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Check FAQAbout Austin
Austin Landis is a video & digital journalist covering migration and Latin America from Colombia, using her experience closely covering the United States' evolving immigration policy for the last four years. Austin spent the last five years reporting on national politics in Washington for Spectrum News and Scripps. She most recently worked as the White House reporter for Spectrum, founding the company’s first-ever membership in the White House press pool and briefing room. She speaks Spanish and is passionate about revealing the human impact of politics and policy. Austin is available for video packages, live hits and analysis, audio stories and digital/text stories. Her background is in broadcast journalism, but she primarily wrote daily and enterprise text stories for Spectrum’s burgeoning digital platforms for the last two-and-a-half years.
English
Spanish
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
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Even Before Latest Violence, Thousands of Haitians Fled for US
Prior to the recent surge in violence, thousands of Haitians had already been leaving their country due to economic and political instability. Many initially moved to South America, seeking employment opportunities before attempting to reach the United States. VOA's Austin Landis spoke with a Haitian man at the Colombia-Panama border who was preparing to cross the dangerous Darien Gap.
Even Before Latest Violence, Thousands of Haitians Fled for US
Prior to the recent surge in violence, thousands of Haitians had already been leaving their country due to economic and political instability. Many initially move to South America, seeking employment opportunities before attempting to reach the United States. VOA's Austin Landis spoke with a Haitian man at the Colombia-Panama border who is preparing to cross the dangerous Darien Gap.
Over 3,000 stranded as boat captain arrests halt Darién Gap migration
Migration through the Darién Gap has stopped due to the Colombian navy's arrest of two boat captains for trafficking migrants, leaving over 3,000 people stranded in Necoclí and another town. Local officials are concerned about a potential public health emergency. The boat companies have suspended services, seeking clarity on whether this is part of a broader crackdown. The Darién Gap, a dangerous jungle route connecting Colombia and Panama, has seen a surge in migration, with 520,000 crossings in 2023. Despite the risks, including sexual violence and robbery, migrants view it as the best route to the US. The halt in boat transport has left many, including a Venezuelan family, stranded and living in difficult conditions.
Seeking medical care, one family races anticipated US border restrictions
Victor Hidalgo Lopez, a Venezuelan migrant, traveled through 10 countries with his daughter Emiliannys, who suffered from a rare genetic disorder, in hopes of securing medical treatment in the US. Amid tightening US immigration policies, their journey ended tragically when Emiliannys died from complications of the stomach flu in Mexico. The article highlights the challenges faced by migrants seeking asylum and the ongoing political debate in the US over immigration policy, with experts and advocates emphasizing the need for streamlined and humane pathways for migrants.
Migrant Children Brave Darien Gap on Way to US Border
The Darien Gap, a hazardous jungle connecting Colombia and Panama, is increasingly traversed by migrants heading to the U.S. border, with one in five being children. Officials report a rise in the number of migrants taking this perilous route.
Venezuela opens new consulates in Colombia amid record migration
Five new Venezuelan consulates have opened in Colombia, providing essential services to the 2.5 million Venezuelans living there. This development marks a significant step in the renewed diplomatic relations between Colombia and Venezuela under President Gustavo Petro. The consulates aim to assist Venezuelan migrants with documentation and other government services, addressing a critical need for the large refugee population. Despite the positive developments, challenges remain, including the high cost of obtaining a Venezuelan passport and the ongoing suspicion of expatriates opposing Maduro's government. Trade between the two countries has increased, and both nations are working on agreements to promote safe and orderly migration.
Migrant Children Brave Darien Gap on Way to US Border
The Darien Gap, a hazardous jungle connecting Colombia and Panama, is increasingly being traversed by migrants heading to the U.S. border, with one in five being children. Officials report a rise in the number of migrants taking this perilous route. Austin Landis from VOA traveled to the starting point of their journey to document their experiences.
Collateral Damage: U.S. Forgoes Condolence Payments In Iraq, Syria I produced this year-long investigation for Scripps/Newsy, revealing civilian compensation is nearly absent in the war against ISIS, even as the U.S. takes blame for unintentional deaths.
Afghan Allies To The U.S. Risk Their Lives But Wait Years For A Visa -- Newsy/Scripps News -- One translator worked for the U.S. for nine years. The Taliban threatened to kill him for it. But it took him three years to get a U.S. visa.
