Joe Biden’s 100 days in office address to the US Congress.
Photo by Niyi Fote/Thenews2
The US President, Joe Biden started off by saying
“Madame Speaker. Madame Vice President.
No president has ever said those words from this podium, and it’s about time.”
As one could recollect, throughout history, Presidents have come to the US chamber to speak to the Congress, to the nation, and to the world to declare war, to celebrate peace, to announce new plans and possibilities, but according to Biden, on Wednesday April 28, he said
“Tonight, I come to talk about crisis — and opportunity.
About rebuilding our nation — and revitalizing our democracy.
And winning the future for America.
As I stand here tonight — just one day shy of the 100th day of my administration.
100 days since I took the oath of office, lifted my hand off our family Bible, and inherited a nation in crisis.
The worst pandemic in a century.
The worst economic crisis since the Great Depression.
The worst attack on our democracy since the Civil War.
Now, after just 100 days, I can report to the nation: America is on the move again.”
He then highlighted his success with special thanks to Congress and Senate leaders, Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Chumer and the overwhelming support of the American people – Democrats, Independents, and Republicans.
The American Rescue Plan, which is one of the most consequential rescue packages in American history was passed. $1,400 rescue checks to 85% of all American households are being sent.
An additional 800,000 Americans enrolled in the Affordable Care Act during these 100 days.
220 million COVID shots in 100 days.
The delivery of vaccines to nearly 40,000 pharmacies and over 700 community health centers.
The setting up of community vaccination sites, and the deployment of mobile units into hard-to-reach areas; 90% of Americans now live within 5 miles of a vaccination site. And everyone over the age of 16, is now eligible and can get vaccinated right away.
1.3 million new jobs in 100 days.
More new jobs in the first 100 days than any president on record.
The passing of COVID—19 Hate Crimes Act to protect Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders from the vicious hate crimes, which got 94-1 votes in total.
Ending the forever war in Afghanistan and after 20 years of American valor and sacrifice, the US troops will all be coming home by September this year.
Rejoining Paris Climate Agreement on his first day in office.
Biden used the opportunity calling on Congress to pass the Protecting the Right to Organize Act – the PRO Act — and send it to his desk to support the right to unionize.
The US President also wanted the Congress to pass the $15 minimum wage. According to him,
“No one should work 40 hours a week and still live below the poverty line.
And we need to ensure greater equity and opportunity for women.
Let’s get the Paycheck Fairness Act to my desk for equal pay.
It’s long past time.”
President Biden also talked about other plans to help build back the country better with the Congress’ approval to pass them, like
Reforming Corporate Taxes,those making $400,000 or more – back up to 39.6%.
Extension of the Child Tax Credit at least through the end of 2025.
The Affordable Care Act.
Equality Act to protect the rights of LGBTQ American.
Reauthorization of Violence Against Women Act.
Background checks to purchase a gun.
Comprehensive immigration bill to Congress.
H.R. 1 and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act.
“Our Constitution opens with the words, “We the People”.
It’s time we remembered that We the People are the government. You and I.
Not some force in a distant capital. Not some powerful force we have no control over.
It’s us. It’s “We the people.” The President concluded.
By Niyi Fote/Thenews2
