What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
January 14, 2025 Recap
President Biden has designated approximately 624,270 acres in southeastern California as the Chuckwalla National Monument to preserve its cultural, historical, scientific, and ecological significance. Located at the intersection of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, this region holds deep importance for several Indigenous tribes, including the Iviatim (Cahuilla), Nüwü (Chemehuevi), and Pipa Aha Macav (Mojave). The area features ancient trails, petroglyphs, habitation sites, some dating back thousands of years, and historic landmarks like the Bradshaw Trail and the Desert Training Center used during World War II.
The monument also protects diverse ecosystems and habitats vital for rare and endemic species such as Agassiz’s desert tortoise, Sonoran Desert pronghorn, and desert bighorn sheep. Unique vegetation, including the Chuckwalla cholla and Munz’s cholla, thrives in this environment, with areas like Milpitas Wash and the Chuckwalla Bench supporting important woodlands and bird populations. In addition to its ecological value, the region holds significant geological features shaped by tectonic activity, such as the San Andreas Fault. It has been a research site for geologists and a training ground for Apollo astronauts.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will oversee the monument, prioritizing preservation, public engagement, and collaboration with Tribal Nations. The proclamation prohibits new mining and grazing activities, protects sacred sites and traditional practices, and ensures that renewable energy projects are confined to designated areas. Recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching will be supported while minimizing environmental impact, with transportation plans regulating motorized and non-motorized vehicle use.
The Chuckwalla National Monument is committed to protecting cultural heritage, ecological diversity, and scientific resources for future generations. The monument balances conservation with responsible public access and stewardship by preserving its unique landscapes and honoring its Indigenous significance.
President Biden issued a proclamation establishing the Sáttítla Highlands National Monument, designating approximately 224,676 acres in northern California as a protected area. Centered around the Medicine Lake Volcano, one of the largest in the Cascades, the region holds immense cultural, historical, geological, and ecological significance. Known as "Sáttítla" in the Ajumawi language, meaning "obsidian place," it has been home to Indigenous peoples for over 5,000 years. The area is deeply sacred to Tribal Nations, including the Pit River (Ajumawi-Atsugewi), Modoc, Karuk, and others. It has been a site for vision quests, medicinal plant gatherings, cultural burning, and ceremonies. Medicine Lake, at the heart of this region, is revered for its healing properties and spiritual importance.
The monument features extraordinary geological formations, including vast lava flows, cinder cones, spatter cones, tree molds, and the world's longest lava tube system. These formations are valuable for scientific study, with the region even serving as a training site for Apollo astronauts. Ecologically, Sáttítla is home to diverse habitats supporting rare and sensitive species such as the northern spotted owl, Franklin’s bumblebee, whitebark pine, and Sierra Nevada red fox. Its high-elevation areas act as climate refuges, while traditional plants used by Indigenous peoples for food, medicine, and tools are abundant throughout the region.
The area also has significant historical significance. It was the site of displacement and violence against Indigenous peoples, particularly during the Modoc War. The area includes remnants of early settlement and industrial activity, such as historic roads and railroad logging operations. The monument's designation protects these cultural and natural resources while providing recreational opportunities like hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing.
The U.S. Forest Service will manage the monument with the Department of the Interior, Tribal Nations, and other stakeholders. The management plan emphasizes preserving the region's natural quiet, dark skies, and cultural practices. Existing activities, such as livestock grazing and infrastructure use, will continue with limitations to protect the landscape. An advisory committee and co-stewardship opportunities will ensure Indigenous knowledge and expertise guide the monument’s care. This designation preserves the Sáttítla Highlands as a vital cultural, scientific, and ecological treasure for future generations.
President Biden’s Executive Order on Advancing United States Leadership in Artificial Intelligence (AI) Infrastructure establishes a comprehensive plan to secure U.S. dominance in AI while enhancing national security, economic competitiveness, and clean energy innovation. Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, the order emphasizes the need for a robust domestic infrastructure to prevent adversaries from leveraging advanced AI technologies and to ensure the United States remains a global leader in this field. It outlines a strategy to construct gigawatt-scale AI data centers and clean power facilities on federally leased sites, with private developers funding these projects entirely. These developments will be coupled with advancements in clean energy, including geothermal, solar, and nuclear power, to sustainably meet the significant energy demands of AI infrastructure.
The order directs the Department of Defense (DOD) and Department of Energy (DOE) to lease federal lands for AI infrastructure development while requiring private developers to align data center energy needs with new clean power resources. Additionally, agencies are tasked with expediting permitting processes while maintaining environmental standards, modernizing grid infrastructure, and promoting distributed energy solutions to support AI operations without increasing electricity costs for consumers. Security measures for AI data centers will be strengthened to safeguard national security, and collaboration between the government and developers will ensure AI models are developed responsibly.