State to state, inflation takes a bite out of $1.2T infrastructure law's value -- Spectrum News/NY1 -- The same inflationary pressures pinching consumers are echoing throughout the building industry, cutting into the value of federal infrastructure funds.
Pressure builds for Biden administration to evacuate Afghans who helped U.S. troops
On-air Reporting Reel - 2023
Biden indicates he'll visit East Palestine derailment site 'at some point'
President Joe Biden plans to visit East Palestine, Ohio, following a train derailment that released toxic chemicals. No date for the visit has been set. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and EPA Administrator Michael Regan have visited the site, addressing health concerns. Ohio Senators JD Vance and Sherrod Brown proposed legislation to improve rail safety. The EPA established an office in East Palestine for air monitoring and cleanup, and federal agencies are conducting door-to-door checks. Norfolk Southern is responsible for the cleanup costs.
Biden meets with Senate Dems on Capitol Hill
President Joe Biden attended the Senate Democrats' weekly lunch on Capitol Hill to rally his caucus amidst GOP roadblocks. He addressed the Democratic caucus following a vote by Senators Joe Manchin and Jon Tester in favor of a bill that could lead to his first veto. Biden emphasized the importance of implementing his agenda, highlighted past legislative successes, and criticized Republican efforts to cut popular programs. He is set to release a new budget proposal, aiming to negotiate with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to prevent a debt ceiling crisis.
Biden meets with Senate Dems on Capitol Hill
President Joe Biden visited the Senate Democrats' weekly lunch on Capitol Hill to rally support amidst GOP legislative roadblocks. He faced the caucus after two Democratic senators voted for a bill he is set to veto. Biden has shifted focus to implementing his agenda with the House under Republican control. He urged House Democrats to promote their accomplishments ahead of the 2024 elections. Biden criticized the GOP for creating a debt ceiling crisis and accused them of planning to cut Medicare and Social Security. He is preparing to release his budget proposal, which will begin negotiations with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
Biden marks 20 years of U.S. Homeland Security Department
President Joe Biden marked the 20th anniversary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) by celebrating its achievements and thanking its employees. DHS, created in response to the 9/11 attacks, oversees U.S. borders, counterterrorism, and emergency responses. DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas highlighted evolving security threats and the department's critical mission. Former President George W. Bush and the first DHS Secretary Tom Ridge also contributed via recorded messages. The article also discusses the controversial U.S.-Mexico border policy and the challenges faced by DHS in processing asylum-seekers, with criticism from immigration advocates.
Biden marks 20 years of U.S. Homeland Security Department
President Joe Biden celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), highlighting its role in overseeing U.S. borders, counterterrorism, and emergency responses. DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas emphasized the evolving threats to national security, including cyberattacks and radicalization. The department, created in response to the 9/11 attacks, has faced challenges, particularly regarding the U.S.-Mexico border and asylum-seeker processing. Former President George W. Bush and the first DHS secretary, Tom Ridge, also acknowledged the department's significance. Immigration advocates criticized the department's capacity to process asylum-seekers.
Biden warns GOP would put health care on chopping block
President Joe Biden criticized Republicans for their plans to cut federal spending, which could impact the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid. Speaking in Virginia Beach, Biden highlighted the potential negative effects on health care, especially for vulnerable populations. He contrasted his administration's efforts to lower prescription drug prices and strengthen Medicare with the GOP's lack of transparency on budget cuts. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy ruled out cuts to Social Security and Medicare, while Rep. Jen Kiggans emphasized the importance of these programs for seniors. Biden's remarks come ahead of his budget proposal and expected reelection campaign.
Biden warns GOP would put health care on chopping block
President Joe Biden criticized Republicans for their plans to cut federal spending, which could impact the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid. Speaking in Virginia Beach, Biden highlighted the potential negative effects on health care, especially for those with preexisting conditions and rural hospitals. He contrasted his administration's efforts to lower prescription drug prices with the GOP's lack of transparency on budget cuts. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy ruled out cuts to Social Security and Medicare, but Biden emphasized the need for clarity on other potential reductions. Biden's remarks come ahead of his budget proposal and expected reelection campaign.
Biden warns GOP would put health care on chopping block
President Joe Biden criticized Republicans for their plans to cut federal spending, which could impact the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid. Speaking in Virginia Beach, Biden highlighted the potential negative effects on health care programs and contrasted his administration's efforts to protect these programs with GOP proposals. The article discusses the political standoff over the federal budget, with Republicans demanding spending cuts and refusing to raise the debt limit without concessions. Biden's remarks come ahead of his budget proposal and potential reelection campaign, emphasizing the importance of health care protections and the risks posed by Republican policies.
