President Biden expressed deep condolences to the people of Germany after the attack on the Magdeburg Christmas market. He emphasized that no community or family should experience such tragedy, particularly during a season meant for joy and peace. The U.S. is in contact with German officials and has offered resources and assistance. While the investigation is ongoing, Biden reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to standing with its Allies against violent terror. He extended thoughts and prayers to the victims, their families, and those affected.
President Biden announced the signing of a bipartisan funding bill that keeps the government operational, provides disaster relief for recovering communities, and allocates funds to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge. While acknowledging the compromises involved, he highlighted that the bill avoids tax cuts for billionaires sought by Republicans and ensures the government can function fully. He framed the agreement as positive news for Americans, especially during the holiday season.
The President signed into law:
H.R. 10545, the “American Relief Act, 2025”, which provides fiscal year 2025 appropriations to Federal agencies through March 14, 2025, for continuing projects and activities of the Federal Government; provides disaster relief appropriations and economic assistance to farmers; extends the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018; and extends several expiring authorities.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, in an in-depth interview on Face the Nation, addressed critical challenges and priorities for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) while reflecting on his tenure. He expressed optimism about working with Governor Kristi Noem, Donald Trump’s choice to lead DHS, emphasizing a shared commitment to a smooth transition despite the department's resource limitations and broad and complex mission scope. Mayorkas highlighted the heightened domestic and international threat environment, citing the alarming rise in domestic violent extremism, anti-government rhetoric, and glorification of violence in recent events. He also emphasized the persistent risks of foreign terrorism and nation-state cyber threats, such as the significant Chinese telecom hacking incident. He discussed ongoing efforts to mitigate these risks in collaboration with private and federal partners.
On immigration, Mayorkas defended the Biden administration's actions to manage record-breaking migration flows, noting a decline in border crossings due to executive actions and partnerships with countries like Mexico. However, he underscored the ongoing challenges of a broken immigration system, a backlog in immigration courts, and the need for congressional action. He reflected on efforts to combat human trafficking and the exploitation of migrants while acknowledging limitations in tracking unaccompanied children and reuniting families separated at the border due to poor record-keeping from prior administrations.
Mayorkas also discussed the resource challenges DHS faces, noting the department’s consistent underfunding relative to its expansive mission, which includes cybersecurity, disaster response, border security, and more. He called for greater resources and legislative reform to address systemic issues, including an updated immigration framework and improved capabilities to support enforcement and humanitarian relief.
As he prepares to leave office, Mayorkas expressed pride in DHS’s accomplishments and deep concern for the safety and security of the American people. He emphasized that addressing threats to homeland security—domestic extremism, foreign terrorism, or cyberattacks—requires continued vigilance and bipartisan solutions. Reflecting on his time in office, he reaffirmed his commitment to public service and his faith in the resilience of the American people.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas