As President Joe Biden concludes his term, a notable disparity exists between his policy accomplishments and public perception. While he focused on long-term objectives, some voters criticized his handling of immediate issues such as high inflation and illegal border crossings.
Addressing the Pandemic
Early in his presidency, Biden and congressional Democrats allocated $1.9 trillion to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. This relief package included direct payments to households, aid for state and local governments, expanded child tax credits, and support for small businesses and unemployed individuals. The vaccination campaign led to a significant portion of the population being fully vaccinated.
Inflation Challenges
Inflation emerged as a major concern during Biden's term, reaching a four-decade peak of 9.1% in June 2022. Various factors, including disruptions in the global supply chain and geopolitical events like the Russia-Ukraine conflict, contributed to rising prices. Biden's efforts to address inflation, such as tapping into the strategic petroleum reserve, faced public skepticism.
Border Security
Illegal border crossings surged during Biden's tenure, leading to over 2 million government arrests in fiscal years 2022 and 2023. The administration faced criticism for its handling of border security, with subsequent actions resulting in a decrease in arrests. The issue of immigration impacted housing and job markets but also contributed to economic growth.
Infrastructure Investments
Biden signed a $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure deal in 2021, aiming to improve the country's infrastructure. While progress has been made with thousands of projects underway, delays in completing major initiatives have hindered the visible impact on communities. Challenges in deploying electric vehicle charging stations have also been noted.
Technological Competitiveness
To enhance technological competitiveness, Biden supported investments in domestic computer chip production and artificial intelligence. These initiatives aimed to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and bolster the U.S. economy in critical sectors. However, the full effects of these measures may materialize in the future.
Inflation Reduction Act and Climate Policies
The Inflation Reduction Act, signed by Biden in 2022, focused on climate change initiatives and healthcare subsidies. While the law aimed to address long-term challenges, its immediate impact on inflation was limited. Biden emphasized the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources despite short-term economic concerns.
Pocketbook Issues and Bipartisanship
Biden pursued bipartisan cooperation on various issues, including gun violence and healthcare. Simultaneously, his administration worked on consumer protection measures and economic transparency. Efforts by federal agencies aimed to benefit consumers and promote fairness in the economy.
As Biden's presidency concludes, the legacy of his domestic policy initiatives will continue to shape the nation's trajectory, with ongoing implications for future administrations.
