with a major ground invasion in Rafah -- we've been very clear about that -- which would have significant risk against civilian casualties and outlined -- and outlined an alternative course of action. We have done that for them: outlined an alternative course of action for Israel to dismantle Hamas.

So, you can imagine, you know, that there's been some back-and-forth on that. And so, you know, we believe Israel will take our concerns on board, they will take our accounts into consideration as they plan their -- their next operations. And so, we're continuing to have these conversations. We'll continue to have those conversations.

Q Could this be a tactic on the part of Israel to try and pressure Hamas to take the deal?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: That is -- that's literally something for Israel to speak to. I cannot -- I cannot speak to their tactics. I cannot speak to their plan.

I will say and reiterate that -- that we are working very hard to get a hostage deal, obviously. And actually, what I will say is that Hamas has that deal. That is on the table. They need to take that deal.

And -- and you've seen us -- you've seen us be very clear about that. You've heard from the Secretary Blinken this week.

And so, we need that hostage deal so that we can -- that could lead us to a ceasefire that can get those hostages home, including American hostages. And so, we think it's important to get that done.

But there is a -- there is a hostage deal. It's on the table. Hamas needs to take it.

Q On a separate topic -- well, sort of a similar topic.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q But one of the recipients today of the Presidential Medal of Freedom will be Congressman Jim Clyburn. He had some comments earlier today where he agreed with Senator Bernie Sanders's assertion that the Israel-Hamas war is President -- could be President Biden's Vietnam. What's your response to that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, a couple of things. I want to be super careful because that's kind of leading into a campaign space, so I want to be really mindful on how -- what I say. And a couple of things that, you know, I did think through on those -- on this -- knowing we'd probably get this potential question.

Look, Joe Biden ended the longest war in American history and just succeeded in convincing both parties in Congress to make crucial investments in our national security in Ukraine to help ensure we won't be drawn into conflict in Europe. And that is the President's leadership that you have seen. Right? And that is one of the reasons he's been able to bring NATO together in a way that we have not seen before.

And -- and obviously, one of the reasons we had to do that is because we had to make sure that Putin didn't succeed. He didn't succeed. And -- and so, the President has been taking action, obviously, on that for the past more than two years.

You heard him say yesterday -- he reiterated values that being -- that being us, together, we have the right to dissent, right? But it must be peaceful. It must be peaceful. And antisemitimi- -- and antisemitism is horrid. It is -- it is -- it is hate speech, and we should treat it as hate speech.

And there is overwhelming support for his agenda, whether it's having, you know, rich special interests pay their fair share -- if you think about what the President has been fighting for, especially dealing with Congress, making sure that the billionaires and corporations pay their fair share and making sure that we're building an economy that helps everyone, that doesn't leave anyone behind.

And so, we've -- you've heard him talk about that -- beating Big Pharma, lowering healthcare costs, making sure that we move forward with his student debt relief.

And so, those are things that the President -- and those agendas are incredibly popular. And so, he's going to continue to do that work.

And obviously, Congressman Clyburn is someone that he truly respects -- we all respect. And -- and so, just, you know, want to -- want to be mindful because it's connected to -- connected to a campaign-related question.

But this is a president who has taken action to make sure that he does everything, you know, on behalf of -- that's right, whether it's national security or moving forward with domestic policies that the American people want us to move forward on.

Q So, the White House disagrees with that characterization.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, I think I just laid out what we believe we have been able to accomplish here in the more than three years in this administration. I think they have their opinions, and they're allowed to their opinions. And -- and we respect -- we respect what -- their opinions on this.

Go ahead.

Q Does the U.S. believe that a Rafah operation is imminent?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: That's something for Israel to speak to. What I can say is we've made our concerns very clear, publicly and privately. We've had two -- two virtual conversations that have been led by the National Security Advisor, as you know, Jake Sullivan. He was here last week talk- -- speaking to this.

We are going to continue to be very, very clear on where we stand about -- on this and our concerns for innocent civilian lives -- more than 1 million innocent civilian lives that are now in Rafah that are seeking ref- -- refuge there.

I can't speak to a timeline. That is certainly for Israel to speak to. What we will say is we've made our concerns very, very clear.

Q The deadline for the administration to report to Congress on whether Israel is abiding by international law -- that is next Wednesday. Do you know if the President himself has made a personal decision on that or has a personal view on that at this point?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Nothing to read out at this time.

Q And just on another topic. The speech that he's giving on Tuesday for the Holocaust Memorial Museum -- can you give us a sense of how he is preparing for that, how the team is preparing for that?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, let me just say a couple of things here. And you've heard us say many times before and we'll continue to underscore how fighting antisemitism is at the cor- -- at the core -- at the core of who this President is.

He has -- he was moved to run by the grotesque display of antisemitism in Charlottesville, as you all know and covered -- some of you covered back in 2017.

And like I mentioned on Monday, he will deliver the keynote address at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum annual Days of Remembrance Cerem- -- Ceremony.

During the Days of Remembrance, we remember the -- 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 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 counter anti- -- antisemitism to make real the promise of never, ever, ever again.

This is -- when it comes to speeches, important, big moments like this, the President obviously takes this very seriously. He knows that this is going to be an important moment for the country to hear from him. And I don't have anything beyond what I just shared.

Q The -- the focus of this speech will obviously be, as you said, the Holocaust survivors, antisemitism. Given just everything that's going on, does the President believe that it would be appropriate to also address in the speech the pro-Palestinian protesters and their sentiment? Or does he believe that that should be --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I'm going to be --

Q -- for a different setting?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: -- super mindful. I'm not going to -- I -- as I say many times, I'm not going to get ahead of the President. This speech is, you know, in -- in process. And so, I'm going to let the President think through what exactly that he wants to share with the American people.

Obviously, as I just stated at the beginning of -- of my answer to you, you know, fighting antisemitism is at the core of this President. And we have seen a rise in antisemitism. And we want to make sure that we make it very clear that it is hate speech. It is abhorrent. And so, certainly, you'll hear from the President very, very clearly on Tuesday. And certainly, he'll share more.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. The White House brought on a new border person, Blas Nuñez-Neto. Wh- -- what is it -- what is that -- is there any -- does that give any indications of urgency, speed of the executive order that the President has been considering?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, we -- we are -- we look forward to -- to the DHS Assistant Secretary joining the White House and continuing his work in implementing the administration's vision across the border security and immigration spaces.

Don't have anything new to read out on any new announcements. But look, this is an administration that is committed to fixing the broken immigration system. On the first day -- on his first day of the -- of this administration, the first piece of legislation that he put forward was one to -- a comprehensive piece of legislation to deal with a broken system, to deal with what we're seeing with -- at the border, the challenges.

And then, we moved forward -- when that legislation was not moving forward in Congress, we spoke to -- had a two-month negotiation process with senators to come up with a bipartisan proposal.

And so, that was rejected, as you all know, by Republicans because of the former President stating that this would hurt him and help Joe Biden. And that is unfortunate.

We know that this is an issue -- when we talk about the immigration system -- that majority of Americans care about. And so --

Q But what are the steps --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: But --

Q -- that he could take?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, we believe that the bipartisan border security agreement that came out of the Senate that was rejected -- right? -- by Republicans because of the former President is the best way to move forward in a comprehensive way. That's what we want to see.

And I've sa- -- I've stated this many times before. As it relates to any other actions, we're always going to look at other opportunities, other actions. We always will. Don't have anything to -- to speak to -- to -- to announce at this moment.

We actually want to see that bipartisan immigration agreement move forward. That's what we want to see. That is going to be the most comprehensive way to deal with a broken immigration system.

You've heard me say this: If it is put into law -- signed into law by this President, it would be the toughest and the fairest piece of legisla- -- or law that we have seen in some time.

This system has been broken -- the immigration system has been broken for decades -- for decades. And it's time that we act, and Republicans have an opportunity to do that. They have an opportunity to do that.

Go ahead, April.

Q Karine, there are some very loud voices that are out there asking for President Joe Biden to issue a pardon to Marilyn Mosby, the former Baltimore City state's attorney, who is waiting for sentencing -- could face 40 years for taking her own money out of a retirement account to buy a house.

And this group -- to include Bakari Sellers and Angela Rye -- have pulled together a lot of civil rights leaders. What is the President's thought about all of this, especially as she was one of those who really was groundbreaking in efforts of policing and accountability?

And Bakari Sellers says that it looks like political persecution as well as retribution for what she did many years ago in the Freddie Gray case that still has yet to have accountability for his death.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I want to be really mindful here because that is obviously a Department of Justice process. And I don't want to be certainly speaking to any individual pardon request. That is not something that I -- I can do. DOJ has their process. Department of Joi- -- Justice, as I just mentioned, employs a process that is thorough, that is deliberative -- a process to review -- when it comes to a process to review executive clemency petitions. And then individuals, obviously, submit their -- their applications there. There's an application process.

I want to be super mindful. I don't want to speak to, you know, an individual case here. And so, I'm going to be really mindful. This is a Department of Justice kind of jurisdiction. And so, I'm just going to leave it there.

Q But the President could indeed say, "Yes, I would like to see this happen," and add his voice to this petition.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, this is -- Department of Justice, they go through a process. It's very thorough.

Q Right.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: It's very deliberative.

I don't want to speak your -- I don't want to speak to any individual process. I've got to be super mindful here and need to be really careful as DOJ runs -- Department of Justice runs this process.

And so, there's a application process for individuals. Certainly, there's a route for them to go.

I want to be really, really mindful. This is not something that I -- that we do from here -- from this podium, as you can understand.

Q Yeah, I --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, I -- go ahead, April. Go ahead.

Q But I mean -- I get what you're saying.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, yeah.

Q That there's an application process. But can the President support -- or can the Vice President and the President support the fact, yes, there should be a pardon, even if there is an application process, whether it happens or not?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: As you know, when the President and the Vice President weighs in, that is a -- that is, you know --

Q It tips the scale.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, you just -- yeah, you just laid that out.

So, I want to be really careful, because there is a process that the Department of Justice has to go through. It is thorough and it is deliberative. And so, we have to let that process go through. And I don't want to -- it is -- I don't want to speak on that process. And I just want to be really, really mindful here.

