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Today is also Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti two which marks the 354th birth anniversary of the tenth Sikh Guru. The day is observed in honor and remembrance of the great warrior, poet, philosopher and spiritual leader. Guru Gobind Singh was born on 22 December 1666 according to the Gregorian calendar. However, his birth anniversary is celebrated according to the lunar calendar. This year, Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti was born in Patna and was the only son of Guru Tegh Bahadur and Mata Gujri. When he was nine years old, his father Guru Tegh Bahadur was killed by Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam. Today, January 20, 2021, administration and the key Following his father’s we begin a new chapter as Joe cabinet appointees in their demise, Guru Gobind Ji took Biden and are government. over as the leader of the Sikhs sworn in as the President and Vice For me personally, today is and continued his fight against President of the United States-a indeed historic to see KAMALA the Mughals. powerful day that holds a special HARRIS as United States's Vice It was Guru Gobind Singh who introduced the five ‘K’s that meaning for many Americans. President, being the First Woman, Sikhs abide by. These were Kesh In this issue, our Cover First Asian, First Indian American (uncut hair), Kanga (wooden Story is on BIDEN HARRIS and First Person of Tamil origin comb), Kara (iron or steel Administration. Parthiban ever to hold this high office. bracelet worn on the Shanmugam, Digital Director of President has appointed wrist), Kirpan BIDEN HARRIS Campaign of several in his (sword) and Kacchera Democratic National Committee new administration, nearly twenty (breeches). He has complied a detailed or more. This is a good start but also declared the Holy Scriptures of Guru important occasions. Thanks for your biographical sketch of both our hope is that the BIDEN HARRIS Granth Sahib as the permanent Guru of continued overwhelming response that President Joe Biden and Vice administration will charter a new Sikhs. He passed away in 1708. makes THE GLOBAL EYE, your favourite President Kamala Harris. Our course for the country in the next To commemorate this occasion, Digital News Magazine. Cover story also includes details four years. It is a golden we have covered in-depth ’s Prime Minister Modi’s special relationship with the of the inauguration, the proposed opportunity for the Democrats as for Sikhs in our Spotlight section. We trust that initiatives of the first 100 days of the next two years they will control our readers will enjoy this special edition of the BIDEN HARRIS both the House and Senate. \ THE GLOBAL EYE being brought on these Letters to the Editor CONTENT Global eye is very colorful and pleasing to the eyes. Your cover- age of Covid vaccine is very informative. Biden gets second dose of vaccine Overall excellent articles covering all aspects. as team readies COVID-19 plan Dr C . Velayudham Pillai Page 19 ------Wonderful issue of Global Eye. Thank you for so clearly explain- Bhutan PM wishes Modi for ing the Farmers bills. I am sharing your magazine to many from my side. launching world's largest Acharya Nilamegame COVID-19 vaccination drive Reunion Islands, France ------Page 23 A very impressive speech by our Honorable PM Modi ji in India Ideas Summit and Global Week 2020. Lot of information to know. Too much democracy Mani9944 ------for mandarins? The public service MAFS announcement of student scholarship Page 24 is very great. All the corporates have to give something back to the country so that bright students will be benefited. A new beginning with Prasanth Reddy Vijayawada President Biden and ------Very much need Tiru O Panneerselvam as CM of Tamilnadu in Vice President Harris 2021. we all work together for that. Page 35 Sona_mahi ------Amazing colourful issue. Thank you Global eye for sending the Priyanka Chopra is excited new edition. Manoj Singh ------as The White Tiger makers Good information with good articles. Shamik ------send her name for awards Respected Editor, I'm Srujan from Delhi. I want to meet the editor to discuss the few season in Best Supporting things about the current Government and the policies. I would like to meet anytime the editor prefers. Satish Menon Actress category ------Team, From few days, Travel section and Science and Technol- Page 58 ogy, Gadgets missing. Please include those sections also else this is like the only political magazine. Divakar

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Biden inauguration theme: 'America United' The theme for President-elect Joe Bidens The theme reflects the beginning of a new national journey that inauguration will be “America United,” an issue thats long been a central focus for restores the soul of America, brings the country together, and creates a Biden but one thats taken on added weight path to a brighter future, the inaugural committee said. in the wake of the violence at the US Capitol It will be one of Bidens first acts “good thing,” though Vice President Mike last week. In an announcement shared first as president, and a show of bipartisanship Pence and his wife plan to attend. “This After Biden asked Americans to with The Associated Press, the Presidential at a time when the national divide is on stark inauguration marks a new chapter for the stay home for his inauguration, the “Field of Inaugural Committee said that the theme display. The focus on unity has American people — one of healing, of Flags” is meant to represent “the American “reflects the beginning of a new national characterized Bidens presidential run from unifying, of coming together, of an America people who are unable to travel” to the Capitol journey that restores the soul of America, the start, and hes said repeatedly since united,” said PIC CEO Dr Tony Allen. “It is to celebrate his swearing-in, according to the brings the country together, and creates a winning the White House he sees unifying time to turn the page on this era of division. committee. Its not the only COVID-era change path to a brighter future. In keeping with the country as one of his top priorities as The inaugural activities will reflect to the festivities. In keeping with crowd-size the theme of unity, the committee also president. But the scope — and urgency our shared values and serve as a reminder restrictions to slow the spread of the virus, Biden announced that after he is officially — of the challenge Biden faces became that we are stronger together than we are will have a significantly pared-down inauguration, inaugurated, Biden, Vice President-elect even clearer this week after President apart, just as our motto e pluribus unum with traditional activities like the parade and the Harris and their spouses will lay a wreath sparked an armed reminds us -- out of many, one. ” The inaugural balls moving to a virtual format. But at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in insurrection at the Capitol, spurred by his committee also announced plans for a even as the celebration itself will be smaller, Arlington National Cemetery, and will be repeated attempts to delegitimize Bidens major public art display spanning multiple inauguration officials are preparing a joined there by former Presidents Barack win. Trump himself is skipping Bidens blocks of the National Mall that will feature significant security presence in preparation Obama, George W Bush, Bill Clinton and inaugural, a decision Biden said was a 191,500 US flags and 56 pillars of light, to for what may be more pro-Trump their wives. represent every US state and territory. demonstrations across Washington. Kamala Harris to be calls Kamala sworn in as US Vice Harris to offer congratulations President by Justice Sonia Sotomayor

The 58-year-old vice president-elect was inspired by Justice Sotomayor's background, ABC News reported, ahead of the presidential inauguration event on January 20. WASHINGTON: Vice President-elect Harris has expressed admiration for both Kamala Harris will be sworn in by Sotomayor and Marshall. She and Vice President Mike Pence has called his condition of anonymity to describe the Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor share experience as soon-to-be successor Kamala Harris to private conversation. The call came less Sotomayor on Wednesday, a history- prosecutors, and she once called offer his congratulations, according to two than a week before Biden and Harris take people familiar with the conversation. office on Jan. 20 and just over a week after making event in which the first Black, Marshall — like Harris, a graduate of Washington: It's the first known the storming of the Capitol by Trump's South Asian and female vice president Howard University — one of her contact between the elected members of supporters. While Trump has remained will take her oath of office from the first “greatest heroes.” The vice president- the outgoing and incoming largely behind closed doors fuming since Latina justice. Harris chose Sotomayor elect said in a video posted to administrations. President Donald Trump his loss, Pence has been stepping up and for the task, according to a person that she viewed Marshall as “one of the has not reached out to President-elect Joe fulfilling many of the ceremonial duties of familiar with the decision. She’ll also main reasons I wanted to be a lawyer,” Biden and has repeatedly questioned the the presidency, including greeting greeting use two Bibles for the swearing-in, one calling him “a fighter” in the courtroom. legitimacy of Biden's win. One of the members of the National Guard now of which belonged to Thurgood Marshall, And this will be the second time people familiar with the Thursday afternoon protecting the Capitol building Thursday the first Black Supreme Court justice Sotomayor takes part in an inauguration. conversation described it as a “good call,” evening. Pence will also be attending ABC News first reported the latest She swore in President-elect Joe Biden with Pence congratulating his successor Biden's Jan. 20 inauguration, which Trump details of Harris’ inauguration plans. as vice president in 2013. and offering assistance. They spoke on is refusing to attend.

