Biden & Co.’s remaining plans for final days of lame-duck presidency
As President Biden’s term comes to a close, he and his administration are gearing up for a series of final actions before passing the baton to President-elect Donald Trump and his team. Among the plans on the agenda are additional pardons, measures to prevent homegrown political extremism, and increased military aid for Israel.
Biden is set to embark on one last international trip, where he will visit Italy and Vatican City to meet with Pope Francis, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and President Sergio Mattarella. The purpose of the trip is to discuss ways to advance peace globally with Pope Francis and to strengthen the U.S.-Italy alliance with the Italian heads of state. Biden also plans to express gratitude to Meloni for her leadership of the G7 and to address future challenges facing the leading nations of the world.
Upon his return, Biden will address the nation twice more before Trump’s inauguration. The first speech will focus on foreign policy, while the second will serve as a farewell address during his final days in office. Additionally, Biden is considering additional pardons for individuals who have received harsh sentences, measures to combat domestic violent extremism, and an increase in military funding, approximately $8 billion, to Israel in light of its ongoing conflict with Hamas.
The Department of Justice is also weighing whether to prosecute an additional 200 cases related to the January 6 events before Trump’s term ends. Meanwhile, Biden is not expected to act on pressure to enhance protections for transgender student athletes or cancel further student loan debt.
Biden’s actions in the final weeks of his presidency have faced criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Some have accused him of lacking leadership, while others argue that he is pushing the country in a far-left direction against the will of the voters. Trump has criticized Biden’s last-minute policy decisions, particularly in relation to energy production, calling them unnecessary and difficult to undo.
As Biden’s term comes to a close, the focus remains on the actions he and his administration will take in their final days in office. From international diplomacy to domestic policy, the transition period between administrations is marked by significant decisions that will shape the future of the country.
