President Biden's last days in office are marked by a wave of significant policy initiatives and decisions that will shape his legacy.
According to the New York Post, the White House plans to roll out additional student debt cancellation, intensify efforts for a Gaza ceasefire, and boost military support for Ukraine during Biden's remaining 42 days before President-elect Trump assumes office.
Chief of Staff Jeff Zients outlined these priorities in an internal White House memo addressed to all staff members. The memo reveals Biden's commitment to addressing both domestic economic concerns and international conflicts that emerged during his presidency.
The Biden administration's renewed focus on student debt relief comes after previously eliminating more than $175 billion in loans for millions of borrowers. Despite several legal setbacks, including the Supreme Court's rejection of a $430 billion debt cancellation plan, the administration continues to pursue alternative pathways for loan forgiveness.
The Education Department may forgive an additional $100 billion in student loan repayments. This plan aims to assist borrowers identified as having an 80% chance of defaulting based on a predictive analysis of existing borrower data. According to the nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, rolling back President Biden's various student debt forgiveness programs could save a potential Trump administration up to $550 billion.
Jason Furman, who previously led President Barack Obama’s Council of Economic Advisers, has voiced concerns about widespread debt cancellation efforts. He highlighted the potential economic risks, stating that injecting such a large amount of money into the economy—nearly half a trillion dollars—could worsen inflation.
The administration's focus extends beyond domestic issues to critical international challenges. Biden remains actively involved in negotiations to secure the release of Israeli and American hostages held by Hamas since October 7, 2023.
Zients detailed the administration's diplomatic efforts in the memo:
The President is currently engaged in another push with Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and others to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza with the hostages released
The White House is also committed to strengthening Ukraine's position by providing additional artillery rounds, air defense systems, and other critical military capabilities. However, recent developments, including the fall of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad's regime, have led to speculation about potential peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine under Trump's incoming administration.
The White House's closing agenda includes several other significant initiatives. These encompass the distribution of high-speed internet funds to states, efforts to confirm judicial nominees through the Senate and work to prevent a government shutdown before year-end.
Zients indicated that additional announcements would address climate change, conservation efforts, and artificial intelligence developments. These final weeks will be crucial in cementing Biden's presidential legacy as he prepares for the transition of power.
President Biden's final 42-day sprint focuses on delivering on campaign promises and addressing ongoing global crises. His administration aims to expand student debt relief programs while simultaneously working to resolve conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine through diplomatic and military support channels.
The transition period will test the administration's ability to implement these initiatives before President-elect Trump takes office. The success of these final policy pushes will significantly impact both Biden's legacy and the incoming administration's initial challenges.