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] COVER STORY : BIDEN HARRIS 4 Joe Biden , after overcoming lenge Boggs. His campaign had almost Leader Mike Mansfield persuaded him her parents' reluctance for her to wed a no money, and he was given no chance not to. Roman Catholic; the of winning. Years later, Biden said he had heard that ceremony was held Family mem- the truck driver allegedly drank alcohol in a Catholic church bers managed before the collision. The driver's family in Skaneateles, New and staffed denied that claim, and the police never York. They had three the campaign, substantiated it. Biden later apologized children: Joseph R. which relied to the family. "Beau" Biden III on meeting (1969–2015), Robert voters face-to- Hunter Biden (born face and Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. was born 1970), and Naomi hand-distrib- November 20, 1942, at St. Mary's Hos- Christina "Amy" uting position pital in Scranton, Pennsylvania, to Biden (1971–1972). papers, an Catherine Eugenia "Jean" Biden (née In 1968, Biden approach Finnegan) and Joseph Robinette Biden earned a Juris Doc- made feasible Sr.. The oldest child in a Catholic fam- tor from Syracuse by Delaware's ily, he has a sister, Valerie, and two University College of small size. He brothers, Francis and James. Jean was Law, ranked 76th in received some of Irish descent, while Joseph Sr. had his class of 85, and help from the English, French, and Irish ancestry. was admitted to the AFL–CIO and Biden's father was initially wealthy but Delaware bar in Democratic Compiled by Parthiban Shanmugam suffered financial setbacks around the 1969. While in pollster Attorney, Strategic & Defense Analyst, time Biden was born, and for several school, he received Patrick Human Rights Advocate, Filmmaker years the family lived with Biden's ma- student draft defer- Caddell. His ternal grandparents. Scranton fell into ments, and after- platform fo- economic decline during the 1950s and ward was classified as unavailable for cused on withdrawal from Vietnam, the Biden's father could not find steady military service due to asthma. environment, civil rights, mass transit, Results of the 1972 U.S. Senate work. Beginning in 1953, the family lived In 1968, Biden clerked at a Wilmington more equitable taxation, health care, election in Delaware in an apartment in Claymont, Delaware, law firm headed by prominent local Re- and public dissatisfaction with "politics Biden was sworn in on January 5, 1973, by then moved to a house in Wilmington, publican William Prickett and, he later as usual". A few months before the secretary of the Senate Francis R. Valeo Delaware. Biden Sr. later became a suc- said, "thought of myself as a Republi- election Biden trailed Boggs by almost at the Delaware Division of the Wilmington cessful used car salesman, maintain- can". He disliked incumbent Democratic thirty percentage points, but his energy, Medical Center. Present were his sons ing the family in a middle-class lifestyle. Delaware governor Charles L. Terry's attractive young family, and ability to Beau (whose leg was still in traction from At Archmere Academy in Claymont, conservative racial politics and sup- connect with voters' emotions worked to the automobile accident) and Hunter and Biden was a standout halfback and wide ported a more liberal Republican, his advantage, and he won with 50.5 other family members. At 30, he was the receiver on the high school football Russell W. Peterson, who defeated percent of the vote. sixth-youngest senator in U.S. history. team; he also played baseball. Though Terry in 1968. Biden was recruited by Death of wife and daughter: To see his sons every day, Biden commuted a poor student, he was class president local Republicans but registered as an On December 18, 1972, a few weeks by train between his Delaware home and in his junior and senior years. He gradu- Independent because of his distaste for after the election, Biden's wife Neilia Washington, D.C.—90 minutes each ated in 1961. Republican presidential candidate Rich- and one-year-old daughter Naomi were way—and maintained this habit throughout At the University of Delaware in New- ard Nixon. killed in an automobile accident while his 36 years in the Senate. But the acci- ark, Biden briefly played freshman foot- In 1969, Biden practiced law first as a Christmas shopping in Hockessin, Dela- dent had filled him with anger and religious ball and earned a Bachelor of Arts de- public defender and then at a firm ware. Neilia's station wagon was hit by doubt. He wrote later that he "felt God had gree in 1965 with a double major in his- headed by a locally active Democrat a tractor-trailer truck as she pulled out played a horrible trick" on him, and he had tory and political science, and a minor who named him to the Democratic Fo- from an intersection. Their sons Beau trouble focusing on work. in English. He had a C average and rum, a group trying to reform and revi- and Hunter survived the accident and Biden credits his second wife, teacher Jill ranked 506th in his class of 688. talize the state party; Biden subse- were taken to the hospital in fair condi- Tracy Jacobs, with the renewal of his inter- Biden has a stutter, which has improved quently reregistered as a Democrat He tion, Beau with a broken leg and other est in politics and life; they met in 1975 on since his early twenties. He says he has and another attorney also formed a law wounds, and Hunter with a minor skull a blind date and were married at the United reduced it by reciting poetry before a firm. Corporate law, however, did not ap- fracture and other head injuries. Doc- Nations chapel in New York on June 17, mirror, but it has been suggested that it peal to him, and criminal law did not pay tors soon said both would make full re- 1977. They are Roman Catholics and at- affected his performance in the 2020 well. He supplemented his income by coveries. Biden considered resigning to tend Mass at St. Joseph's on the Democratic Party presidential debates. managing properties. care for them, but Senate Majority Brandywine in Greenville, Delaware. Their ------XXX------In 1970, Biden ran for the 4th District ------Seat on the New Castle County Coun- On August 27, 1966, Biden married cil on a liberal platform that included Neilia Hunter (1942–1972), a student at support for public housing in the sub- urbs. The seat had been held by Re- publican Henry R. Folsom, who was run- ning in the 5th District following a reap- portionment of council districts. Biden won the general election, and took of- fice on January 5, 1971. He served until January 1, 1973, and was succeeded by Democrat Francis R. Swift. During his time on the county council, Biden opposed large highway projects he ar- gued might disrupt Wilmington neigh- borhoods. ------XXX------In 1972, Biden defeated Republican in- cumbent J. Caleb Boggs to become the junior U.S. senator from Delaware. He was the only Democrat willing to chal- Biden and his second wife, Jill, met in 1975 and married in 1977

