What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
Weekend Recap: January 11-12, 2025
President Biden announced that Pope Francis received the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction, marking the first time the President was awarded this honor during his administration. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, given to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the U.S., global peace, or other significant societal achievements.
The citation accompanying the award highlights Pope Francis's journey from his early aspirations in science to his calling to faith with the Jesuits, eventually leading him to become a global leader as the first Pope from the Southern Hemisphere. The Pope is recognized for his decades-long commitment to serving the vulnerable in Argentina and his continued advocacy for the poor and marginalized as leader of the Catholic Church.
Described as a "loving pastor," Pope Francis is celebrated for his ability to connect with people, particularly children, answering their questions about faith with compassion. As a "challenging teacher," he has urged action on pressing global issues such as peace-building and environmental protection. Additionally, he is praised as a "welcoming leader" who fosters dialogue across faiths and communities.
The statement emphasizes that Pope Francis is unlike any Pope before him, earning the moniker "the People’s Pope" for his humility, accessibility, and devotion to humanity. The award recognizes his role as a guiding light of faith, hope, and love worldwide.
President Biden has approved two disaster declarations for federal assistance in response to severe weather events. The first declaration addresses the impact of severe storms and flooding in the Native Village of Kwigillingok, Alaska, from August 15 to August 18, 2024. Federal funding will be available on a cost-sharing basis to support the Tribal Nation’s emergency work, the repair or replace damaged facilities, and hazard mitigation efforts. Lance E. Davis of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to oversee federal recovery operations in the affected areas.
The second disaster declaration pertains to South Carolina, where severe storms and flooding from November 6 to November 14, 2024, caused significant damage. Federal assistance will be provided on a cost-sharing basis to support emergency work, repair or replace damaged facilities and implement hazard mitigation measures statewide. Bamberg, Calhoun, and Orangeburg counties have been identified for specific recovery efforts. Brian F. Schiller of FEMA has been designated to coordinate federal recovery efforts in South Carolina.
President Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss ongoing negotiations in Doha regarding a ceasefire and hostage release deal, building on a May 27, 2024, arrangement endorsed by the UN Security Council. Biden highlighted the changed regional dynamics, including a ceasefire in Lebanon, the fall of Syria's Assad regime, and Iran's weakened influence. He emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, the return of hostages, and increased humanitarian aid made possible by a cessation of fighting. Netanyahu expressed gratitude for Biden's steadfast support of Israel and U.S. backing of Israel's security and defense.
In her interview on "Face the Nation," FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell discussed the challenges posed by the ongoing wildfires in California, exacerbated by unprecedented 100 mph Santa Ana winds. While emphasizing Los Angeles' preparedness, she noted the difficulty of containing fires under such extreme conditions, especially in densely populated areas. Criswell urged the public to heed local officials' warnings to ensure safety. She highlighted the federal response, including President Biden’s call to move power lines underground to enhance resilience. While FEMA won’t require underground power lines unless mandated by local codes, the agency is working with California to explore ways to rebuild more resiliently. Federal assistance is designed to jump-start recovery but not replace insurance, which remains critical for families to rebuild.
Addressing California’s insurance crisis, Criswell stressed the importance of retaining insurers in high-risk areas and encouraged rebuilding practices incorporating fire-resistant materials and designs. She acknowledged the significant cost of these disasters, though no exact estimates are available yet, and noted the need for continued Congressional support. A recent $27 billion emergency funding package will support recovery efforts in California and other disaster-affected states like North Carolina, which is still recovering from hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Criswell also addressed the impact of misinformation, which has led to isolated threats against FEMA workers, particularly in North Carolina. While measures have been implemented to ensure staff safety, she stressed the importance of accurate communication to maintain public trust and access to FEMA programs. Criswell reaffirmed FEMA’s commitment to supporting state and local partners in recovery efforts while enhancing community resilience against future disasters.
President Biden awards the Medal of Freedom to Pope Francis