Federal staff go 'door to door' in East Palestine
Federal agencies, including the EPA, FEMA, and CDC, have been actively responding to the train derailment in East Palestine, conducting door-to-door outreach and health surveys. Cleanup operations, temporarily paused for review, resumed with significant waste disposal efforts. The Biden administration faces criticism from Republicans for its response time, with former President Trump and House Republicans vocalizing their discontent. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and other officials have been involved in the ongoing response and briefings.
Federal staff go 'door to door' in East Palestine
Federal staff from the EPA, FEMA, and CDC went door to door in East Palestine following a train derailment to distribute flyers and conduct health surveys. The EPA, having arrived the day after the February 3rd derailment, ordered Norfolk Southern to cover cleanup costs. Cleanup operations paused for a review but resumed on Monday. Over 100,000 gallons of liquid and 4,500 cubic yards of solid waste require disposal. Republicans criticized the Biden administration's response, with former President Trump and House Republicans calling for investigations. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg visited the area amid questions about the federal response, while President Biden has no plans to visit but remains in contact with officials.
A year into Ukraine war, some in U.S. face expiring status
Ukrainian refugees in the U.S. face expiring temporary statuses, with many having entered under humanitarian parole or the Uniting for Ukraine program. Organizations like Lutheran Social Services, HIAS, and the International Rescue Committee are advocating for extended protections to prevent these individuals from falling into legal limbo. The Department of Homeland Security is exploring options for humanitarian relief, but the urgency for action is high as many refugees' statuses are set to expire soon. The article highlights the personal story of Iryna Kramareva, who fled Mariupol and now seeks stability for her family in Jacksonville, Florida.
A year into Ukraine war, some in U.S. face expiring status
Ukrainians who fled to the U.S. after the Russian invasion, like Iryna Kramareva's family, are facing the expiration of their temporary humanitarian parole status. Nearly 300,000 Ukrainians have been welcomed, with various programs offering temporary protection. Advocates and organizations are urging the Biden administration and Congress to provide extended support to prevent these individuals from entering legal limbo. Kramareva's family is seeking asylum and may apply for Temporary Protected Status, while receiving limited federal aid and community support. The UN Refugee Agency reports over eight million Ukrainians have fled, with a majority wishing to return, but for some, like Kramareva, returning is not viable due to the destruction of their city and personal circumstances.
A year into Ukraine war, some in U.S. face expiring status
Ukrainian refugees in the U.S. face expiring temporary statuses as the one-year mark of Russia's invasion approaches. Many, like Iryna Kramareva's family, are seeking asylum or Temporary Protected Status to avoid returning to unsafe conditions in Ukraine. Immigration advocates urge the Biden administration to extend parole and work authorizations to prevent legal limbo. Organizations like Lutheran Social Services, HIAS, and the International Rescue Committee are assisting Ukrainians with resettlement. The Department of Homeland Security is exploring humanitarian relief options, but legislative efforts in Congress have stalled.
New rule would impose narrowest asylum access yet under Biden
The Biden administration has proposed new asylum restrictions that would temporarily block migrants from seeking asylum at the U.S. border if they do not first apply in another country or through a new mobile app. Immigration advocates have criticized the proposal as a near-total ban on the right to asylum, likening it to a Trump-era policy. The new rule is expected to face legal challenges and would go into effect after a 30-day public comment period, lasting for two years. The policy includes limited exceptions and has been met with significant opposition from humanitarian organizations and legal experts.
New rule would impose narrowest asylum access yet under Biden
The Biden administration has proposed new asylum restrictions that would temporarily block migrants from seeking asylum at the U.S. border unless they first apply in another country or through a new mobile app. Immigration advocates have criticized the proposal as a near-total ban on asylum rights, likening it to a Trump-era policy. The rule, set to take effect after a 30-day public comment period, is expected to face legal challenges. The Department of Homeland Security and Justice Department argue the restrictions are necessary to manage anticipated increases in border crossings once pandemic-related restrictions end.