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14th Amendment. In 1975, he supported a rights movement. The limited amount of proposal that would have prevented the other news about the race amplified these Department of Health, Education, and Wel- revelations and on September 23, 1987, fare from cutting federal funds to districts Biden withdrew from the race, saying his that refused to integrate; he said busing was candidacy had been overrun by "the exag- a "bankrupt idea [violating] the cardinal rule gerated shadow" of his past mistakes. of common sense" and that his opposition Brain surgeries: would make it easier for other liberals to In February 1988, after several episodes of follow suit.[81] At the same time he sup- increasingly severe neck pain, Biden was ported initiatives on housing, job opportuni- taken by ambulance to Walter Reed Army ties and voting rights. Biden supported a Medical Center for surgery to correct a leak- measure[when?] forbidding the use of fed- ing intracranial berry aneurysm. While re- eral funds for transporting students beyond cuperating he suffered a pulmonary embo- the school closest to them. In 1977, he co- lism, a serious complication. sponsored an amendment closing loop- After a second aneurysm was surgically holes in that measure, which President repaired in May, Biden's recuperation kept Carter signed into law in 1978. him away from the Senate for seven months. ------XXX------Biden and President Carter Biden formally declared his candidacy for daughter Ashley Blazer (born 1981) is a prehensive Crime Control Act; over time, the the 1988 Democratic presidential nomina- social worker. Beau Biden became an Army law's tough-on-crime provisions became tion on June 9, 1987. He was considered a Judge Advocate in Iraq and later Delaware controversial and in 2019, Biden called his strong candidate because of his moderate Attorney General he died of brain cancer in role in passing the bill a "big mistake" His image, his speaking ability, his high profile 2015. Hunter Biden is a Washington attor- supporters praised him for modifying some as chair of the Senate Judiciary Commit- ney and lobbyist. of the law's worst provisions, and it was his tee at the upcoming Robert Bork Supreme From 1991 to 2008, Biden co-taught a semi- most important legislative accomplishment Court nomination hearings, and his appeal nar on constitutional law at Widener Uni- to that time. This bill included the Federal to Baby Boomers; he would have been the versity School of Law. The seminar often Assault Weapons Ban and the Violence second-youngest person elected president, had a waiting list. Biden sometimes flew Against Women Act, which he has called after John F. Kennedy. He raised more in back from overseas to teach the class. his most significant legislation. the first quarter of 1987 than any other can------XXX------In 1993, Biden voted for a provision that didate. During his early years in the Senate, Biden deemed homosexuality incompatible with By August his campaign's messaging had focused on consumer protection and envi- military life, thereby banning gays from serv- become confused due to staff rivalries, and ronmental issues and called for greater ing in the armed forces. In 1996, he voted in September, he was accused of plagia- government accountability. In a 1974 inter- for the , which pro- rizing a speech by British Labour Party view, he described himself as liberal on civil hibited the federal government from recog- leader Neil Kinnock. Biden's speech had Biden at the White House in 1987 rights and liberties, senior citizens' concerns nizing same-sex marriages, thereby barring similar lines about being the first person in ------XXX------and healthcare but conservative on other individuals in such marriages from equal his family to go to university. Biden had cred- Biden was a longtime member of the Sen- issues, including abortion and the military protection under federal law and allowing ited Kinnock with the formulation on previ- ate Committee on the Judiciary. He chaired conscription. In his first decade in the Sen- states to do the same.[89] In 2015, the act ous occasions, ] but did not on two occa- it from 1987 to 1995 and was ranking mi- ate, Biden focused on arms control. After was ruled unconstitutional in Obergefell v. sions in late August. Earlier that year he nority member from 1981 to 1987 and from Congress failed to ratify the SALT II Treaty Hodges. had also used passages from a 1967 1995 to 1997. signed in 1979 by Soviet premier Leonid Opposition to busing speech by Robert F. Kennedy (for which As chairman, Biden presided over two Brezhnev and President Jimmy Carter, In the mid-1970s, Biden was one of the his aides took blame) and a short phrase highly contentious U.S. Supreme Court Biden met with Soviet Foreign Minister Senate's leading opponents of race-integra- from John F. Kennedy's inaugural address; confirmation hearings.[15] When Robert Andrei Gromyko to communicate American tion busing. His Delaware constituents two years earlier he had used a 1976 pas- Bork was nominated in 1988, Biden reversed concerns, and secured changes that ad- strongly opposed it, and such opposition sage by Hubert Humphrey. Biden re- his approval?—?given in an interview the dressed the Senate Foreign Relations nationwide later led his party to mostly sponded that politicians often borrow from previous year?—?of a hypothetical Bork one another without giving credit, and that nomination. Conservatives were angered, one of his rivals for the nomination, Jesse but at the hearings' close Biden was praised Jackson, had called him to point out that for his fairness, humor and courage. Re- he (Jackson) had used the same material jecting the arguments of some Bork oppo- by Humphrey that Biden had used. nents, Biden framed his objections to Bork A few days later an incident in law school in terms of the conflict between Bork's in which he drew text from a Fordham Law strong originalism and the view that the U.S. Review article with inadequate citations was Constitution provides rights to liberty and publicized. Biden was required to repeat the privacy beyond those explicitly enumerated course and passed with high marks. At in its text. Bork's nomination was rejected Biden's request the Delaware Supreme in the committee by a 9–5 vote and then in Court's Board of Professional Responsibil- the full Senate, 58–48 vote. ity reviewed the incident and concluded that During Clarence Thomas's nomination hear- he had violated no rules. ings in 1991, Biden's questions on consti- He also made several false or exaggerated tutional issues were often convoluted to the claims about his early life: that he had point that Thomas sometimes lost track of earned three degrees in college, that he had them, and Thomas later wrote that Biden's attended law school on a full scholarship, questions had been akin to "beanballs". After that he had graduated in the top half of his the committee hearing closed, the public class, and that he had marched in the civil learned that Anita Hill, a University of Okla- Biden shaking hands with President Ronald Reagan, 1984