Economic competitiveness and community benefits are central to the initiative. Developers must adhere to high labor standards, support domestic semiconductor production, and advance small businesses and startups within the AI ecosystem. The order also mandates efforts to maintain low energy costs, advance research into energy efficiency for AI data centers, and engage with allies to promote the global development of trusted AI infrastructure. These efforts align with the administration’s broader goals of driving clean energy innovation, securing national defense, and fostering technological leadership.
In statements accompanying the order, President Biden emphasized that building domestic AI infrastructure will position the U.S. to lead the future of AI while safeguarding the environment and supporting clean energy technologies. Vice President Harris highlighted the profound implications of AI for the economy, society, and national security, affirming the administration’s commitment to responsibly leveraging federal resources to accelerate AI operations. Together, these efforts aim to ensure the United States remains at the forefront of AI innovation, powering its economy and protecting its interests for future generations.
President Biden has announced new measures to address national security risks associated with connected vehicle technologies linked to China and Russia. A final rule issued by the Department of Commerce prohibits importing, selling, and using connected vehicle systems (hardware and software) developed or supplied by entities tied to these adversarial nations. The rule aims to protect U.S. critical infrastructure and supply chains from potential cyber threats, such as espionage and disruptive attacks, which could compromise sensitive data and public safety. Restrictions will apply to Vehicle Connectivity Systems (VCS) and Automated Driving Systems (ADS), with software prohibitions taking effect for Model Year 2027 and hardware restrictions for Model Year 2030. Additionally, vehicles produced by companies under Chinese or Russian control will be banned from U.S. markets, regardless of where they are manufactured.
While the current rule focuses on passenger vehicles, the Department of Commerce plans to expand regulations to address risks posed by commercial vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds, given their unique national security implications. This final rule follows a year-long industry consultation process and international collaboration to mitigate risks while minimizing market disruptions. The administration also hosted a multinational meeting in 2024 to establish global cybersecurity standards and coordinate policy measures. By implementing these actions, the Biden-Harris Administration aims to secure critical supply chains, protect sensitive data, and safeguard the integrity of U.S. transportation infrastructure.
Vice President Harris spoke with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, expressing regret for canceling her visit to Singapore due to the historic wildfires in Los Angeles. She reaffirmed the strong U.S.-Singapore partnership, highlighting progress on initiatives launched during her 2021 visit, including climate and clean energy, cybersecurity, supply chain resilience, emerging technology, and military cooperation. Harris emphasized the importance of defending international rules, including freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and strengthening U.S.-ASEAN relations. She underscored U.S. commitment to the Indo-Pacific and expressed optimism about Southeast Asia’s dynamism and contributions to regional security and prosperity.
In her call with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., Vice President Harris lauded the strength of the U.S.-Philippines alliance and their close cooperation over the past two and a half years, marked by six meetings across Manila, Washington, D.C., Jakarta, and San Francisco. The conversation reviewed collaboration progress in climate, technology, critical minerals, semiconductor supply chains, maritime security, and economic growth, building on her 2022 visit to the Philippines and historic visit to Palawan. Harris reaffirmed U.S. commitments to defending international norms in the South China Sea, standing with the Philippines against provocations by China, and strengthening defense ties. She also emphasized trilateral cooperation with Japan as a key pillar of regional security, referencing a leader-level meeting in Jakarta in 2023.
The Biden-Harris Administration Roadmap for Pandemic Preparedness and Response outlines significant achievements in combating COVID-19 and preparing for future pandemics. The administration spearheaded the largest vaccination program in U.S. history, administering over 270 million doses by May 2023 through 90,000 locations, with vaccines made freely available. Testing capacity was dramatically expanded through investments in supplies, the creation of 21,500 free testing sites, and the distribution of 750 million at-home tests. Access to treatments was also prioritized, with 20 million antiviral courses provided and initiatives like Test-to-Treat ensuring timely care.
Equity was central to the response. The COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force addressed disparities, closing vaccination gaps in underserved communities, and $785 million was allocated to boost vaccine confidence in vulnerable populations. Community health centers and outreach workers were supported to focus on high-risk and underserved groups. These efforts contributed to a sharp decline in COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations by over 90% from January 2021 to May 2023. Simultaneously, the American Rescue Plan spurred economic recovery, creating 4 million jobs, reducing child poverty, and reopening schools nationwide.
