What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
January 1, 2025 Recap
President Biden addressed the nation following a despicable attack in New Orleans, offering his heartfelt condolences to the victims, their families, and the entire city. He expressed the nation’s collective grief and pledged unwavering support to those mourning and recovering from the tragedy. Praising the bravery of first responders and law enforcement, the president acknowledged their quick action in stopping the attacker and preventing further casualties. He also commended federal agencies, including the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security, for their swift and ongoing investigation into the incident.
The president provided preliminary details about the attacker, a U.S. citizen and former Army service member who appeared to have been inspired by ISIS. Before the attack, the assailant posted videos on social media expressing a desire to kill and displaying ISIS-related content. Authorities discovered an ISIS flag and possible explosives in the attacker’s rented vehicle, as well as additional explosives nearby. While the situation remains fluid, the FBI is working to determine the attacker’s motives, connections to others, and whether there is an ongoing threat. President Biden emphasized the importance of avoiding premature conclusions, as the investigation is still in its early stages.
In addition to the New Orleans attack, President Biden noted that law enforcement is investigating a cyber truck explosion outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas to determine whether it is related to the New Orleans incident. Thus far, no links have been identified. The president assured the public that every available federal, state, and local resource is deployed to ensure a thorough and swift investigation and address potential threats.
Biden highlighted New Orleans’ unique culture, history, and resilient spirit, affirming that no violence can diminish the city’s enduring strength. He vowed continued support for the city’s recovery efforts and promised to keep the public informed as more information becomes available. He concluded with a call for blessings on the people of New Orleans, first responders, and the nation’s troops.
President Biden has designated January 2025 as both National Mentoring Month and National Stalking Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and support in building a safer and more inclusive society. These proclamations celebrate those who uplift others through mentorship and those who fight to end harassment and abuse, highlighting the administration’s commitment to empowering individuals and addressing societal challenges.
National Mentoring Month celebrates the transformative role mentors play in shaping the lives of young people. President Biden praised the spirit of community and care exemplified by mentors nationwide and highlighted his administration's efforts to support youth development. Through the American Rescue Plan, a historic $130 billion investment was directed to K-12 schools to provide additional teachers, counselors, and social workers—often the first mentors students encounter. The National Partnership for Student Success has also recruited over 300,000 tutors and mentors to guide young people toward reaching their potential. Additionally, colleges and universities have been encouraged to allocate federal work-study funds to promote student mentorship opportunities. Beyond education, the proclamation underscores workplace mentorship through Registered Apprenticeships, which equip workers with valuable skills and prepare them for fulfilling careers. Programs like the American Climate Corps further enhance these efforts by opening doors to green energy and conservation jobs. The President called on Americans from all walks of life to embrace mentoring opportunities, recognizing mentorship as a powerful and enriching experience for mentors and mentees.
Simultaneously, the proclamation for National Stalking Awareness Month shines a spotlight on the millions of Americans who have endured stalking and recommits to protecting survivors and holding perpetrators accountable. Stalking affects one in three women and one in six men, leaving lasting psychological and emotional scars. President Biden reflected on his role in championing the Violence Against Women Act, a landmark law that has strengthened protections for survivors of gender-based violence, including stalking. The 2022 reauthorization of the act expanded the jurisdiction of Tribal courts to prosecute non-Native perpetrators. It enabled survivors to file federal lawsuits against individuals who share intimate images without consent. Biden’s administration has introduced the National Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, which prioritizes prevention, survivor support, and accountability for perpetrators. Other initiatives, such as the White House Task Force to Address Online Harassment and grants from the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women, bolster these efforts. Survivors have also benefited from tens of thousands of emergency housing vouchers from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. President Biden urged Americans to speak out against stalking, support survivors, and send a clear message that harassment and abuse will not be tolerated.
These proclamations underscore the administration’s commitment to fostering a society where individuals can thrive safely and with support. Whether through mentorship or by addressing harassment, President Biden emphasized the need for collective action and community involvement to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
President Biden emphasized his commitment to making health care accessible and affordable, highlighting a significant milestone in the Inflation Reduction Act. Starting January 1, 2025, Medicare beneficiaries will have an annual cap of $2,000 on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs, fully phasing in a policy that saved $1 billion in 2024 by capping costs at $3,500. This change is expected to benefit 19 million people, saving each an average of $400 annually. Biden described this as a "game changer," underscoring the broader financial relief the Inflation Reduction Act brings to Americans.
President Biden Delivers Remarks on the Latest Developments in New Orleans