Committee's objections. When the Reagan abandon school integration policies. In his administration wanted to interpret the 1972 first Senate campaign, Biden had ex- SALT I treaty loosely to allow development pressed support for busing to remedy de of the Strategic Defense Initiative, Biden jure segregation, as in the South, but op- argued for strict adherence to the treaty. posed its use to remedy de facto segrega- He received considerable attention when he tion arising from racial patterns of neigh- excoriated Secretary of State George Shultz borhood residency, as in Delaware; he op- at a Senate hearing for the Reagan posed a proposed constitutional amend- administration's support of South Africa ment banning busing entirely. despite its continued policy of apartheid. In May 1974, Biden voted to table a pro------XXX------posal containing anti-busing and anti-deseg- Biden became ranking minority member of regation clauses but later voted for a modi- the Senate Judiciary Committee in 1981. fied version containing a qualification that it In 1984, he was a Democratic floor man- was not intended to weaken the judiciary's ager for the successful passage of the Com- power to enforce the 5th Amendment and Biden speaking at the signing of the 1994 Crime Bill with President Bill Clinton in 1994

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nians in Kosovo. has that great Irish gift." Political colum- Biden was a strong supporter of the 2001 nist David S. Broder wrote that Biden has war in Afghanistan, saying, "Whatever it grown over time: "He responds to real takes, we should do it." As head of the people—that's been consistent throughout. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, And his ability to understand himself and Biden said in 2002 that Saddam Hussein deal with other politicians has gotten much was a threat to national security and there much better." James Traub has written, was no option but to "eliminate" that threat. "Biden is the kind of fundamentally happy In October 2002, he voted in favor of the person who can be as generous toward oth- Authorization for Use of Military Force ers as he is to himself."In 2006, Delaware against Iraq, approving the U.S. invasion of newspaper columnist Harry F. Themal wrote Iraq. As chair of the committee, he as- that Biden "occupies the sensible center sembled a series of witnesses to testify in of the Democratic Party". favor of the authorization. They gave testi- Wolf Blitzer has described Biden as loqua- mony grossly misrepresenting the intent, cious. He often deviates from prepared re- history and status of Saddam and his secu- marks and sometimes "puts his foot in his Senator Biden accompanies President Clinton and other officials to Bosnia lar government, which was an avowed en- mouth". wrote that and Herzegovina in December 1997 emy of al-Qaida, and touting Iraq's fictional Biden's "weak filters make him capable of possession of weapons of mass destruc- blurting out pretty much anything". homa law school professor, had accused sometimes went against elements of his tion. Thomas of making unwelcome sexual com- own party. During this time he met with at Biden eventually became a critic of the war ments when they had worked together. least 150 leaders from 60 countries and and viewed his vote and role as a "mistake", Biden had known of some of these charges, international organizations, becoming a but did not push for U.S. withdrawal. He but had initially shared them only with the well-known Democratic voice on foreign supported the appropriations to pay for the committee because Hill had then been un- policy. occupation, but argued repeatedly that the willing to testify. The committee hearing was Biden voted against authorization for the war should be internationalized, that more reopened and Hill testified, but Biden did Gulf War in 1991, siding with 45 of the 55 soldiers were needed, and that the Bush not permit testimony from other witnesses, Democratic senators; he said the U.S. was administration should "level with the Ameri- such as a woman who had made similar bearing almost all the burden in the anti- can people" about the cost and length of charges and experts on harassment; Biden Iraq coalition. the conflict. said he wanted to preserve Thomas's pri------XXX------XXX------vacy and the hearings' decency. The full Biden became interested in the Yugoslav By late 2006, Biden's stance had shifted Senate confirmed Thomas by a 52–48 vote, Wars after hearing about Serb abuses dur- considerably, and he opposed the troop with Biden opposed. Liberal legal advocates ing the Croatian War of Independence in surge of 2007, saying General David and women's groups felt strongly that Biden 1991. Once the Bosnian War broke out, Petraeus was "dead, flat wrong" in believ- had mishandled the hearings and not done Biden was among the first to call for the ing the surge could work.[138] Biden in- enough to support Hill. Biden later sought "lift and strike" policy of lifting the arms stead advocated dividing Iraq into a loose Official Senate photo, 2005 out women to serve on the Judiciary Com- embargo, training Bosnian Muslims and federation of three ethnic states. In Novem------XXX------mittee and emphasized women's issues in supporting them with NATO air strikes, and ber 2006, Biden and Leslie H. Gelb, presi- 2008 Presidential candidate: the committee's legislative agenda. In 2019, investigating war crimes. The George H. W. dent emeritus of the Council on Foreign Biden chose not to run for president in 1992 in he told Hill he regretted his treatment of Bush administration and Clinton adminis- Relations, released a comprehensive strat- part because he had voted against authorizing her, but Hill said afterward she remained tration were both reluctant to implement the egy to end sectarian violence in Iraq. Rather the Gulf War, and did not run in 2004 because, unsatisfied. policy, fearing Balkan entanglement. In April than continuing the present approach or he said, he felt he had little chance of winning Biden was critical of Independent Counsel 1993, Biden spent a week in the Balkans withdrawing, the plan called for "a third and could best serve the country by remaining Kenneth Starr during the 1990s Whitewater and held a tense three-hour meeting with way": federalizing Iraq and giving Kurds, in the Senate. ] In January 2007, he declared controversy and Lewinsky scandal investi- Serbian leader Slobodan Miloševic. Biden Shiites, and Sunnis "breathing room" in their his candidacy in the 2008 election. gations, saying "it's going to be a cold day related that he had told Miloševic, "I think own regions. In September 2007, a non- During his campaign, Biden focused on the Iraq in hell" before another independent coun- you're a damn war criminal and you should binding resolution endorsing such a scheme War, his record as chairman of major Senate sel would be granted similar powers. He be tried as one." passed the Senate, but the idea was unfa- committees, and his foreign-policy experience. voted to acquit during the impeachment of Biden wrote an amendment in 1992 to com- miliar, had no political constituency, and Biden rejected speculation that he might be- President Clinton. During the 2000s, Biden pel the Bush administration to arm the failed to gain traction. Iraq's political lead- come Secretary of State, focusing on only the sponsored bankruptcy legislation sought by Bosnians, but deferred in 1994 to a some- ership denounced the resolution as de facto presidency. In mid-2007, Biden stressed his for- credit card issuers. President Bill Clinton what softer stance the Clinton administra- partitioning of the country, and the U.S. eign policy expertise compared to Obama's, vetoed the bill in 2000, but it passed in 2005 tion preferred, before signing on the follow- Embassy in Baghdad issued a statement saying of the latter, "I think he can be ready, but as the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and ing year to a stronger measure sponsored distancing itself from it.