Biden stated that he would support the Senate changing its filibuster rules to ensure privacy rights, including those related to abortion, are enshrined in law. This was in response to the landmark Supreme Court decision which reversed Roe v. Wade.
Biden stated that he believes Roe v. Wade must be codified into law. He said this at a press conference after completing his overseas trip that included meetings with NATO and G-7 leaders.
He said, “And if it gets in the way of the filibuster, it’s just like voting rights, it should aEUR” We provide an exception for that, should require an exemption to the filibuster to this action, to address the Supreme Court decision.”
Biden criticised the court’s “outrageous behaviour” and stated that he would meet with governors at White House to discuss the issue. He would also make additional announcements after the meeting.
Most legislation must pass the Senate’s 60-vote threshold to be considered. This means that Democrats currently hold the Senate’s control but don’t have enough support to pass legislation. To change the filibuster rules they would need 50 votes, but some Democrats are reluctant to give them that number.
Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell criticised Biden for “attacking an American institution like Supreme Court from the global stage.”
“He is upset that the court stated that the people, through their elected representatives will have a say in abortion policy. McConnell stated in a statement that this does not undermine democracy. “It is, however, behavior like that of the President that undermines equal justice or the rule of law.”
Biden repeated the administration’s message that those who were outraged at the Supreme Court decision should mobilize to vote in the November midterm elections.
He said, “Show up to vote, show up during the off-year, vote, vote, vote,”
Biden laughed and replied, “Yeah. I am.” I am the president of the United States of America. This makes me the best messenger.
Biden stated that his meetings with European allies showed that they are stronger than ever in facing the Russian threats to Europe as well as the Chinese competitive threat.
Biden stated that “Before war started, I told Putin, NATO would not only become stronger, but also get more united. We would see democracies around the world stand up to oppose his aggression, and defend the rules-based system.” “That’s exactly the situation we are seeing today.”
Biden called the NATO summit historic and noted that Sweden, Finland, and the United States had been invited to join the alliance. This was Biden’s view of the ripple effect of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
After Turkey’s objections, the admission path for both countries aEUR”, which Biden said have a “long history of neutrality”, was cleared.
“[Putin] wanted NATO to become Finland-ized.” Biden stated that Putin got NATO-ization for Finland.
According to the White House, Biden was involved in mediating between Turkey and the Nordic countries. Biden denied offering any kind of sweetener to Turkey such as allowing the ally to purchase F-16 fighter jets made in the USA.
Biden stated that he had supported the sale for months. “I have not changed my position since December. He stated that there was no “quid pro quo” in Turkey’s decision not to object to Sweden and Finland joining NATO.
Due to rising gasoline prices, Biden is under increasing pressure from the American political system. Biden plans to travel next month to Israel and Saudi Arabia to discuss a range of diplomatic issues with leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Biden declined to answer a question about whether he would make a case to Saudi King Salman or Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for more oil. He also downplayed bilateral meetings, which officials claim will be part the trip.
He said, “It’s Saudi Arabian, but not about Saudi Arabia.”
“I suppose I will see King and Crown Prince, but that’s the meeting I’m not going to.” He said that they would be part of a larger meeting.