Q Well, is the President aware of what's happening in this case? Because she was one of the -- she was one of the -- the forefront persons --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No -- yeah, I know. I --

Q -- calling for accountability. It didn't happen in Baltimore, but there was a ripple effect with Ahmaud Arbery and --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- and -- and Derek Chauvin and those with George Floyd.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I cert- -- no --

Q Is he familiar with this?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I certainly know who you're speaking of. I have not had an opportunity to speak to the President about this. So, I can't -- I can't say if -- I can't say the President's thoughts on this because I have not spoken to him about it.

But obviously, it is very well known of what she has done, her -- you know, but I don't want to -- I just want to be super mindful. This is a Department of Justice process.

As you know, we're really, really careful from here, from this podium. We respect that process here.

Q Thank you.

Q Thanks, Karine. Russia's state-controlled energy company posted its first net loss since 1999 yesterday. Does the White House see that as efforts to isolate Russia working?

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

Q Yeah, Russia's state-controlled energy company posted its first net loss yesterday since 1999.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I want to be --

Q And --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, I want to be mindful. I want to talk to our team about this. I have not -- I don't have any information for you -- to dive into at this time.

Let me take that and bring it back to the team.

Q Can I ask another energy question, then --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- to you? Does the White House think the FTC made the right decision in approving Exxon's acquisition of Pioneer, even though the company has been accused of colluding with OPEC?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah, I'm not going to comment on that either at this time.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. The International Court -- Criminal Court prosecutor issued a statement today warning against the, quote, "threats" and attempts to intimidate the court over his work. That comes after reports that both Israel and -- and some people -- there are some members of Congress that warned of retaliation against the ICC if it charges Israeli officials. I just wanted to get your reaction to that and, you know --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- as to whether the -- you know, the White House would back retaliation against the ICC for -- for charges against Israeli officials.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, we obviously oppose any threats or intimidation to public officials that -- including ICC officials. So, obviously, we're going to be always mindful and be very clear about opposing any type of a threats or attempts to intimidate. That is something that you'll hear from us pretty consistently.

But we've been clear. I was asked about this -- this particular investigation by ICC a couple of days ago. We do not support it. We do not support this investigative probe. We do not believe it's within their jurisdiction. We've been very clear about that. And that obviously still remains.

I'm going to be really -- you're asking me about what could be next and if we would -- if we would weigh in if they were to move forward. I'm not going to get into hypotheticals from here. But we've been very clear. We oppose this -- this investigation, and we do not believe it's within their jurisdiction.

Go ahead.

Q Yes, thanks, Karine. The President was very clear in condemning violence at the protests. But does he believe that any of the issues that are being raised by the protesters across campuses is legitimate?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: What's the specif- -- can you tell me the specific issues that you're hearing?

Q Like, for instance, solidarity with the victims, the ceasefire, the request for more aid, "Free Palestine" chants -- does he believes that any of the things that these protesters are manifesting for is legitimate?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, let -- can -- can I just speak to the things that I understand you to lay out. As it relates to ceasefire, the President is pushing for a hostage deal, which would lead to a ceasefire. The -- and if you have a ceasefire -- this hostage deal -- it would create an environment to get more humanitarian aid into Gaza.

And you saw Secretary Blinken in the region. Just the other day, he did a press conference in Israel and he talked about the increased effort that we have ta- -- undertaken to get more humanitarian -- to get more trucks into Gaza.

And so, we have seen an uptick. And so, we want to continue to see that. But we have to see this hostage deal. So, get to a ceasefire, get more humanitarian aid.

We understand the dire situation that the Palestinian Americans are -- pardon me, the Palestinian citizens -- pardon me -- are -- are dealing with right now. And so, we want to make sure that we get humanitarian aid in.

Q But what about the -- the requests from these protestors from universities to divest --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We do not --

Q -- in Israel --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: That is -- that is --

Q -- or -- or to stop sending weapons to Israel?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I was asked this question, and we do not support that.

Go ahead, Adam.

Q Thanks. On the avian flu. We've talked with several hospital officials who have told us that the health system is essentially unprepared for another major health crisis if bird flu were to start spreading widely among people. In particular, hospitals don't have the manpower. There are still concerns about the ability to supply us quickly, and communication data-sharing, they say, hasn't improved markedly since even before COVID.

So, I'm curious what the White House's response is to those concerns and whether there are any preparations ongoing to ensure we can respond to that kind of a crisis.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I want to -- you know, we are monitoring this very closely and taking this very seriously. It is a top priority for this administration to make sure that communities are healthy, safe, and certainly informed. So, we're monitoring this closely.

The President has directed his administration to do the following: protect public health, protect our nation's food supply, and monitor all trends to prevent the spread of avian flu.

CDC report -- they have reported that the risk for general public is low, and federal agencies are cornat- -- coordinating with local authorities.

And so, monitoring closely. We want to make sure that communities feel safe, they feel protected and have the information that they need. And you heard from the CDC directly on this.

Q Is their belief that the hospital or the health system as it stands is prepared enough to withstand another major health crisis?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, that's not something for me to speak to from here. What we're doing is taking this very seriously. We're monitoring the situation. CDC has spoken to this and said the risk to the general public is low. I think that's important to note.

And the President is on top of this, making sure that his agencies are doing everything that they need to do to make sure that communities feel -- are protected, that our communities are informed, and certainly are healthy.

Okay. Go ahead, Karen.

Q Thanks, Karine. On abortion. Does the administration have any reaction to this report that a Texas man has filed a petition to state district court in Texas to try and investigate possible illegal activity that was committed, he's saying, by his ex-partner, because she went to Colorado to get an abortion?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, wait. What's -- say that one more time.

Q A man has -- is looking to have an investigation into possible illegal activity. His ex-partner traveled out of state from Texas to Colorado to seek an abortion -- get an abortion.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, that sounds like that's -- there's a legal case. Going to be careful not to sort of respond from here.

What I will say more broadly -- and what we have continued to say -- that the attacks on reproductive healthcare that we have seen and makes it -- makes it incredibly difficult for women to make decisions on their own body, for their own health is -- is devastating. It is devastating what we're seeing.

And sadly, because of what happened -- the overturning of Roe because of the Dobbs decision that happened almost two years ago -- we have seen just chaos -- chaos across the board. And we see tens of millions of women who are now at risk of not being able to make that decision.

I can't speak to individual cases. What I can se- -- speak to is the chaos that we have seen. What I can speak to is what the President and this administration -- the Biden-Harris administration are committed to protecting a woman's right to choose; a woman's right to make a decision on her own body, on her own healthcare.

And it's not just abortion, as you know. It's IVF that's under attack, contraception that's under attack.

And so, we're going to be very loud -- continue to be loud and clear about that -- and ask Congress to make sure that Roe becomes the law of the land, and they need to take action.

Don't want to get into legal -- legal cases out there. I cannot do that from here. But as it -- as it relates to reproductive healthcare, we've been very clear, and we continue to do that from here.

Q Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, go ahead. Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. So, the President says that he wants to let the tax cuts -- the Trump tax cuts expire. If that law expires, it does raise taxes on almost every American. So, does he still support that expiring without anything else in place?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, the -- as you said, the President is going to allow -- is going to -- is -- is going to let the Trump tax cut expire. And he was very clear. But he will not raise taxes on anyone making less than $400,000 a year. That is -- that is part of the budget that you saw come out. And it's going to expire for the wealthy. So, been very clear about that.

You know, look, this is a president that's going to make sure that we protect and not raise taxes for -- for people making $400,000 and less a year.

And -- and Republicans want to do the opposite. They want to give tax breaks to corporations and billionaires. They've said that. They want to cut Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Who does that hurt? That hurts everyday Americans.

And so, the President has been really clear about that. He wants to expand Affordable Care Act, as you see him doing that, for Americans -- making sure that they have good healthcare. And so, that's what the President is -- is going to focus on.

Q But still, the President can't pick and choose which part of the law sunsets. The entire law will sunset. And the -- the Tax Foundation says that someone who's married, two kids, making $85,000 would pay $1,700 more in taxes. That's somebody under $400,000 who would --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: The President has been very clear. He's going to protect working- -- working- and middle-class Americans making less than $400,000 a year. He's been very clear on th- -- about that.

Republicans want to do the opposite. They literally want to do the opposite. They want to give a tax break to billionaires and corporations. That's what they've said. They want to cut Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security. That's what they want to do.

And so, the President is going to do everything that he can, as he's building this economy from the middle out and the bottom up, to protect everyday Americans. That's what he wants to do: make sure that the middle class is strong. That's what he's going to do.

Republicans in Congress are saying the opposite. Literally, they're saying the opposite.

So, that's been the President's plan from day one, and he's going to continue that plan.

Go ahead, go ahead.

Q Thank you. A few things.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: A few things? No, just one.

Q Don't make me pick.

So, in the President's remarks yesterday, he was talking about Islamophobia on campuses.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q Lately, we've been seeing a lot of vile, antisemitic --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- rhetoric on campuses. Does he think Islamophobia is just as big of a problem on campus as antisemitism?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: The President is always going to call out all forms of hate -- always. And he had an opportunity to speak to the country. And we have seen what's been going on on these campuses.

Americans have the right to peacefully protest within -- within the law, as we have said. It is our -- it's part of who we are as a country, as -- when we talk about our freedoms, our democracy -- to disagree and agree with each other, even about this war. It is our right to do so. It is right for folks to do so.

You've got to do it peacefully. You've got to do it within the law.

And we have seen the antisemitism, and we have called that out over and over and over again. And we've seen a spike in antisemitism.

The President has been very forceful about that. He talked about his plan to counter antisemitism. He had an opportunity, as he's talking to the country -- the world, really -- on what has been happening across the country on college campuses -- to call out antisemitism, to say that Americans have the right to peacefully protest.

And we also have to call out all forms of hate. I think -- I believe -- and I hope you would agree, Peter -- that's an important thing for this President to do if he has the opportunity to do that. When the President speaks, people listen.

Q Something else that had somehow slipped my mind --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: How is that --

Q -- over the last couple weeks.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, goodness.

Q You are an alumna of Columbia University.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Wow, that's a shocker.

Q Well, you -- in all the talking about it --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- you haven't brought it up. You told Columbia students a few years back --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q -- "Don't lose the idealism that you have." So, what do you tell them now?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, you did -- you did some research. Oh, my gosh.

