South Lawn

9:30 A.M. EDT

Q Mr. President, can the country afford the port strike? Can the country afford these ships to stay off [inaudible]?

THE PRESIDENT: I think we're making progress on that.

Q How much progress, sir?

THE PRESIDENT: We'll find out soon.

Q What kind of sanctions —

Q Any updates on —

Q What kind of sanctions are you considering on Iran? What kind of sanctions are you considering?

THE PRESIDENT: I'll tell them before I tell you.

Q Did Tim Walz lose the debate?

Q Any updates on the hostages — on the hostages in Gaza, sir?

Q Did Tim Walz lose the debate?

THE PRESIDENT: No, he didn't. And, by the way, the other guy lost the debate. He misrepresented everything, including — anyway, I —

Q Sir — the hostages in Gaza, sir. The hostages in Gaza. Do you have any updates on them?

THE PRESIDENT: Not — not right now.

[Cross-talk]

Q Would you support Israel striking Iran's oil facilities, sir?

THE PRESIDENT: We're in discussion of that. I think — I think that would be a little — anyway.

Q Do you believe that Donald Trump was acting as a private candidate and not as president when he sought to overturn the 2020 election, as Jack Smith laid out in his filing?

THE PRESIDENT: I'll let Jack Smith make that case.

[Cross-talk]

Q [Inaudible] response to the retaliation? Will you let Israel retaliate? What are the plans to allow Israel to strike back against Iran?

THE PRESIDENT: First of all, we don't allow Israel. We advise Israel. And there's nothing going to happen today. We'll talk about that later.

Q G20 and APEC Summits next month. Is it a good chance to sit down with President Putin to discuss international security?

THE PRESIDENT: I'm sorry?

Q G20 and APEC Summits next month. Is it a good chance to discuss international security and Ukraine with Putin?

THE PRESIDENT: I doubt whether Putin will show up.

Q Are you surprised the race between Harris and Trump is so close right now? Are you surprised?

THE PRESIDENT: No, I'm not. It always gets this close. She's going to do fine.

9:32 A.M. EDT

I applaud the historic agreement and conclusion of the negotiations between the Republic of Mauritius and the United Kingdom on the status of the Chagos Archipelago. It is a clear demonstration that through diplomacy and partnership, countries can overcome long-standing historical challenges to reach peaceful and mutually beneficial outcomes. This agreement affirms Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, while granting the United Kingdom the authority to exercise the sovereign rights of Mauritius with respect to Diego Garcia.

Diego Garcia is the site of a joint U.S.-UK military facility that plays a vital role in national, regional, and global security. It enables the United States to support operations that demonstrate our shared commitment to regional stability, provide rapid response to crises, and counter some of the most challenging security threats we face. The agreement secures the effective operation of the joint facility on Diego Garcia into the next century.

We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Mauritius and the United Kingdom in upholding a free and open Indo-Pacific.

5:05 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, Gov. Good afternoon, everyone.

I don't have to tell this group that Hurricane Helene has been a storm literally of historic proportions. The damage is still being assessed but — and many people are still unaccounted for.

So, I'm here to say the United States, the nation has your back. The nation has your back. We're not leaving until you're back on your feet completely.

You know, we're in a situation where earlier this morning I met with state and local police in Greenville, South Carolina. Then I took an aerial tour of western North Carolina to survey the damage. And I came here in Raleigh to receive a briefing from all of you and — who have been working nonstop to provide the support that you need and the survivors need.

You know, it goes — my heart goes out to everyone who has experienced the unthinkable loss. But we're here for you.

And I want to thank Republican governor of South Carolina and the Democratic governor of North Carolina and all of the elected officials who've focused on the task at hand. In a moment like this, we put politics aside. At least we should put it all aside, and we have here. There are no Democrats or Republicans; there are only Americans. And our job is to help as many people as we can as quickly as we can and as thoroughly as we can.

You know, that's why even before the storm hit, I directed the entire federal government to use every possible resource to help communities across the nation — across the region get ready. We deployed over 1,000 first responders throughout the Southeast. I immediately approved emergency declarations as soon as I received the requests from your governors. And today, I approved the request of Governor Cooper for the federal government to cover 100 percent — 100 percent of all the costs for debris removal, emergency protective measures for six months — all the costs. [Applause]

Well, this — this really matters.

There are 70 North Carolinians who are dead and 100 more who are unaccounted for. And much of Asheville is underwater.

It was — I've flown over an awful lot of storm-damaged areas since I've been president. Matter of fact, most of — many of them forest fires. And I — we've — with — the FEMA director and I have flown over more — more forest that's been taken down to the ground because of fires and a whole range of other reasons than makes up the entire state of Maryland. And — and so, I've seen a lot.

But we're looking at Asheville and just imagining what it must have been like sitting along those rivers and streams as all that rain came down. What, 19 inches of rain? Something like that. An incredible amount of rain. Watching homes — you could see homes that are moved from — clearly from one side of the river, down the river, to another side of the river.

And I can only imagine what it's like to have been in one of those homes. And much of Asheville was underwater. Much of it was underwater. What a beautiful, beautiful part of the country. I've been to Asheville before. It's a magnificent part of Appalachia. Much of it was underwater.

Communities like Chimney Rock are reduced to piles of wood and debris. I mean, that's — you look down, that's what you see, as we flew over in the — circled in the helicopter.

And this is going to pay for — this will pay for the urgent work we need to clear landslides, to provide shelters, and supply food and medicine.

But today, I'm also directing the Department of Defense to move up 1,000 soldiers to reinforce North Carolina's National Guard, because they need additional assistance. These soldiers are out of Fort Liberty here in — right here in North Carolina and are available for responsive operations starting today — starting today.

They're going to spend — they're going to speed up the delivery of lifesaving supplies like food, water, and medicine to isolated communities over what the Pentagon calls "the last tactical mile" — "the last tactical mile."

Simply put, we've got the capabilities to get the job done, and we're going to get it done as fast as possible.

I've also directed the development of Starlink sa- — a deployment of Starlink satellites. Fifty — fifty are in place right now and more are going to be put in place so people in places like Canton can call for help and reach the ones that love — loved ones who they're not sure whether anybody on the other end of that phone because there's no cell service.

And on top of this, FEMA teams are offering free temporary housing and hotel rooms for eligible residents. They're continuing to send helicopters and trucks to deliver hundreds of thousands of meals and liters of water in communities every single day.

And they're — and they're knocking — literally knocking on doors and visiting shelters to register folks so they can receive assistance to buy the urgent needs that they have because they've lost everything, like prescriptions and baby formula and essentials. This is a direct assistance that is being delivered here today, not — not later but today.

And so — but, folks, it's going to take — cost us billions of dollars. It's going to cost billions of dollars to deal with this storm and all the — all the communities affected. And Congress has an obligation to ensure the storts — the — the states have the resources they need.

Let me close with this. Nobody can deny the impact of climate crisis anymore. At least I hope they don't. They must be brain-dead if they do. Scientists report that with warming oceans powering more intense rains, storms like Helene are getting stronger and stronger. Not going to get — they're not going to get less; they're going to get stronger.

Today, in North Carolina, I saw the impacts of that fury: massive trees uprooted; homes literally swept off their foundations, swept down rivers; you know, families that are heartbroken.

But there are also neighbors helping neighbors. That's the other thing we were talking about coming over here in a — in an automobile. It's amazing when people step up when people are in need, because they're neighbors. I think we underestimate that.

That's why one of the things I did with all the — all I put in place in terms of everything from the Recovery Act on down is that we have actually invested more funding under my administration in the so-called red states than blue states, because the need was greater; they're larger states with larger territories.

Because this — everyone — this is about America. It's not about one state or another, Democrat or Republican. It's about America.

Volunteers, first responders are standing side by side, people leaning on each other to pick up the pieces that are left over. And that's the best of America.

I — I firmly believe — and I'm saying this, saying this, saying it for three years — there's nothing beyond our capacity to do — nothing, nothing, nothing. This is the United States of America, for God's sake. Whenever we work together, we've never failed to get something done.

So, I thank everyone who has been working tirelessly and cold, wet, and hungry to — to get the job done. And Kamala and I are here until the end.

And I want to — God bless you all.

And I'd like to turn it now over to Director Will Ray.

5:13 P.M. EDT

Meadowbrook Neighborhood
Augusta, Georgia

4:35 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT: So, I'm here in Augusta to, first and foremost, thank the federal, state, and local leaders. Mayor, I want to thank you for your leadership, in particular, on the ground.

I am here to personally take a look at the devastation, which is extraordinary, and it is — and particularly devastating in terms of the loss of life that this community has experienced, the loss of normalcy, and the loss of critical resources.

And so, I'm here today to — to thank all of those who are working to get folks the support and the relief that they so desperately need and so rightly deserve. And — and that includes the fact that still, in this community, up to 60 percent of the residents here do not have power. Many have been without running water for at least a couple of days now. Many are — have water but no hot water.

I was just talking with one of the members of the community and her daughter who lost her husband. And — and there is real pain and trauma that has resulted because of this — this hurricane and what has happened in terms of the aftermath of it.

I do want to acknowledge and thank the first responders, who have been extraordinary. Having met with them, they are the kind of folks that are the heroes in moments of crisis who do extraordinary work that is about lifting up other people.

As it relates in particular to the leaders who are here and doing that work, including the first responders, most of them, as it relates to the local folks, are folks who have personally and their families have personally experienced loss and devastation. And yet they leave their home, leave their family to go to centers like where I was earlier to do the work of helping perfect strangers.

And it really does highlight the nobility of the kind of work that these public servants have dedicated themselves to, which can be, in moments of crisis like this, so selfless in the way that they do that work.

The president and I have been paying close attention from the beginning to what we need to do to make sure the federal resources hit the ground as quickly as possible, and that includes what was necessary to make sure that we provided direct federal assistance. And that work has been happening.

I want to thank the governor for his leadership and his close coordination with the federal government, with our administration. And I want to thank the local leaders for, together, creating a task force-like response, knowing that we are at our best when we work together and coordinate resources, coordinate our communications to the maximum effect for the community that has been impacted.

And the federal relief and assistance that we have been providing has included FEMA providing $750 for folks who need immediate needs being met, such as food, baby formula, and the like. And you can apply now.

For anyone who is watching this, who has been affected, there are FEMA personnel who are going door — door to door to interact personally with folks, especially those who do not have electricity. But also, that — that aid, — if you have electricity, can be applied for online, and I encourage people to do that. FEMA will just basically verify your address, and then the process should take hold.

FEMA is also providing tens of thousands more dollars for folks to help them be able to deal with home repair, to be able to cover a deductible when and if they have insurance, and also hotel costs.

Today, I'm also announcing that the president has approved the governor's request for 100 percent federal reimbursement of local costs.

And, Mayor, as you have pointed out, the — the burden to local governments, including state — the state government, is — is pretty immense. And so, by announcing today and — and making the dedicated resources to cover 100 percent of local costs will have a huge impact on our ability to get relief to people as quickly as possible.

And that will include, for example, what the federal government will do to reimburse local and state governments around issues like debris removal, which you can see just up and down this street, much less in other areas of the state and in the region, this is a big issue. I was speaking with one of the residents of the community who needs that big tree removed so she can actually get to work and — and make sure that her child is able to get to school when the schools reopen. So, this is a very big part of the recovery process.

That money of the federal reimbursement will also help with emergency services that are now being provided by the state so that they can be reimbursed and then have the resources to keep providing those emergency services.

Also, we will be covering the local government costs for food, wa- — water, and shelter — again, resources that are desperately needed by the members of this community.