Globally, the administration donated 700 million vaccine doses and invested $16 billion to combat the pandemic abroad. Partnerships were strengthened to address vaccine equity, including initiatives to boost African vaccine manufacturing capabilities. Domestically, new surveillance tools like wastewater monitoring and genomic sequencing were developed to detect outbreaks early. At the same time, coordinated responses addressed emerging threats like avian flu, Mpox, and the Marburg virus with vaccine stockpiles and rapid diagnostics.
The Strategic National Stockpile was replenished to enhance future preparedness, domestic PPE manufacturing was strengthened, and advanced mRNA vaccine research was prioritized. The Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy was also established to streamline coordination against biological threats. Through these actions, the Biden-Harris Administration transformed the U.S. pandemic response framework, safeguarding public health, restoring economic stability, and creating a robust foundation for resilience against future challenges.
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a series of measures to address the nationwide shortage of affordable housing, reduce housing costs, and strengthen renter protections. As part of the broader Housing Supply Action Plan, $100 million in grants through the PRO Housing program will support communities in removing barriers to affordable housing production and preservation. Additionally, the Department of Transportation approved its first transit-oriented development loan for a residential project in Boca Raton, Florida, which will create over 300 housing units. Efforts to boost housing supply include streamlining federal historic preservation regulations, updating HUD underwriting standards to encourage middle-income housing, and simplifying the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, the nation’s largest block grant for affordable housing.
To further enhance housing options, new rules have been introduced to facilitate the repurposing of surplus federal properties for housing development, such as a USPS project in Atlanta aimed at creating hundreds of affordable units. The Treasury Department has also launched a $100 million initiative to fund affordable housing through the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund. At the same time, the Department of Transportation has updated grant criteria to reward communities that promote affordable housing near transit.
The administration has also strengthened renter protections. A new eviction prevention rule requires public housing authorities to give tenants a 30-day written notice before initiating eviction proceedings, including detailed information on rent owed and how to resolve lease violations. HUD awarded $40 million to expand the Eviction Protection Grant Program, which offers free legal assistance to low-income tenants at risk of eviction. This investment builds on an earlier $40 million investment already supporting over 44,000 households.
Additional efforts include a USDA pilot program to help rural homeowners repair their homes by easing contractor payment rules. These initiatives aim to increase housing affordability, boost supply, and protect renters, aligning with the administration’s Housing Supply Action Plan and the Blueprint for a Renters Bill of Rights.
The Biden-Harris Administration convened state leaders, law enforcement groups, and the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST) to advance efforts in police accountability and community safety. The event focused on the National Decertification Index (NDI), a nationwide database tracking police misconduct in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., which helps law enforcement agencies avoid hiring officers with disqualifying misconduct records. IADLEST presented the benefits of using the NDI and outlined planned enhancements, including expanding the database to cover additional types of misconduct. State leaders shared success stories where the NDI prevented hiring officers with serious misconduct in their states.
Representatives from 28 states participated in the convening, reflecting broad support for the initiative. The administration has implemented incentives to encourage law enforcement agencies to adopt the NDI, such as prioritizing grant awards for participating agencies, establishing accreditation standards that require NDI use, and allocating $3 million to expand the database. Additionally, the administration has created the National Law Enforcement Accountability Database (NLEAD), the first federal police misconduct database, which 90 federal law enforcement agencies actively use. These efforts highlight the administration’s commitment to promoting accountability and enhancing public safety through improved policing practices.
The Biden-Harris Administration has made historic investments to strengthen and modernize America’s food system across the supply chain. Efforts focus on empowering consumers, improving food access, supporting farmers, addressing equity, and combating climate change. The Administration has prioritized consumer empowerment by proposing front-of-package labeling to simplify nutrition information, modernizing SNAP and WIC programs, expanding free school meals, and establishing a permanent summer grocery benefit. Additionally, initiatives like "Food is Medicine" integrate nutrition into healthcare policies, promoting better health outcomes through access to nutritious food.
Farmers have benefited from climate-smart agriculture investments, including $3 billion for practices sequestering 400,000 metric tons of carbon and enrolling over 3.2 million acres of farmland. Renewable energy initiatives, backed by $19.5 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act, have expanded clean energy access in rural areas, while $300 million has been allocated to support organic farming transitions. These efforts aim to diversify farmer income and enhance sustainability.
Equity and inclusion are central to the Administration’s approach. Reforms at the USDA address historical discrimination, providing $2 billion in financial assistance for victims and launching programs to support underserved farmers. Investments in local food systems and processing infrastructure, totaling $1.4 billion, have enhanced market opportunities for farmers, including specialized support for Tribal Nations and small processors. At the same time, efforts to modernize supply chains have bolstered resilience and improved market access.