Q All I do is research and just hope that you call on me.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You did -- . You did some --

Q But now, I -- what do you tell the --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, look --

Q -- the students --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look --

Q -- who have followed in your footsteps?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, I mean -- look, going to be -- oh, and that's actually going to be a great segue to -- to the student re- -- student journalist that we have in the room, Danie, after I answer this question.

Q I do have one more after that. Sorry, Danie.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: It's okay.

So, look, I'm not speaking on behalf of me. I'm -- I'm not. I speak on behalf of this President. That's my job. And I believe in this President. I believe in the work that we do. It is an honor and a privilege to stand at this lectern every day to speak to you and all your colleagues and to take your questions. It is not about me.

And, really, your question and what you're asking me and -- and what I have said to students is pretty much what the President has said: All Americans have the right to peacefully protest within the law. They have to -- we have the right.

That's what makes this country so great, right? That's what makes what -- when we're talking about our freedoms, our democracy, that's what's so important. The -- to have the opportunity to agree and disagree and do it in a peaceful way -- in a peaceful way, that's important.

And the President also called out -- if you're -- if you are breaking and entering and you're taking over buildings, that is not peacefully protesting. And the President was very clear about calling that out as well and also antisemitism and calling it what it is. It is hate speech.

Q My last one. At UNC-Chapel Hill this week, a group of fraternity brothers saved an American flag from an angry mob of protesters. There is now a GoFundMe where people can donate to throw them a rager. It has raised more than half a million dollars. Would President Biden donate?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You never disappoint, my friend.

Q He donates to a lot of --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You never disappoint.

Q -- different causes. We saw it in his tax returns.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'll say this, because this -- there is a -- there is actually a real -- a real point in your question that I will address, which is -- and -- and I -- you know, just to reiterate what we've said over and over again: Americans have -- and I just said this moments ago, so I'll just reiterate this -- all Americans have the -- the right to peacefully protest.

It is not right to forceful- -- forcefully take down the American flag to replace it with another flag. It is not right. And so -- and so, I just wanted to -- to make that clear as well. All right, Peter?

Q So, a donation -- what about, like, a call to thank them for saving the flag?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, protecting the American flag is admirable. I'll leave it there, Peter.

Danie, we've -- it's -- it's your opportunity to shine. Everybody welcome Danie.

Q Welcome.

Q Welcome, Danie.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Danie goes to Uniondale High School, and she is a journalist at Uniondale High School. She wants to be where you all are at some point in her -- in her career.

But you have a question?

Q Thank you, Karine. Well, my question is: How can I, as editor of my school paper, be able to encourage engagement globally?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Encourage engagement? So, I think, as an editor, it is certainly important to always make sure that, you know, you listen to the community but also get that information, work on getting the facts, so that your community gets the facts, obviously.

And I believe young people want to know what's going on in their community. I believe that young people are incredibly curious right now. And laying that out for them and saying, "Hey, this is what is going on, this is how you can learn more, or this is what you should know" is so important.

And you should lead, you know, not by fear but by getting to the bottom of a story, getting to the bottom of how you're going to put those facts out.

And I think it's important, as you go through your career -- your journalistic career -- you have some really brilliant journalists here who certainly could give you advice, if -- I'm sure they'd love to talk to you after this briefing. I'm sure they have time to do that because they're all looking at me and smiling.

And, you know, they could actually give you, I think, some really sound advice, some helpful advice on how to move through your career.

But young people are curious. They're very curious right now. They want to know more. And this is a great opportunity for you, as an editor at your high school, to do just that and to have those important conversation, whether they agree or disagree, and lay out the facts for them and so they can make decisions for themselves.

Thank you for the question.

All right. I'll take one more, guys.

Q Karine --

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'll take one more.

Oh, my gosh. Go ahead. Go ahead.

Q Thanks, Karine. Just to follow up on the press freedom executive actions that you mentioned. Is there anything we can expect aimed at Russia in response to Evan?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, as you know, we're going to be announcing some executive action shortly. Don't want to -- certainly don't want to get ahead of that. So, once we -- in the next couple of weeks, we'll have more -- we'll m- -- we'll have more to share. Don't have anything at this time. But we're working through that.

And we think it's really important. We think it's really important to continue to take action. A free and independent media is critical, as I just took a question from a high school -- a future general- -- journalist -- who's a journalist now, obviously, at her high school. And it is vital to our global security.

We appreciate the work that journalists do every day. And it is some of -- some journalists, many journalists put their lives at risk, put their lives at stake.

And so -- and you hear me say this before, journalists are not the enemy and they should be protected. And freedom of the press -- what we do here every day, it is -- it is a -- an exercise of the freedom of the press. And so, we want to make sure that that continues, not just here but, obviously, globally.

All right. Thanks, everybody.

Q Thanks, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Have a great weekend.

2:46 P.M. EDT

May 3, 2024

After the prior Administration oversaw the largest one-year increase in murders ever recorded, violent crime is at a near fifty-year low. This crime reduction is not an accident. It's the result of extraordinary efforts from law enforcement and community leaders. It's also the result of historic steps by my Administration to stop the flow of illegal guns and make the largest-ever federal investment in fighting and preventing crime because of my American Rescue Plan. Despite every Republican in Congress voting against it, that plan passed, and it has enabled cities and states to invest over $15 billion in public safety and violence prevention, putting cops on the beat for accountable community policing as well as interrupting and preventing crime.

We can't stop now. My Safer America Plan calls on Congress to invest $37 billion to support law enforcement and crime prevention, including by funding 100,000 additional police officers for accountable community policing, investing $5 billion in community violence interventions, and enacting commonsense gun safety reforms such as a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines and a universal background check requirement.

Make no mistake: America is making progress against crime – saving lives, and restoring security and peace of mind. We need that progress to continue. Every family deserves to live in a safe community. I won't stop until they do.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 3, 2024

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, yesterday President Biden signed proclamations expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. Together, these actions protect nearly 120,000 acres of lands in California.

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.

Leaders from California and across the country praised the announcement. Here's what they're saying:

Tribal and Community Leaders

Anthony Roberts, Chairman, Yocha Dehe Tribe: "We thank President Biden for expanding the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument and protecting Molok Luyuk, an area steeped in thousands of years of rich history and profound meaning to the Patwin people, whose traditional territory stretches south from these hills to the shores of San Pablo Bay and east to the Sacramento River. Elements of the natural landscape on the ridge have traditional cultural significance to us. We look forward to the day when condors fly over Molok Luyuk once again." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman, San Manuel Band of Missions Indians: "The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is grateful for President Biden's action today to expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. The San Gabriel Mountains are culturally significant to the Serrano and other Indigenous peoples. It feels good to know that these mountains and lands will now be protected for future generations of our people." [Statement, o5/02/2024]

Rudy Ortega Jr., L.H.D., President, Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians: "We are thrilled that the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is expanding. We thank the Biden administration for making this longstanding vision a reality. Expanding the Monument helps protect lands of cultural importance to my people who are part of this nation's history and who have cared for these lands since time immemorial. It also further protects areas that are critical for our environment and the wildlife and plants that depend on this landscape." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Chief Anthony Morales, Gabrieleno San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians: "We add our voices in celebration of expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. The San Gabriel Mountains are historically significant to our tribe, our people, and our culture. Protecting more of this important region helps protect our traditional plants and cultural resources. We join Senator Padilla and Representative Chu in thanking President Biden for using the Antiquities Act to expand the monument." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

David Diaz, Executive Director, Active San Gabriel Valley: "For San Gabriel Valley residents, the San Gabriel Mountains are the backdrop to our lives. They are a place of unreal beauty, connection, and rejuvenation, and offer multiple benefits to our community. We thank Representative Chu and Senator Padilla for their leadership to complete the vision of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, and we thank President Biden for taking action. We are looking forward to leading adventures into the western Angeles National Forest so they can feel the shade of a coast live oak, spend quality time with their family and enjoy views from our beautiful mountains." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Belén Bernal, Executive Director, Nature for All: "Our local community is overjoyed to see this next step in a 20-year effort to permanently protect the San Gabriel Mountains. The area included in the expanded San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is the closest section of the National Forest to the San Fernando Valley; this action helps ensure environmental justice for communities who lack access to green and open spaces throughout Los Angeles County. Thank you, President Biden, for taking this action to benefit the health and well-being of millions of Angelenos and to Vice President Harris for championing the protection of these special public lands!" [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Mary Creasman, Chief Executive Officer, California Environmental Voters: "The expansion of our national monuments and protection of our public lands are key nature-based solutions to the climate and biodiversity crises. These additions to the San Gabriel Mountains and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monuments include must-protect areas that provide communities with critical drinking water, create access to greenspaces for underserved communities, hold historical and cultural significance to California Tribes and Indigenous community leaders, and serve as wildlife corridors and habitats for imperiled animals and native plants. We thank President Biden for his leadership and urge him to look to additional places in California for national monument designation, so we can make more progress towards our 30×30 goals." [Statement

, 05/02/2024]