And so, my final point to the — to the residents of this community and — and the region is that we are here for the long haul. There is the work that we have done together that was the immediate response — well, preparation for and then the immediate response after. But there's a lot of work that's going to need to happen over the coming days, weeks, and months. And the coordination that we have dedicated ourselves to will be long-lasting to get families, to get residents, to get neighborhoods back up and running.

And — and my last point is this. I think that in these moments of hardship, one of the beauties about who we are as a country is — is people really rally together and show the best of who they are in moments of crisis. And we have seen that throughout the region where communities are coming together; where — where people are helping perfect strangers; where they are providing food, wa- — water, shelter for their neighbors, and that neighbor may be somebody they've never met before but are doing the work of helping each other out.

And I think it really highlights the fact that the vast majority of us have so much more in common than what separates us and that the best of — the strength of who we are is we come to each other's aid in a time of need.

So, I thank everyone for doing that kind of work every day.

And with that, there is more work to be done. Thank you all. Thank you. Thank you.

Q Do you have an update on the death toll, Madam Vice President, or on people who are missing?

THE VICE PRESIDENT: I — I did receive updates in terms of what's happening in the state. And — and so far, the number looks to be 33. The — the mayor was just sharing with me —

PARTICIPANT: Seven in Ri- — Augusta-Richmond County alone. Seven.

THE VICE PRESIDENT: Seven alone in August-Richmond County. So, the numbers are coming in. And part of the challenge of being accurate at this moment is that there are still so many areas that are remote, also rural areas, areas that are not easily accessible. So, the assessment of the damage is being done across the board. And, of course, the — the highest priority is to locate and determine individuals, people who are in need and making sure we're getting to them as quickly as possible.

Thank you.

END 4:44 P.M. EDT

Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the State of North Carolina by authorizing an increase in the level of federal funding for emergency work undertaken in the State of North Carolina as a result of Tropical Storm Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing.

Under the President's order today, the Federal funds for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance has been increased to 100 percent of the total eligible costs for 180 days from the start of the incident period.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT [202] 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the State of Florida by authorizing an increase in the level of Federal funding for emergency work undertaken in the State of Florida as a result of Hurricane Helene beginning on September 23, 2024, and continuing.

Under the President's order today, Federal funds for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance, has been increased to 100 percent of the total eligible costs for 90 days from the start of the incident period.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT [202] 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

1:16 P.M. EDT

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay. I just have a couple things at the top, and then I'll turn it over.

So, we're headed to South Carolina and North Carolina, where the president will meet with state and local leaders and personally survey the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.

In South Carolina, the president will engage with first responders and state and local officials.

In North Carolina, he will take an aerial tour of areas in western North Carolina that were impacted by the storm.

Today, the president announced that he is directing the Department of Defense to deploy up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to support the delivery of food to communities impacted by the storm.

And I can announce that tomorrow, the president will visit impacted communities in Florida and Georgia.

In North Carolina and South Carolina and across the affected areas, the Biden-Harris administration has remained focused on using every tool available to help people and their communities begin their road to recovery and rebuilding.

In fact, President Biden recently approved an additional major disaster declaration for Virginia, unlocking more resources to provide survivors with direct disaster assistance.

To date, more than $10 million has been provided directly to those affected by Hurricane Helene.

As the president said yesterday, we will be there until the work is done.

And now I'm going to turn it over to the Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas, who is going to speak to the federal response — update on federal response.

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Good afternoon.

So, the — the president has expressed his need as a commander in chief to see firsthand the impacts on the ground.

This is not the first trip that I've taken with the president for that purpose. We were in Mayfield, Kentucky, together. He has said there is no substitute for interacting with the individuals, with the victims of these extreme weather events, and that is why he's taking this trip.

He has directed me and every member of the Cabinet to devote the full force of our personnel and our resources to the assistance of the victims of Hurricane Helene, which is really of historic strength.

I can provide you with some data, if you would find — find that helpful. Unfortunately, I forgot my glasses. But I will say that — remember something about the data: It changes every hour because we are continuing to pour resources in every hour. But what the data will do is give you a — a good understanding of the magnitude of the federal response. It's really quite breathtaking.

So, more than 4,800 personnel from across the federal workforce are deployed, more than 1,000 of whom are from FEMA. We have shipped over 8.8 million meals, more than 7.4 million — million liters of water, 150 generators, and more than 225,000 tarps to the region.

As of today, search and rescue teams have conducted nearly 1,500 structural evaluations and hundreds of rescues and evacuations. And additionally, of course, federal search and rescue teams are deployed.

The — the status of the federal response is dependent on the conditions on the ground. So, in certain areas that are remote, mountainous, and that have been hit hard, we're still in search and rescue. In others, we are already in response and recovery mode. It varies according to the — the demographics of the — and topography.

Voluntary organizations, World Central Kitchen is deployed — are supporting mass feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft delivery. Some of these areas are remote. We are doing airdrops and the like. We're getting assistance from the Department of Defense and other resources. The Salvation Army is deployed. The National Guard is deployed. I think — I think it's almost 6,000 members of the National Guard are deployed across the six states. And our FEMA administrator, Deanne Criswell, is on the ground.

I think that gives you a good sense of the magnitude of the operation.

You should know that in — in the six impacted states, we had declared emergency — emergencies — emergency declaration prior to Helene hitting. We had pre-positioned assets. And, as Karine mentioned, the president, upon request of the particular states — I think it's five now; I'll — I can confirm that — has declared major disaster declarations.

Q Is there — what are you doing speci- — you mentioned sending water, but what are you doing as far as getting the drinking water back online in — in places like the president is seeing?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: For that, I would turn to Michael Regan, the EPA administrator. I — I think, in South Carolina, he mentioned there are two systems that are not fully operational, but that's South Carolina specific. But I — I would have to defer to — to Michael Regan.

Q Talk to us a little about how confident you're feeling in the amount of funding right now. The president mentioned that he needs — was thinking about bringing Congress back to pass more funding. Is that something you think might still need to happen?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: We — we are meeting the immediate needs with the money that we have. We are expecting another hurricane hitting. We do not have the funds. FEMA does not have the funds to make it through the season and what — what is imminent.

Q So, does the president want lawmakers to return to Washington?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: I would defer to the — to the president for — for the timing of that. But we have, of course, made a significant request of Congress with respect to stable funding for the Federal Emergency Management Administration, which should not be a political issue. This is something that Americans need desperately.

Q [Inaudible]

Q Can you talk a little bit about — I'm sorry — how the rol- — like, how the role of climate change comes into the request for more funding — you know, the — the sort of revamping of the entire FEMA operation to begin with?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: This is — let's — let's speak factually. The severity and frequency of extreme weather events have only increased. It is an impact of climate change.

When — I — I mentioned Mayfield, Kentucky, a small town that was absolutely decimated by a tornado of unprecedented strength and length. And we — I remember one of the factories in that small community, people had gone into a safe room that was built precisely for extreme weather, and that safe room was decimated because the building codes of yesterday are not equipped for the extreme weather events of today and tomorrow.

Q The president spoke to us on the tarmac about how the dockworkers strike is playing into this. D- — could you give us a sense, one, if the — the strike is slowing down the response at all, and whether the companies involved are at all profiting off of the misery that's taking place on the ground?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: I cannot answer the — the second question. I am not that attuned to the dynamics of the strike. I'll leave that to the experts who- — whose portfolio covers that.

But I will tell you that we are not short of supplies right now with respect to the delivery of goods to the people in need. Are — we are — we are not seeing adverse impacts from that strike with respect to our response to Hurricane Helene.

Q The president has a very active travel schedule over the next couple of days, with North Carolina and then Florida and Georgia as well. Is there any sense that he's kind of playing catch-up after the initial criticism over the weekend and the fact that Donald Trump got down to Georgia on Monday?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Oh, absolutely not. What — what I said yesterday and I'll repeat — this is a very, very important point: The president is focused on being there for people without disrupting the emergency operations. What he does not want to do is in any way impair or impede the rescue that we are providing.

And so, he's been in close touch with local and state officials to determine when is the right time to visit so that the visit is productive and not counterproductive. And he has responded accordingly, according to the guidance that he's received, and that's why he's traveling today and tomorrow.

Q And is there any update on the estimate of how much this is going to cost the federal government and how much you would be seeking from Congress for help?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: So, as I mentioned, we have the immediate needs right now. On a continuing resolution, we have funds, but that is not a stable source of supply, if you will.

This is a multibillion-dollar, multiyear recovery. The magnitude of it —

Q Did you say million or billion?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Billion.

Q Okay.

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Multibillion-dollar undertaking and a multiyear undertaking. We have — we have towns that have disappeared, literally.

Q Can you — either one of you just tell us a little bit about what — what the president is going to see? I know we said western North Carolina, but will we fly over Asheville? What — where are we headed?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, we're definitely, as I stated, western — doing an aerial tour of western North Carolina. He'll be able to see a little bit of Asheville. We'll certainly have more for you when we get on the ground.

But, look, I think this is really important. And I — and to, I think, your question, Danny — the reason why we are on top of this, as the president has been throughout his three and a half years and taking this very seriously — when — when the secretary started talking to you all, he talked about being commander in chief — the president takes this very, very seriously.

And we pre-positioned. We — you — you heard the administrator from FEMA. She came to the briefing room on Thursday, hours before the hurricane actually hit, because we wanted to send a message to Americans, to folks who were in the region to please listen to law enforcement, but also lay out there were 1,500 personnel on the ground — FEMA personnel on the ground being ready to really take this on.

And so, as the secretary said, the president is going down today. He's going to be in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia and Florida, as I said. But he — we also did it at the direction of the folks on the ground.

So, yes, there may be other leaders who decided to go a couple days ago, but we actually did it a way that we know that we were not taking away resources from emergency operations. And I think that's what's important here.

And you've seen that be- — the — the secretary talked about Kentucky. There's been other — we've been to Florida a couple times — right? — with what we have seen over the past couple of years with — with natural disasters.

And so, this is a president that is going to take this seriously. He's going to see for himself and thank, obviously, the — the emergency workers on the ground. And so, this is — this is what we do as president. This is what we do. This is what he does, and our secretary.

Q Just on the funding. You know, we have two months left in hurricane season. Can you just characterize a little bit — if you don't get more funding, how much trouble are we in if another big storm hits? Does that translate —

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Well —

Q — into lives lost?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Well, there — there are a couple things. It's very important to note that even though we're on a continuing resolution, we — we do — can obtain spend-fast funds so that we can dip into funds that are slated for the duration of the year to meet immediate needs. So, we — we are meeting the moment.

But that doesn't speak about the future and the fact, as I mentioned earlier, that these extreme weather events are increasing in frequency and severity, and we have to be funded for the sake of the American people. This is not a political issue.

Q Karine, how is the president continuing to get updates about the Middle East while he's traveling today?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, let's —

Q Let me —

Q Sorry.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Let's let — so we —

Q One more —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: — because he has to go back to be with the president.

Q [Inaudible] about the fuel shortages that is being done right now?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: I'm sorry?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: The fuel shortages.

Q Fuel shortages.

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Of — that people are suffering. So, we — look, there are — there are different types of challenges that people victimized by this historic hurricane are — are suffering: fuel, potable water in certain areas, power, communications. And we are meeting each of those challenges with the full force of the federal government as well as our state and local partners.

So, if you take a look at power, at the — at the height of this hurricane, 5.1 million people were without power. We have delivered power — when I say "we," the collective "we" — the public-private partnership — to 3.6 or 3.8 million of those individuals. And so — and we are continuing to pour resources and efforts in.

Q Do you think North Carolina was properly prepared for the impact of the flooding?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: They were prepared, but they were as prepared — and this is something we have to take stock of when we speak of preparation. Preparation doesn't necessarily mean preventing suffering when you are speaking of extreme weather events of historic magnitude. You have people in rural areas, difficult-to-access areas, and when — when a force of this strength pours through, it's going to have a calamitous impact.

