Medicare is stronger and Social Security remains strong. As long as I am President, I will keep strengthening Social Security and Medicare and protecting them from Republicans' attempts to cut benefits Americans have earned. Since I took office, my economic plan and strong recovery from the pandemic have helped extend Medicare solvency by a decade, with today's report showing a full five years of additional solvency. My plan would extend Medicare solvency permanently by asking the wealthy to pay their fair share and lowering prescription drug costs. And I am committed to extending Social Security solvency by asking the highest-income Americans to pay their fair share without cutting benefits or privatizing Social Security.

Republicans in Congress have a very different vision. Their budget sides with the wealthy and special interests to cut Social Security by over $1.5 trillion, increase the retirement age, raise prescription drug costs, and transition Medicare to a system that would raise premiums for many seniors. These changes are cruel and unnecessary. I will always fight for America's seniors and prevent Republicans from cutting Social Security and Medicare.

The White House will continue the tradition of welcoming members of the public to tour the White House Gardens and South Grounds. This spring the White House Gardens Tour will take place during Mother's Day Weekend, with tours available to the public from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM ET on Saturday, May 11^thand Sunday, May 12^th.

2024 White House Gardens Tour

The White House Gardens Tour is free and open to the public; however, a daily timed ticket is required for all attendees, including small children. The National Park Service [NPS] will distribute free, daily timed tickets at a tent stationed outside the White House Visitor Center [1450 Pennsylvania Avenue NW] each tour day [May 11^thand 12^th] beginning at 8:30 AM ET, while supplies last. The tour entry point for all guests will be located on 15th Street, NW between E Street, NW and Constitution Avenue, NW. Advance reservations are not available. The ADA entrance will be located at 15th Street, NW and Alexander Hamilton Place, NW.

Media Preview

The White House will host a media preview of the White House Gardens and South Grounds on Friday, May 10th at 12:30 PM ET. This media preview will be open to pre-credentialed media. For interested media, please RSVP HERE by Thursday, May 9^that 3:00 PM ET.

East Room

12:09 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Well, good afternoon. Please — please have a seat.

Well, I can — you can tell the Academy grads in the audience; they got bigger grins on their faces —

AUDIENCE MEMBER: Go Army!

THE PRESIDENT: — than the others. [Laughs]

Well, welcome. Welcome. We are here today to celebrate a tough team, a storied football program, this year's Commander-in-Chief Trophy winners: The Army Black Knights. [Applause]

I'm impressed with your generosity, General. [Laughter]

It was an honor to have so many friends and fans with us here today. They include Secretary of Defense Austin, a proud West Point grad himself. You can clap. [Applause]

The Secretary of the Army, Christine Wormuth. Christine, where are you? There you are. [Applause]

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who's smiling anyway, C.Q. Brown — [laughter] — Air Force. [Applause] He's an Air Force guy, but he's the best. And I was so hon- — not to try to rub this in too much.

But I also welcome Representative Stanford Bishop — Sanford Bishop. Representative Burt — where — where is Brett? You here? There you are, Brett Guthrie. Good to see you, Brett. [Applause]

Representative Pat Ryan.

REPRESENTATIVE RYAN: How you doing, sir?

THE PRESIDENT: Pat, how are you, pal?

REPRESENTATIVE RYAN: Beat Navy! [Applause]

THE PRESIDENT: I ain't protecting you, man. You're on your own. [Laughter]

And Representative Steve Womack. [Applause]

We're also joined by Army's football's biggest fans: Bill and Steve of the radio show "Crawdad's Countdown to Kickoff." [Applause] Fellas, thanks for making the trip from Alabama.

AUDIENCE MEMBER: Go Army!

THE PRESIDENT: [Laughs] And we finally have Coach Jeff Monken who — who has once again led the Bla- — Black Knights back to the White House again.

Where are you, Coach? [Applause] I'll make sure you —

And some folks here know, over the past few seasons, the coach has restarted the old Army football tradition. Every time the team takes the field, they now carry the gold and black flag with a skull and crossbones. This flag represents everything the Black Knights stand for: toughness, tenacity, camaraderie, accountability. And you all certainly demonstrated that, Coach.

Over the course of this season, you faced setbacks, doubts, and uncertainties. Critics counted you out, but you never gave up. You never quit. Game by game, play by play, you ground it out together.

You beat Air Force, who was undefeated until you played them, forcing six turnovers and winning by 20 points. [Applause]

A month later, you beat Navy — [applause] — second year in a row.