Jun Bando, Executive Director, California Native Plant Society: "We are incredibly grateful to President Biden and our steadfast congressional champions who have honored the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation's request to expand Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument to include Molok Luyuk. The protection of Molok Luyuk represents the promise of a new era in conservation, with its grounding in inclusive leadership, the embrace of shareable Indigenous knowledges, and the coming together of Tribes, communities, and organizations to protect California's remarkable biodiversity and our connections to it." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Francisco J. Moreno-Castillo, Executive Director, COFEM-Consejo de Federaciones Mexicanas: "Expanding the San Gabriel Mountains Monument is not just about preserving our natural heritage; it's about ensuring that future generations have the same opportunities to connect with nature, to find solace in its beauty, and to learn from its lessons. We owe a debt of gratitude to President Biden for his vision and commitment to conservation. His decision to protect and expand this monument is a testament to his understanding of the importance of safeguarding our environment and ensuring equitable access to outdoor spaces for all. Thank you, President Biden, for your leadership and foresight in preserving the San Gabriel Mountains for generations to come." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Pamela Flick, California Program Director, Defenders of Wildlife: "We're delighted that President Biden is expanding Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument with the addition of Molok Luyuk. It is critical that wildlife never lose access to this important corridor connecting the Mendocino National Forest to the Cache Creek Wilderness Area, and today's action ensures they won't. As someone who has worked to protect this incredibly diverse and unique landscape for the better part of two decades, this is incredibly exciting and personally rewarding news. My heartfelt thanks to President Biden for taking this important step forward in land conservation." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Katie Hawkins, California Program Director, Outdoor Alliance: "Adding Molok Luyuk to Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument will protect a recreation gem beloved by many in Northern California. This landscape has countless local advocates--local business leaders, scientists, conservationists, outdoor enthusiasts, and tribal community members have advocated for its designation and are thrilled to have it protected for future generations. We are thankful for the work of Senator Padilla, Senator Butler, Representative Garamendi and Representative Thompson, Governor Newsom, and are especially grateful to the Biden administration for their commitment to conservation and preservation." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Katie Goodwin, California Regional Director, Access Fund: "Access Fund is thrilled to see the designation and expansion of Moluk Luyuk and San Gabriel National Monument. These designations secure both sustainable recreation access and long-term conservation, a winning combination for health and wellness, our economy, and our environment. The Access Fund will continue to make sure that this new monument is protected for future generations and that all of us can sustainably access and enjoy these public lands." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Dennis Arguelles, Southern California Director, National Parks Conservation Association: "The expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument ensures the protection of some of the last wild spaces in the greater Los Angeles area. The expanded monument means better coordination across the region to preserve wildlife corridors, restore habitat, and address the threats of drought, wildfires, and climate change. We applaud President Biden for recognizing the value and fragility of these lands and the importance of their protection for both people and wildlife." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Walter "Redgie" Collins, Legal and Policy Director, California Trout: "The expansion of the San Gabriel National Monument is cause for celebration. Beyond providing expanded outdoor access and protecting precious water resources and culturally significant sites, the expansion will also protect higher reaches of the greater San Gabriel River watershed, which we know to hold endangered Southern steelhead genetics. At CalTrout, we dream of a future where our local communities are able to see Southern steelhead spawn in great numbers in Southern California rivers and streams once again - we thank the Biden Administration for supporting this future." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Daniel LoPilato, Colusa County Arts Council Member and Upstate California Creative Corps Grantee: "Expanding the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument is a win-win for Colusa County. Doing so will help improve access to public lands and offer more recreation and outdoor education opportunities for county residents, provide a mandate to safeguard the habitats of endangered plants and animals, and streamline planning for land managers so we can protect and honor this land for generations to come. We're lucky to have this spectacular landscape right in our backyard. Preserving it is the right thing to do." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Kelly Bessem, California Stewardship Director, Winter Wildlands Alliance: "Expanding protected lands and recognizing tribal cultures within these lands is the type of management needed to both address climate change issues and protect the ability for everyone to enjoy California landscapes for years and years to come. Honoring the land and people in this way is a win for everyone." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Linda Castro, Assistant Policy Director, CalWild: "CalWild is grateful to President Biden for using his authority to expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. This momentous action protects a critical watershed for the LA region, access to nature for Angelenos, and important cultural areas. We also want to thank Representative Judy Chu for her tireless efforts over many years to expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and fulfill a vision 20 years in the making. We express our sincere gratitude to Senators Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler for their strong support for the San Gabriel Mountains." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Guillermo Rodriguez, Vice President Pacific Region, California State Director, Trust for Public Land: "The Trust for Public Land applauds the Biden Administration's proclamation expanding the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, serving as the backyard to the nation's second-largest urban center, and the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, with its rich biodiversity and deep cultural significance, are invaluable assets that contribute to the well-being of communities and flora and fauna alike. We commend this decisive action to protect and enhance these national treasures in California. With the Biden Administration's proclamation expanding both the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument and the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, California takes a significant step forward in safeguarding vital ecosystems and ensuring equitable access to outdoor spaces for millions. Trust for

Public Land also encourages the Administration to redouble its investments in these Monuments to ensure responsible stewardship and effective management. TPL stands ready to assist the Biden Administration in ensuring these Monuments live up to their fullest promise." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Eric Hanson, Chair of the California Chapter, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers: "Today we thank President Biden for answering the call of hunters, anglers, and public land owners across California by taking action to expand the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument through his authority under the Antiquities Act. We also commend the leadership of Sens. Padilla, as well as Reps. Garamendi and Thompson for their longtime support for the conservation of these public lands and waters that provide opportunities for sportsmen and women in a state that is rapidly developing." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

André Sanchez, Community Engagement & Conservation Policy Manager, CalWild: "We thank President Biden for responding to calls from the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation and other Tribes, California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot, many local elected officials including the Lake County Board of Supervisors, business owners, faith leaders, veterans, and a long list of others to protect Molok Luyuk. We are also deeply indebted to our champions in Congress Senators Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler and Representatives Mike Thompson and John Garamendi for not only proposing to protect Molok Luyuk by expanding the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, but also for including groundbreaking Tribal collaborative management language in their monument expansion bill. We are proud to have been a part of this campaign and look forward to working with the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, co-managing Tribes like the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, and others to care for Molok Luyuk and the

rest of the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument in the years to come." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Don Amador, Former Chair, CA State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission President of Quiet Warrior Racing/Consulting LLC: "As an avid OHV recreationist, I am thrilled at the expansion of Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument to include Molok Luyuk. The permanent protection of Molok Luyuk will improve the management of these lands and increase public access to recreation opportunities. This is a win-win for our community. I am grateful for President Biden using the Antiquities Act to expand the monument and protect these lands for future generations to enjoy." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Laura Deehan, State Director, Environment California Research & Policy Center: "Expanding these two monuments is a great first step by President Biden to protect California's public lands; and a meaningful action toward the state, federal, and global campaign to protect 30% of our land and waters by 2030. By permanently protecting these beautiful mountains and forests, we can ensure that Californians have more amazing places to enjoy nature. Additionally, local wildlife will be able to thrive, and awesome native California species such as golden eagles, peregrine falcons, black bears and mountain lions will have a better chance of survival. We thank President Biden for today's actions and look forward to future actions to conserve more of California's special places." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Mike Painter, Coordinator, Californians for Western Wilderness in San Francisco: "Californians for Western Wilderness applauds Pres. Biden for his proclamation expanding Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument to include and protect Molok Luyuk . Molok Luyuk is a place of great cultural significance, as well as a geologically and botanically unique area worthy of protection. We are proud to have worked with the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation and other organizations to have its importance formally recognized." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Liz Reilly, Former Mayor, City of Duarte and Vice Chair, San Gabriel Mountains Community Collaborative: "The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, located in the greater LA area, provides millions of people with the opportunity to experience the majesty and grandeur of the mountain backdrop to our community. It is a gift to the people of the Los Angeles area. We celebrate the expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument which protects these ecologically rich landscapes for the clean air and clean water they provide for generations to come, while enhancing access to nature by the community." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Congressional Leaders

Senator Alex Padilla : "From the majestic peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains to the sacred woodlands of Berryessa Snow Mountain, our national monuments hold some of our greatest natural marvels. Protecting our public lands as National Monuments is essential to combating the climate crisis, preserving cultural and sacred history, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring access to green space for millions of low-income Americans. I am thrilled to see President Biden exercise his authority to permanently protect the entire San Gabriel Mountains and formally incorporate Molok Luyuk and its thousands of years of tribal origin stories into the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. These monuments have fostered a lifelong connection to nature for millions of Californians, and their expansions will ensure future generations can experience and enjoy them as well. This announcement will also usher in an important new era of cooperative stewardship between our federal land management agencies

and tribal governments, and marks a significant milestone following decades of local efforts to safeguard these natural landscapes." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Senator Laphonza Butler : "I applaud @POTUS for expanding two of California's iconic public lands. By protecting these National Monuments, we not only preserve their beauty for future generations and safeguard important cultural landscapes, we also reaffirm our commitment to protecting our environment." [X Post , 05/02/2024]

Representative Raúl M. Grijalva : "With today's expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monuments, President Biden is once again showing that this administration is committed to both community-led conservation and working alongside tribes to achieve meaningful protections for Indigenous lands," said Ranking Member Grijalva. "Today's action will also make the outdoors and natural spaces more accessible for communities that have only had limited options for too long. I am grateful to Congresswoman Chu and Congressman Mike Thompson for their tireless work in advocating for the protection and expansion of these two important landscapes." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Representative Grace Napolitano : "As a representative of the San Gabriel Foothills community, I am very proud of our community members and the local organizations who have worked tirelessly on preserving and expanding green space in LA County, including the establishment of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, and now the long-awaited expansion," Napolitano said. "This expansion will improve recreation opportunities for millions of families and bring much needed resources to the communities that serve as the gateway to the mountains, while respecting local rights. The San Gabriel Mountains, Foothills, and River Corridor attract millions of visitors each year, and provide some of the only outdoor options for the open space poor LA County. As California is continuously faced with droughts, forest fires, and the growing impacts of climate change, it is critical that we champion policies that protect our environment and natural resources for all future generations! I want to

thank Representative Judy Chu for her tireless work and last but certainly not least, President Biden and Vice President Harris, for continuing to support the conservation of our public lands and waters. I look forward to continuing to foster a close relationship between the communities and cities around the Monument and the National Parks Service." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Representative Judy Chu : "Just left the White House! I'm ecstatic that @POTUS is expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument! This will protect & expand access to sacred natural, cultural, & recreational treasures for the 18 million+ Angelenos living near these beautiful public lands. 10 years ago, @BarackObama responded to my call with indigenous leaders, community activists, & nature-lovers for permanent protection for the San Gabriel Mountains by declaring 346,000 acres as a National Monument. Even then, we recognized that our work wasn't finished. It's been an honor working with @SenAlexPadilla to advocate for expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. The benefits are immense: enhanced access to nature for underserved communities and safeguarding one-third of LA County's drinking water resources. Today's expansion would not be possible without the tireless efforts of @CalNatResources, @HildaSolis, @lanatureforall, @Pasadena_Mayor, @envirovoters, and many

others to preserve the San Gabriels for present and future generations. Their dedication has been invaluable. I am deeply grateful to President Biden for his decisive action in preserving this invaluable natural treasure. This is just wonderful news. As we celebrate, let's also recommit to protecting these pristine public lands for the future." [X Post , 05/02/2024]

