President Biden to Meet with Union Leaders and Discuss Port Contract
In an hour, President Biden will be meeting with leaders of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) to congratulate them on finalizing a new contract. The ILWU represents 22,000 workers at West Coast ports, including the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, which handle 40 percent of the nation’s cargo containers. The contract guarantees a 32 percent pay increase over six years and is a significant achievement for both the workers and the administration. Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su played a crucial role in reaching this agreement.
During the meeting, President Biden will also discuss his administration’s progress in strengthening America’s ports and supply chains. Thanks to the work of the President’s Supply Chain Distribution Disruptions Task Force, supply chains have been unsnarled, and record cargo levels have been moved through the ports over the past two years. As a result, East-West ocean shipping prices have plummeted nearly 90 percent, helping to lower inflation. Furthermore, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Legislation Law is making substantial investments in port modernization, and the Ocean Shipping Reform Act is cracking down on foreign shipping companies to lower prices for goods. The CHIPS Act and Inflation Reduction Act are also strengthening supply chains for everyday items.
Russia’s Air Strikes in Ukraine Highlight the Need for Support
Russia has launched a new wave of air strikes against Ukraine, killing at least 16 people and injuring dozens more. These attacks underscore the importance of continuing to support Ukraine as it defends its territory against Russian aggression. Secretary Blinken is currently in Ukraine, carrying a message of solidarity and support from the United States. To further demonstrate this support, the United States is announcing a new security assistance package that includes ammunition for artillery and HIMARS systems, Javelin and anti-armor systems, tank ammunition, and an air defense system. The United States and its allies will stand with Ukraine until the Kremlin withdraws its forces and ends the war.
House Republicans Considering Breaking Bipartisan Budget Agreement
Earlier this year, a bipartisan budget agreement was made, promising certain commitments to the American people. However, House Republicans are now considering breaking this explicit promise due to pressure from extreme members of their party. This would have severe consequences, such as making troops and Border Patrol agents work without paychecks, damaging the economy, and undermining the ability to respond to crises like fentanyl trafficking and natural disasters. As part of the Unity Agenda, President Biden is urging Congress to provide $800 million in emergency funding to fight fentanyl trafficking and counter the illegal importation of this deadly substance from China. Congressional Republicans have previously acknowledged the urgency of addressing the fentanyl issue, and now is the time to act and keep their promises.
President Biden’s COVID-19 Test Results and Travel Plans
President Biden tested negative for COVID-19 this morning, following negative tests on Monday night and yesterday. He is not experiencing any symptoms, and the First Lady is also doing well. The President will continue to follow CDC guidelines, which recommend a combination of masking, testing, and symptom monitoring. The testing cadence for future trips and whether he will be tested in India and Vietnam is yet to be determined. However, all travelers going to India, including the President, will be tested. Transparency regarding the President’s testing is a priority, and updates will be provided accordingly.
Concerns about Mask Usage at the Medal of Honor Ceremony
There have been questions regarding President Biden’s mask usage at the recent Medal of Honor ceremony. CDC guidelines state that individuals should wear a high-quality mask indoors when around others. The President did wear a mask during the ceremony but took it off at some point. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed this issue, emphasizing the importance of the ceremony and the President’s adherence to guidelines when appropriate. The President took off his mask, as planned, to properly deliver his remarks, and the situation will be handled in accordance with CDC guidelines and the President’s physician’s recommendations.
Q&A Session
During the press briefing, Press Secretary Jean-Pierre addressed various questions from reporters. One of the questions concerned Vice President Harris’s statement about holding individuals accountable for efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Jean-Pierre emphasized that Vice President Harris was affirming her belief in the rule of law and our system of laws. The Department of Justice will independently handle these matters, and the administration will continue to support the appropriate processes.
Another question focused on the President’s mask usage at the Medal of Honor ceremony. Jean-Pierre explained that the President took off his mask as planned to deliver his remarks and followed CDC guidelines and recommendations. The briefing concluded with additional questions and clarifications regarding the President’s COVID-19 testing and travel plans.
Original Story at www.whitehouse.gov – 2023-09-06 23:04:07
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