Biden at first press conference: I will be in the 2024 race
United States President Joe Biden held his first official press conference at the White House since taking office.
Joe Biden presented journalists with his administration's new goal regarding coronavirus vaccination – to have 200 million doses of vaccines administered by his 100th day in office.
„I know that's ambitious. Twice our original goal, but no other country in the world has even come close to what we are doing. I believe we can do it,“ Biden said.
The initial goal set by Biden upon taking office—for 100 million doses of vaccines to be administered across the US during his first 100 days in the White House—was achieved in 58 days.
„New signs of hope for the economy“
At a conference he held, President Biden also presented a new aid and economic relief package worth $1.9 trillion.
„Since Congress passed the bill earlier this month, we are beginning to see new signs of hope in our economy,“ Biden said.
The package provides for millions of Americans to receive a check for $1,400. Financial assistance is also allocated for states, municipalities, schools, and daycare centers.
Families with children and low-income individuals will receive tax credits. Unemployment assistance, which is currently $300, will also be increased.
Billions of dollars are projected to be spent on vaccines and tests, as well as on reopening schools and businesses in crisis.
„Since yesterday, more than 100 million payments of $1,400 have gone into people's bank accounts. That's real money in people's pockets that provides almost immediate relief. Millions of others will get their money very soon, Biden announced.
„The plan is to run for reelection“
He emphasized that his Republican colleagues will have to determine whether or not they want to work together.
„I was chosen to solve problems, not to create divisions,“ Biden emphasized.
He said he is ready to work together with any Republican who wants to help solve the problems and make the situation better.
The US President also spoke about the migrant issues at the US-Mexican border, threatened that North Korea will „get a response“ if it continues to launch ballistic missiles, and pointed out that he plans to run for re-election to the presidency in 2024.
„Yes, my plan is to enter the reelection race. That is my expectation,“ Biden confirmed.
Joe Biden also said that he agrees with former President Barack Obama, who, upon leaving office in 2016, warned that North Korea is the biggest foreign policy threat and challenge.
Biden claims that the current surge in the number of migrants at the US southern border is nothing new. He also pointed out that he wants to rebuild the immigration system, adding that the US is returning the vast majority of families who have appeared at the border.
„If unaccompanied children end up at the border, we will not let them starve to death and remain on the other side. No previous administration did that, except for Trump's. I will not do that, Joe Biden emphasized.
SOURCE: RTS PHOTO: THE TEXAS TRIBUNE