[140] In May 2008, right now I don't believe he is. The presidency is Consumer Protection Act, with Biden one by Bob Dole and Joe Lieberman. The en- he sharply criticized President George W. not something that lends itself to on-the-job of only 18 Democrats to vote for it, while gagement led to a successful NATO peace- Bush for a speech to Israel's Knesset in training."Biden also said Obama was copying leading Democrats and consumer rights keeping effort.Biden has called his role in which he compared some Democrats to some of his foreign policy ideas.Biden was organizations opposed it. As a senator, affecting Balkans policy in the mid-1990s Western leaders who appeased Hitler be- noted for his one-liners during the campaign; in Biden strongly supported increased Amtrak his "proudest moment in public life" related fore World War II; Biden called the speech one debate he said of Republican candidate funding and rail security. to foreign policy. "bullshit", "malarkey", and "outrageous". He Rudy Giuliani: "There's only three things he ------XXX------In 1999, during the Kosovo War, Biden sup- later apologized for his language. mentions in a sentence: a noun, and a verb Biden was also a long time member of the ported the 1999 NATO bombing of the Fed- Reputation: and 9/11." Overall, Biden's debate performances Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He eral Republic of Yugoslavia. He co-spon- Elected to the Senate in 1972, Biden was were an effective mixture of humor and sharp became its ranking minority member in sored with John McCain the McCain-Biden reelected in 1978, 1984, 1990, 1996, 2002, and surprisingly disciplined comments. 1997, and chaired it from June 2001 to 2003 Kosovo Resolution, which called on Presi- and 2008, regularly receiving about 60% of Biden had difficulty raising funds, struggled to and 2007 to 2009.His positions were gen- dent Clinton to use all necessary force, in- the vote. He was junior senator to William draw people to his rallies, and failed to gain erally liberal internationalist. He collabo- cluding ground troops, to confront Miloševic Roth, who was first elected in 1970, until traction against the high-profile candidacies of rated effectively with Republicans and over Yugoslav actions toward ethnic Alba- Roth was defeated in 2000. As of 2020 he Obama and Senator . He never was the 18th-longest-serving senator in U.S. rose above single digits in national polls of the history. Democratic candidates. In the first contest on Biden was consistently ranked one of the January 3, 2008, Biden placed fifth in the Iowa least wealthy members of the Senate, which caucuses, garnering slightly less than one per- he attributed to his having been elected cent of the state delegates. He withdrew from young. Feeling that less-wealthy public of- the race that evening. ficials may be tempted to accept contribu- Despite its lack of success, Biden's 2008 cam- tions in exchange for political favors, he paign raised his stature in the political world. In proposed campaign finance reform mea- particular, it changed the relationship between sures during his first term. Biden and Obama. Although they had served The political writer Howard Fineman has together on the Senate Foreign Relations Com- written, "Biden is not an academic, he's not mittee, they had not been close: Biden resented a theoretical thinker, he's a great street pol. Obama's quick rise to political stardom, while He comes from a long line of working people Obama viewed Biden as garrulous and Biden addresses the press after meeting with Prime Minister Ayad Allawi in in Scranton—auto salesmen, car dealers, patronizing.Having gotten to know each other Baghdad in 2004 people who know how to make a sale. He during 2007, Obama appreciated Biden's cam-

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] COVER STORY : BIDEN HARRIS 7 paigning style and appeal to working-class vot- campaign's final days, he focused on less ers, and Biden said he became convinced populated, older, less well-off areas of Obama was "the real deal". battleground states, especially Florida, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, where polling in- dicated he was popular and where Obama had not campaigned or performed well in the Democratic primaries. He also cam- paigned in some normally Republican states, as well as in areas with large Catho- lic populations. Under instructions from the cam- paign, Biden kept his speeches succinct Biden campaigns at a house party in and tried to avoid offhand remarks, such as Creston, Iowa, July 2007. one about Obama's being tested by a for------XXX------eign power soon after taking office, which Shortly after Biden withdrew from the presi- had attracted negative attention. Privately, dential race, Obama privately told him he Biden's remarks frustrated Obama. "How was interested in finding an important place many times is Biden gonna say something for Biden in his administration. Biden de- stupid?" he asked. Obama campaign staff- clined Obama's first request to vet him for ers referred to Biden blunders as "Joe President Obama congratulates Biden for his role in shaping the debt ceiling the vice-presidential slot, fearing the vice bombs" and kept Biden uninformed about deal which led to the Budget Control Act of 2011 presidency would represent a loss in sta- strategy discussions, which in turn irked prove middle-class economic well-being. In ing. He talked with hundreds of governors, tus and voice from his Senate position, but Biden. Relations between the two cam- early January 2009, in his last act as chair- mayors, and other local officials in this role. he later changed his mind. In a June 22, paigns became strained for a month, until man of the Foreign Relations Committee, During this period, Biden was satisfied that 2008 interview, Biden said that while he was Biden apologized on a call to Obama and he visited the leaders of Iraq, Afghanistan no major instances of waste or corruption not actively seeking the vice-presidential the two built a stronger partnership. Pub- and Pakistan, and on January 20 he was had occurred, and when he completed that nomination, he would accept it if offered. In licly, Obama strategist David Axelrod said sworn in as the 47th vice president of the role in February 2011, he said the number early August, Obama and Biden met in Biden's high popularity ratings had out- United States[ —?the first vice president of fraud incidents with stimulus monies had secret to discuss the possibility, and de- weighed any unexpected comments. Na- from Delaware[202] and the first Roman been less than one percent. veloped a strong personal rapport. On Au- tionally, Biden had a 60% favorability rating Catholic vice president. In late April 2009, Biden's off-mes- gust 22, 2008, Obama announced that in a Pew Research Center poll, compared Obama was soon comparing Biden sage response to a question during the Biden would be his running mate. The New to Palin's 44%. to a basketball player "who does a bunch beginning of the swine flu outbreak, that he York Times reported that the strategy be- On November 4, 2008, Obama and of things that don't show up in the stat would advise family members against