While the nation welcomes Donald Trump back to the White House, it's crucial to acknowledge the significant accomplishments of the Biden-Harris administration. Despite current approval ratings, history often offers a different perspective. Here's a look at some key achievements:
Foreign Policy: President Biden brokered a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, based on his three-phase proposal. This involved the return of hostages and a plan for Gaza's reconstruction.
Economic Recovery: The administration oversaw a significant economic rebound from the pandemic, with a 4.1% unemployment rate, robust GDP growth nearing 3%, and a strong stock market performance. While inflation remained a challenge, underlying trends showed signs of slowing.
American Rescue Plan: This plan provided $1,400 direct payments to most households, expanded the Child Tax Credit (significantly reducing child poverty), allocated funds for vaccine distribution, and offered forgivable loans to small businesses.
Healthcare Reform: The Inflation Reduction Act capped insulin costs for seniors at $35, implemented a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug expenses under Medicare, and empowered Medicare to negotiate drug prices – a long-sought Democratic goal.
Infrastructure Investment: The bipartisan infrastructure deal promises significant improvements to roads, bridges, high-speed rail, broadband access, ports, waterways, and cybersecurity, creating numerous jobs in the process.
CHIPS and Science Act: This act represents a historic investment in domestic manufacturing, boosting job creation and national security by reducing reliance on foreign chip production.
Veterans' Support: The PACT Act expanded VA benefits and care for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxins. Over a million claims have been granted, providing much-needed support to those who served.
Further Accomplishments: Other notable achievements include significant investments in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the confirmation of 235 federal judges, securing union pensions, and passing the first major gun safety legislation in decades.
This record suggests that the Biden-Harris administration's impact will likely be viewed more favorably over time, with tangible benefits for the American people.
