PUBLIC FIGURE: Joe Biden: The 46th President of the United States
On January 20, 2021, Joe Biden was inaugurated as the 46th President of the United States, succeeding former President Donald Trump. His inauguration marked a historic moment in American history, as he became the oldest person to be elected as President of the United States at the age of 78. Biden’s presidency comes at a time of great challenges and opportunities for the United States, as the country faces a pandemic, social unrest, economic challenges, and political polarization.
Biden’s early days in office have been focused on addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed the lives of more than 500,000 Americans and severely impacted the nation’s economy. He has taken steps to increase the production and distribution of vaccines, mandated mask-wearing on federal property, and announced a national strategy to combat the pandemic.
Biden has also made it a priority to address the systemic racism and social injustice that has plagued the country for centuries. He has signed executive orders to advance racial equity and support underserved communities, reinstated the Obama-era policy to prevent discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation, and directed the Department of Justice to end the use of private prisons.
In addition to these immediate challenges, Biden faces the long-term challenges of climate change, immigration reform, and economic recovery. He has already taken steps to rejoin the Paris Climate Agreement, which the United States withdrew from under the Trump administration, and has proposed a $1.9 trillion economic relief package to provide economic assistance to struggling Americans and businesses.
Biden’s presidency has been characterized by a strong focus on unity and bipartisanship, a sharp contrast to the divisive politics of the previous administration. He has repeatedly called for unity and pledged to be a president for all Americans, regardless of political affiliation. His inaugural address emphasized the need for unity and healing, stating, “I will be a president for all Americans, and I promise you I will fight as hard for those who did not support me as for those who did.”
Biden’s long political career spans over five decades, including serving as a U.S. Senator from Delaware for 36 years and as Vice President under President Barack Obama from 2009-2017. He is known for his pragmatic approach to governing and his ability to work across the aisle to find common ground.
As a Senator, Biden earned a reputation as a foreign policy expert, serving as Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for many years. He was a strong advocate for arms control and nonproliferation and played a key role in shaping U.S. policy towards Russia and Eastern Europe. As Vice President, he played a significant role in the Obama administration’s efforts to pass the Affordable Care Act, the economic stimulus package, and the Paris climate agreement.
Biden’s presidency has also been marked by historic firsts. Kamala Harris, his running mate, became the first woman, first Black person, and first person of South Asian descent to be elected as Vice President of the United States. Biden has also appointed the most diverse Cabinet in U.S. history, with a record number of women and people of colour in top positions.
In conclusion, Joe Biden’s presidency comes at a critical moment in American history, as the country faces numerous challenges and opportunities. He has made it a priority to address the COVID-19 pandemic, systemic racism, and social injustice, while also focusing on long-term challenges such as climate change, immigration reform, and economic recovery. His presidency has been characterized by a strong focus on unity and bipartisanship, a sharp contrast to the divisive politics of the previous administration. As he begins his presidency, he faces the daunting task of leading the country through a period of great change and uncertainty, but his decades of experience in public service and his pragmatic approach to governing make him well-suited for the task at hand.
Written by Jideofo Okibe,(Obinwannem News correspondent Enugwu State)
Date: April 19, 2024
Ubochi Nkwo Ikuku
Published by Ngozi Odoh (Obinwannem Nsukka Office Secretary)