And the — the question is: Have they done everything that they can? Have they followed the instructions of local officials? And that is what is key.

And I should say it is very important, if you don't mind, to — to communicate the means of accessing relief. People have an 800 number to call. That's 800-621-FEMA. They can access relief at DisasterAssistance.gov, or they can use the FEMA app.

And for those people who do not have communications, we are actually going to them. We are in shelters. We are going door to door as we increase access to remote areas.

Q Thank you, Mr. Secretary.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All right. Thank you so much.

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Thank you, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Secretary.

Q Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay. So, to answer your question — I do want to hit one more thing. But to answer your question, as you know, yesterday, the president was being regularly updated on what was happening in the Middle East. He's going to continue to do that. We always say: The president is president wherever he is. And so, that's going to continue.

He spent, as you — also, speaking of yesterday, he spent hours in the Situation Room. And so, this is something he is monitoring very, very closely, and he will certainly be able to do that on this trip.

Just a couple of things — because I do want to it- — reiterate something that he's talked about — at the top.

Look, the president is calling on USMX and the owners of these foreign carrier- — carriers it represents to come to the table and put forward a fair offer to the longshoremen now.

This should be easy for them to resolve. We're recovering from a hurricane, and they need to do so as soon as possible. They've made hundreds of billions in record profits since the pandemic — profits up as much as 800 percent. These workers kept our ports open during the pandemic. Their work is essential as communities recover from the hurricane — from Hurricane Helene. Now is the time for these foreign carrier owners to negotiate a fair contract.

So, we just want to make that really clear.

Go ahead.

Q Are there — are there any plans at the moment for the president to speak with Netanyahu directly?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: He — he talked about this. We don't have anything to read out to you. But he also said — the president said this, and Jake Sullivan said this at the podium — they have been in regular communication with — with our — with Jake's Isra- — Israeli counterparts throughout the last couple of days — almost daily, obviously — since almost a year now.

And so, that will continue. And when we have a call to — to speak to or to announce, we certainly will do that. Don't have —

[Cross-talk]

Q Clarification on —

Q Oh, sorry. [Inaudible]

Q It's okay. Don't worry. The — a clarification, though, on Iran. So, the president was saying that he was expecting sanctions. I wondered if — if there was discussion about how Israel should respond to Iran, particularly given, you know, the — the type of the — the missile strike and the fact that they're — they're saying they're done now with it.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So — so, two things there. Look, as it relates to any response from Israel, we're having conversations with them. We're having discussions. I'm not going to prejudge. I'm not going to get ahead of that. And as the president st- — stated, that he did have a conversation — he joined a call with the G7, and they discussed Iran's unacceptable attack against Israel and to coordinate on a response to that — to this attack, including new sanctions, as you just mentioned, Colleen.

President Biden and the G7 unequivocally condemned Iran's attack against Israel. President Biden expressed the United States' full solidarity and support to Israel and its people and reaffirmed the United States' ironclad commitment to Israel's security.

There is going to be a joint statement, as the president mentioned. I don't want to get ahead of that. And certainly, you'll have all that information.

Q Karine, what new sanctions?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Not — I said I'm not going to get ahead of that.

Q Are —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm going to let — I'm going to let the joint statement —

Q And are you —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: — from — from the G7 —

Q Are you counseling restraint in those conversations with Israel? Are you saying —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm — I'm not —

Q — "Whatever you do" —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We're — we're having discussions. Certainly not going to prejudge. I'm not going to get ahead of it. But we are having discussions with re- —

Q What's your advice though?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm not going to share th- — I'm not going to be doing that out on — on Air Force One. We're going to have those discussions — those private discussions. And not going to get ahead of those discussions or prejudging.

Q And is Israel's limited — so-called limited incursion into Lebanon delivering the results that they wanted?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You would have to speak to — you would have to speak to Israel directly and IDF.

Q What's your judgment?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: You'd have to speak to them directly, because it is their — it is their operation.

Q Does the president think Tim Walz won the debate? [Laughter]

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, what I can say is the president watched — caught some of the debate. And, as you know — and I'm going to be really mindful, because it's a debate, 2024. As you know, been covering and focusing on this trip. During this trip, he's been focused on this. Obviously, this was a historic hurricane that hit this region, but he and — he and the vice president and the entire team are working hard to the response to — to Helene. And so, he — he was able to — he was able to — to manage to catch some of it. But I haven't spoken to him in detail about it.

Q I think the president said on the tarmac that he had not directly spoken to the dock strikers or any of the companies. Is that going to change?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything to preview at this time, but this president basically answered the question pretty directly. I don't have anything else to share.

All right, guys. Okay. All right.

Q Thanks, Karine.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thanks, everybody.

Q Appreciate it.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: See you on the ground.

Okay. Be careful. It's very, very bumpy.

1:36 P.M. EDT

National Security Advisor to the Vice President Dr. Phil Gordon met virtually today with Muslim, Arab, and Palestinian American community leaders from across the United States.

Dr. Gordon discussed the latest developments in the Middle East. He underscored the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to bring the war in Gaza to an end through a ceasefire and hostage release deal, which would relieve the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He expressed concern for civilians in Lebanon and underscored the importance of a diplomatic resolution for ultimately achieving lasting stability and security across the Israel-Lebanon border so that civilians can safely return to their homes. He also expressed concern about actions that undermine peace, security, and stability in the West Bank. Dr. Gordon heard participants' views and perspectives about developments in the region and reiterated the Vice President's commitment to continue to engage with Muslim, Arab, and Palestinian communities across the United States.

Augusta Utilities
Augusta, Georgia

3:13 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT: Thank you, Mayor.

And I am here in Augusta to — to thank all of the folks who are here on the ground doing this extraordinary work. And, you know, I've been reading and hearing about the work you've been doing over the last few days. And I think it really does represent some of the best of what we each know can be done, especially when we coordinate around local, state, and federal resources to meet the — the needs of people who must be seen and must be heard.

These are very difficult times. And in a moment of crisis, I think that really does bring out the best of who we are, and you each epitomize that important and good work.

So, I'm here to thank you and to listen.

And — and, Senator, I want to thank you for the work that you've been doing on behalf of the state, because I know you've been talking to me and the president and many others about making sure that the federal resources get to this beautiful state.

So, thank you all.

And, Mayor, I am now listening.

END 3:14 P.M. EDT

Joint Base Andrews
Prince George's County, Maryland

12:30 P.M. EDT

Q Sir, do you have a view on automation with the dockworkers strike?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, I — look, we're going down to see what — the damage done. I'm going to be going back again to other states. But here's the thing, this natural disaster is incredibly consequential. The last thing we need on top of that is a man-made disaster: what's going on at the ports.

We're getting pushback already, and we're hearing from the folks recently that they're having trouble getting product they need because of the port strike.

And, look, there's a — there's a consortium of mak- — basically six owners that control all the ports from all the way to the East Coast, down around the Gulf. And — and they've made — they've made incredible profits — over 800 percent profit since the pandemic, and the owners are making tens of millions of dollars in this.

The last thing they need is to profit off of this. It's time to — for them to sit at the table and get this strike done.

Q Will you be communicating with them directly about any of this?

THE PRESIDENT: Oh, we have. We have. I haven't personally, but we have.

Q Can you —

THE PRESIDENT: Okay?

Q Can you tell us anything about Iran and Israel's possible —

THE PRESIDENT: Yes. Look —

Q — retaliation?

THE PRESIDENT: I called a meeting of the G7 today. We're working on a joint statement all of us agree on — from Japan to France to Germany to — et cetera. And what we're doing in that regard is we're making it clear that there are things that have to be done. And it's — obviously, Iran has gone way out of — I mean, is way off board. We're going to — putting together a joint statement. Hasn't been done yet. It will be done before too long, probably by the time we land. And there's going to be some sanctions imposed on Iran.

Q Sir, do — do you — sorry. Do you have a view on the workers' fight for restrictions on technology or automation for the dockworkers?

THE PRESIDENT: No — look, they just need to sit down and talk, because I — remember, we negotiated a similar strike on the West Coast before, and they worked it out. It's time — they won't even talk. So, let's get that done.

Q Sir, and — sir — sir, can I ask you: What is your —

Q Would you support an attack on the — would you support an attack on Iran's nuclear sites by Israel?

THE PRESIDENT: The answer is no. And I think there's things — we'll be discussing with the Israelis what they're going to do, but they — every- — all seven of us agree that they have a right to respond, but they should respond in proportion.

Thank you.

Q Sir, could I ask you: What is your advice to Israel as far as how they should respond to this right now?

THE PRESIDENT: I'll leave that to — I'll — we're giving them that advice.

Q Okay. When will you talk to Bibi?

THE PRESIDENT: Well, I — we've been talking to Bibi's people the whole time. And it's not necessary to talk to Bibi. I'll probably be talking to him relatively soon, my guess.

Thank you.

12:33 P.M. EDT

The 68 members of the International Counter Ransomware Initiative [CRI]—Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Canada, Chad, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Council of Europe, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the Dominican Republic, the ECOWAS Commission, Egypt, Estonia, the European Union, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise, Hungary, India, INTERPOL, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Lithuania, Mexico, Morocco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, the Organization of American States, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of Moldova, Romania, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uruguay, Vanuatu, and Vietnam—met in Washington, D.C. from September 30 – October 3, 2024 for the Fourth CRI Gathering. Previously participating members welcomed Argentina, Bahrain, Cameroon, Chad, the Council of Europe, Denmark, the ECOWAS Commission, Finland, the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise, Hungary, Morocco, the Organization of American States, the Philippines, the Republic of Moldova, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Vanuatu, and Vietnam as new CRI members.

During the Fourth CRI Gathering, members reaffirmed our joint commitment to develop collective resilience to ransomware, support members if they are faced with a ransomware attack, pursue the actors responsible for ransomware attacks and not allow safe haven for these actors to operate within our jurisdictions, counter the use of virtual assets as part of the ransomware business model, partner with the private sector to advise and support CRI members, and forge international partnerships so we are collectively better equipped to counter the scourge of ransomware.

Over the past year, this coalition has grown and continues to build upon the commitments made at the Third CRI Gathering in 2023. The United States launched a new fund for CRI members to strengthen members' cybersecurity capabilities through both rapid assistance in the wake of a cyber attack, as well as targeted support to improve cybersecurity skills, policies, and response procedures.

The Policy Pillar, led by Singapore and the United Kingdom, spearheaded efforts to build resilience against ransomware attacks and leverage the ecosystem to disrupt the ransomware criminal industry. These efforts seek to undercut the business model that underpins the ransomware ecosystem by driving forward work on secure software and labeling, methods to counter the use of virtual assets as part of the ransomware business model, policies to reduce ransom payments, increase and improve reporting, cyber insurance, and a playbook to guide businesses on how to prepare for, deal with, and recover from a ransomware attack. Of note, CRI members and insurance bodies have endorsed guidance to help organizations experiencing a ransomware attack. The guidance underscores the important role cyber insurance can play in helping to build resilience to cyber attacks and highlights actions organizations should explore during an incident. In addition, the Pillar held a table-top-exercise to assist members in identifying gaps in their processes, learning best practices and supporting members develop effective responses to ransomware attacks on the healthcare sector.

The Diplomacy and Capacity Building Pillar, led by Germany and Nigeria, expanded the CRI's partnerships with the addition of 18 new members to the coalition and mapped out the capacity building assets and needs of members. To foster collaboration, forge new partnerships, and recruit new members into the Initiative, CRI members hosted regional events throughout the year.