The Administration has also focused on reducing hunger and improving nutrition security. A national strategy to end hunger by 2030 was launched alongside initiatives to improve school meals, reduce sodium and sugar in public food systems, and expand food security programs for military families. These actions complement new rules to improve food safety, including measures to combat Salmonella and toxic elements in food products.
Efforts to support agricultural workers have included $670 million in pandemic relief and strengthened protections against heat and pesticide exposure. The Administration also emphasized reducing food loss and waste through a national strategy, allocating $57 million to prevent surplus food from being discarded. Globally, U.S. agricultural exports have reached record levels due to diversification and targeted trade programs. Domestically, over $8.4 billion has been invested in agricultural research and innovation, focusing on sustainability, biotechnology, and advanced technologies like AI.
Overall, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken a holistic approach to modernizing the U.S. food system, improving its resilience, equity, and sustainability while supporting farmers, workers, and consumers.
President Biden issued a certification rescinding Cuba’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism. This decision is based on two key determinations: first, that the Government of Cuba has not provided support for international terrorism during the preceding six months, and second, that Cuba has offered assurances it will not support acts of international terrorism in the future. The certification complies with relevant U.S. laws, including sections of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019, the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, the Arms Export Control Act, and the Export Administration Act, as maintained under Executive Order 13222. This move formally acknowledges Cuba’s compliance with these conditions and fulfills legal requirements for the rescission the designation.
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced measures to support the Cuban people, focusing on advancing human rights and improving their quality of life. President Biden has determined that Cuba should no longer be designated as a State Sponsor of Terrorism, a decision that has been communicated to Congress. Additionally, the President issued a six-month waiver for Title III of the Helms-Burton Act, suspending provisions that allow lawsuits against entities trafficking in confiscated property in Cuba. Another significant step includes rescission a 2017 National Security Presidential Memorandum on Cuba, thereby removing additional restrictions on U.S. engagement with Cuban entities beyond what is required by U.S. legislation.
These actions were taken in collaboration with the Catholic Church under the leadership of Pope Francis, who has played a key role in facilitating dialogue with the Cuban government. As part of this ongoing engagement, the Church has informed the U.S. that Cuba will soon release a substantial number of political prisoners. President Biden’s decisions reflect input from global leaders, particularly in Latin America, who have encouraged these actions to advance human rights and improve conditions for the Cuban people. The administration underscores its commitment to empowering Cubans and fostering progress through these measures.
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced new measures to address emerging firearm threats and improve school-based active shooter drills. Federal departments, including Education, Health and Human Services, and Homeland Security, released resources to help schools design effective and minimally harmful drills. Recommendations emphasize providing advance notice, avoiding simulated violence, ensuring age-appropriate content, and addressing the needs of all students, including those with disabilities. These efforts align with broader investments in youth mental health, gun violence prevention, red flag laws, and enhanced background checks.
To combat emerging firearm threats, the Administration is focusing on machinegun conversion devices (MCDs) and 3D-printed firearms, which present significant public safety risks. Strategies include shutting down websites selling illegal firearm components, enhancing detection at ports of entry, using forensic tools for tracing, and developing software solutions to block the 3D printing of firearms. Legislative updates have been proposed to prohibit the possession or distribution of software enabling 3D printing of firearms or MCDs and modernize the Undetectable Firearms Act to address evolving threats.
The risks associated with these threats are considerable. MCDs can convert semi-automatic weapons into fully automatic firearms and are often linked to illegal imports, with over 12,000 recovered since 2022. Additionally, 3D-printed firearms are untraceable and can evade metal detectors, posing significant challenges for law enforcement and security. Criminal organizations increasingly use these firearms and exacerbate national and international security risks.
To address these issues, the Administration recommends increasing funding for technology and enforcement, enhancing interagency collaboration, and coordinating internationally to curb the proliferation of 3D-printed and undetectable firearms. Updating regulatory frameworks to address the use and distribution of firearm-related software is also critical. These actions represent a comprehensive approach to mitigating firearm threats while enhancing safety in schools and communities.
President Biden, Vice President Harris, and senior officials held a briefing in the Oval Office to address the federal response to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The President emphasized the significant progress in containing fires in Ventura (100%), Sylmar (95%), Pasadena (33%), and Pacific Palisades (14%). However, he acknowledged the immense damage, with thousands of homes destroyed and ongoing threats due to strong winds and dry conditions. The federal government has committed to covering 100% of certain recovery costs, such as firefighter overtime and debris removal, for 180 days. Additional resources, including helicopters, fire engines, and 500 Marines, have been deployed to support search and rescue operations and distribute aid. Nearly 6,000 survivors have received $5.1 million in immediate assistance, with each eligible individual provided $770 for essential needs. The President called on Congress to allocate billions for long-term recovery efforts.