trav- hind the choice reflected a desire to fill out Biden were elected with 53% of the popu- sheet". In May, Biden visited Kosovo and eling on airplanes or subways, led to a swift the ticket with someone with foreign policy lar vote and 365 electoral votes to McCain– affirmed the U.S. position that its "indepen- retraction by the White House.The remark and national security experience—and not Palin's 178. dence is irreversible". Biden lost an inter- revived Biden's reputation for gaffes. Con- to help the ticket win a swing state or to Biden ran for reelection to his Sen- nal debate to Secretary of State Hillary fronted with rising unemployment through emphasize Obama's "change" message. ate seat as well as for vice president, as Clinton about sending 21,000 new troops July 2009, Biden acknowledged that the ad- Others pointed out Biden's appeal to middle- permitted by Delaware law. On November to Afghanistan, but his skepticism was val- ministration had "misread how bad the class and blue-collar voters, as well as his 4, he was also reelected to the Senate, ued, and in 2009, Biden's views gained more economy was" but maintained confidence willingness to aggressively challenge Re- defeating Republican Christine O'Donnell. influence as Obama reconsidered his Af- the stimulus package would create many publican nominee John McCain in a way Having won both races, Biden made a point ghanistan strategy. Biden visited Iraq about more jobs once the pace of expenditures that Obama seemed uncomfortable doing of holding off his resignation from the Sen- every two months, becoming the picked up. On March 23, 2010, a micro- at times. In accepting Obama's offer, Biden ate so he could be sworn in for his seventh administration's point man in delivering mes- phone picked up Biden telling the president ruled out running for president again in term on January 6, 2009. He became the sages to Iraqi leadership about expected that his signing the Patient Protection and 2016, but his comments in later years youngest senator ever to start a seventh progress there. More generally, overseeing Affordable Care Act was "a big fucking deal" seemed to back off that stance, as he did full term, and said, "In all my life, the great- Iraq policy became Biden's responsibility: during live national news telecasts. White not want to diminish his political power by est honor bestowed upon me has been Obama was said to have said, "Joe, you House press secretary replied appearing uninterested in advancement. serving the people of Delaware as their do Iraq." Biden said Iraq "could be one of on Twitter, "And yes Mr. Vice President, Biden was officially nominated for vice presi- United States senator."Biden cast his last the great achievements of this administra- you're right ..." Despite their different per- dent on August 27 by voice vote at the 2008 Senate vote on January 15, supporting the tion". His January 2010 visit to Iraq in the sonalities, Obama and Biden formed a Democratic National Convention in Denver. release of the second $350 billion for the midst of turmoil over banned candidates from friendship, partly based around Obama's Biden's vice-presidential campaign- Troubled Asset Relief Program, and re- the upcoming Iraqi parliamentary election daughter Sasha and Biden's granddaugh- ing gained little media visibility, as far greater signed from the Senate later that day. In an resulted in 59 of the several hundred candi- ter Maisy, who attended Sidwell Friends press attention was focused on the Repub- emotional farewell, Biden told the Senate: dates being reinstated by the Iraqi govern- School together. lican running mate, Alaska Governor Sarah "Every good thing I have seen happen here, ment two days later. By 2012, Biden had Members of the Obama adminis- Palin. During one week in September 2008, every bold step taken in the 36-plus years I made eight trips there, but his oversight of tration said Biden's role in the White House for instance, the Pew Research Center's have been here, came not from the appli- U.S. policy in Iraq receded with the exit of was to be a contrarian and force others to Project for Excellence in Journalism found cation of pressure by interest groups, but U.S. troops in 2011. defend their positions. , that Biden was included in only five per- through the maturation of personal relation------xxxx------White House chief of staff, said that Biden cent of coverage of the race, far less than ships." Delaware Governor Ruth Ann Minner Biden was also in charge of overseeing in- helped counter groupthink. White House the other three candidates on the tickets appointed longtime Biden adviser Ted frastructure spending from the Obama press secretary , Biden's former received.Biden nevertheless focused on Kaufman to fill Biden's vacated Senate seat. stimulus package intended to help coun- communications director, said Biden played campaigning in economically challenged teract the ongoing recession, and stressed the role of "the bad guy in the Situation areas of swing states and trying to win over that only worthy projects should get fund- Room". Another senior Obama advisor said blue-collar Democrats, especially those who had supported Hillary Clinton. Biden attacked McCain heavily despite a long-standing personal friendship. He said, "That guy I used to know, he's gone. It liter- ally saddens me." As the financial crisis of 2007–2010 reached a peak with the liquid- ity crisis of September 2008 and the pro- posed bailout of the United States financial system became a major factor in the cam- Biden speaks at the August 23, 2008, vice paign, Biden voted in favor of the $700 bil- presidential announcement at the Old lion Emergency Economic Stabilization Act State Capitol in Springfield, of 2008, which went on to pass in the Sen------xxxx------ate 74–25. Vice President On October 2, 2008, Biden partici- Biden said he intended to eliminate some pated in the vice-presidential debate with of the explicit roles assumed by George Palin at Washington University in St. Louis. W. Bush's vice president, Dick Cheney, and Post-debate polls found that while Palin ex- did not intend to emulate any previous vice ceeded many voters' expectations, Biden presidency. He chaired Obama's transition Biden, Obama and the national security team gathered in the White House Situa- had won the debate overall. During the team[198] and headed an initiative to im- tion Room to monitor the progress of the May 2011 mission to kill Osama bin Laden