Today, you're taking home West Point's 10th Commander-in-Chief Trophy. You should be very proud.

And I want you to know I'm proud of you, too, not just for the wins, but — not just for those forced turnovers; although they're impressive, Coach — but because every game, after you hang up that uniform, you immediately put on another uniform: one representing the United States of America.

Everyone — everyone on this stage stepped up to serve, to lead, to join the long line of American servicemen, each a link in a chain of honor in America.

You represent the very best of who we are as Americans, and I'm confident that in the years to come you will be willing to do — to see — you'll see the same toughness, tenacity, and camaraderie, and accountability to our country that you brought to the field in every single game.

Now, many of these cadets are going to have to hear me twice, so I'm going to make this shorter than usual, because I'm — I'm getting a — I'll have the honor of speaking again at West Point's commencement.

So, let me just close with one brief final thought: Go Army.

AUDIENCE: Beat Navy! [Applause]

THE PRESIDENT: I occasionally used to root for another club until my son joined the United States Army, spent a year in Iraq, became a major, won the Bronze Star and a few other things. And so, I wasn't even allowed to mention any other team ever — [laughter] — ever.

Well, God bless you all. May God protect our troops. And, Coach, over to you.

COACH MONKEN: Thank you, sir. [Applause]

Thank you, Mr. President and distinguished guests. On behalf of our superintendent, Lieutenant General Steve Gillen; our command- — our commandant of cadets, Major General Lori Robinson; our academic — our academic dean, Brigadier General Shane Reeves; our director of athletics, Mr. Mike Buddie; the United States Corps of Cadets; the Long Gray Line of West Point graduates; and the nearly 1 million men and women who serve our nation as members of the U.S. Army, Army Reserves, and Army National Guard, the Army football team is honored to accept the most coveted trophy in all of college football, the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy. [Applause]

We're grateful —

THE PRESIDENT: I want to know who the hell is going to carry it home. [Laughter]

COACH MONKEN: I carried it in here. I'll get — I'll take care of it, sir. [Laughter]

We're grate- — we are grateful for your invitation to the White House and for welcoming the members of America's team as your guests here today.

This is a team of tough, talented players and a team of gritty, intense fighters. And just as they battled to finish the season with four straight victories, including wins over rivals Air Force and Navy, as you had mentioned, to claim the service academy dominance in winning the CIC Trophy, these warfighters will lead our nation's sons and daughters to victory on other fields on other days.

With us today are 48 soon-to-be-commissioned cadets who will later this month earn their diplomas, graduates of the world's preeminent leadership institution, the United States Military Academy. Soon after, they will enter the profession of arms prepared to lead and fight our nation's wars.

Joining them today on the stage is the rest of our team, underclassmen who, in the next few years, will join these soon-to-be graduates as officers in the Army.

Mr. President, these young men and women embody the values of duty, honor, country, and they represent the best our nation has to offer.

We're incredibly proud to be here and grateful to you for this tremendous honor. On, bro- — on, Brave Old Army Team. And beat Navy.

Thank you, sir. [Applause]

We got something for you.

Sir, I'm going to call Cadet First Class Jimmy Ciarlo, who's one of our team captains, Ringwood, New Jersey, to present you with one of our game-worn jerseys from the Army-Navy victory. [Applause]

[The President is presented with a United States Military Academy Black Knights jersey] [Applause]

THE PRESIDENT: [The President holds up the jersey] What do you think? [Applause]

COACH MONKEN: Perfect.

THE PRESIDENT: I want to — got to make sure you get my number right. [Laughter]

It's a great honor. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

What year are you?

MR. CIARLO: I'm a senior.

THE PRESIDENT: See you at graduation.

MR. CIARLO: Sounds good, sir. Thank you.

THE PRESIDENT: [Inaudible] [Laughter]

Well, thank you all very much. And, by the way, are your par- — any parents here? [Inaudible] And to all the spouses of the guys running the show, God love you.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Guys, thank you very much.