Representative Adam Schiff : "California is home to the most unique public lands in the world. President Biden's bold action will not only preserve the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument for generations to come, but also underscore our collective commitment to the protection of our public heritage and public lands. Along with Senators Padilla and Feinstein, and Representative Chu, I've fought to protect the San Gabriel Mountains. And the expansion of these monuments will provide increased access to green spaces for millions of Californians and boost local economies through sustainable tourism. As we continue to take on the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation, steps like these are essential in safeguarding our beautiful public lands for future generations to enjoy." [Statement

, 05/02/2024]

Representative Mike Thompson : "I worked to designate the Berryessa Snow Mountain region as a national monument in 2015, and I've worked to expand it ever since. I was honored to join President Biden today to see these efforts through. Molok Luyuk is culturally significant to numerous tribes and other Native peoples and this expansion begins a new era of tribal co-stewardship of ancestral public lands. Today's expansion will ensure the region's biodiversity, geological formations, and cultural connections are preserved for generations to come." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Representative John Garamendi : "Conserving California's natural beauty has been a lifelong passion throughout my tenure in the state legislature, as Deputy Secretary of the Interior to President Clinton, and now as a member of Congress. In 2022, I introduced the 'Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument Expansion Act' with Senator Alex Padilla and Congressman Mike Thompson. I am thrilled that President Biden has issued this presidential proclamation to expand the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument and preserve the tribal wisdom, heritage, and cultural traditions that 'Molok Luyuk' or Condor Ridge has been home to for over 11,000 years. I thank President Biden and Interior Secretary Haaland for conserving this special place forever." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Representative Jared Huffman : "@POTUS just expanded the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument ? Protecting these places honors Indigenous lands, helps us reach our climate goals, and boosts outdoor access for everyone. This move also permanently protects Molok Luyuk, where the Yurok Tribe in my district have worked to bring the California condor back from the brink of extinction. What a big milestone for these beautiful and culturally significant places!" [X Post , 05/02/2024]

Rep. Jerry Nadler : "Thank you, @POTUS for once again delivering for our public lands by expanding two National Monuments. I'm proud to have cosponsored @RepJudyChu's bill to protect and expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. This monument was targeted by the Trump Administration and might not have survived a second term. Instead, thanks to the Biden Administration, it's being expanded." [X Post , 05/02/2024]

State and Local Officials

California Governor Gavin Newsom: "Berryessa Snow Mountain and San Gabriel Mountains National Monuments are getting bigger! Thanks to @POTUS, two national monuments in California are expanding by thousands of acres. We'll continue to protect our beautiful lands for all to enjoy." [X Post , 05/02/2024]

Secretary Wade Crowfoot, California Natural Resources: "I'm thrilled and deeply thankful. President Biden's action protects two very special places in California for future generations. It demonstrates this President's remarkable conservation leadership, which has driven historic amounts of public land protection and investments over the last four years. These monument expansions, combined with the establishment of new proposed monuments in California currently under consideration, are win-win actions that benefit California's people and nature alike. They will help us conserve 30 percent of California's lands by 2030, protect sacred cultural sites, and enshrine access to our public lands." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Secretary Yana Garcia, California Environmental Protection: "I am thrilled to support the expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument in partnership with the Biden administration and NGOs. The San Gabriel River is a hub of recreational, economic, and cultural activity. This new infusion of resources, including funding from the State Water Board, will help protect water quality and ensure public access to one of California's most vibrant ecosystems." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

California State Senator Nancy Skinner : "Biden just expanded a spectacular Northern California national monument. 'The Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument between Napa and Mendocino counties will add a picture-perfect ridgeline rich with wildflowers and tribal significance.'" [X Post , 05/02/2024]

California State Senator Bill Dodd : "The Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument is one of the most scenic and diverse landscapes in all of Northern California. Now, it makes sense to include this additional piece, which was home to native tribes for thousands of years. We can recognize the land's cultural significance while protecting it for generations to come." [X Post , 05/02/2024]

California Assemblymember Mike Fong : "The expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is a historic moment for our #SGV community! Thank you to @POTUS, @RepJudyChu, @SenAlexPadilla, and our local advocates for championing our environment!" [X Post , 05/02/2024]

Mayor Thomas Wong, City of Monterey Park: "The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is one of California's great treasures, and I am pleased to celebrate its expansion. I thank President Biden for taking action to include the upper Los Angeles River watershed in the Angeles National Forest. This is an important source of our region's drinking water and open space. I'm also grateful to Senator Padilla, Senator Butler, and Representative Chu for their work championing the expansion." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Mayor Victor Gordo, Pasadena: "Thank you President Biden for hearing and responding to our community's call for the protection of the San Gabriel Mountains. These beloved lands provide critical open space and access to nature for millions of local residents." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, Los Angeles County District 1: "I'm delighted about the announcement of the expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument – an initiative I helped kickstart during my time in Congress when I introduced H.R. 519, known as the San Gabriel River Watershed Study Act. The San Gabriel Mountains are critical open spaces for many underserved communities in Los Angeles County that lack parks and suffer from severe health issues. I thank President Joe Biden for granting such protection to the western Angeles National Forest as it will ensure our future generations have access to critical open spaces." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Lake County Supervisor E.J. Crandell, Member of the Robinson Rancheria Tribe: "Molok Luyuk is a special and sacred place for area Tribes and for many residents who enjoy recreation activities like hiking and mountain biking. The natural beauty of our home also drives tourism, which is key to the economic vitality of the region. I am grateful that the President protected these beautiful lands. It is a gift to future generations." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Bruno Sabatier, Lake County Board of Supervisors: "Molok Luyuk contains both a natural and cultural richness in Lake County that deserves to be preserved for future generations to learn about and experience. This is a proud moment when we have successfully protected and preserved such a gem for Lake County, California, and beyond." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Denise Conrado, Colusa City Councilmember: "Colusa has benefitted from the vibrant recreation destination that Berryessa National Monument has provided for our local community. Adding Molok Luyuk to the monument area will ensure we also honor the heritage of the Patwin People who called these lands home long before we arrived. This designation will ensure that the Tribes have a leadership role in the cultural and restorative management practices to protect the unique history and biodiversity of the area. Colusa will only benefit further from creating equity and balance by expanding this monument." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Tom Stallard, Woodland City Councilmember: "It is entirely appropriate that we show deference and courtesy to Native People by expanding Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument to include additional lands sacred to them and referring to it in a way that honors their people by using their native language. Thank you to President Biden for taking action to protect Molok Luyuk." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Environmental Leaders

Maite Arce, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hispanic Access Foundation: "Los Angeles is one of the top cities in the country with the highest concentration of Latinos. The San Gabriel Mountains make up 70% of Los Angeles County's open space and are the backyard for many Latino and culturally diverse communities in the area that have limited access to green spaces in their neighborhoods. The designation expansion ensures permanent protection of the San Gabriels, which are critical for the health and wellbeing of millions of people and future generations." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Jamie Williams, President, The Wilderness Society: "We thank President Biden for expanding the San Gabriel Mountains and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monuments, a representation of our vision for a future where people and nature flourish together. This dual expansion gets us closer to realizing that vision by advancing 30 x30 conservation goals, promoting biodiversity, mitigating climate impacts, and honoring decades of community-led efforts that aim to serve people and nature in unity." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Gene Karpinski, President, League of Conservation Voters: "The Biden-Harris administration has done more for conservation than any other first-term president in history. They have protected a historic 41 million acres and counting, and are continuing to deliver on community-led conservation with this latest expansion of San Gabriel Mountains and Berryessa Snow Mountains National Monuments. With these expansions, the administration is increasing equitable access to the outdoors in one of the country's most populated areas while protecting clean water sources, healthy ecosystems, and vital cultural resources in Southern California. Expanding Berryessa Snow Mountains National Monument to include Molok Luyuk also honors its cultural importance to the Yocha Dehe Wintun peoples, as well as other California Tribes, and conserves the region's incredible biodiversity. National monuments are a win-win to permanently protect our cultural and natural resources and advance equity in the outdoors. We

join local partners and Tribal leaders in celebrating these expansions, and we look forward to supporting the Biden-Harris administration's efforts to protect even more places worthy of national monument designation." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Ben Jealous, Executive Director, Sierra Club: "National monuments protect more than landscapes. They preserve the historical, cultural, and spiritual legacies of the people who have made this country what it is. Expanding the San Gabriels monument and protecting Molok Luyuk will have significant and immediate benefits for the communities, wildlife, and ecosystems of California. Millions of people will have greater access to nature, vital habitat will be preserved for imperiled species, and critical water resources will be safeguarded for those who rely on them. Since day one, President Biden has made it clear that he is serious about protecting public lands and preserving the legacies etched into those landscapes. We urge him to continue to build his monumental legacy." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Jennifer Rokala, Executive Director, Center for Western Priorities: "Today's announcement not only adds to President Biden's conservation legacy, but also amplifies his commitment to environmental justice and Tribal sovereignty. Ensuring communities of color have equitable access to nearby public lands and honoring Tribally-led land protection efforts are both vital components of public land conservation. By expanding these monuments, President Biden is now within arm's reach of becoming the most consequential first-term conservation president in recent history. We're happy to see his administration continuing to make progress toward the goal of conserving 30 percent of lands and waters by 2030, and we're hopeful to see him designate more monuments so that he can solidify his place in conservation history." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Adam Cramer, Chief Executive Officer, Outdoor Alliance: "Outdoor Alliance is thrilled to see the expansion of San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. Today's designations expand protections for some of California's most popular outdoor landscapes. These areas are recreation gems beloved by people across the state. We are thankful for the work of Senator Padilla, Senator Butler, Representative Garamendi and Representative Thompson, Governor Newsom, and are especially grateful to the Biden administration for their commitment to conservation and preservation." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Eric Artz, President and Chief Executive Officer, REI Co-op: "REI Co-op applauds the Biden Administration for expanding San Gabriel Mountains and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monuments. We recognize the leadership of Tribal Nations and local communities who called for the protection of these special places and are proud to have worked alongside them to achieve this goal. The permanent protection of these public lands will help ensure that current and future generations can enjoy them. We are especially grateful for the increased access to time outside that these spaces will provide." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Janessa Goldbeck, Chief Executive Officer, Vet Voice Foundation: "President Biden has delivered for California's veterans by expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. These are places of reflection, reunion, and healing for our state's veterans. We urge President Biden to build on this tremendous achievement and protect three additional national monuments in California. Doing so would protect important cultural resources and military heritage sites, and help ensure access to nature for local communities." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Shoren Brown, Vice President of Public Affairs, The Conservation Alliance: "On behalf of The Conservation Alliance and its 270 member companies, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to President Joe Biden for expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument by over 100,000 acres. This landmark decision not only supports local communities and protects close-to-home outdoor access, but also further bolsters California's thriving outdoor economy. We are profoundly appreciative of the administration's commitment to community health, the environment, and California's economic well-being. We thank Senator Alex Padilla, Senator Laphonza Butler, and Representative Judy Chu for championing this effort, and congratulate on-the-ground coalition leaders and partners for their diligence over decades to urge both the creation and expansion of the National Monument. We look forward to continuing to work alongside partners on the ground and the Biden administration to designate more monuments and make