New rule would impose narrowest asylum access yet under Biden
The Biden administration announced a new rule to restrict asylum access at the U.S. border, requiring migrants to seek asylum in another country first or use a glitch-prone mobile app, CBP One. Immigration advocates criticized the proposal as a near-total ban on asylum, violating U.S. and international law. The policy is expected to face legal challenges. DHS anticipates a surge in border arrivals once pandemic-related restrictions end, with projections of 11,000-13,000 daily encounters. Exceptions to the rule include unaccompanied children and those facing immediate threats. The rule is set to take effect after a 30-day public comment period and last for two years.
New rule would impose narrowest asylum access yet under Biden
The Biden administration has proposed new asylum restrictions, limiting migrants' ability to claim asylum at the U.S. border unless they first seek protection in another country or use a new mobile app. Immigration advocates have criticized the rule as a near-total ban on asylum rights, likening it to a Trump-era policy. The Department of Homeland Security and Justice Department argue the restrictions are necessary to manage expected increases in border crossings. The policy, set to take effect after a public comment period, faces potential legal challenges.
New rule would impose narrowest asylum access yet under Biden
The Biden administration announced a new rule to restrict asylum access at the U.S. border, requiring migrants to seek asylum in another country first or use a glitch-prone mobile app, CBP One. Immigration advocates criticized the proposal as a near-total ban on asylum, violating U.S. and international law. The policy is expected to face legal challenges. DHS and Justice Department officials justify the restrictions due to anticipated surges in border crossings once pandemic-related restrictions end. Exceptions to the rule include unaccompanied children and those facing immediate threats. Critics, including the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, argue the rule revives harmful Trump-era policies and fails to recognize the dangers migrants face in transit countries.
Biden: U.S. will craft 'sharper rules' for downing aerial objects
President Joe Biden announced the development of 'sharper rules' for addressing unidentified aerial objects in U.S. airspace following the downing of three such objects. He clarified that these objects are likely benign and not part of China's spy program. Biden also plans to discuss the recent Chinese surveillance balloon with President Xi Jinping. The president emphasized the need for improved detection and regulation of uncrewed objects and affirmed the U.S.'s stance on protecting its sovereignty. Recovery operations for the downed objects are ongoing, with efforts to better understand their origins and purposes.
'Our system is very safe': FAA chief testifies after planes' close calls
The acting FAA administrator, Billy Nolen, testified on Capitol Hill, asserting the safety of the U.S. air travel system despite recent near-miss incidents. He highlighted ongoing modernization efforts, including upgrades to the NOTAM system, which failed in January, causing significant flight disruptions. Nolen announced the formation of a new safety review team to examine various aspects of U.S. air systems. He emphasized the importance of avoiding complacency in air transportation and detailed measures taken to prevent future incidents. The testimony also addressed recent near-misses involving United Airlines, FedEx, and Southwest planes, with the National Transportation Safety Board investigating these events.
FAA chief insists flights are safe after close calls
The acting FAA administrator, Billy Nolen, testified on Capitol Hill, asserting the safety of the U.S. air travel system despite recent near-miss incidents. He highlighted ongoing modernization efforts, including upgrades to the NOTAM system, which failed in January, causing significant flight disruptions. Nolen announced the formation of a new safety review team to examine various aspects of U.S. air systems following recent close calls. He emphasized the importance of avoiding complacency in air transportation and detailed measures taken to prevent future incidents. The testimony also included discussions on the FAA's response to the NOTAM system failure and future improvements.
White House: 'We just don't know' what three downed objects are
White House and military officials have not yet identified the three objects shot down over the U.S. since Friday. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Mark Milley confirmed the lack of knowledge about the objects and the miss of one missile in Lake Huron. The intelligence community suspects the objects might be commercial balloons. Recovery operations are ongoing, with debris from a previous Chinese spy balloon incident already recovered. Senators received a classified briefing, with some calling for more public disclosure. Safety protocols were emphasized, and adjustments to radar surveillance were made following the Chinese spy balloon incident.
White House: 'We just don't know' what three downed objects are
The White House and top military officials have not yet identified the three objects shot down over the U.S. since Friday. The intelligence community suggests they could be commercial balloons, but this is not confirmed. One missile fired at an object over Lake Huron missed its target, landing harmlessly. The objects were flying lower than the Chinese surveillance balloon shot down earlier. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with debris locations complicating the process. Senators call for more public disclosure, while officials emphasize safety and careful decision-making in the takedowns.