Under the leadership of Australia and Lithuania, the ICRTF focused its work on building resilience against malicious cyber attacks through international cooperation. Lithuania and Australia, as ICRTF co-chairs, worked to develop governance for information sharing and increase onboarding of members to the information sharing platforms led by Lithuania and Belgium as well as Israel and UAE. These platforms will allow members to easily share threat information and indicators of compromise. In a project led by INTERPOL and Australia, a comparative report was produced analyzing Ransomware Interventions and Remediation in CRI members' jurisdictions. Australia launched a website and member portal so CRI members can easily share information and best practices, foster collaboration, and use as a mechanism to request assistance from the CRI community when experiencing a ransomware attack. The ICRTF co-chairs presented a statement for members to join that calls for responsible behavior in cyberspace and encourages members to hold malicious actors accountable and deny them safe haven using all of the cyber diplomacy and law enforcement tools at their disposal.

Canada established a new Public-Private Sector Advisory Panel to advise and support CRI members in combating ransomware. This advisory panel will catalyze effective information sharing, build trust through clear expectations and person to person collaboration, and develop best practices to navigate practical hurdles.

The Initiative also hosted its first-ever event dedicated to examining the use of AI to counter ransomware attacks. Topics of discussion included the use of AI to track threat actor use, AI for Software Security, scenario planning around ransomware attacks on the healthcare industry, and tools such as watermarking to counter disinformation.

Through the Initiative's annual gathering as well as the dedicated work and regional meetings occurring between each meeting, we commit to working together at both a policy and operational level to counter ransomware threats and hold perpetrators of these malicious attacks accountable. CRI continues to call for responsible behavior in cyberspace and encourage members to call out malicious acts, and we remain committed to using all appropriate tools to achieve these goals, and are jointly committed to the following actions in support of this mission.

Today, President Biden is announcing 1,000 active-duty troops will be immediately deployed to assist with response and recovery efforts

President Biden and Vice President Harris continue to mobilize an intensive Federal response to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. The Administration is prioritizing life-saving and life-sustaining response efforts in impacted communities, as well as ensuring people displaced from the storm have prompt access to Federal resources that will enable them to both purchase essential items and begin their road to recovery and rebuilding.

As part of this coordinated response, today, President Biden is announcing he has directed the Department of Defense to deploy up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to support the delivery of food, water, and other critical commodities to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. The announcement is effective immediately, and these forces will be available for deployment starting today. This action will provide additional manpower and logistics capabilities, enabling FEMA and other interagency partners to reach the hardest hit areas as quickly as possible.

This comes as the President is traveling to North Carolina and South Carolina. He will take an aerial tour of areas impacted by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina, receive operational briefings, and meet with first responders and local officials. He will also engage with first responders and officials in South Carolina. The President will also visit Florida and Georgia in the coming days. The Vice President will travel to Georgia today. She will receive operational briefings, meet with residents impacted by the storm, and provide updates to local officials on actions that are being taken to support emergency response and recovery efforts in Georgia. She will also travel to North Carolina in the coming days.

Yesterday, President Biden received a briefing from his Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall and leaders across his Administration, including Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan, Department of Defense Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks, Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Don Graves, Department of Energy Deputy Secretary David Turk, U.S. Army Corps of Engineer LTG William H. [Butch] Graham Jr., Small Business Administration Deputy Administrator Dilawar Syed, Department of Agriculture Under Secretary Robert Bonnie, and Department of Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary Dawn O'Connell.

Additional updates on the Administration's response efforts include:

Mobilizing Defense Department Resources to Support Prompt and Effective Hurricane Response

Today, the President is announcing he has directed the Department of Defense to deploy up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to support response efforts. These soldiers are part of an Infantry Battalion Task Force, based out of Fort Liberty, North Carolina, which includes a Forward Support Company with the necessary support structure [fuel, water, mechanics, etc] to conduct operations.

These soldiers are in addition to the support the Department of Defense is already providing to FEMA for the response to Hurricane Helene including:

At the President's direction, the Department of Defense has activated 22 helicopters to aid in search and rescue operations and provided dozens of high-water vehicles. The National Guard, in its state capacity, is also aiding these efforts. 700 National Guard from North Carolina are supporting debris removal, air lifts, and search and rescue. They are accompanied by National Guard from eight additional states under Emergency Mutual Assistance Compacts, with helicopters and rescue vehicles to further assist with road clearance, commodities, transport, and search and rescue.

Although not operating under Department of Defense authority, over 6,000 National Guard personnel from 12 states are spearheading the response effort across the impacted region in support of their Governors, providing critical life-saving and life-sustaining support to the victims of this unprecedented natural disaster.

Supporting On-The-Ground Response and Emergency Efforts

More than 4,800 personnel from across the Federal workforce are deployed and supporting state-led response efforts across the region. FEMA and other agencies have more than 1,200 personnel in North Carolina, with more resources and staff arriving daily.

Search and rescue efforts by state, local, and Federal partners are ongoing, and nearly 600 additional personnel are arriving in the region in the coming days, increasing the total number of Urban Search and Rescue personnel to over 1,250.

The Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] Secretary Xavier Becerra declared Public Health Emergencies for South Carolina, Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina. These declarations give the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility in meeting emergency health needs of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. HHS has established a National Disaster Medical System medical treatment site at the Mission Hospital campus in Asheville and Blue Ridge Regional Hospital in Spruce Pines, North Carolina. HHS Health and Medical Task Force Teams are supporting state medical needs shelters in Hickory and Mills Springs, North Carolina. An HHS Incident Management Team is working closely with state officials to identify health care needs including in rural communities and areas which may be cut off from transportation systems. HHS has also deployed two Disaster Mortuary Assistance Team [DMAT] to assist state mortuary services in mortuary care of victim identification. HHS has made 9 DMAT teams available nationwide. Additionally, 200 Federal ambulances have been provided to North Carolina.

In total, FEMA has shipped over 8.5 million meals, more than 7 million liters of water, 150 generators and over 220,000 tarps to aid response efforts for this historic storm.

Restoring Power and Communications to Impacted Communities

Power outage numbers are improving as restoration teams from across the nation gain access to communities and debris is removed, although much more work remains to bring power back to badly impacted areas across the region. As of this morning, approximately 1.6 million customers are still without power, which is a reduction of more than 65% from the region-wide peak of 4.6 million on September 27.

In addition to intensive efforts to restore power, crews are working around the clock to restore cell service and communications to impacted communities. FEMA, the FCC, and private telecommunications providers are working together to help restore temporary communications as quickly as possible by establishing temporary cell sites and allowing for roaming where possible, where a resident can connect to any network available, even if they aren't subscribed to that network.

FEMA has provided 50 Starlink satellite systems to help with responder communications and 65 satellite phones have been shipped to assist with communications.

Restoring Road Access

The Department of Transportation activated its 24-hour toll-free Routing Assistance Hotline to provide routing assistance for first responders conducting relief missions. The Hotline supports the movement of Federal, state, local, Tribal, and Territorial response personnel and contractors, equipment, and goods by providing recommended safe routes using a variety of data sources. To reach the Hotline, responders can call 511 from their mobile phones or 833–99-ROADS [833-997-6237]. The Department of Transportation also announced that with the President's approval of Emergency Disaster Declarations it has initiated a 14-day period of emergency regulatory relief from Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations, including maximum driving time for property- and passenger-carrying vehicles from the date of declaration. This allows truck drivers to get essential supplies to affected areas.

Extending Housing Aid to Impacted Families

Following President Biden's approval of a Major Disaster declaration in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida, the Department of Housing and Urban Development [HUD] began implementing supplemental assistance, which includes a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of FHA-insured mortgages and mortgages guaranteed under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program, as well as an automatic 90-day extension for Home Equity Conversion Mortgages.

Anyone whose home has been destroyed or severely damaged is also eligible to apply for HUD mortgage insurance. HUD is also enabling homeowners to finance rehabilitation and repairs for damaged homes.

To support households and communities through disaster recovery, HUD will provide Housing Counseling assistance and offer waivers and additional flexibilities to Public Housing Agencies, Tribes, and recipients of designated federal funding to allow communities to use existing resources to aid in response and recovery efforts. Additionally, HUD offered a suite of waivers and alternative requirements to allow impacted communities to use existing community development and homelessness assistance funds to aid in response and recovery efforts.

Approving Additional Emergency Assistance

President Biden has now also approved Major Disaster Declarations for Georgia and Virginia, allowing individuals in 41 counties in Georgia and 6 in Virginia to apply for FEMA assistance. Administration officials are in touch with Georgia emergency management officials, and based on their ongoing assessments of impacts on the ground, FEMA is in the process of approving federal assistance for additional counties. This is in addition to approving Major Disaster declarations for Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina earlier in the weekend.

To date, more than $10 million in Individual Assistance has been provided to survivors who have been affected by Hurricane Helene, and we expect that number to increase over the coming days. In North Carolina, through the expedited Serious Needs Assistance program, FEMA has paid out more than $1 million to over 1,400 households in less than 24 hours.

FEMA assistance in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia can include a one-time $750 payment to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. After registering for disaster assistance, individuals may also qualify to receive disaster-related financial assistance to repair storm-related damage to homes and replace personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Hurricane Helene.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are deployed to Florida and North Carolina to help survivors register for disaster assistance, visiting shelters and going door to door to help people get Federal assistance where they need it as quickly as feasible.

On Tuesday, October 1, 2024, the President signed into law:

S. 133, the "NAPA Reauthorization Act," which extends and amends the National Alzheimer's Project and the Advisory Council on Alzheimer's Research, Care, and Services.

Thank you to Senators Collins, Warner, Capito, Markey, Moran, Murkowski, and Stabenow, and Representatives Tonko, Chris Smith, and Waters for their leadership.

S. 134, the "Alzheimer's Accountability and Investment Act," which requires direct transmittal of the annual National Institutes of Health budget estimate for the National Alzheimer's Project.

Thank you to Senators Collins, Warner, Capito, Markey, Moran, Murkowski, and Stabenow, and Representatives Chris Smith, Tonko, and Waters for their leadership.

S. 612, the "Lake Tahoe Restoration Reauthorization Act," which reauthorizes the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act through September 30, 2034.

Thank you to Senators Cortez Masto, Rosen, Padilla, and Butler, and Representatives Amodei, Susie Lee, Titus, Horsford, Garamendi, Kiley, and Duarte for their leadership. Thank you to the late Senator Dianne Feinstein for her leadership as well.

S. 656, the "Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act of 2023," which revises the rules for VA approval of commercial driver education programs for purposes of veterans education assistance.

Thank you to Senators Fischer and Padilla, and Representatives Edwards, Pappas, Crane, and Spanberger for their leadership.

S. 670, the "IMPACTT Human Trafficking Act," which establishes two programs within U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations [HSI] to provide: outreach and training to HSI employees who have been exposed to various forms of trauma in working with victims of human trafficking; and services for trafficking victims.

Thank you to Senators Peters, Lankford, and Cornyn, and Representatives Dave Joyce, Titus, Wagner, and Slotkin for their leadership.

S. 679, the "GAO Database Modernization Act of 2023," which requires Federal agencies to submit to the Government Accountability Office reports on rules that the agency revokes, suspends, replaces, or amends, or that are otherwise made ineffective.

Thank you to Senators Rick Scott and Peters, and Representative Bentz for their leadership.

S. 794, the "Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism Pilot Program Act of 2023" or the "CTPAT Pilot Program Act of 2023," which requires the Department of Homeland Security to carry out a pilot program to assess whether allowing certain third-party logistics providers to participate in the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism would enhance port security or otherwise help meet the goals of the program.

Thank you to Senators Cornyn, Carper, Lankford, and Hassan, and Representatives Slotkin, Luttrell, Menendez Jr., and Miller-Meeks for their leadership.