sure those national monuments have the appropriate resources to manage them for conservation." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Hans Cole, Vice President of Environmental Activism, Patagonia: "The future of our business, along with other companies who depend on the outdoor recreation economy, depends on the health of natural places that customers explore. Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument and Molok Luyuk offer incredible opportunities for hiking and include critical wildlife habitat. We applaud the Biden administration for the expansion of this national monument as an opportunity to conserve land and combat the climate and environmental crisis." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Steve Messer, President, Concerned Off-Road Bicyclists Association: "The San Gabriel Mountains have been my backyard outdoor playground for the 40 years I've lived in their shadow. It warms my heart to know the entire range of the San Gabriel Mountains will now be protected for future generations to experience and enjoy under the expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Nicole Gentile, Senior Director for Conservation, Center for American Progress: "These monument expansions build on President Biden's legacy of centering equity and justice in his conservation work. They will ensure that historically marginalized communities have access to, and are represented in, the country's public lands. The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument expansion provides access to nature for millions of Southern Californians who live in one of the country's largest urban hubs. This is an area where nature deprivation disproportionately affects people of color and low-income communities. The Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument expansion honors and protects sacred lands and safeguards rich wildlife habitat. This expansion, combined with a commitment to explore Tribal co-stewardship, centers Indigenous voices, knowledge, and leadership on our public lands." [Statement

, 05/02/2024]

Christy Zamani, Executive Director, Day One: "We thank the Biden administration for the actions taken under the Antiquities Act to expand the San Gabriel Mountains. Adding more public lands to the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument will help ensure that young people will be able to continue experiencing and learning about unique plants in the region, including the drought-tolerant and fire-adapted chaparral shrubland, scrub oaks, wild lilac, western mountain-mahogany, and the California poppy." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Sara Husby, Executive Director, Great Old Broads for Wilderness: "Today is a day to celebrate. The expansion of Northern California's Berryessa Snow Mountain to include Molok Luyuk ensures the protection of a vital ecosystem important to numerous threatened species of plants and wildlife, as well as the protection of cultural sites held sacred by Indigenous people across the region. The expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument will not only protect threatened wildlife habitat and cultural sites but will also protect an important source of water for the Los Angeles basin and provide new opportunities for underserved communities in Southern California to experience nature. Thanks to the Biden administration for demonstrating its commitment to conservation with the protection of these two unique landscapes." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Charles Thomas, Executive Director, Outward Bound Adventures: "For over 60 years, Outward Bound Adventures has introduced low-income and racially marginalized communities of color to the unique beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains. We celebrate this expansion of nationally-recognized wilderness on the fringe of a sprawling and densely populated urban center, providing much-needed access to outdoor recreation and employment opportunities for historically absent and forgotten communities of color. Thank you, President Biden, for recognizing this critical need and taking action to broaden recreational space where it is needed most." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Jocelyn Torres, Co-Interim Executive Director and Chief Conservation Officer, Conservation Lands Foundation: "Today's action by President Biden to expand Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument by designating Molok Luyuk honors efforts to safeguard sites of sacred, cultural and historic significance, wildlife and rare plant habitat, and outdoor recreation for current and future generations. We are grateful President Biden heard the calls of Tribal leaders; federal, state and local governments; businesses; and advocates from Indigenous, outdoor recreation, conservation and many other communities to permanently protect this sacred landscape by use of the Antiquities Act." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Zach Plopper, Environmental Director, Surfrider Foundation: "Surfrider is so proud to be a part of the designation of these national monuments. This expansion will enhance equitable access to nature, protect the upper Los Angeles River watershed, and safeguard a refuge for wildlife. Expanding the monument is the next step in a 20-year, locally-driven effort to protect the San Gabriel Mountains." [Statement , 05/02/2024]

Christian La Mont, Storytelling and Advocacy Manager, Latino Outdoors: "Latino Outdoors is thrilled to celebrate and recognize the incredible collaboration of Tribes, Indigenous community leaders and advocates, local leaders, policymakers, and community members who organized, hiked, got loud, and showed up in every way to support the proposed expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monuments. Expanding access to these public lands, especially in some of the most park-deprived areas of California, is a legacy we can all be proud of. Thank you and gracias to President Biden for his commitment to conservation and thank you for the tireless support of Senator Padilla, Senator Butler, Representative Chu, Representative Garamendi, Representative Thompson and so many others who are a part of this multi-generational movement to protect and preserve California's public lands and to ensure equitable access to the outdoors." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

Lisa Belenky, Senior Counsel, Center for Biological Diversity: "This proclamation expanding Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument to include Molok Luyuk will help preserve biodiversity and cultural resources on our public lands for generations to come. This remarkable area is of cultural importance to the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation and provides essential wildlife connectivity. Molok Luyuk is home to many plants and animals that we've long worked to protect, including ancient blue oak woodlands, wildflower meadows, extensive stands of McNab cypress, mountain lions, tule elk, and imperiled foothill yellow-legged frogs."

National Wildlife Federation: "Thank you @POTUS @SecDebHaaland and @SecVilsack for listening to Indigenous community leaders, elected officials, and community members to expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument." [X Post , 05/02/2024]

Nuestra Tierra: "Thank you @POTUS for expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument through the Antiquities Act! Together, these actions have protected over 120,000 acres in California!" [X Post , 05/02/2024]

Monuments for All: "NEWS: President Biden is expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument & Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. @POTUS, thank you for listening to Tribes, Indigenous community leaders, elected officials, and community members protecting these lands! #MonumentsForAll" [X Post , 05/02/2024]

May 3, 2024

Wilmington Convention Center

Wilmington, North Carolina

5:00 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Hello, North Carolina!

Please have a seat. Take a seat if you have one.

Thank you, Paris, for that introduction.

And, by the way, if my father were here, he'd say, "I apologize for my back." I apologize.

But thank you very much. Look, folks --

AUDIENCE MEMBER: It's okay. We've got your back.

THE PRESIDENT: -- being a -- -- thank you.

Being a teacher isn't what you do; it's who you are. And it matters.

Before I get started, I just came from Charlotte. I spent some time with some of the families of the eight police officers who were shot in the line of duty on Monday. Four of them were killed: Joshua Eyer; Alden Ed- -- excuse me -- Elliott; Sam Pol- -- and I just -- I'm going to mispronounce his name -- [DEL: Poleski :DEL] [Poloche]; and Thomas Weeks.

We pray for their loved ones and those left behind. I met their children and their husbands, wi- -- their wives and their mothers and fathers.

And we pray for the recovery of the brave wounded as well.

Every time an officer puts on that shield and walks out the door, a family member wonders whether they're going to get that call, will they come home. I'm serious. The entire nation is grieving for these families.

While crime rates are down nationally, we've invested a record amount in public safety, violence interruption. We've also done much work to make communities safer. But to protect our officers, we have to get them the resources they need to be able to do their job and to keep the weapons of war out of the hands of people without -- -- .

To the men and women of law enforcement, you represent the best of us. And I want to thank you. And God bless you all. May he keep you safe.

And, Governor Cooper, thank you for having us today. And I've been saying this for well over two years: You've got one of the best governors in the United States of America. And I mean this sincerely. When I think of the gov, one word comes to mind -- I mean this sincerely -- integrity. He has absolutely integrity.

And, Mayor Saffo, thanks for the passport to your city. And, by the way, you ain't the only Wilmington in America. I'm from Wilmington, Delaware.

And guess what? The mayor lived in Wilmington, Delaware -- Delaware as well as here. He lived in Wilmington, Delaware. His daughter graduated from my alma mater, University of Delaware. And we lived -- where he lived is only about a mile and a half from where I live.

And thanks to a -- a favorite son of North Carolina, who's doing a great job as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, Michael Regan.

Folks, I'm here to talk about something very basic and fundamental to our communities, to our economy, to our basic human dignity: safe, clean drinking water.

For generations, water was delivered through lead service pipes -- lines, connecting the main water line in the street to the homes and schools and businesses in this city and around the country. These lead lines are tough, durable, but they do -- and they don't rust. But we've long since learned they leach poisonous toxins into our water.

The science is clear. Lead service lines pose a severe health risk, damaging the brain and kidneys. In children especially, they stunt growth, slow learning, and cause lasting brain damage. But we know we can stop it. We know how to do it.

One study shows when you reduce lead exposure for children, their test scores actually improve in school as much as they would if they reduced the class size by a third, at one tenth the cost of doing that. It pays off across the board.

But today, 9 million lead service lines connect water mains to our homes, schools, daycare centers, businesses. That includes some 300,000 lead service lines here in North Carolina alone -- 300,000.

The cost to replace them is consequential. But too many families only learn the threat to their children after they get sick.

You know, this is, for some time, why I'm determined -- been determined to fix it. And we're finally moving.

Until the United States of America, God love us, deals with this, how can we say we're a leading nation in the world? For God's sake, we're better than this.

Let me say what I've said many times before: There is no -- no safe level of lead exposure. None.

The only way forward is to replace every lead service line that connects Americans to clean water. That's why Kamala and I are making sure the administration is the first ever to set out to do it. And we're going to get it done.