January border crossings were lowest in nearly two years
Border crossings in January dropped to the lowest level in nearly two years following new restrictions on the asylum process by the Biden administration. U.S. Customs and Border Protection recorded over 128,000 crossings, a significant decrease from December's figures. The new policy targets migrants from Venezuela, Nicaragua, Haiti, and Cuba, allowing them to apply for migration through a temporary program but blocking those who attempt to cross the border. The introduction of a smartphone app for asylum claims and the threat of expulsion have contributed to the decline. While officials claim the measures are effective, immigration advocates argue they severely restrict asylum-seekers' rights. The new program admitted over 11,000 migrants in its first month, but a lawsuit from Republican-led states challenges its legality.
January border crossings were lowest in nearly two years
Agents encountered 40% fewer border crossings in January following new asylum restrictions by the Biden administration, marking the lowest point in nearly two years. U.S. Customs and Border Protection recorded over 128,000 crossings, down from 221,000 in December. The new policy targets migrants from Venezuela, Nicaragua, Haiti, and Cuba, allowing them to apply for a temporary program but expelling those who attempt to cross illegally. The introduction of a smartphone app for asylum claims and the threat of expulsion have significantly reduced crossings. Immigration advocates criticize the policies for restricting asylum rights, while a Republican-led lawsuit challenges the new program. Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas defends the policy, citing a drop in arrivals.
January border crossings were lowest in nearly two years
Agents encountered 40% fewer people trying to cross the border in January, marking the lowest data point in nearly two years, following new restrictions on the asylum process by the Biden administration. U.S. Customs and Border Protection recorded over 128,000 crossings, down from more than 221,000 in December. The new policy allows people from Venezuela, Nicaragua, Haiti, and Cuba to apply for migration through a temporary program, with the threat of expulsion if they attempt to cross the border. The introduction of a smartphone app for asylum claims has also contributed to the reduction. Immigration advocates criticize the policies for restricting asylum-seekers' rights, while a group of Republican-led states has sued the administration over the new program. Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas stated that the policy has led to a drop in arrivals.
Biden directs risk study of unidentified aerial objects
President Joe Biden has directed his national security team to study the implications and potential security risks of unidentified aerial objects after the U.S. military shot down three such objects in the past three days. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby announced the effort, which aims to assess and possibly revise policies related to airspace management. The recent increase in detections follows the discovery of a Chinese spy balloon over the U.S. in late January. Officials have ruled out extraterrestrial origins for the objects and are working to identify their sources. The U.S. Senate will receive a briefing on the situation, and a bipartisan examination is planned to understand the incidents and improve detection capabilities.
Biden to mark first anniversary of Ukraine war in Poland
President Joe Biden will visit Poland on February 20 to commemorate the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. During his two-day visit, he will meet with Polish President Andrzej Duda and NATO allies to reaffirm support for Ukraine. The U.S. has provided nearly $30 billion in security assistance since the war began. The Biden administration recently approved a $10 billion arms sale to Poland. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is seeking further Western support, including fighter jets, to combat Russian military aggression.
Biden looks to govs to help enact economic agenda
President Joe Biden, in a meeting with U.S. governors at the White House, emphasized the need for state cooperation to implement significant legislation passed during his first two years. Highlighting the bipartisan National Governors Association's role, Biden pointed to successes in pandemic relief and infrastructure funding. He acknowledged the challenges of managing substantial federal funds and addressed Republican criticisms of federal spending, particularly from House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper expressed support for Biden's potential 2024 reelection and the focus on effective implementation of passed legislation.
Biden to mark first anniversary of Ukraine war in Poland
President Joe Biden will travel to Poland to mark the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. During the two-day visit starting on February 20, he will meet with Polish President Andrzej Duda and NATO allies to reaffirm support for Ukraine. The U.S. has pledged nearly $30 billion in security assistance since the war began. The Biden administration recently approved a $10 billion arms sale to Poland. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been advocating for more Western support, including fighter jets, to counter Russia's intensified offensive.
Biden to mark first anniversary of Ukraine war in Poland
President Joe Biden will travel to Poland later this month to mark the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. During the two-day visit starting on February 20, he will meet with Polish President Andrzej Duda and NATO allies to reaffirm support for Ukraine. The U.S. has pledged nearly $30 billion in security assistance since the war began. The Biden administration recently approved a $10 billion arms sale to Poland. Russia has intensified its offensive, launching numerous missiles and drones, while Ukrainian forces continue to defend their territory. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been advocating for more Western support.
