Category: 2013

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of California and ordered federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area affected by the Rim Fire during the period of August 17 to October 24, 2013. Federal funding is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private…

I thank the Senate for confirming Nina Pillard to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, which for the first time, will have five active female judges on the bench.  Throughout her career, Ms. Pillard has displayed an unwavering commitment to justice and integrity.  Her landmark accomplishments…

Vice President Biden spoke by phone this morning with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, expressing appreciation for the hospitality he received during his visit to Tokyo earlier this month.  The Vice President reaffirmed that the United States does not recognize China’s recently announced Air Defense Identification Zone and that the announcement will in no way…

On Monday, January 13, President Obama will welcome the President of the Government of the Kingdom of Spain Mariano Rajoy Brey to the White House.  The visit will highlight the strength and depth of the United States’ relationship with Spain – from Spain’s decisive support during the Revolutionary War to our cooperation in fostering transatlantic…

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, President Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key Administration posts: Thomas Rothman – Member, National Council on the Arts Peter A. Selfridge – Chief of Protocol, with the rank of Ambassador during his tenure of service, Department of State Douglas Alan Silliman – Ambassador to the State…

The United States welcomes today’s signing of declarations ending the M23 rebellion in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. For too long, the people of the African Great Lakes region have suffered as a result of conflict and instability. Today’s signing moves us one step closer to bringing decades of violence to an end. While we…

Today’s announcement by Governor Branstad is great news for the thousands of Iowans who will now have access to quality, affordable health insurance coverage thanks to the Affordable Care Act. Iowa joins a growing number of states – led by both Republican and Democratic governors — that have chosen to put politics aside in expanding…

To Graça Machel and the Mandela family; to President Zuma and members of the government; to heads of state and government, past and present; distinguished guests – it is a singular honor to be with you today, to celebrate a life unlike any other.  To the people of South Africa – people of every race…

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you so much.  Thank you.  To Graça Machel and the Mandela family; to President Zuma and members of the government; to heads of states and government, past and present; distinguished guests — it is a singular honor to be with you today, to celebrate a life like no other. …