President Biden Warns of Government Shutdown, Urges Congress to Act
In a powerful speech at the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) dinner in Washington, President Biden issued a stark warning that failure by Republicans in Congress to act could result in dire consequences for America. “Let’s be clear: if the government shuts down, it won’t just affect members of Congress, but also the brave men and women of our military who will continue to work without getting paid,” said Mr. Biden.
The President emphasized the wide-ranging impact of a government shutdown, from jeopardizing food safety to hindering cancer research and Head Start programs for children. He highlighted that funding the government is one of the most fundamental responsibilities of Congress and expressed his disappointment in “extreme Republicans” for failing to adhere to a previous debt ceiling agreement that aimed to limit federal spending.
As House Republicans plan to move forward with appropriations bills to prevent a shutdown, President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris made a passionate case for their reelection in 2024 at the CBC’s Phoenix Awards dinner. A recent CBS News poll showed Mr. Biden slightly trailing former President Donald Trump, but the President remains confident in his ability to lead.
Addressing concerns about his age, President Biden acknowledged the focus on his age but emphasized his track record of success in office. He highlighted his role in vaccinating the nation and rebuilding the economy, stating, “When I came to office, this nation was in a dire state. Yet, I knew what needed to be done, and I took action.”
President Biden expressed gratitude to the Congressional Black Caucus for their overwhelming support during his 2020 campaign, stating, “I owe you.” Vice President Harris echoed this sentiment and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to fighting for issues impacting communities of color, such as reproductive rights, anti-gun measures, and civil rights legislation.
The CBC’s 52nd annual legislative conference, themed “Securing Our Democracy, Protecting Our Freedoms, Uplifting Our Culture,” served as the backdrop for President Biden and Vice President Harris’ speeches. The conference highlighted ongoing challenges to democracy and efforts to curtail freedoms and equity in the country.
Delegate Stacey Plaskett, co-chair of the conference, expressed concern about recent battles over book banning, changes to African-American history standards, and the Supreme Court’s decision on affirmative action. She emphasized the need to preserve history and the significance of these issues in an election year.
The conference opened with a national town hall discussion on voting rights, redistricting, and defending democracy. Prominent figures, including entertainment icon Sean “Diddy” Combs, joined the session. Panels on artificial intelligence, closing the racial wealth gap, healthcare, education, gun safety, and the 50th anniversary of hip hop were also held during the conference.
Delegate Plaskett highlighted the inclusivity of the CBC, stating, “It’s for our allies who want to understand our history, want to understand the challenges, be a part of uplifting and recognizing how that helps all Americans.” The CBC’s annual legislative conference is the largest gathering of African-Americans in the country and was founded in 1971 by 13 Black lawmakers.
Reporting by Nikole Killion.
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