President Joe Biden embarks on a whirlwind international tour as he prepares to conclude his term in office.
According to the Washington Examiner, the outgoing president plans to utilize his remaining 74 days focusing on legacy-cementing initiatives, global diplomacy, and strategic fund allocation before President-elect Donald Trump assumes office.
Following Trump's victory in the 2024 election, Biden has outlined an ambitious agenda for his final weeks. His immediate plans include visits to Peru for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings, Brazil for an aerial tour of the Amazon, and Rio de Janeiro for the G20 Summit.
The Biden administration has accelerated its efforts to secure various funding initiatives before the transition. The President recently announced a substantial $1.4 billion package supporting climate change initiatives, with $1.2 billion specifically allocated to the Department of Transportation for promoting cleaner construction materials in transportation projects.
The Department of Transportation revealed a separate $3.4 billion grant package aimed at improving roads, rail systems, and ports across the nation. These investments are positioned as long-term contributions to Biden's presidential legacy, with officials emphasizing their multi-generational impact.
Melinda Pierce from the Sierra Club described the current situation as experiencing "explosions" of money distribution. The administration is strategically deploying these funds to ensure their allocation before the transition of power.
Biden's international engagements continue with a scheduled visit to Luanda, Angola in early December. This diplomatic mission aims to strengthen strategic partnerships and recognize Angola's regional leadership role in Africa.
Democratic strategist Brad Bannon emphasized the urgency of securing aid for Ukraine, considering Trump's skeptical stance on further funding. Bannon said:
I think the legacy of Joe Biden is that he made important starts in turning the country toward the future, both economically and environmentally. If I was him, I'd do everything I can to protect that legacy.
The administration is also focusing on confirming judicial appointments and making final attempts at student loan forgiveness programs before the Department of Education's leadership changes.
Recent observations indicate a more relaxed demeanor from Biden following the election results. His meeting with Trump at the White House on Wednesday was notably cordial, and he delivered what observers termed a gaffe-free speech encouraging Democrats to maintain their political engagement.
Presidential historian Craig Shirley offered perspective on Biden's apparent ease, noting:
He’s glad to be relieved of the pressure of the presidency. No man knows about the presidency until they actually become president, about the stress and the strain it takes on them.
The White House has emphasized Biden's unique achievement as the only Democrat to defeat Trump in a presidential election, a point specifically highlighted by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
President Joe Biden's closing chapter in the White House encompasses a strategic mix of international diplomacy, domestic policy implementation, and legacy preservation efforts. With approximately eight weeks remaining in his term, he has outlined a comprehensive agenda focusing on climate initiatives, infrastructure development, and global partnerships. The administration's final actions center on securing funding for key initiatives and strengthening international alliances before the January transition.
