Malcolm Rivera
Joe Biden's presidency has been marked by significant political accomplishments, particularly in addressing domestic and international challenges. Domestically, he signed the American Rescue Plan in 2021, providing $1.9 trillion in COVID-19 relief, including direct payments, vaccine distribution funding, and support for struggling businesses. Biden also achieved a bipartisan infrastructure deal in 2021, allocating $1.2 trillion for roads, bridges, broadband, and other critical projects. Additionally, he signed the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, a landmark climate, healthcare, and tax reform bill aimed at reducing carbon emissions and lowering prescription drug costs. On the international stage, Biden re-engaged the U.S. with global alliances, rejoined the Paris Climate Agreement, and led a unified response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, imposing sanctions and providing military aid. Despite facing political polarization and legislative hurdles, Biden's administration has prioritized economic recovery, climate action, and restoring America's global leadership.
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What You'll Learn
- Economic Recovery: Stimulus packages, infrastructure investment, job growth, and reducing unemployment post-pandemic
- Climate Action: Rejoining Paris Agreement, clean energy initiatives, and environmental protection policies
- Healthcare Expansion: Strengthening Affordable Care Act, lowering prescription drug costs, and expanding Medicaid
- Gun Control: Promoting background checks, banning assault weapons, and addressing gun violence
- Foreign Policy: Strengthening NATO alliances, countering authoritarian regimes, and global diplomacy efforts
Economic Recovery: Stimulus packages, infrastructure investment, job growth, and reducing unemployment post-pandemic
The American Rescue Plan, signed into law in March 2021, injected $1.9 trillion into the economy, providing direct relief to households, businesses, and state and local governments. This stimulus package included $1,400 checks to eligible individuals, expanded child tax credits, and enhanced unemployment benefits. The immediate impact was palpable: consumer spending surged, poverty rates dropped, and the economy began to rebound from the pandemic-induced recession. By targeting the most vulnerable populations, the plan not only stabilized households but also created a foundation for sustained economic growth.
Infrastructure investment has been a cornerstone of Biden’s economic recovery strategy, culminating in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This $1.2 trillion initiative allocates funds to modernize roads, bridges, public transit, and broadband access. For instance, $110 billion is dedicated to repairing aging highways and bridges, while $65 billion aims to expand high-speed internet to underserved areas. These investments not only create jobs in construction and technology but also enhance long-term productivity by improving connectivity and reducing transportation bottlenecks. The law’s focus on resilience—such as climate-proofing infrastructure—ensures these projects yield benefits for decades.
Job growth under Biden’s administration has been robust, with over 14 million jobs added since he took office. The unemployment rate, which peaked at 14.7% in April 2020, plummeted to 3.5% by September 2023, matching pre-pandemic lows. Sectors like leisure and hospitality, hard-hit during lockdowns, have seen significant recoveries, with employment rebounding to near pre-pandemic levels. Policies like the stimulus packages and infrastructure spending have played a critical role in this turnaround, providing businesses with the liquidity and demand needed to rehire and expand.
Reducing unemployment post-pandemic required targeted interventions, particularly for workers displaced by the crisis. The administration’s emphasis on workforce development, including apprenticeships and retraining programs, has helped bridge the skills gap in emerging industries. For example, the Infrastructure Law includes $40 billion for workforce training, focusing on clean energy and technology sectors. Additionally, the expansion of the Child Tax Credit temporarily reduced child poverty by nearly 30%, enabling more parents to rejoin the workforce without worrying about childcare costs. These measures demonstrate a holistic approach to recovery, addressing both immediate job losses and long-term labor market challenges.
While the economic recovery is impressive, challenges remain. Inflation, spurred partly by stimulus spending and supply chain disruptions, has eroded some wage gains. However, the Federal Reserve’s actions and easing supply constraints have begun to temper price increases. Critics argue that infrastructure projects face implementation delays, but early successes, like the repair of over 6,000 bridges, show progress. Biden’s policies have undeniably accelerated recovery, but sustaining momentum will require continued focus on affordability, workforce adaptability, and efficient project execution. The takeaway? Strategic investment and targeted relief can rebuild economies, but vigilance is key to addressing lingering vulnerabilities.
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Climate Action: Rejoining Paris Agreement, clean energy initiatives, and environmental protection policies
One of Biden's first acts as president was to reverse Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, immediately signaling a renewed commitment to global climate cooperation. This move wasn't just symbolic; it restored U.S. credibility on the world stage and re-established the nation as a leader in the fight against climate change. Rejoining the agreement meant recommitting to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, a pledge that has since been bolstered by domestic policies aimed at decarbonizing the economy.
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) stands as the cornerstone of Biden's clean energy initiatives. This landmark legislation allocates nearly $370 billion to combat climate change, making it the largest climate investment in U.S. history. The IRA provides tax credits for renewable energy projects, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient home upgrades, incentivizing both businesses and consumers to transition to cleaner technologies. For instance, homeowners can now claim up to $1,200 annually for energy-efficient upgrades, while electric vehicle buyers are eligible for up to $7,500 in tax credits. These measures not only reduce carbon emissions but also create jobs in the burgeoning green economy.