As a consequence of the first major law I signed that not many on the other team signed up to support -- the American Rescue Plan back in March of 2021 -- we provided North Carolina with historic investments in clean water money. Governor Cooper dedicated $2 billion from the American Rescue Plan for 800 clean water projects all across this state.

It not only includes removing lead service lines but uses modern technology to sanitize storm and waste water systems, in addition to connecting thousands of homes to clean tap water for the first time. These clean water projects include testing every water fountain in every school across the state and removing lead hazards, as Paris mentioned.

Now, look -- -- our landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is allowing states across the nation to do more by investing in record -- a record $15 billion so far nationwide in lead pipe removal.

Today, we're releasing a third installment of that funding: an additional $3 billion nationwide, which will bring the total -- -- to $250 million for North Carolina so far, including here in Wilmington. It's going to replace 300 lead pipe service lines connecting homes, schools, and businesses here in Wilmington.

Governor, I hear you're breaking ground sometime today. Congratulations, pal. Congratulations.

Folks, this is about safety, but it's also about basic fairness. Nationally, we're directing nearly half of the funding to disadvantaged communities -- half of it -- that have borne the brunt of lead poi- -- pisoning -- poisoning for so long. Studies show communities of color have been the hardest hit.

We have to make things right. And we're going to make them right now.

And when we do, it will mean clean water, healthier communities, peace of mind, and jobs befitting those communities -- jobs of plumbers, pipe fitters, laborers, engineers -- good-paying jobs you can make a serious living with without a college degree to raise a family on.

And, folks, protecting -- protecting people from lead pipe contamination is just one of our nation's most ambitious water agendas ever. We're upgrading old water mains, treatment plants. Some of them are as old as 100 years old here in America -- 100 years old. And finally, we're improving water systems on Tribal lands, where nearly half of the population -- -- nearly half of the population still lack clean water.

And we're detecting and removing so-called "forever chemicals," referred to as PFAS -- P-FAS -- dash -- that are discharged in a -- from companies and military bases into our water supply. They're very dangerous chemicals that shouldn't be near our water supply.

Earlier this month, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Regan and Governor Cooper here in Fayet- -- were -- were in Fayetteville, North Carolina, as my administration issued its first-ever national PFAS standard to get those dangerous chemicals out of our drinking water.

But that's not all. Communities across the Cape Fear watershed know too well why this matters. As a consequence of PFAS, you've seen aggressive cancers emerge in that area. It's gone so far that we're advising and warning you can't eat the fish from the same water that you drink. That's how far it's gone.

My administration is investing an additional $9 billion -- more than ever in the history of America -- to finally get rid of PFAS chemicals now -- -- and to get safe, clean drinking water to you and 100 million Americans across the country presently exposed to PFAS.

In all, my infrastructure law makes the most significant investment in America's infrastructure in generations. It includes roads, bridges, ports, airports, public transit, and so much more. It includes a new passenger train from Raleigh to Richmond, which, by the way, reduces pollution by -- and takes thousands of vehicles off the road -- -- and provide over a thousand good-paying jobs -- good-paying jobs.

Nationwide, 51,000 projects in 4,500 communities have been announced so far. To date, this has dedicated over $9 billion to North Carolina alone -- $9 billion.

In January, I was in Raleigh to announce the most-significant-ever investment in affordable high-speed Internet for every single person in North Carolina, because high-speed Internet is today as important as electrification was a century ago. It's a means of communication, being able to con- -- compete.

It's not enough to just have Internet access. It needs to be affordable. That's why my administration is saving families around $30 a month on their Internet bills. Over 900,000 households in North Carolina have saved a con- -- a conglomerate of $550 million on their Internet bills.

But that program, called the Affordable Connectivity Program, runs out of money this month. For folks -- for months now, I've asked the Congress to extend the funding, but my Republican friends in Congress have failed to act. Now I'm calling on them to act now so one in five North Carolina families don't see their Internet bills go up next month.

You know, this progress is part of my vision for an economy that grows from the middle out and the bottom up, not just the top down. I'm sick and tired of trickle-down economics.

We weren't poor, but I come from a middle-class household: three-bedroom home -- split-level home, with a grandpop living with us, four kids, and my dad and mom.

My dad used to say, "Joey, a job is about a lot more than a paycheck. It's about your dignity. It's about respect." "It's about being able to look your kid in the eye and say, 'Honey, it's going to be okay.' And it's about being able to have a little bit left over at the end of the month when everything is paid."

And guess what? The plan we put in place is beginning to work. We've created a record 15 million jobs since I came to office -- -- more than any president has -- 15 million, including 460,000 right here in North Carolina.

Unemployment is down in North Carolina from 5.6 percent to 3.5 percent -- -- lower than any year under the previous administration and the lowest in 25 years.

Wages are rising nationwide, up 3 percent in North Carolina. I realize there's more to deal with. There's more we have to do.

There's a lot of -- the corporations are adding on costs that don't -- aren't justified.

By the way, Walmart just announced that they're going to -- they opened a new store, and they just announced that they're going to charge the pro- -- for all the products they have, the same exact price that was charged before the pandemic -- before the pandemic.

And we're eliminating thousands of junk fees. It used to be -- like now, you bounce a check at your bank, and you're likely to be charged between $35 and $50 for that bank overcharge. Guess what? They can't now charge more than $8. Same with credit card fees.

Look, and manufacturing is booming: nearly 800,000 new manufacturing jobs and counting. Where in God's name is it written we can't be the leading manufacturer in the world here? Where is that written? It's not.

And cities like Wilmington are coming back.

We're doing all this at the same time we're cutting the federal deficit. We cut the federal deficit by fighting to make the very wealthy and big corporations begin to pay their fair share.

And, by the way, I've been fighting for years as a senator -- I know I look like I'm only 40, but I'm a little bit older -- -- in taking on Big Pharma.

You know, if any of you have a prescription that has to be filled, I could put you into Air Force One, you pick any city in Europe or in parts of the Middle East or in Asia, take you to that same prescription, get it filled in those countries -- in Berlin or in -- in Toronto, Canada, or in Rome, Italy -- you'll pay 40 to 60 percent less than you pay here.

How many of you know somebody who has the need for insulin because they have diabetes? Well, guess what? It now costs -- not $400 a month -- $35 a month. And, by the way, they're still making 350 percent profit. It only costs them 10 bucks to make it.

And, by the way, when I first got this passed, it included everybody, not just the elderly. And guess what? This next term, I'm going to make sure everybody qualifies for this.

And, by the way, what we passed already is saving the government -- the taxpayers $160 billion over 10 years. Because guess what? It not only helps the consumer, it means the federal government doesn't have to pay all that money to the drug companies. No, I'm serious.

This is what they call, where I come from, "a big deal."

Look, my predecessors and my MAGA Republican allies -- his allies have a very different view. Every single Republican voted against the American Rescue Plan -- every one.

AUDIENCE MEMBER: Shame on them!

THE PRESIDENT: That's providing hundreds of millions of dollars to deliver drinking water to all of North Carolina's schools.

The vast majority of them voted against the infrastructure law as well. In fact, your senator, Ted Budd, called the infrastructure law --

AUDIENCE: Booo --

THE PRESIDENT: No, no.

AUDIENCE MEMBER: Shame on him!

THE PRESIDENT: He called it -- the law -- "fatally flawed." Then he went on to say, and I'm quoting, "a liberal Trojan horse for a socialist agenda," end of quote.

I don't know about you, but I don't think ensuring kids can drink clean water and avoid brain damage is a socialist agenda. I think it's just plain decency, plain fairness.

But as you might guess, the senator hasn't been shy. He's asked on 10 separate occasions for new funding in those very laws he voted against -- -- 10 separate fu- -- . As they say, "God bless the boy."

Remember -- remember that -- the Trojan horse socialist agenda? Well, I don't know about the senator's -- I don't -- I didn't think the senator was a socialist. He keeps asking.

But, look, that's okay. I promised to be, all kidding aside, a president for all Americans, whether you -- -- whe- -- whether you voted for me or not, because we owe it to the American people.

So, Senator, I'll see you at the groundbreaking.

You may recall that my predecessor promised Infrastructure Week every single week for four years. He didn't build a damn thing -- nothing. No, I'm serious.

His administration rolled back wetland protections, making it easier to pollute our water supply. They gave mining companies wide leeway to contaminate our groundwater. They slashed the Environmental Protection Agency's budget, eliminating important programs that guaranteed clean water.

At the same time, he and his MAGA allies in Congress were happy to give the very super rich a $2 trillion tax cut in his administration -- $2 trillion -- that benefitted the super wealthy and the biggest corporations while exploding the federal debt.

You may remember that when I was trying to get these bills passed that I -- we talked about, including the veterans bills and the rest, they said we couldn't afford it. And I looked out there, and there were -- there were 40 -- there were 50 cor- -- 50 corporations of the Fortune 500 who made $40 billion and didn't pay a single penny in tax. No, no, I'm not -- I'm not making this up. As I said, look it up.

But here's the deal: didn't pay a single -- but I just was able to raise the tax to 15 percent. That's less than all of you pay. And guess what? Not only did it get everything passed, we were able to reduce the federal deficit.

My -- my predecessor -- my predecessor, the guy running this time, racked up more federal debt than every previous president in history -- more federal debt during his administration. He talks about saving money.

Well, that's not how I see things. I believe doing what's always worked best for this country: investing in all of America and investing in all Americans.

Look, let me close with this. When folks see shovels in the ground on all these projects, when they see new pipes being laid and people going to work, I hope they feel the pride that I feel -- pride in their hometowns making a comeback, pride in America, pride in knowing we can get big things done in America when we set our mind to it -- big things.

There's nothing beyond our capacity. Think about this. We're the only country in the world that's come out of every crisis we've entered stronger than we went in every single time.

And, folks, I've never been more optimistic about our nation's future. We just have to remember who we are. We're the United States of America. I mean it from the bottom of my heart.

And there's nothing -- there's nothing beyond our capacity when we work together. So, let's get out and work together and get this done.

May God bless you all. And may God protect our troops.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, all. I appreciate it.

5:22 P.M. EDT

May/ 3 / 2024

The President's action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in the counties of Douglas and Washington.

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 in the counties of Douglas and Washington.

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

Mr. Andrew P. Meyer 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 .

