Biden Administration Races Against Time to Secure Key Policies Before Trump Transition
As the Biden administration approaches its final weeks, officials are moving swiftly to solidify President Joe Biden’s legacy before President-elect Donald Trump assumes office in January. With Trump pledging to reverse key Biden-era initiatives, including climate policies and healthcare reforms, the outgoing administration is racing to finalize projects, allocate funds, and cement regulatory changes.
Infrastructure Investments for Long-Term Impact
A significant focus of the Biden administration is ensuring the enduring impact of the $1 trillion infrastructure law and the $375 billion climate law. On Friday, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced $3.4 billion in grants targeting rail service improvements, port enhancements, safer highways, and domestic manufacturing of sustainable materials.
“These investments will transform transportation systems nationwide,” Buttigieg stated. “Communities will benefit from safer commutes, cleaner air, and stronger supply chains.” By accelerating the disbursement of funds, the administration aims to lock in projects that Trump would find challenging to unwind.
Pushing Environmental Goals Forward
Environmental initiatives are also at the forefront, with the White House adopting a “sprint to the finish” mentality. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has expedited plans for lead pipe removal and introduced federal methane emission fees for oil and gas companies.
The Department of Energy recently approved a $544 million loan to a Michigan firm to expand manufacturing of silicon carbide wafers for electric vehicles. This loan is part of a larger $37 billion clean-energy program revived under Biden’s leadership.
“There’s a new urgency to get it all done,” said Melinda Pierce of the Sierra Club. “Biden’s team wants to complete the job they started.”
Prioritizing Defense and Foreign Aid
The Pentagon is working to allocate $7.1 billion in military aid to Ukraine before January 20. This includes $4.3 billion from the 2024 supplemental budget and $2.8 billion in Pentagon savings. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized that the funds are already obligated, making them harder to rescind under the incoming administration.
Judicial Appointments Under Pressure
The White House is also prioritizing judicial confirmations, seeking Senate approval for as many federal judges as possible. In recent weeks, several nominees have advanced, with the Senate confirming April Perry as a U.S. District Court judge in Illinois.
Trump, however, has urged Republicans to block these efforts, claiming Democrats are “ramming through” appointments ahead of the transition.
Accelerating Student Loan Forgiveness
In education, the Biden administration is expediting a federal rule to forgive loans for borrowers facing financial hardship. The proposal is currently in a public comment period, with the administration working against a tight deadline to implement the rule before Trump takes office.
Education Secretary Miguel Cardona is also expected to finalize cases related to loan forgiveness for students defrauded by colleges. Aaron Ament, president of the National Student Legal Defense Network, said, “It’s a no-brainer to resolve these cases now rather than leaving them to the next administration.”
A Race Against Time
As the January 20 transition looms, the Biden administration is determined to preserve its legacy in the face of anticipated rollbacks. From infrastructure and environmental initiatives to judicial appointments and student loan forgiveness, Biden’s team is leveraging every available moment to solidify its accomplishments.
With Trump poised to reverse many policies, these final actions underscore the urgency of securing Biden’s vision for the nation before a new chapter begins.
Source : Swifteradio.com