S. 2685, the "Reuse Excess Property Act," which requires the General Services Administration to make data and internal guidance on excess personal property of Federal agencies publicly available.

Thank you to Senators Peters and Lankford, and Representatives McClain and Porter for their leadership.

S. 3639, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 2075 West Stadium Boulevard in Ann Arbor, Michigan, as the Robert Hayden Post Office.

Thank you to Senators Peters and Stabenow for their leadership.

S. 3640, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 155 South Main Street in Mount Clemens, Michigan, as the Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Jefferson Post Office.

Thank you to Senators Peters and Stabenow for their leadership.

S. 3851, which designates the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 90 McCamly Street South in Battle Creek, Michigan, as the Sojourner Truth Post Office.

Thank you to Senators Peters and Stabenow, Representative Huizenga, and the entire Michigan delegation for their leadership.

S. 4698, the "DHS Joint Task Forces Reauthorization Act of 2024," which extends by two years, until September 30, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security's authority to establish and operate departmental Joint Task Forces.

Thank you to Senators Peters and Lankford, and Representatives Higgins and Suozzi for their leadership.

Yesterday, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the Commonwealth of Virginia and ordered Federal aid to supplement Commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Helene beginning on September 25, 2024, and continuing.

The President's action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in the counties of Giles, Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, and Wythe and the independent city of Galax.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding also is available to State and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in the counties of Bedford, Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Craig, Dickenson, Giles, Grayson, Montgomery, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe and the independent cities of Bristol, Covington, Danville, Galax, Norton, and Radford.

Finally, Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the entire commonwealth.

Mr. Timothy S. Pheil of the Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Damage assessments are continuing in other areas, and more areas and additional forms of assistance may be designated after the assessments are fully completed.

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling 800-621-FEMA [3362], or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service [VRS], captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION MEDIA SHOULD CONTACT THE FEMA NEWS DESK AT [202] 646-3272 OR FEMA-NEWS-DESK@FEMA.DHS.GOV.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. called Ishiba Shigeru today to congratulate him on his election by the Diet to become Prime Minister of Japan. The President underscored that the U.S.-Japan Alliance has served as the cornerstone of regional peace and prosperity for over seven decades and rose to new heights under former Prime Minister Kishida. The President said he looked forward to working closely with Prime Minister Ishiba to continue deepening the U.S.-Japan global partnership across the full range of security, economic, technology, and diplomatic issues.

The two leaders noted that the American and Japanese people share deeply rooted values and principles, including a commitment to uphold a global order that is free, open, secure, and prosperous. The President and Prime Minister reaffirmed their resolve to continue strengthening defense cooperation and to maintain peace and stability across the region. They also underscored their commitment to enhance regional cooperation through a latticework of likeminded partners, including cooperation with Australia and India through the Quad and through trilateral partnerships with the Republic of Korea and the Philippines.

Josephine Butler Parks Center
Washington, D.C.

4:42 P.M. EDT

THE VICE PRESIDENT: So, today, Iran launched approximately 200 ballistic missiles at Israel in a reckless and brazen attack. I condemn this attack unequivocally.

I am clear-eyed: Iran is a destabilizing, dangerous force in the Middle East, and today's attack on Israel only further demonstrates that fact.

Earlier today, I was in the Situation Room with President Biden and our national security team as we monitored the attack in real time and ensured that the protection of U.S. personnel in the region is paramount. I fully support President Biden's order for the U.S. military to shoot down Iranian missiles targeting Israel, just as we did in April.

We are still assessing the impact, but initial indications are that Israel, with our assistance, was able to defeat this attack. Our joint defenses have been effective, and this operation and successful cooperation saved many ic- — innocent lives.

As I have said, I will always ensure Israel has the ability to defend itself against Iran and Iran-backed terrorist militias. My commitment to the security of Israel is unwavering.

And let us be clear: Iran is not only a threat to Israel; Iran is also a threat to American personnel in the region, American interests, and innocent civilians across the region who suffer at the hands of Iran-based and -backed terrorist proxies.

We will never hesitate to take whatever action is necessary to defend U.S. forces and interests against Iran and Iran-backed terrorists. And we will continue to work with our allies and partners to disrupt Iran's aggressive behavior and hold them accountable.

Thank you.

END 4:45 P.M. EDT

James S. Brady Press Briefing Room

2:48 P.M. EDT

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Good afternoon, everyone.

Q Good afternoon.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm going to be really quick here. I have the national security advisor, Jake Sullivan, to talk about the latest in the Middle East, so I'll turn it over to him.

MR. SULLIVAN: Thank you, Karine, and good afternoon, everyone. I'm here to provide a brief report on the Iranian ballistic missile attack against Israel that occurred earlier today. I can take just a few questions, because this is an ongoing situation and I need to get back to my desk.

Today, Iran launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles towards targets in Israel. The United States military coordinated closely with the Israeli Defense Forces to help defend Israel against this attack. U.S. naval destroyers joined Israeli air defense units in firing interceptors to shoot down inbound missiles.

President Biden and Vice President Harris monitored the attack and the response from the White House Situation Room, joined in person and remotely by their national security team.

We are still working with the IDF and the authorities in Israel to assess the impact of the attack, but at this time — and I stress "at this time" — we do not know of any deaths in Israel. We are tracking the reported death of a Palestinian civilian in Jericho in the West Bank. We do not know of any damage to aircraft or strategic military assets in Israel.

In short, based on what we know at this point, this attack appears to have been defeated and ineffective. This was first and foremost the result of the professionalism of the IDF, but in no small part because of the skilled work of the U.S. military and meticulous joint planning in anticipation of the attack.

We're also aware of reports of a terrorist attack in Jaffa that took the lives of a number of Israeli civilians and wounded several others today. Our condolences go out to the families of the victims and to the family of the Palestinian civilian in Jericho.

Obviously, my update here is based on early reports, and we reserve the right to amend and adjust as necessary as we gather more information. The word "fog of war" was invented for a situation like this. This is a fluid situation.

We will consult with the Israelis on next steps in terms of the response and how to deal with what Iran has just done, and we will continue to monitor for further threats and attacks from Iran and its proxies. We are particularly focused on protecting U.S. servicemembers in the region.

And with that, I'll take just a few questions.

Yeah.

Q Thanks, Jake. Is the administration making any preparations to evacuate U.S. citizens from Lebanon or elsewhere in the region?

MR. SULLIVAN: We have been very clear for some time now that U.S. citizens should avail themselves of commercial means to depart Lebanon given everything that's going on. We have said that from this podium, from multiple podiums. We continue to say that. But we have not begun triggering a noncombatant emergency evacuation — a NEO — and do not have an intention to do so at this time.

If that changes, we'll let you know. But we continue to reinforce the point: American citizens in Lebanon should follow the guidance from the State Department, which is to find civil- — civilian commercial means to depart, because in extremis, we may not be able to get them out safely.

Yes.

Q Thanks, Jake. What is the U.S. view on whether Israel should retaliate? And what is your concern about this leading to a wider escalation of war in the region?

MR. SULLIVAN: We've had some initial discussions with the Israelis in the aftermath of this at the military level and also at the White House to prime minister's office level. We'll continue those conversations in the hours ahead. I'm not going to prejudge or get ahead of anything. We want to have some deep consultations with the Israelis, and I'll have more to report to you after we get the opportunity for deeper discussions.

Q And escalation —

MR. SULLIVAN: Yeah.

Q — in the region?

MR. SULLIVAN: Obviously, this is a significant escalation by Iran, a significant event, and it is equally significant that we were able to step up with — with Israel and create a situation in which no one was killed in this attack in Israel so far as we know at this time.

We are now going to look at what the appropriate next steps are to secure, first and foremost, American interests and then to promote stability to the maximum extent possible as we go forward.

Yeah.

Q Back in April, the president's message to Israel was to take the win when the U.S. and Israel were able to intercept the barrage of Iranian missiles. Is he recommending a similarly limited response this time?

MR. SULLIVAN: I will not, from this podium, share the president's recommendations. He will have the opportunity to share them directly. We're going to have, as I said, ongoing consultations with the Israelis this afternoon, this evening. It is too early for me to tell you anything publicly in terms of our assessment or in terms of what our expectations are of the Israelis or the advice that we would give them.

Q So, will he be speaking to Prime Minister Netanyahu today?

MR. SULLIVAN: I don't have anything to announce from this podium, but I can tell you that he is tracking this minute by minute. We are very much deeply in touch with the Israelis, and insofar as we have calls to read out, we'll make sure to read them out with you.

Just last question, then I'll turn it over.

Q Thank you, Jake. In April, after Iran struck Israel, the U.S. issued a number of sanctions as a consequence. This morning, the president said there will be severe consequences if Iran carried out this attack. What are those consequences, and are they more severe than sanctions?

MR. SULLIVAN: Totally legitimate question, and that answer will come based on the conversations and consultations we have with our Israeli counterparts. It's too soon for me to stand before you today and give you an answer.

What I can tell you is this: We are proud of the actions that we've taken alongside Israel to protect and defend Israel. We have made clear that there will be consequences — severe consequences — for this attack, and we will work with Israel to make that the case.

Thank you very much.

Q Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thank you, Jake. Thank you, Jake.

Okay. On to the rest of — rest of the programming here.

This morning, President Biden was briefed by his homeland security adviser, Liz Sherwood-Randall, on the latest impacts of Hurricane Helene. And this afternoon, he will receive an interen- — interagency briefing on the Hurricane Helene response and recovery efforts.

At the president's direction, the Biden-Harris administration continues to use every tool available to get assistance and resources to the communities that need them the most.

Yesterday, the president approved a major disaster declaration for Georgia, which will unlock additional assistance to help those recovering. This is in addition to the major disaster declaration swiftly approved by the president following requests from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida, as well as requests for emergency assistance across seven states.

Tomorrow, the president will travel to Raleigh, North Carolina, where he will visit the state emergency operations center to meet with local officials and also first responders.

And the vice president will travel to Augusta, Georgia, tomorrow and will then head to North Carolina in the coming days.

As of today, thousands of personnel from across the federal workforce are deployed and supporting state-led Hurricane Helene response efforts across the six affected states, including over 1,200 personnel in North Carolina.

Still, there is more work to be done, and the Biden-Harris administration will be there for these communities every step of the way.

Now, as you can see, we also have Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas.

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Thank you, Karine, and good afternoon.

Before standing at the podium, I was at FEMA's National Operations Center being briefed by our personnel as well as state emergency personnel. I thought it very moving and very telling that North Carolina's emergency management director described Hurricane Helene as catastrophic and noted the fact that numerous towns situated along the river had virtually disappeared, had been completely destroyed.

In fact, Hurricane Helene is of a — an historic magnitude: this many states hit this hard. The wind field of the hurricane stretched 350 miles from its center. More than 100 fatalities have been reported. Hundreds and hundreds of homes and businesses destroyed.

Our hearts break for those who have lost loved ones, and we pray for the swift assistance and rescue of those who are currently missing.

We are in different phases of a post-hurricane environment, depending on the state and the location within the state. In some areas, we are still in search and recovery — search and rescue operations. In others, we are, in fact, in the response and recovery phase.

I thought I would give you some of the latest statistics based on the briefing that I received, and I should say that these numbers are, as you can all well understand, quite dynamic and fluid. They change minute by minute and hour by hour.

But just as devastating as the hurricane has been, the re- — the response of federal, state, and local authorities has been extraordinary. We have more than 2,000 federal personnel

dedicated to this effort. On the ground, we have more than 1,200 urban search — urban search and rescue personnel. FEMA staff deployed over 1,200.

Karine mentioned the major disaster declarations and the emergency declarations previously issued. I should note that in the six states most severely impacted, those emergency declarations were issued before the storm hit, and we had thousands of personnel dedicated there.