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Biden "is always prepared to be the skunk showed no appreciable improvement for at the family picnic to make sure we are as Obama, and White House officials later said intellectually honest as possible."Obama Obama had never entertained the idea. said, "The best thing about Joe is that when Biden's May 2012 statement that he was we get everybody together, he really forces "absolutely comfortable" with same-sex people to think and defend their positions, marriage gained considerable public atten- to look at things from every angle, and that tion in comparison to Obama's position, is very valuable for me."On June 11, 2010, which had been described as "evolving". Biden represented the United States at the Biden made his statement without admin- opening ceremony of the World Cup, at- istration consent, and Obama and his aides tended the England v. U.S. game, and vis- were quite irked, since Obama had planned ited Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa. The to shift position several months later, in the Bidens maintained a relaxed atmosphere build-up to the party convention, and since at their official residence in Washington, Biden had previously counselled the presi- often entertaining their grandchildren, and dent to avoid the issue lest key Catholic regularly returned to their home in Delaware. voters be offended. Gay rights advocates seized upon Biden's statement, and within Biden campaigned heavily for Democrats days, Obama announced that he too sup- in the 2010 midterm elections, maintaining ported same-sex marriage, an action in part an attitude of optimism in the face of pre- forced by Biden's unexpected remarks. Biden with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, March 9, 2016 dictions of large-scale losses for the party. Biden apologized to Obama in private for Following big Republican gains in the elec- having spoken out, while Obama acknowl- tions and the departure of White House chief edged publicly it had been done from the of staff Rahm Emanuel, Biden's past rela- heart. The incident showed that Biden still tionships with Republicans in Congress struggled at times with message discipline, became more important. He led the suc- as Time wrote, "Everyone knows Biden's cessful administration effort to gain Senate greatest strength is also his greatest weak- approval for the New START treaty. In De- ness." Relations were also strained be- cember 2010, Biden's advocacy for a middle tween the campaigns when Biden appeared ground, followed by his negotiations with to use his position to bolster fundraising Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell, contacts for a possible run for president in were instrumental in producing the 2016, and he ended up being excluded from administration's compromise tax package Obama campaign strategy meetings. that included a temporary extension of the The Obama campaign nevertheless still Bush tax cuts. Biden then took the lead in valued Biden as a retail-level politician who trying to sell the agreement to a reluctant could connect with disaffected, blue-collar Democratic caucus in Congress. The pack- workers and rural residents, and he had a age passed as the Tax Relief, Unemploy- heavy schedule of appearances in swing ment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job states as the Obama reelection campaign Creation Act of 2010. began in earnest in spring 2012. An August In foreign policy, Biden supported 2012 remark before a mixed-race audience the NATO-led military intervention in Libya that Republican proposals to relax Wall Biden with Vice President-elect Mike Pence on November 10, 2016 in 2011. He supported closer economic ties Street regulations would "put y'all back in with Russia. chains" led to a similar analysis of Biden's public ceremony took place on Janu- In March 2011, Obama delegated face-to-face campaigning abilities versus ary 21.) He continued to be in the fore- Biden to lead negotiations between Con- his tendency to go off track. The Los Ange- front as, in the wake of the Sandy Hook gress and the White House in resolving fed- les Times wrote, "Most candidates give the Elementary School shooting, the eral spending levels for the rest of the year same stump speech over and over, putting Obama administration put forth execu- and avoiding a government shutdown. By reporters if not the audience to sleep. But tive orders and proposed new gun con- May 2011, a "Biden panel" with six con- during any Biden speech, there might be a trol measures (they failed to pass). gressional members was trying to reach a dozen moments to make press handlers bipartisan deal on raising the U.S. debt cringe, and prompt reporters to turn to each Biden played little part in discussions ceiling as part of an overall deficit reduction other with amusement and confusion." Time that led to the October 2013 passage plan. The U.S. debt ceiling crisis developed magazine wrote that Biden often went too of the Continuing Appropriations Act, over the next few months, but Biden's rela- far and "Along with the familiar Washing- 2014, which resolved the federal gov- tionship with McConnell again proved key ton mix of neediness and overconfidence, ernment shutdown of 2013 and the in breaking a deadlock and bringing about Biden's brain is wired for more than the debt-ceiling crisis of 2013. This was a deal to resolve it, in the form of the Bud- usual amount of goofiness." Biden and Obama, July 2012 get Control Act of 2011, signed on August Biden was nominated for a sec- because Senate majority leader Harry Second Term 2, 2011, the same day an unprecedented ond term as vice president at the 2012 Reid and other Democratic leaders cut U.S. default had loomed. Biden had spent Democratic National Convention in Sep- Biden was inaugurated to a second him out of any direct talks with Con- the most time bargaining with Congress on tember. Debating his Republican coun- term on January 20, 2013, at a small gress, feeling Biden had given too the debt question of anyone in the admin- terpart, Representative Paul Ryan, in the ceremony at Number One Observa- much away during previous negotia- istration, and one Republican staffer said, vice-presidential debate on October 11 tory Circle, his official residence, with tions. "Biden's the only guy with real negotiating he made a spirited and emotional de- Justice Sonia Sotomayor presiding (a Biden's Violence Against authority, and [McConnell] knows that his fense of the Obama administration's word is good. He was a key to the deal." record and energetically attacked the Some reports suggest that Biden Republican ticket. On November 6, opposed to going forward with the May 2011 Obama and Biden were reelected[256] U.S. mission to kill Osama bin Laden, lest with 332 of 538 Electoral College votes failure adversely affect Obama's re-election and 51% of the popular vote. prospects. He took the lead in notifying In December 2012, Obama Congressional leaders of the successful named Biden to head the Gun Violence outcome. Task Force, created to address the ------xxxx------causes of gun violence in the United Re-election: States in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook In October 2010, Biden said Obama had Elementary School shooting. Later that month, asked him to remain as his running mate during the final days before the United States for the 2012 presidential election, but with fell off the "fiscal cliff", Biden's relationship with Obama's popularity on the decline, White McConnell once more proved important as the House Chief of Staff William M. Daley con- two negotiated a deal that led to the American ducted some secret polling and focus group Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 being passed at research in late 2011 on the idea of replac- the start of 2013. It made many of the Bush tax ing Biden on the ticket with Hillary Clinton. cuts permanent but raised rates on upper in- The notion was dropped when the results come levels. Biden with Chuck Schumer, and President Donald Trump, January 2017