May 3, 2024

Last month, Vice President Harris was in Las Vegas to participate in a moderated conversation about the impact of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the most significant gun safety law in nearly 30 years. In March, she traveled to Las Vegas as part of her five-state swing following the State of the Union. In January, she was in Las Vegas to tour the Chef Jeff Project and announce a Small Business Administration rule that will help more individuals start and run small businesses. She also began the year by meeting

with hospitality workers of the Culinary Workers Union Local 226 to congratulate them on their successful new contracts.

Additional details about Saturday's events are forthcoming.

# # #

May 3, 2024

There's more work to do. I have a plan to lower the cost of rent and homeownership by building 2 million homes; to cut taxes for middle-class families and American workers; and to continue making health care, prescription drugs, inhalers, and insulin more affordable. Congressional Republicans have a different vision. They are fighting to slash taxes on billionaires and let special interests rip off Americans. I will keep fighting for the middle class and hardworking families I grew up with--for Scranton, not Park Avenue.

May 3, 2024

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation's highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors.

President Biden often says there is nothing beyond our capacity when we act together. These nineteen Americans built teams, coalitions, movements, organizations, and businesses that shaped America for the better. They are the pinnacle of leadership in their fields. They consistently demonstrated over their careers the power of community, hard work, and service.

The awards will be presented at the White House on May 3, 2024. The following individuals will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom:

Michael R. Bloomberg

Mayor Michael Bloomberg is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and three-term mayor. He revolutionized the financial information industry and transformed New York City's education, environment, public health, and the arts.

Gregory J. Boyle

Father Greg Boyle is a Jesuit Catholic priest who is the founder and director of Homeboy Industries, the world's largest gang-intervention and rehabilitation program. He has helped thousands of Angelenos turn their lives around.

James E. Clyburn

Representative Jim Clyburn is the former Assistant Democratic Leader and Majority Whip in the United States House of Representatives. Through three decades in the House, Representative Clyburn has transformed the lives of millions of Americans and created a freer country.

Elizabeth Dole

Senator Elizabeth Dole has served her country as a trailblazing United States Senator, Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of Labor, and President of the American Red Cross. She leads by example through her Foundation's support for military caregivers and their families.

Phil Donahue

Phil Donahue is a journalist and television pioneer who pioneered the daytime issue-oriented television talk show. Donahue was the first daytime talk show to feature audience participation and one of the most influential televisions programs of its time.

Medgar Wiley Evers

Medgar Evers fought for his country in World War II and returned home to lead the fight against segregation in Mississippi. After he was murdered at his home at age 37, his wife Myrlie continued the fight to seek justice and equality in his name.

Al Gore

Al Gore is a former Vice President, United States Senator, and member of the House of Representatives. After winning the popular vote, he accepted the outcome of a disputed presidential election for the sake of our unity. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize jointly with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for his bold action on climate change.

Clarence B. Jones

Clarence B. Jones is a renowned civil rights activist and lawyer who helped draft Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's "I Have a Dream" speech. Jones was instrumental in preserving Dr. King's legacy and remains an outspoken force against hate.

John Forbes Kerry

Secretary John Kerry is a former Secretary of State, United States Senator, and the first Special Presidential Envoy for Climate. His bravery in combat during the Vietnam War earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star, and history will remember his public service career that has spanned seven decades.

Frank R. Lautenberg

Senator Frank Lautenberg was a five-term United States Senator and New Jersey's longest-serving Senator. He is remembered for his critical work on environmental protection and consumer safety across a number of fields.

Kathleen Genevieve Ledecky

Katie Ledecky is the most decorated female swimmer in history. An athletic prodigy, she has won seven Olympic gold medals and twenty-one world championship gold medals so far. She will continue to compete for the Nation who watches her in awe.

Opal Lee

Opal Lee is an educator and activist known for her efforts to make Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday. More than 150 years after that day in Texas, she joined President Biden to officially make Juneteenth a national holiday in 2021.

Ellen Ochoa

Ellen Ochoa is the first Hispanic woman in space and the second female Director of NASA's renowned Johnson Space Center. Dr. Ochoa has flown in space four times, logged nearly 1,000 hours in orbit, and continues to inspire young generations of scientists.

Nancy D'Alesandro Pelosi

Nancy Pelosi served as the 52 nd Speaker of the House and has represented San Francisco in Congress for more than 36 years. A staunch defender of democracy, she has shaped legislative agendas and Democratic priorities for decades.

Jane Rigby

Jane Rigby, an astronomer who grew up in Delaware, is the chief scientist of the world's most powerful telescope. A prolific researcher, Dr. Rigby embodies the American spirit of adventure and wonder.

Teresa Romero

Teresa Romero is the president of the United Farm Workers and the first Latina to become president of a national union in the United States. She has secured key victories to improve the lives of the workers who feed and fuel our Nation.

Judy Shepard

Judy Shepard is the co-founder of the Matthew Shephard Foundation, an organization created in honor of her son who was murdered in one of the nation's most notorious anti-gay hate crimes. Her work has driven tremendous progress in our fight to give hate no safe harbor.

James Francis Thorpe

Jim Thorpe was the first Native American to win an Olympic gold medal. The country's original multi-sport superstar, he went on to play professional football, baseball, and basketball while breaking down barriers on and off the field.

Michelle Yeoh

Michelle Yeoh is an actress known for her groundbreaking work in a number of blockbusters over four decades. Recently, she became the first Asian to win the Academy Award for Best Actress. Yeoh continues to shatter stereotypes and enrich American culture.

May 3, 2024

After, the President will travel to Chicago, Illinois for a campaign reception.

Additional details to follow.

May 3, 2024

Thanks to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals , more than 800,000 Dreamers have been able to live, study, and work in the only home they have ever known while making our nation a better place. It is why I fought to defend and protect DACA as Attorney General of California and a U.S. Senator from California.

Now as Vice President, I have worked alongside President Biden to take steps to preserve and fortify DACA. Today, we are building on this progress by ensuring DACA recipients also have access to affordable health care, which will improve the health of all communities. This announcement will bring relief to more than 100,000 people and help them thrive while working to achieve their aspirations.

President Biden and I will continue to do everything in our power to protect DACA, but it is only a temporary solution. Congress must act to ensure Dreamers have the permanent protections they deserve.

# # #

May 3, 2024

Journalism should not be a crime anywhere on Earth. On World Press Freedom Day, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of journalists and media workers around the world risking everything in pursuit of truth.

This is especially resonant today. 2023 was one of the deadliest years for journalists in recent memory. One reason for that is the war in Gaza, where far too many journalists, the vast majority of them Palestinian, have been killed. Additionally, over 300 journalists were imprisoned around the world last year – the highest number in decades. In Russia, American journalists Evan Gershkovich and Alsu Kurmasheva have been imprisoned in connection with their work for the Wall Street Journal and for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. And Austin Tice is still being held hostage in Syria after nearly twelve years.

On World Press Freedom Day, the United States calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all journalists who have been put behind bars for simply doing their jobs. And we call for the protection of journalists everywhere, including during military operations. My Administration will continue to support free and independent media worldwide. We have brought together a coalition of countries to counter the proliferation and misuse of commercial spyware, which is often used to monitor journalists worldwide. And we're taking action to combat crimes against journalists, strengthen security for independent media outlets, and provide legal support for investigative journalists around the world.

In the coming weeks, I will be taking executive action in response to the global crackdown on press freedom, as exemplified by the wrongful detention of journalists around the world. I will declare this crackdown on press freedom a grave threat to national security and will authorize measures, including sanctions and visa bans, against those who take abusive actions to silence the press.

Journalists and media workers are an essential part of any democracy, because well-informed dissent is critical to building stronger and more successful societies. Today and every day, we recognize their courage, support their right to do their jobs, and stand with them for press freedom.

May 3, 2024

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is expanding access to affordable, quality health care coverage to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients. In 2012, President Obama and then Vice President Biden created the DACA policy to transform the lives of eligible Dreamers – young people who came to this country as children--allowing them to live and work lawfully in our country. Over the last decade, DACA has brought stability, possibility, and progress to hundreds of thousands of Dreamers.

While President Biden continues to call on Congress to provide a pathway to citizenship to Dreamers and others, he is committed to protecting and preserving DACA and providing Dreamers with the opportunities and support they need to succeed, including access to affordable, quality health care coverage. Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration's actions, today's final rule will remove the prohibition on DACA recipients' eligibility for Affordable Care Act coverage for the first time, and is projected to help more than 100,000 young people gain health insurance. Starting in November, DACA recipients can apply for coverage through HealthCare.gov and state-based marketplaces, where they may qualify for financial assistance to help them purchase quality health insurance. Four out of five consumers have found a plan for less than $10 a month, with millions saving an average of about $800 a year on their premiums.

President Biden and Vice President Harris believe that health care should be a right, not a privilege. Together, they promised to protect and strengthen the Affordable Care Act, lowering costs and expanding coverage so that every American has the peace of mind that health insurance brings. Today's final rule delivers on the President's commitment by giving DACA recipients that same peace and opportunity.

Today's rule also reinforces the President's enduring commitment to DACA recipients and Dreamers, who contribute daily to the strength and vitality of our communities and our country. On day one of his Administration, President Biden committed to preserving and fortifying the DACA policy. While only Congress can provide Dreamers permanent status and a pathway to citizenship, the Biden-Harris Administration has continued to vigorously defend DACA against ongoing legal challenges and strengthened DACA by codifying the 2012 policy in a final rule.

May 3, 2024

Nearly twelve years ago, President Obama and I announced the DACA program to allow our young people to live and work in the only country they've called home. Since then, DACA has provided more than 800,000 Dreamers with the ability to work lawfully, pursue an education, and contribute their immense talents to make our communities better and stronger.

I'm proud of the contributions of Dreamers to our country and committed to providing Dreamers the support they need to succeed. That's why I've previously directed the Department of Homeland Security to take all appropriate actions to "preserve and fortify" DACA. And that's why today we are taking this historic step to ensure that DACA recipients have the same access to health care through the Affordable Care Act as their neighbors.

On Day One of my administration, I sent a comprehensive immigration reform plan to Congress to protect Dreamers and their families. Only Congress can provide Dreamers permanent status and a pathway to citizenship. Congress must act.

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.

# # #

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.

# # #

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.

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