Vice President Harris highlighted the emotional toll of the fires on residents who have lost lives, homes, and normalcy. She urged the public to remain vigilant, as strong winds, with gusts up to 70 mph, could worsen conditions. Evacuees were advised to follow local orders and prepare for potential evacuations. Harris praised the resilience of communities and the bravery of first responders, emphasizing the importance of patience during this critical period.
U.S. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore provided an update on firefighting efforts. The Eaton Fire remains 33% contained, with other fires, such as the Palisades Fire (18% contained), still posing risks. Over 40,000 structures are at risk, and 9,000 firefighters are actively engaged, supported by over 115 crews, 540 engines, and international assistance from Canada and Mexico. Aviation resources, including water-dropping helicopters, are crucial but limited by high winds. Moore noted ongoing post-fire recovery efforts, including burn severity mapping and watershed recovery planning.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell described the trauma faced by survivors and detailed FEMA’s support programs, including shelter assistance and reimbursement for hotel stays. She highlighted efforts to combat misinformation, such as false claims about FEMA benefits, and reassured survivors that resources are available. FEMA has pre-positioned supplies like food and water and works closely with local and state officials to meet recovery needs. Criswell emphasized the importance of accurate communication and direct outreach to survivors to ensure they receive help.
The briefing concluded by reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to assisting affected communities. Officials praised the heroic efforts of first responders and the resilience of residents, pledging to continue support through immediate relief and long-term recovery initiatives.
President Biden transmitted to Congress the Agreement for Cooperation between the United States and the Kingdom of Thailand concerning the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Submitted under subsections 123(b) and 123(d) of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, the Agreement is accompanied by the President's written approval, an unclassified Nuclear Proliferation Assessment Statement (NPAS), and a classified annex prepared by the Secretary of State in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence. Additional supporting documents include recommendations from the Secretaries of State and Energy, a letter from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and an addendum analyzing Thailand’s export control system regarding nuclear-related matters.
The Agreement establishes a framework for peaceful nuclear cooperation based on mutual commitments to nonproliferation. It permits the transfer of materials, equipment, components, and information for peaceful purposes but prohibits the transfer of Restricted Data and sensitive nuclear technology. Any special fissionable material provided to Thailand will be limited to low-enriched uranium or small quantities for specific uses. Thailand relies on international markets for nuclear fuel services rather than pursuing sensitive nuclear technologies such as enrichment or reprocessing. At the same time, the United States affirms its intent to support these markets to ensure Thailand’s nuclear fuel supply.
The 30-year agreement can be terminated by either party with one year's notice. Even after termination, nonproliferation controls remain in effect as long as either party has jurisdiction over materials or equipment governed by the Agreement. Thailand emphasizes its adherence to global nonproliferation standards, as it is a party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone Treaty.
The President concluded that the Agreement meets all statutory requirements, advances U.S. foreign policy and nonproliferation objectives, and does not pose an unreasonable risk to national defense or security. He urged Congress to approve the Agreement and indicated the administration’s readiness to consult with congressional committees during the mandated review period, which spans 90 continuous session days.
President Biden submitted the Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters between the United States and the United Arab Emirates to the Senate for ratification. Signed in Abu Dhabi on February 24, 2022, the treaty is designed to enhance cooperation between the two nations in investigating and prosecuting various crimes. It includes provisions for taking evidence, testimony, and statements; providing and authenticating documents and evidence; locating or identifying individuals and items; serving legal documents; and facilitating the temporary transfer of persons in custody for testimony. Additionally, the treaty addresses executing searches and seizures and identifying, seizing, and forfeiting criminal assets while supporting related legal proceedings. President Biden emphasized the treaty's importance in countering criminal activities more effectively and urged the Senate to give it early and favorable consideration for ratification.
President Biden has issued a notice to Congress to extend the national emergency regarding the situation in the West Bank, initially declared in Executive Order 14115 on February 1, 2024. The decision is based on ongoing threats to U.S. national security and foreign policy caused by extremist settler violence, forced displacement, and property destruction in the West Bank. These issues undermine U.S. foreign policy goals, including the viability of a two-state solution, regional peace, and the security of Israel while increasing risks of broader destabilization in the Middle East.
Under the National Emergencies Act, the extension extends the emergency for one year beyond February 1, 2025. This notice will be published in the Federal Register and submitted to Congress.