We have delivered more than 2.6 million ready-to-eat meals and more than 1 million liters of water.

At its peak, there were 5.1 million customers without power. We have reduced that amount — and not just the federal government in support of the state and local authorities, but working very closely with the power companies and the other utilities, we've reduced that number of customers without power by 3.8 million people.

And so, the — the operation is very, very significantly underway. We are working in support of our state and local partners. This is an all-of-government, frankly, all-of-community effort.

And with that, I'll take some questions.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay. Go ahead, Gabe.

Q With regards to how many were unaccounted for. Yesterday, Liz said about 600 were unaccounted for. Do you have an updated number on that, Mr. Secretary?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: We do not have an update, but that work is still underway. And I know, for example, within the Department of Homeland Security, the Coast Guard has recently rescued approximately 21 people through their patrols.

Q And there was also discussion yesterday on whether resources may have been better pre-positioned in other parts of the country. There were many assets in the Big Bend region of Florida, some in North Carolina. But should the government have pre-positioned more in the North Carolina area?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Well, we actually pre-positioned our personnel and state and local personnel were pre-positioned in all six of the most heavily impacted states. This is a — an historic hurricane. It reached not only industrial areas but, of course, as we also point poignantly see, rural areas as well.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead.

Q Yeah. Thanks, Karine. Liz yesterday, focusing on the — the pre-positioning here before the storm, said that the — that it was focused on the Big Bend region of Florida. So, what pre-positioning was taking place there that wasn't taking place in the North Carolina, western North Carolina area?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Remember that the pre-positioning of assets, to include personnel as well as equipment and the like, also depends on the terrain and the access points. And so, we — we pre-positioned where we think the impacts are going to be greatest.

And we have seen the impacts hit mountainous regions that are inaccessible. We now have roads destroyed. There is a significant amount of mud. We understand that people are still situated in the mud, and therefore we cannot undertake debris removal until we are assured that the search and rescue operation has been completed.

Q But what sorts of —

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: We have to be very careful about the lives that still can be saved.

Q But what sorts of things were done in — was done in North Carolina before the storm came? Like, what was the federal presence there, emergency-wise?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: I don't have the specific numbers of the personnel already situated —

Q Okay.

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: — but we can get you that data.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead, Weijia.

Q Thank you, Karine. Thank you, Secretary. Despite all the proactive things that the federal government did and its response, the sentiment, according to my colleagues on the ground, from people is that the federal government is not doing enough to help. "Where are they? Where is the help?" What is your message to those people?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: I would say the following: that we are there and we will continue to be there and we will reach the most difficult to access locations. We are relentless in our efforts to ensure the safety and security of all.

And as Karine pointed out, we will be there for the long haul as well. And I must — I must pay tribute to the heroic men and women not only of the Fer- — Federal Emergency Management Administration but throughout the federal government and throughout the state and local enterprise.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead.

Q Thank you, Secretary, for talking about electric power. I'm curious about the status of cell phone service, as the Associated Press is hearing reports that people are having a tough time using their cell phones, being able to make calls, even reach you.

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Yes.

Q What are you doing, and what is the status of that right now?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: So, in fact, communication has been difficult in — in a number of areas, if — if not impossible. A great deal of infrastructure has been demolished. We are working with the private communications companies as well as the FCC to ensure that we can rebuild communication towers. We have, for example, deployed 50 Starlink satellite systems to help with the reconstruction of that infrastructure.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead, Karen.

Q You mentioned that there are roads that have been destroyed. There are places that are so hard-hit that it's hard to get to them right now. Can — the president mentioned land bridges yesterday in working with the Defense Department. Can you talk about what the effort is right now to get to some of those hard-hit areas and what the timeline is looking like to reach the people that are in need there right now?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: So, this is, at the president and vice president's direction, an all-of-government effort. So, it's not only by land, but we have deployed air assets. The Department of Defense has been of extraordinary assistance. I don't recall exactly the number of Army Corps of Engineer that have been deployed. I think it's close to 6,000.

So, it's an all-of-government effort to reach individuals, not just by land but by air as well.

Q And how quickly do you anticipate getting to some of those areas that have been cut off because of the roads being flooded and destroyed?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: As quickly as we can.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We've got to start wrapping up. Go ahead, Jeff.

Q Thank you, Karine. Mr. Secretary, do you have a sense of how much money it's going to cost, A, to do this relief effort and, B, to do the rebuild effort once we get there? And how much of that will be covered by insurance companies, and how much will be covered by the government?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: So, this is a multibillion-dollar undertaking in terms of the search and rescue and the response. I should note that we already have approved approximately $1.7 million in individual assistance that individuals —

Q Million or billion?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Million.

— that individuals will be able to access. I believe it will be as early as tomorrow. It is a direct deposit into their accounts.

But the rebuilding is something that is not for today but that is going to be extraordinarily costly and is going to be a multiyear enterprise.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead, Toluse.

Q Thank you, Karine. Thank you, Mr. Secretary. Two questions. First, about the president's decision to go to Raleigh. Do — can you give us a little bit of a breakdown as to why he's going to that location and what he will see and whether or not he'll be able to see any of the harder-hit areas in the western part of the state?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: So, the decision of where to go and when to go is a decision that must be calibrated according to the capabilities and needs on the ground. And so, the president and the vice president have been quite deliberate to take those sensitivities into account, to work with state and local authorities, and ensure that their visit is constructive and not in any way interfering with the urgency of search and rescue operations and the work underway on the ground.

And so, they selected the timing and location of their visits accordingly.

Q And another question about the upcoming election. Obviously, North Carolina is a very important state. Do you have — and ballots are supposed to be going out in — in the coming days. Do you have any sense of how much impact the hurricane had on the ability to carry out the election and carry it out safely?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Well, the state and local authorities are in charge of their respective election efforts. They are — have that top of mind, and we are going to be able to make sure — they are going to be able to make sure that people have the ability to exercise their fundamental right to vote.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Kevin, last question.

Q One of the issues we're hearing about in North Carolina is not just downed power lines but flooded substations. Do you have a sense of how long it will take to get those back online and what the administration can do to help remedy that?

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: So, the president, as Karine mentioned, is going to be briefed in a — in an interagency effort. Secretary Granholm and other representatives of the Department of Eng- — Energy are going to be there.

It is — as am I, of course. It is a multiphase approach. Not only do we have to bring in some additional infrastructure, but there is going to be damage and the like that is going to take time and money to replace and reconstruct. Precise figures I don't have.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: All right. Thank you so much, Mr. Secretary. Appreciate it.

SECRETARY MAYORKAS: Thank you, Karine. Thank you all very much.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay.

Q Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Thank you.

Okay. I do want to give some stats — some additional stats so that you all have this.

More than 4,500 personnel from across the federal workforce — that's the numbers as of today. FEMA has shipped 7.1 million meal- — meals ready-to-eat, more than 7.5 million liters of water, 150 generators, and over 95,000 tarps. Nearly 1,300 urban search and rescue personnel on the ground. The Department of Defense has 30 high-water trucks and 22 helicopters.

So, just wanted to make sure you guys have that. Those are the numbers as they are today, the most accurate.

And I just have one more thing at the top, and then we will go to Josh to kick us off.

So, collective bargaining, as you hear us say many times before, is the best way for workers and companies to reach a fair deal, including one that gives workers the pay and benefits they deserve. It's important that both parties come to the table and negotiate in good faith, as we talk about, is what we're seeing with the ports situation.

As you saw the president say in his statement earlier today, he has urged USMX to come to the table and present a fair contract to the workers of the ILA that ensures they are paid appropriately in line with their peers.

Shippers have made record profits since the pandemic, and in some case, have seen profits grow in excess of 800 percent compared to their profits prior to the pandemic. Executive compensation has grown in line with those profits, and profits have been returned to shareholders at record rates. It's only fair that workers who put themselves at risk during the pandemic to keep ports open see a meaningful increase in their wages as well.

As the president said, dock workers will play an essential role in getting communities the resources they need out of the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Now, this administration will be monitoring for any price gouging activity that benefits foreign ocean carriers, including those on the USMX board as well. It is time for USMX to negotiate a fair contract with the longshoremen that reflects the substantial contribution they — they've been making to our economic comeback.

And with that, Josh, it's good to see you.

Q It's good to see you. If we can step back —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q — Americans right now are seeing chaos in the Middle East, death and destruction from Helene, and now a port worker strike. And I'm curious for — how worried should people be about what seem to be three kind of unraveling issues, and what is President Biden doing in terms of changing his schedule or taking additional steps —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q — to try to reassure them?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, I think a couple of things here that I would note is that I hope the American people have confidence in this president — someone who has experience, who's been a u- — a U.S. senator, a vice president, and now president for three and a half years — to get the job done, to make sure that he has the American people front and center on everything that he does. It doesn't matter if it's for- — foreign policy issues, world issues, here in the United States, obviously.

And you're right. There are three major events, if you will, happening all at the same time. And this is a president that spent a lot of his time in a Situation Room with the vice president getting updates, being hands- — hand- — hand-on — hands-on on getting updates and — and talking to — and obviously, communicating with the Israeli government on what was going on and how to move forward and really monitoring the situation, really.

And he has been — he and his team have been having regular conversation. Well, his team has been ha- — regular conversations with represent- — representi- — representatives, as it relates to ILA, USMX, for the past several days, all the way up until yesterday. And he's been getting updates on that as well.

The hurricane — you've heard from — you've heard and seen, obviously, updates from us on what the president has been doing — having conversations with governors, local officials; trying to make sure they are getting everything that they need; directing his team to make sure that — I just laid out some of the things that are already on the ground, whether it's water, food, generators, assistance that is needed to really deal with the impact — this horrible impact that this hurricane has had.

And so, this is the job of the president, right? Unfortunately, there are going to be events like this, and this is where you see the leadership of a president show up, direct their team to do everything that they can on behalf of the American people, be that lead- — have that world — global leadership, as you see from this president.

And so, he has been doing that not just today, not just in the last couple of days, but three and a half years. And I think this should send a message to Americans: It matters. It matters who sits behind that Resolute Desk. It matters what the leadership looks like. It matters. And you see that almost every day in this administration.

Go ahead, Karen.

Q You had mentioned that the vice president is finalizing a trip, potentially, to North Carolina later. The president had mentioned he might go to Florida and Georgia later this week. Is there any more you can give on that trip?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I don't have anything more to share on that. Obviously, our big thing is — is always to make sure that we don't take away from — from the emergency operations on the ground. We want to make sure there's — it's the right time to go.

The president said he's going — he wants to do it. We're working through it. I don't have a date or time at — at this — at this moment. But tomorrow, he's going to go to Raleigh, North Carolina, as I mentioned. He's going to really thank the frontline workers who have been really heroic in the past several days in what they've been able to do. And he's going to also survey the impacted area.

So, that's what you'll see from the president. We'll certainly have more to share.

He does truly want to go to Florida and Georgia to say thank you directly to frontline workers there, meet people, see folks who have been impacted by this horrible storm — a historic storm, I should say. And so, we'll certainly have more to share.

Q And just a funding question. Last week, when Administrator Criswell was here, she had said that the agency had enough money to conduct lifesaving measures for this disaster. Days later now, given the scope of the damage and that large number of people still unaccounted for, the Homeland Security secretary said that there's still search and rescue operations in many places. Is there still enough money for lifesaving measures for this particular disaster?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I would let FEMA speak to that directly.

My understanding is I don't think anything has changed from when the FEMA administrator was here just this past Thursday.

But I think what's important to note is we're going to be in touch with state and local officials to ensure that they have everything that they need in this time, in this moment — all the federal assistance, all the federal resources. We are committed to that.