COACH MONKEN: Thank you, sir. Beat Navy. [Applause]

12:18 P.M. EDT

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 [Condor Ridge]. 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 [CA): "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 (CA]: "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 [AZ-07]: "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 [CA-31]: "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 [CA-28]: "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 [CA-30]: "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 [CA-04]: "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 [CA-08]: "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 [CA-02]: "@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 [NY-12]: "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 [District 9]: "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 [District 3]: "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 [District 49]: "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 30×30 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 [OBA] 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." [Statement, 05/02/2024]

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]

Actions announced during the Vice President's nationwide Economic Opportunity Tour build on the Administration's historic investments in the auto sector to ensure U.S. leadership in the clean vehicle future

Today, as part of her Economic Opportunity Tour, Vice President Harris will join Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm, and Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su in Detroit, Michigan to announce new funding and resources for small- and medium-sized auto manufacturers and autoworkers.

For decades, trickle-down economics drove manufacturers overseas at the expense of good-paying manufacturing jobs that sustained the American middle class. Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris's Investing in America agenda, since they took office, companies have announced more than $170 billion in investments in electric vehicle (EV) and battery supply chain manufacturing, making the U.S. the global leader for EV manufacturing investment, and the U.S. auto industry has added over 250,000 jobs, after losing 90,000 jobs under the previous Administration. More than 20 auto and battery plants have been announced under President Biden and Vice President Harris, after no new net plants were opened under the previous Administration.

Historic contracts secured by the United Auto Workers with the Big 3 Detroit automakers—Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis—as well as recent organizing victories like at Volkswagen in Chattanooga, Tennessee, ensure that these jobs of the future will provide comparable wages, retirement security, and respect at work.

To ensure that the future of the auto industry is made in America by American autoworkers, today, Vice President Harris will announce:

More than $100 million in funding for small- and medium-sized auto parts manufacturers to expand or retool manufacturing facilities:

Actions to expand workforce training and improve job quality in the EV supply chain with a focus on Auto Communities in the Midwest:

New technical assistance programs to help small and medium-sized auto parts manufacturers and their communities take advantage of growth in the EV sector and other markets:

These actions build on the Biden-Harris Administration's ongoing commitment to ensuring that the workers and businesses that built the auto industry remain community anchors for generations to come, including the more than 250,000 auto workers in small- and medium-sized auto parts suppliers across the country. As part of that commitment, last fall, the Department of Energy announced the availability of up to $15.5 billion in grant and loan funding to retool and convert auto factories transitioning to electric vehicles, prioritizing applications from facilities at risk of closing or recently closed, and rewards applicants that retain existing workers, have strong labor partnerships, pay high wages, and convert facilities while remaining in the same community.

Today's announcement is also an important milestone in the Biden-Harris Administration's effort to help small businesses grow and thrive, including minority and veteran-owned businesses and businesses in distressed and disadvantaged communities. Traditionally underserved small businesses are growing at near-historic rates, with Black business ownership growing at the fastest pace in 30 years and Latino business ownership growing at the fastest pace in more than a decade.

As President Biden and Vice President Harris continue to invest in all of America, their agenda is lowering costs for Michigan families:

Congressional Republicans have no plan to lower costs—in fact, their plan would increase costs for Michiganders by:

Jill and I send warm wishes to Orthodox Christian communities around the world as they celebrate Easter.

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ reminds us of God's abundant love for us and the power of light over darkness. We join Orthodox Christians in giving thanks for these and other blessings and rededicate ourselves to caring for those most in need.

In this sacred season, we hold people who are suffering from war and persecution especially close to our hearts. We will continue to pray and work for peace and justice for all people.

May the Lord bless and keep you this Easter Sunday and in the year ahead.

Yesterday, the Biden-Harris Administration convened state leaders—along with representatives from workforce policy and advocacy organizations, unions, federal agencies, and other stakeholders—to discuss states' efforts to expand investments in students and workers that lead to good jobs in high-demand sectors. President Biden's historic Investing in America agenda—including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, Inflation Reduction Act, and American Rescue Plan—is creating strong demand for skilled workers in clean energy, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, and more. To meet this demand for skilled workers, states are leveraging federal funds and taking bold and innovative actions—from launching free or low-cost community college programs; to expanding earn-and-learn job training opportunities, such as registered apprenticeship programs; to investing a share of their highway formula funds in high-quality workforce development, including supportive services such as child care and transportation. First Lady Jill Biden, a community college educator, continues to travel the country to highlight models that invest in workforce training, career-connected learning programs, and pathways to good-paying jobs.