Beyond clean energy, Biden has strengthened environmental protection policies to safeguard natural resources and public health. His administration has reinstated and expanded protections for national monuments, reversed Trump-era rollbacks on clean water regulations, and tightened emissions standards for vehicles and power plants. Notably, the EPA has proposed new rules to reduce methane emissions from oil and gas operations by 87% below 2005 levels by 2030, a critical step in addressing a potent greenhouse gas. These policies reflect a holistic approach to environmental stewardship, balancing economic growth with ecological preservation.
However, challenges remain. While the IRA is transformative, its success depends on effective implementation and sustained political will. Critics argue that more aggressive measures are needed to meet the Paris Agreement’s goals, particularly in light of escalating climate impacts. Additionally, environmental justice concerns persist, as marginalized communities continue to bear the brunt of pollution and climate-related disasters. Addressing these disparities requires targeted investments and community engagement to ensure that climate action benefits all Americans.
In conclusion, Biden’s climate action agenda represents a significant shift toward sustainability and resilience. By rejoining the Paris Agreement, enacting the Inflation Reduction Act, and strengthening environmental protections, his administration has laid a foundation for a greener future. Yet, the work is far from over. Continued innovation, collaboration, and equity-focused policies will be essential to meet the urgent demands of the climate crisis and secure a livable planet for generations to come.
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Healthcare Expansion: Strengthening Affordable Care Act, lowering prescription drug costs, and expanding Medicaid
One of the most significant political achievements of the Biden administration has been its focus on healthcare expansion, particularly through the strengthening of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), lowering prescription drug costs, and expanding Medicaid. These efforts have aimed to increase access to affordable healthcare for millions of Americans, addressing long-standing disparities and financial burdens. By building on the foundation of the ACA, the administration has implemented policies that not only protect existing coverage but also extend it to underserved populations.
To strengthen the ACA, the Biden administration has taken decisive steps to stabilize the health insurance marketplace. For instance, the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 increased premium subsidies, making health insurance more affordable for individuals and families. This change allowed an estimated 1.7 million additional Americans to gain coverage in 2021 alone. Practical tips for consumers include checking eligibility for enhanced subsidies through Healthcare.gov, as these can significantly reduce monthly premiums. For example, a family of four earning up to $104,800 annually may qualify for reduced costs, ensuring that healthcare remains within reach.
Lowering prescription drug costs has been another critical focus, with the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 marking a historic step in this direction. This legislation empowers Medicare to negotiate drug prices directly with pharmaceutical companies, starting with 10 high-cost drugs in 2026. Additionally, it caps out-of-pocket drug costs for Medicare Part D enrollees at $2,000 annually, effective in 2025. For seniors and individuals with chronic conditions, this means substantial savings. A comparative analysis shows that countries with government-negotiated drug prices pay 30-60% less than the U.S., highlighting the potential impact of this policy.
Expanding Medicaid has been a cornerstone of the administration’s efforts to close the coverage gap in states that have not yet adopted Medicaid expansion under the ACA. While 40 states and the District of Columbia have expanded Medicaid, 10 states have not, leaving approximately 2 million low-income adults without access to affordable coverage. The Biden administration has incentivized holdout states by offering additional federal funding for expansion, though progress remains slow. For residents in non-expansion states, advocacy efforts at the state level and exploring alternative coverage options, such as subsidized ACA plans, are essential steps to take.
In conclusion, the Biden administration’s healthcare expansion initiatives represent a multifaceted approach to addressing systemic issues in the U.S. healthcare system. By strengthening the ACA, lowering prescription drug costs, and pushing for Medicaid expansion, these policies have made measurable strides in improving access and affordability. While challenges remain, particularly in states resistant to Medicaid expansion, the practical impact of these measures is evident in the millions of Americans now benefiting from more affordable and comprehensive healthcare coverage.
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Gun Control: Promoting background checks, banning assault weapons, and addressing gun violence
Gun violence remains a pressing issue in the United States, with over 45,000 gun-related deaths reported in 2020 alone. In response, President Biden has prioritized gun control measures aimed at reducing firearm fatalities and enhancing public safety. Central to his strategy is the expansion of background checks, a policy supported by 89% of Americans, according to a 2021 Pew Research Center survey. By closing loopholes in the existing system, such as those involving private sales and gun show transactions, Biden’s administration seeks to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of individuals with criminal records or histories of domestic violence. This measure alone could significantly curb the flow of guns to high-risk individuals, potentially saving thousands of lives annually.
Another cornerstone of Biden’s gun control agenda is the push to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Assault weapons, designed for rapid fire and high lethality, have been used in several mass shootings, including the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy and the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting. A federal assault weapons ban, similar to the one in place from 1994 to 2004, could reduce the severity of mass shootings by limiting access to these deadly firearms. While legislative efforts face stiff opposition, Biden has used executive actions to restrict the proliferation of "ghost guns"—unserialized, privately made firearms often assembled from kits—which have become increasingly prevalent in criminal activities.