U.S.: China spy balloon part of vast program, could collect intel signals
China's balloon that crossed the United States was part of a vast military-linked aerial spy program targeting over 40 countries, equipped to collect intelligence signals. The U.S. administration linked the balloon to China's People's Liberation Army, asserting it was part of a broader surveillance program. The balloon was shot down off the coast of South Carolina. U.S. officials, including State Department spokesman Ned Price, discussed potential actions against Chinese entities linked to the PLA. The incident has led to widespread condemnation from U.S. lawmakers and further scrutiny of China's surveillance activities.
U.S.: China spy balloon part of vast program, could collect intel signals
China's balloon that crossed the United States was part of a large-scale military-linked aerial spy program targeting over 40 countries, according to the Biden administration. The balloon, directed by the People's Liberation Army, was equipped with high-tech equipment for collecting sensitive information. The U.S. shot down the balloon off the coast of South Carolina. U.S. officials, including State Department spokesman Ned Price, emphasized the threat posed by China's surveillance activities. The incident has led to increased scrutiny and condemnation from U.S. lawmakers and defense officials, who questioned the delay in shooting down the balloon and discussed the broader implications of China's espionage efforts.
Takeaways from Biden's State of the Union address
President Joe Biden delivered his second State of the Union address, focusing on bipartisan achievements, economic recovery post-COVID-19, infrastructure progress, and the need to unite and 'finish the job.' He highlighted the reduction of inflation, job growth, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act's impact. Biden addressed criticism over inflation, touted deficit reduction, and defended Social Security and Medicare against proposed cuts. He also discussed combating fentanyl, cancer research, mental health, and veterans' support. Biden called for police reform, honoring Tyre Nichols, and urged Congress to restore abortion rights and protect LGBTQ+ Americans. He concluded by emphasizing democracy, unity, and optimism for America's future.
U.S.: China spy balloon part of vast program, could collect intel signals
The Biden administration revealed that the Chinese spy balloon shot down off the coast of South Carolina was part of a large military-linked aerial surveillance program operated by the People's Liberation Army, targeting over 40 countries. The balloon was equipped for intelligence signal collection and similar balloons have been observed over five continents. U.S. officials are considering actions against PRC entities linked to the PLA and are reaching out to other targeted countries. The U.S. Senate and House have responded with inquiries and a condemnation resolution, respectively. China maintains the balloon was for weather monitoring and drifted off course.
At Capitol, top border agents ask for reform, resources
Top border patrol agents testified before U.S. lawmakers for the first time under the Biden administration, describing the surge in arrivals at the southwest border as overwhelming and advocating for resources and reform. Tucson and Rio Grande Valley sector chiefs emphasized the need for a combination of personnel, technology, and physical barriers to secure the border. House Oversight Committee chairman James Comer stated that the Department of Homeland Security initially tried to prevent the agents from testifying. The agents highlighted the challenges they face, including rescuing migrants and managing resources. Democrats criticized Republicans for allegedly villainizing migrants and not offering clear solutions, while the White House accused Republicans of political motives for the hearing.
VP announces new private investments to help curb migration
Vice President Kamala Harris announced $950 million in new private sector investments in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras to curb migration by creating economic and educational opportunities. The initiative, which began in 2021, has contributed to a decline in migration from Central America. Companies like Columbia Sportswear and Root Capital are making significant investments. Harris emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships and called on Congress to fund border security and reform the immigration system. Despite these efforts, border crossings reached record highs in 2022, driven by economic and gang violence in other regions.
VP announces new private investments to help curb migration
Vice President Kamala Harris announced $950 million in new private sector investments in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras to curb migration by creating economic and educational opportunities. The initiative, which began in 2021, has contributed to a decline in migration from Central America. Companies like Columbia Sportswear and Root Capital are making significant investments. The Biden-Harris administration aims to create one million new jobs and include six million people in the financial system by 2027. Harris also called on Congress to fund border security and reform the immigration system.
VP announces new private investments to help curb migration
Vice President Kamala Harris announced $950 million in new private sector investments in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras to curb migration by creating economic and educational opportunities. The initiative, which began in 2021, has contributed to a decline in migration from Central America. Companies like Columbia Sportswear and Root Capital are making significant investments. The administration attributes the drop in arrivals from northern Central America to various factors, including increased refugee resettlement and reduced visa backlogs. Harris also called on Congress to fund border security and reform the immigration system. Despite these efforts, border crossings reached record highs in 2022, driven by economic desperation and gang violence in other countries.