At yesterday's convening, senior Administration officials including Neera Tanden, Director of the Domestic Policy Council and Mala Adiga, Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of Policy for the First Lady, heard from leaders representing a dozen states about model programs to lower costs, expand quality job training for students and workers, and better connect education and workforce systems; how they are braiding together federal and state investments; and how the Biden-Harris Administration can continue to support states' efforts. For example, participants heard about Michigan's expansion of free community college; Maryland's workforce development investments using federal highway funds; Colorado's state workforce initiatives that connect students to in-demand jobs; and Indiana's efforts to connect high school students to work-based learning and career scholarship accounts.

Administration officials called on states to invest at least 0.5% of their eligible federal highway formula funds, which nearly $50 billion per year, to expand and diversify their construction workforces. States can follow the examples of Maryland and Pennsylvania by investing highway funds in high-quality workforce approaches such as registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs and supportive services like child care and transportation assistance for workers.

Participants in the White House State Workforce Day Convening included state leaders from:

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?" [Laughter]

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. [Laughter] Thank God. [Applause]

That's what my staff ha- — hates me doing: ad libbing. [Laughter]

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. [Applause]

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 of [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. [Applause]

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. [Applause]

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. [Applause]

And before social media and clickbait news — [laughter] — 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. [Applause]

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. [Applause]

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- — Par [Paris] Olympics at age 27, which some say is old for swimming. I think — [laughter] — 27 — don- — don't let age get in your way. [Laughter] I mean, you know what I mean?

Katie, age is just a number, kid. [Laughter] 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. [Applause] 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. [Applause] Incredible guy.

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

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. [Applause] Thank you [inaudible].

And, Dr. Jane Rigby, a daughter of my home state
of Delaware, I might add — [laughter] — 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 [inaudible]. [Laughter]

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 piercing [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. [Applause]

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. [Laughter]

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

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 gender [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. [Applause]

Another inspiration — not just to me, but to Bob Dole — [laughs] — 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. [Applause]

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 — [laughter].

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. [Applause]

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. [Applause]

I've served and work closely as Senator and as Vice President and then as President with this guy: John Kerry — John Kerry. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

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 — [pronounced in an accent] — [laughter] — 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 6th, 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. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

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. [Laughter] 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 Freedom of Medal [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. [Applause]

MILITARY AIDE: Michael R. Bloomberg. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Gregory J. Boyle. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

James E. Clyburn. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Elizabeth Dole. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Phil Donahue. [Applause] [Mr. Donahue points at watch] [Laughter] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Reena Evers, accepting on behalf of Medgar Wiley Evers. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Al Gore. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Clarence B. Jones. [Applause] 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." [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

MR. JONES: [Inaudible] [Applause, Laughter]

MILITARY AIDE: John Forbes Kerry. [Applause] 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: [Shrugs shoulders] [Laughter]

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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Bonnie Lautenberg, accepting on behalf of Frank R. Lautenberg. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Opal Lee. [Applause] 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." [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Kathleen Genevieve Ledecky. [Applause] A humble leader, Olympian, and champion of unparalleled determination, Katie Ledecky is the most decorated female swimmer in history with 10 Olym- — [applause] — 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented]

THE PRESIDENT: They once told me [inaudible]. [Laughter] [Applause]

MILITARY AIDE: Ellen Ochoa. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Nancy D'Alesandro Pelosi. [Applause] 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. [Laughter] Her resolve on January 6th, 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Jane Rigby. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented]

THE PRESIDENT: [Inaudible] [Laughter] [Applause]

MILITARY AIDE: Teresa Romero. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Judy Shepard. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Gail Lynn Hannon, accepting on behalf of James Francis Thorpe. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

Michelle Yeoh. [Applause] 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. [Applause]

[The Medal of Freedom is presented] [Applause]

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

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

6:05 P.M. EDT

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? [Laughter] 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. [Laughter]

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.

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'?" [Laughter] 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 [inaudible] only hope.

Q [Inaudible] [Laughter]

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thank you, guys. Thank you. [Applause]

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

Q [Inaudible]

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. [Laughter] 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. [Laughter]

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

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

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 7th. 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 7th 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? [Laughter]

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 — [laughter] —

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? [Laughter]

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

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. [Laughter] 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. [Laughter]

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 [inaudible].

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. [Laughter]

Q Don't make me pick. [Laughter]

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. [Laughter]

Q You are an alumna of Columbia University.

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

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. [Laughter]

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

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You did — [laughs]. 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. [Laughter] 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. [Laughter]

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. [Applause]

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.

[Cross-talk]

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.

All right. Thanks, everybody.

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.
Q Thanks, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Have a great weekend.

2:46 P.M. EDT