Addressing gun violence requires more than legislative fixes; it demands a comprehensive approach that includes community-based interventions and mental health support. Biden’s American Rescue Plan allocated $350 billion to state and local governments, enabling them to invest in violence prevention programs, such as hospital-based intervention initiatives and conflict mediation in high-risk neighborhoods. Additionally, the administration has emphasized the need for red flag laws, which allow courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a threat to themselves or others. As of 2023, 19 states and the District of Columbia have enacted such laws, demonstrating a growing recognition of their effectiveness in preventing gun-related tragedies.
Critics argue that stricter gun control measures infringe on Second Amendment rights, but Biden’s approach balances constitutional considerations with public safety imperatives. By focusing on evidence-based policies, such as universal background checks and targeted restrictions on assault weapons, the administration aims to reduce gun violence without overly burdening law-abiding gun owners. Practical steps for individuals include supporting local gun buyback programs, advocating for state-level legislation, and promoting safe storage practices to prevent accidental discharges and theft. While the path to meaningful gun reform remains challenging, Biden’s multifaceted strategy offers a roadmap for progress in a deeply divided political landscape.
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Foreign Policy: Strengthening NATO alliances, countering authoritarian regimes, and global diplomacy efforts
One of Biden's most significant foreign policy achievements has been the reinvigoration of NATO, a critical alliance that had been strained under the previous administration. By reaffirming the United States' commitment to Article 5, the collective defense clause, Biden has sent a strong signal to both allies and adversaries. This move has not only strengthened the alliance but also deterred potential aggressors, particularly in Eastern Europe. For instance, the swift and unified response to Russia's aggressive actions in Ukraine, including the imposition of sanctions and the provision of military aid, demonstrates the renewed solidarity within NATO. This renewed alliance is crucial in maintaining global stability and countering emerging threats.
Countering authoritarian regimes has been a cornerstone of Biden's foreign policy, with a particular focus on China and Russia. The administration has taken a multi-pronged approach, combining diplomatic pressure, economic sanctions, and strategic alliances to curb the influence of these regimes. For example, the implementation of export controls on advanced technologies to China aims to hinder its military modernization efforts, while the coordination with G7 allies to reduce economic dependence on China seeks to limit its global influence. Similarly, the robust response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, including the provision of military aid and the imposition of sweeping sanctions, has not only supported Ukraine's defense but also isolated Russia on the world stage. These actions send a clear message: the United States will not tolerate aggression and will actively work to uphold democratic values and international norms.
Global diplomacy efforts under the Biden administration have been marked by a return to multilateral engagement and the strengthening of international institutions. The re-entry into the Paris Agreement on climate change and the World Health Organization (WHO) underscores a commitment to addressing global challenges through cooperation. Additionally, the administration has prioritized initiatives such as the Summit for Democracy, which aims to strengthen democratic institutions and counter authoritarianism worldwide. By engaging with a diverse range of partners, from traditional allies to emerging economies, the U.S. has sought to build a more inclusive and resilient international order. This approach not only enhances America's global standing but also fosters a more stable and prosperous world.
A key takeaway from Biden's foreign policy is the importance of balancing strength with diplomacy. While the administration has taken a firm stance against authoritarian regimes, it has also emphasized the value of dialogue and cooperation. For instance, the ongoing negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program illustrate a willingness to explore diplomatic solutions to complex issues. Similarly, the engagement with North Korea, though challenging, reflects a commitment to reducing tensions and pursuing denuclearization through diplomatic channels. This dual approach—combining pressure with engagement—allows the U.S. to address threats while also exploring opportunities for peace and cooperation.
To maximize the impact of these foreign policy efforts, it is essential to maintain a consistent and coherent strategy. This includes sustaining support for allies, continuing to counter authoritarian aggression, and deepening engagement in multilateral forums. Practical steps for individuals and organizations interested in supporting these goals include advocating for policies that strengthen alliances, participating in initiatives that promote democratic values, and staying informed about global developments. By doing so, we can contribute to a foreign policy that not only protects national interests but also advances global stability and democracy.
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Frequently asked questions
President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan (2021) to address the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (2021) to modernize infrastructure, the CHIPS and Science Act (2022) to boost semiconductor production, and the Inflation Reduction Act (2022) to address climate change and healthcare costs.
Biden rejoined the Paris Agreement, enacted the Inflation Reduction Act (the largest climate investment in U.S. history), and implemented policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote clean energy, and protect public lands.
Through the Inflation Reduction Act, Biden enabled Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices, capped insulin costs at $35/month for seniors, and extended Affordable Care Act subsidies to reduce health insurance premiums for millions of Americans.
Biden strengthened NATO alliances, coordinated a global response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, reengaged with international organizations like the WHO and UNESCO, and refocused U.S. foreign policy on democracy and human rights.