Biden, Harris tout infrastructure rollout in Philadelphia
President Joe Biden announced a $500 million plan to upgrade Philadelphia's water system and replace lead service lines, funded by the bipartisan infrastructure law. The law has allocated $1.2 billion for 23 states, including Pennsylvania. Vice President Harris discussed the negative impacts of lead-contaminated water on children and announced a new accelerator program for lead pipe removal. Biden and Harris were also scheduled to speak at a Democratic National Committee event in Philadelphia. Biden faces scrutiny from a Republican-led House and criticism over handling of classified documents. He calls for political unity ahead of the State of the Union address, while criticizing the Republican Party's alignment with Trump's 'Make America Great Again' movement.
Biden, Harris tout infrastructure rollout in Philadelphia
President Joe Biden announced a $500 million plan to upgrade Philadelphia's water system, part of a broader $15 billion initiative for lead pipe removal under the bipartisan infrastructure law. Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted the health impacts of lead-contaminated water on children. The administration has allocated $1.2 billion for 23 states, including Pennsylvania. Biden and Harris emphasized the economic progress and job creation achieved during their term, while also addressing political unity and ongoing challenges with a Republican-led House of Representatives.
Biden, Clinton celebrate family leave law's 30th anniversary
President Joe Biden and former President Bill Clinton celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) at a White House event. Biden reiterated his commitment to securing paid family leave across the U.S., despite previous legislative setbacks. Clinton shared personal stories highlighting the impact of the FMLA. The White House continues to support state-level efforts for paid leave, with 11 states and the District of Columbia having policies in place. White House Gender Policy Council Director Jen Klein expressed optimism about future legislative efforts, although nationwide paid leave faces challenges in a Republican-led House.
Biden, Clinton celebrate family leave law's 30th anniversary
President Joe Biden and former President Bill Clinton celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) at a White House event. Biden reiterated his commitment to securing paid family leave across the U.S., despite previous legislative setbacks. Clinton shared personal stories highlighting the impact of the FMLA. The White House is currently supporting state-level initiatives for paid family leave, with 11 states and the District of Columbia having such policies. White House Gender Policy Council Director Jen Klein expressed optimism about future efforts, although nationwide paid leave faces challenges in a Republican-led House.
Biden, Clinton celebrate family leave law's 30th anniversary
President Joe Biden and former President Bill Clinton celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) at the White House. Biden reiterated his commitment to securing paid family leave across the U.S., despite previous legislative setbacks. Clinton shared personal stories highlighting the impact of the FMLA. The White House is currently supporting state-level efforts to implement paid leave policies, with 11 states and the District of Columbia having such policies in place. White House Gender Policy Council Director Jen Klein expressed optimism about ongoing legislative efforts in various states.
Biden admin. tackles credit card late fees in latest competition push
The Biden administration announced a new initiative to reduce credit card late fees, aiming to save Americans up to $9 billion annually. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) proposed a rule to cap late fees at $8 and limit them to a quarter of the minimum payment. President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of fairness and restoring faith in government and the private sector. The proposal is part of broader efforts to promote competition and eliminate junk fees. The American Bankers Association criticized the proposal as extreme, warning it could lead to more late payments and higher debt.
Biden admin. tackles credit card late fees in latest competition push
The Biden administration announced a new effort to reduce credit card late fees, which could save Americans up to $9 billion annually. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau proposed a rule to cap late fees at $8 and limit them to a quarter of the minimum payment, ending automatic inflation increases. CFPB Director Rohit Chopra emphasized the need to restore competition and reduce junk fees. The proposal is open for public comment for 60 days. President Biden discussed the importance of fairness and restoring faith in government and the private sector. The American Bankers Association criticized the proposal as extreme and potentially harmful to consumers.
Biden admin. grants $800M to help prevent traffic deaths
The Biden administration has announced $800 million in grants to cities and counties across the U.S. to prevent traffic deaths, funded by the bipartisan infrastructure law. The grants, part of the new Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program, aim to reduce the nearly 43,000 annual road fatalities. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the need for data-driven strategies and local solutions, highlighting successful zero-death initiatives in several cities. The initiative is part of a broader National Roadway Safety Strategy to achieve zero traffic deaths nationwide.
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