Obviously, we had pre- — we had presented Congress with a robust funding request that did not make it into the CR. We are obviously disappointed by that. And so, those convert- — con- — those conversations are going to continue. We want to see Congress act.

As we can see — just what we've seen from the past couple of days, it is important to have federal assistance for — for Americans who have lost everything — who have lost everything.

Go ahead, Jeff.

Q Karine, briefly, back on the topic of the Middle East.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q Did the United States have a heads up from Iran that this missile strike was coming? And if so, what channels — through which channels did you receive the heads up?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: As you know, we — there are — there are conversations that we have and that are not necessarily — what — here's what I can say. I'm not going to speak to private diplomatic conversation. I'm not going to get into that.

What I can say is that what you saw today, what you heard from Jake Sullivan is that we are going to continue to be there for Israel, to defend Israel. They have the right to defend themselves.

What you saw today — what's happening, the developments of what you saw today and what you heard from the president directing the Department of Defense to make sure that we assist Israel, and what we — in the — in the operation that we saw coming from Iran. We were — we — you heard from us earlier today. You heard from the president.

And so, we're going to continue to make sure that we are there to defend Israel, and we are committed. As you heard from Jake as well, there will be consequences. This is an ongoing, developing situation. And so, you will hear more from us.

I'm not going to get into any — into any intelligence or any diplomatic conversations that we have from here.

Go ahead, Kevin.

Q When it comes to the dockworkers strike, should Americans be prepared for shortages of goods?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, I know that there's been a lot of reporting on that, on the impact of — impact that this will have on the economy. And so, look, what we see and how we see this moving forward, as it relates to the economy and — and potential impacts, is that we're going to continue closely monitoring the situation. We're going to — what this could have potentially on the supply chain impacts, assessing ways to address any concerns if necessary.

And the president and the vice president, as I said at the top as well, are being briefed. They were briefed on the agency assessments that show limited impacts on critical consumer needs at this time, including in the important areas of fuel, food, and medicine.

And so, the president has dir- — directed — remember, he started the — he started the Supply Chain Disruption Task Force very early on to deal with what we saw related to the pandemic.

And so, they're going to meet every day. This task force still exists. They're going to meet every day and prepare to address potential disruptions if necessary.

And so, we are — we are engaged extensively with labor industry, state and local officials, ocean carriers, and rail and truck companies, including multiple meetings with retailers, grocers, manufacturers, and ar- — and agriculture.

So, this is something — when it comes to the supply chain, as we — obviously, as I just mentioned, we started — the president started the task force. We are taking this very seriously, and we're going to monitor this very closely.

Go ahead, Weijia.

Q Thank you, Karine. Yesterday, when the president was asked whether he was aware of a limited ground operation into Lebanon by Israel, he said, "I'm more aware than you might know." Can you elaborate on what he meant? Did the president play a role in determining the size and scope of that ground operation?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No. I mean, this is — when it comes to any military operations that — that Israel has, IDF, it is for them to speak to. It is — it is for them to come to their determination of what that looks like.

What we have been very clear about is that Israel has the right to defend itself against Iran-backed groups, including Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. And we have always been clear about that.

We understand, as I've stated, and I'll give a little bit more today, the Israeli- — the Israelis will be conducting limited operations to destroy Hezbollah infrastructure that would be used to threaten Israeli citizens. And this is in line with Israel's right to defend itself and — and its citizens and safely return their — their civilians to their homes.

So, we support that right to — to defend themselves against Hezbollah and all — again, all of Iran-backed groups. And we've been very consistent about that and will continue to be so.

Q And then, I know there is a lot going on, but will the president sit down and watch the vice presidential debate tonight? Where? With who?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: [Laughs] As you — as you just stated, there's a lot going on. There's a lot going on. I mean, the question that I got from Josh moments ago is — there are multiple events happening all at once, and the president is going to continue, certainly, to deal with all of these events on behalf of the American people.

Look, you heard from the president just a couple days ago. He has complete confidence in — in Tim Walz.

I'm going to be really mindful, you know, because it is a — a campaign event. I'm just going to leave it there.

Q But is he going to watch?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: He's going to be very, very busy. Continues to be very busy with all of the events happening today. But he has complete confidence in — in Tim Walz.

Q Thank you.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Go ahead.

Q Thank you, Karine. You spoke about wages earlier. Can you talk about the president's view of the ILA's push to put restrictions on automation? That's a major sticking point

in those negotiations.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Look, what I will say — I'm not going to go point by point with what they're negotiating. We believe — we believe it is important that workers get fair pay and also benefits. That's what they deserve.

I just laid out what — what the shippers were able to do. Right? They were able to get — they were able to regain their profits, some of it in excess of 800 percent, since the pandemic. Right? Executive compensation has grown in line with those profits, and profits have been returned to shareholders at record rates.

And so, you know, the ILA, these workers deserve to get paid what they're worth. They deserve that. They put their lives at risk during — you know, they — they worked. You know, they had to work during the pandemic to keep ports open. That was not an easy thing to do. They put themselves at risk. And so, now they deserve fair wages.

Yeah.

Q Is there anything particularly about technology, their concern that robots could —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I hear the question.

Q — potentially replace their jobs?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I'm not going to get into specifics here. What we believe is that they should get their fair — their fair wages and benefits, just like their peers. And — and so, we believe that collective bargaining is the way to go. Both sides need to — to continue to have conversation and do that in — in — obviously, in a way that leads to a way that workers get their fair share.

Q And just a question on tomorrow's travel. Why isn't Harris traveling with Biden, since she will be going to North Carolina, as you said, in the coming days?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Well, she's going to Georgia. So, the president is going to do North Carolina, South Carolina, and she's going to go to Georgia. So, I think it's a — it was a way to make sure that we cover — we cover all fronts. And then, she'll go to North Carolina in upcoming days.

Go ahead, Ed.

Q Tha- – thanks, Karine. So, on the port strike. So, with the rebuilding of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, isn't it a bad time to have supplies stuck at 36 ports, as of right now? So, how long, then, until the president decides he should step in in this strike?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, a couple of things. According to FEMA, it — the strike is not impacting the relief of — recovery efforts at this time because supplies were pre-positioned. You heard — you heard the FEMA administration — administrator mention this just last week. You heard that from — from the secretary just moments ago.

So, any specifics on that, obviously, I would refer you to them.

Look, we have a Supply Chain — Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force. They're going to be monitoring the situation. This — there's a reason why the president put that together to assess the supply chain. And so, they're going to be there to work with any potential disruptions.

But I — in your — in your question to me about when is the president going to be involved, the president's message has been very clear. I just laid that out for one of your colleagues.

We've been very clear when it comes to these types of moments here that labor, when it comes to negotiating, there needs to be — collective bargaining is incredibly important. Workers need to get their fair share. They need to get what they deserve: pay, paid benefits, wages. It is important that happens.

The president is going to continue to be regularly briefed, and we are urging USMX to come to the table to present a fair proposal to ILA.

Q So, Taft-Hartley is off the table indefinitely?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I — I've spoken to this. This is not — this — we — we have not used Taft-Hartley, and we're not planning to.

Q One quick one, if I could, on Iran. So, Iran — obviously, we saw what happened today. They also have an active plot to assassinate one of the candidates in the U.S. election, which could be seen as a direct election interference. Is there any talk of consequences for Iran in terms of limiting their revenue, going after their oil exports?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, you heard Jake speak to this — on what — there will be consequences. You heard Jake say this. This is an ongoing situation. He had to get back to his desk to make sure that he continues to monitor what's happening, occurring, having conversations with — with his counterparts as well in Israel.

But this administration has not lifted a single sanction on Iran. We cannot forget that. Rather, we continue to increase pressure. That's what we have seen. Our extensive sanctions on Iran remain in place, and we certainly will continue to enforce them. And you heard from the national security advisor; you heard what he said today.

Q But oil — Iran's oil exports have reached record levels now — one report showing 3.2 million barrels per day, according to OPEC. That's about $90 billion a year. So, when do we cut off that revenue?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: We have not lifted any — a single sanction. If anything, as I said moments ago, we increased pressure. That's what we have been doing.

You'll hear more from us. Jake was very clear when he was here at the podium about consequences. And so, I'm going to let — I'm going to let that be for now.

Go ahead.

Q Thanks. Six months ago, the vice president was in Los Angeles when Iran conducted its first wave of strikes, and the vice president joined virtually when she joined the national security team for a briefing that day.

Today, she's the nominee. She was in the Situation Room. I'm just wondering if you can elaborate at all about what her engagement has been like today and what it will be like in the next 48 hours as Israel plots its response?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I mean, you just answered your own question. The pres- — the pres- — the vice president joined the president today in the Situation Room as they were monitoring the situation, as the president was listening to his team and hearing feedback on what was happening on the ground.

She was there. She was alongside him in getting that — in getting that update, and she is — many times has been in the room or, as you just said, has called in when it's come to really important, critical national security issues.

And so, that has been the way that they have worked together in the past three and a half years, and that's the way it's going to continue as — as we work through what's next.

Q Does it make any difference, though, participating virtually versus being here in person today?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, I wouldn't — I — I wouldn't say there's a difference. The point — the point is, she's in the room. She's side by side with the president. She's getting an update from the national security team and others that is part of his — a part of his team on these important issues. As we talk about foreign policy and what's going on in the world, she's part of it. She's there. She was there for a majority of the time that the president was in the Situation Room today as we were watching what was occurring. And that's going to continue.

Go ahead, Gabe.

Q Thanks, Karine, the president walked the picket line last year with autoworkers in Michigan, which is a swing state. Why not walk the picket line here?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, I — I think that message has been really clear — it really has — on what the president wants to see. We've been very clear about making sure that there is a — a — there is a — there is a way that these workers get their — get their fair pay — right? — get their wages.

And the president's team has been having these conversations. Secretary Buttigieg and also secretary of the Department of Labor and alsoNSC[NEC] Director Lael have been having regular co- — communications, and we've made our message really clear on collective bargaining, how important it is and how — or how USMX needs to come to the table and present a fair proposal to ILA.

Outside of that, I don't have anything else to share, but

I think our — I think we've been loud and clear on what we want to see and what we believe the workers deserve.

Q Has the administration been as involved in this strike as it was during the UAW strike?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, let's not forget, there's been multiple strikes — right? — over the last three and a half years, and we've been pretty consistent and pretty steady. The president has been called the most pro-union president in modern — in modern history, if you will. And so, we have delivered our message directly to USMX. We have been very, very clear — and also the other senior officials that I listed. It's been very clear. We've delivered those message, and we have been in touch with both parties. And so, we're going to continue to do that.

And what we want to see is collective bar- — bargaining in the best way for the workers to make sure they get their fair pay, to make sure they get the benefits that they deserve.

During the pandemic, they did the hard work. They put their lives at risk to make sure that the ports were open. And let's not forget, these executives have made record profits — record profits. And so, these workers deserve an increase as well.

Q And quickly on the Middle East —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q — if I may. Is the U.S. — the bottom line — is the U.S. urging Israel to measure its response?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: What I will say is what Jake Sullivan said to you all just moments ago: We're going to continue the conversations. We're going to — there will be consequences. We were con- — we are going to continue to be there for Israel, help Is- — help Israel defend itself. That — when it comes to Israel's security, that continues to be ironclad.

I don't have anything else to share beyond that.

Go ahead.

Q Thank you. Just turning back to the strike for a minute. I wanted to get a sense — you had mentioned the president is — calls himself the most pro-union president.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Not just him.

Q Not just him, of course.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Oh, yeah, union members.

Q Others say the same thing.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q But could you expand a little bit on his relationship with Harold Daggett, the head of the union, and also —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q — the vice president's relationship with him?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, I don't have anything to — to read out on their relationship or private conversations. What I can say is, you have s- — you have heard me say multiple times, his senior officials, White House senior officials have been in touch with both parties, and we are urging USMX to come to the table — to come to the table with a fair proposal.

We cannot say this enough. We believe that these workers deserve a fair pay. They deserve a benefits and that — that meets the — the level of their peers.

And so, that's what we're going to continue to say and have those conversations. You read and saw the president's statement earlier today. And the message is going to be very, very clear here. And those conversations are continuing.

I don't have a relationship to speak to. I don't have any — any preview to speak of at this time.

Q Okay. Is it just — Karine, you said that they have actually spoken to each other, though.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I — no, I'm saying I don't have anything to —

Q You're saying you can't [inaudible]?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: — read out.

Q Okay.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I — I don't have anything for you at this time.

Q Okay. And then just sort of related to that, you have — you sort of made a very clear point that the — in the sort of immediate days here, there — many experts say there isn't an immediate impact that consumers will feel but that, as, you know, Harold Daggett has pointed out himself, after one week, two weeks, three weeks, that dynamic would change significantly. And is — can you say anything o- — about how long the president is willing to wait?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: So, look, a couple of things. We're going to closely monitor the situation. You heard me talk about the — the supply chain task force. I do want to lay out: A number of our agencies, they put out assessment that showed limited impact on critical consumers' needs at this time.

So, on energy, for example, from the Department of En- — Energy, the strike will not have any immediate impact on fuel supplies or prices. On food, from the Department of Agriculture, we should not expect a si- — a significant changes to food prices or availability in the near term. On medicine, from the Department of Health and Human Services, immediate impacts across medicines, medical devices, and infant formula for consumers, parents, and caregivers should be limited.

But, of course, we're going to closely monitor this and any — for any potential supply chain impacts.

Look, and we have this task force. This task force came into play obviously during the pandemic to deal with the situation that we were dealing with because of a once-in-a-century pandemic.

And so, they're going to monitor it very closely. And so, we're — you know, what we're going to continue to do is be very clear on our message to USMX: They got to come forward with a fair proposal that is fair to the — to the workers. And so, that is our message. And they are hearing that from senior officials from the White House.

Go ahead.

Q Thank you. I have two questions regarding Africa. For Angola, President Biden is traveling to Angola, as you've mentioned. Could you provide — there are 54 countries on the continent. And I — as well as other leaders from the administration have traveled over there, what is your message to other African nations as well as the African [inaudible]?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I would say that the president traveling to the continent sends a positive message to other nations. I know you're asking me about other countries, but the president is going —

Q [Inaudible]

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: No, wait. But the president is going to the continent. I think —

Q But he's only going to one country.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Wait. Wait. But the president — and you just mentioned too in your question that other — other officials have gone to other countries in the continent, right?

And so, if anything, you have seen our commitment to building on that relationship with th- — with those countries in the continent.

As it relates to Angola, he's going to have bilateral meetings there. He's going to have multilateral meetings as well to discuss increased collaboration on shared priorities. And let's not forget the PGI, what — an initiative that this president started. That's going to be the — Africa's first transcontinental open-access rail network that's going to start there.

So, I think if you think about it, what the president has done this past three and a half years, going to Angola is a connecting — connecting factor in some of — in this key initiative, the PGI. Right? We're talking about a — a historic effort in this open-access rail network.

And so, that's going to be a big deal for everyone, every country in the continent. And so, if anything, this shows the president's commitment, and he said he was going to go. He's keeping that commitment. But it's not just that.

He wants to make sure that we're advancing cooperation with the continent when it comes to the economy — right? — when it comes to technology.

And so, that's what you're going to see from this president.

Q My other question is: Today is Nigeria's Independence Day. Do you guys have any remarks or any statements?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I will talk to National Security Council. I don't have anything to share with you at this time.

AIDE: Karine, you have time for [inaudible].

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay. All right. Go ahead. Back — in the back, yeah.

Q Me?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Yeah.

Q Ahead of tonight's debate between J.D. Vance and Tim Walz, there are reports that VA staffers have accessed their medical records at the VA.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Wait, say that one more time. I — I missed that.

Q That's okay. There are reports that VA staffers have accessed —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay.

Q — the medical records of J.D. Vance and Tim Walz, you know, as there's rising interest in them as part of the election. Is that acceptable?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Wait, the — there are medical records that were asc- — accessed?

Q Accessed by VA staffers.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: On —

Q On their medical records —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Of —

Q — when they were —

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Of J.D. Vance?

Q And Tim Walz.

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Okay.

Q Is that acceptable to this administration?

MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I — this is the first I'm hearing about this, so I have to get some more information on that. I — this is the — literally the first time I'm hearing about this. So, let me get back to you because I'm — I need to get the full context of that question.

All right, everybody. Thank you so much.

Q Thank you, Karine.

3:35 P.M. EDT

Jill and I extend our heartfelt congratulations to President Claudia Sheinbaum on her inauguration. As a symbol of our respect and the friendship between our two nations, our First Lady is leading the Delegation to President Sheinbaum's inauguration, along with many senior leaders from my administration. Jill and I wish President Sheinbaum a joyful celebration and a very successful presidency, and we congratulate the people of Mexico on the historic inauguration of their first woman president.

Mexico and the United States are strong partners and close neighbors and we share deep political, economic, and cultural ties. The United States is committed to continuing to work with Mexico to deliver the democratic, prosperous, and secure future that the people of our two countries deserve.

Collective bargaining is the best way for workers to get the pay and benefits they deserve. I have urged USMX, which represents a group of foreign-owned carriers, to come to the table and present a fair offer to the workers of the International Longshoremen's Association that ensures they are paid appropriately in line with their invaluable contributions. Ocean carriers have made record profits since the pandemic and in some cases profits grew in excess of 800 percent compared to their profits prior to the pandemic. Executive compensation has grown in line with those profits and profits have been returned to shareholders at record rates. It's only fair that workers, who put themselves at risk during the pandemic to keep ports open, see a meaningful increase in their wages as well.

As our nation climbs out of the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, dockworkers will play an essential role in getting communities the resources they need. Now is not the time for ocean carriers to refuse to negotiate a fair wage for these essential workers while raking in record profits. My Administration will be monitoring for any price gouging activity that benefits foreign ocean carriers, including those on the USMX board.

It is time for USMX to negotiate a fair contract with the longshoremen that reflects the substantial contribution they've been making to our economic comeback.

Vice President Harris announces actions to protect consumers and reduce hurdles that prevent individuals from receiving relief from medical bills

White House hosts roundtable with Americans impacted by medical debt, including those who received medical debt relief through Biden-Harris Administration actions

Today, Vice President Harris announced a series of actions by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau [CFPB], Department of Defense [DOD], and Department of Health and Human Service [HHS] to increase pathways for medical debt relief, to address illegal actions by third-party debt collectors, and to improve our understanding of the impacts of medical debt.

Getting sick or taking care of loved ones should not create financial hardship for families. Yet, more than 100 million Americans struggle with medical debt. Over 40 million Americans —1 in 5 adults — owe around $88 billion in medical debt in collections, making it the largest source of debt in collections—more than credit cards, utilities, and auto loans.

That is unacceptable to President Biden and Vice President Harris. Vice President Harris has repeatedly highlighted the negative impacts of medical debt, noting that medical debt can stand in the way of someone's dream to own a car, home, or small businesses. In June, Vice President Harris announced the CFPB's proposed rule to remove medical debt from the consumer credit reports of more than 15 million Americans and called on states to take action to tackle medical debt. Following the Vice President's call to action, HHS approved North Carolina's innovative program to encourage hospitals to relieve medical debt and relieve approximately $4 billion in medical debt for nearly 2 million working families in North Carolina. Further, American Rescue Plan funds are being leveraged to eliminate an estimated $7 billion in medical debt for up to nearly 3 million Americans by the end of 2026.

"No one should be denied economic opportunity because they got sick or experienced a medical emergency. That is why I have worked to cancel hundreds of millions in medical debt to date – part of our Administration's overall plan to forgive $7 billion by 2026 – and make it so medical debt will soon no longer be included in your credit score," said Vice President Harris. "As someone who has spent my entire career fighting to protect consumers, I am proud to announce today's new actions to build on our work to reduce the burden of medical debt by increasing pathways for relief and cracking down on predatory debt collection tactics."

To continue addressing the burden of medical debt, today the Vice President is announcing the following actions:

Holding Third-Party Debt Collectors Accountable

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau [CFPB] released an Advisory Opinion on improper medical debt collections. The Advisory Opinion clarifies the responsibilities of debt collectors to confirm that debts are accurate, valid, and substantiated before engaging in collection actions. Further, the CFPB has stated that they will ensure fairness and increase transparency by cracking down on debt collectors that collect on debt that is not owed by patients.

CFPB also released a Consumer Advisory that explains to consumers what actions they can take when they suspect that they have been improperly billed or if they have had improper or illegal collection actions taken against them. The Consumer Advisory suggests actions such as: following-up with their provider if a bill looks incorrect, asking their provider for an itemized bill, negotiating bills if the price appears wrong, reporting to the CFPB if they have been improperly billed, and pursuing legal action if appropriate.

Increasing Pathways to Reduced Medical Bills

The Department of Defense has proposed a rule aimed at providing financial relief for civilians receiving medical care at military medical treatment facilities [MTFs]. If finalized as proposed, this rule would implement fee reductions through a sliding scale discount program as well as catastrophic cap waivers. Through these measures, the DoD aims to significantly reduce the financial burden on patients while maintaining high-quality care and expanding the range of complex trauma cases that Department healthcare providers may encounter in both deployed and humanitarian settings.

Providing Transparency on Tax-Exempt Hospital Debt Collection Practices

CFPB released a blog post highlighting billing issues that occur when non-profit hospitals fail to provide financial assistance. Under the law, tax-exempt hospitals are required to offer financial assistance to help offset health care costs for low-income patients. However, the CFPB has previously found evidence that tax-exempt hospitals often bill and initiate collections against patients who have received or are eligible for financial assistance. Today's blog post shines a light on bills wrongfully ending up in collections.

Better Understanding the Impact of Medical Debt on Seniors

HHS is collecting evidence and data to inform future actions to address the burden of medical debt. For the first time, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services added new questions on medical debt to their Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey [MCBS]. The MCBS is an annual survey of people covered by Medicare to better understand their health care needs. These new questions will provide essential background on levels of medical debt carried by seniors and those with disabilities and the impacts of these debts on their day-to-day lives. The Agency for Health Care Research and Quality is also adding additional questions to the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, one of the largest sources of data on health care in the United States, to capture more granular information on medical debt. Questions will capture information on the amount of medical debt, ability to pay unexpected medical bills, financial sacrifices that individuals may have had to make due to their health or treatment, and other aspects of medical debt and financial well-being. CFPB also recently spotlighted the legal challenges facing surviving spouses who are pursued for their spouse's medical debt, providing insights into the ways debt collectors take advantage of this vulnerable population.

Today, I welcome Mark Rutte as the new Secretary General the North Atlantic Treaty Organization [NATO], which for 75 years has strengthened our collective security, protected democracies, and defended against threats as one.

Secretary General Rutte has an impressive track record as a consensus-builder and decisive leader. I have full confidence that he will continue to build on our work to create a NATO that is stronger, larger, and more resolute than ever in its mission to create a safer world for our peoples. The United States remains deeply devoted to the most successful Alliance in the history of the world. We hold fast to our sacred Article 5 commitment: an attack on one is an attack on all.

Lastly, I want to express my deep gratitude to Jens Stoltenberg, who led the Alliance through the most consequential decade for Euro-Atlantic security since World War II. I thank him for his remarkable service.