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Women Act was reauthorized again in Biden 2016" PAC was established. again, but a few days later, he said, 2013. The act led to related develop- As of September 11, 2015, Biden "I'll run if I can walk." A political ac- ments, such as the White House was still uncertain about running. tion committee known as Time for Council on Women and Girls, begun He cited his son's recent death as Biden was formed in January 2018, in the first term, as well as the White a large drain on his emotional en- seeking Biden's entry into the race. House Task Force to Protect Students ergy, and said, "nobody has a right Biden said he would decide from Sexual Assault, begun in Janu- ... to seek that office unless they're whether to run or not by January ary 2014 with Biden and willing to give it 110% of who they 2019, but made no announcement as co-chairs. Biden discussed federal are." On October 21, speaking from at that time. Friends said he was guidelines on sexual assault on univer- a podium in the Rose Garden with "very close to saying yes" but was sity campuses while giving a speech his wife and Obama by his side, concerned about the effect another at the University of New Hampshire. He Biden announced his decision not presidential run could have on his Biden at his presidential kickoff said, "No means no, if you're drunk or to run for president in 2016. In Janu- family and reputation, as well as rally in Philadelphia, May 2019 you're sober. No means no if you're in ary 2016, Biden affirmed that it was fundraising struggles and percep- lina debate, Biden won the South bed, in a dorm or on the street. No the right decision, but admitted to tions about his age and relative Carolina primary by more than 28 means no even if you said yes at first regretting not running for president centrism. On the other hand, he points. After the withdrawals and and you changed your mind. No means "every day". said he was prompted to run by his subsequent endorsements of can- no." After Obama endorsed Hillary "sense of duty", offense at the didates and Amy Biden favored arming Syria's Clinton on June 9, 2016, Biden en- Trump presidency, what he felt was Klobuchar, he made large gains in rebel fighters. As Iraq fell apart during dorsed her later that day. Through- a lack of foreign policy experience the March 3 Super Tuesday primary 2014, renewed attention was paid to out the 2016 election, Biden among other Democratic hopefuls, elections. Biden won 18 of the next the Biden-Gelb Iraqi federalization plan strongly criticized Clinton's oppo- and his desire to foster "bridge- 26 contests, including , Ar- of 2006, with some observers suggest- nent, Donald Trump, in often color- building progressivism" in the party. kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, ing Biden had been right all along. Biden ful terms. He launched his campaign on April Minnesota, North Carolina, Okla- himself said the U.S. would follow ISIL ------XXX------25, 2019. homa, Tennessee, Texas, and Vir- "to the gates of hell". On December 8, Post Vice Presidency Campaign ginia, putting him in the lead over- 2015, Biden spoke in Ukraine's parlia- After leaving the vice presidency, In September 2019, it was reported all. and Mike ment in Kyiv in one of his many visits Biden became a professor at the that Trump had pressured Ukrainian Bloomberg soon dropped out, and to set U.S. aid and policy stance on University of Pennsylvania, while president Volodymyr Zelensky to in- Biden expanded his lead with vic- Ukraine. Biden had close relationships continuing to lead efforts to find vestigate alleged wrongdoing by tories over Sanders in four states with several Latin American leaders treatments for cancer. Biden wrote Biden and his son Hunter Biden. (Idaho, Michigan, Mississippi, and and was assigned a focus on the re- his memoir Promise Me, Dad in Despite the allegations, as of Sep- Missouri) on March 10. gion during the administration; he vis- 2017 and went on a book tour.[298] tember 2019, no evidence has been When Sanders suspended ited the region 16 times during his vice Biden earned $15.6 million in 2017. produced of any wrongdoing by the his campaign on April 8, 2020, presidency, the most of any president In 2018, he gave a eulogy for his Bidens. The media widely inter- Biden became the Democratic or vice president. close friend John McCain, U.S. preted this pressure to investigate Party's presumptive nominee for ------XXX------senator from Arizona, praising the Bidens as trying to hurt Biden's president. On April 13, Sanders In 2015, Speaker of the House John McCain's embrace of American ide- chances of winning the presidency, endorsed Biden in a live-streamed Boehner and Senate majority leader als and bipartisan friendships. resulting in a political scandal and discussion from their homes. Mitch McConnell invited Israeli prime Biden remained in the public eye, Trump's impeachment by the Former President Barack Obama minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ad- endorsing candidates while con- House of Representatives. endorsed Biden the next day. In dress a joint session of Congress with- tinuing to comment on politics, cli- Beginning in 2019, Trump and his March 2020, Biden committed to out notifying the Obama administration. mate change, and the ongoing allies falsely accused Biden of get- choosing a woman as his running This defiance of protocol led Biden and presidency of Donald Trump. He ting the Ukrainian prosecutor gen- mate. In June, Biden met the 1,991- more than 50 congressional Demo- also continued to speak out in fa- eral Viktor Shokin fired because he delegate threshold needed to se- crats to skip Netanyahu's speech. In vor of LGBT rights, continuing ad- was supposedly pursuing an inves- cure the party's presidential nomi- August 2016, Biden visited Serbia, vocacy on an issue which he had tigation into Burisma Holdings, nation. On August 11, he an- where he met with Serbian presi- become more closely associated which employed Hunter Biden. nounced U.S. Senator Kamala Har- dent Aleksandar Vucic and ex- with during his vice presidency. In Biden was accused of withholding ris of as his running pressed his condolences for civil- 2019 Biden criticized Brunei for its $1 billion in aid from Ukraine in this mate, making her the first African ian victims of the bombing cam- intention to implement Islamic laws effort. In 2015, Biden pressured the American and South Asian Ameri- paign during the Kosovo War. In that would allow death by stoning Ukrainian parliament to remove can vice-presidential nominee on a Kosovo, he attended a ceremony for adultery and homosexuality, call- Shokin because the United States, major-party ticket. renaming a highway after his son ing it "appalling and immoral" and the European Union and other in- On August 18, 2020, Biden Beau, in honor of Beau's service to saying, "There is no excuse—not ternational organizations consid- was officially nominated at the 2020 Kosovo in training its judges and culture, not tradition—for this kind ered Shokin corrupt and ineffective, Democratic National Convention as prosecutors. of hate and inhumanity." By 2019, and in particular because Shokin the Democratic Party nominee for Biden never cast a tie-breaking vote Biden and his wife reported that was not assertively investigating president in the 2020 election. in the Senate, making him the long- their assets had increased to be- Burisma. The withholding of the $1 ------xxxx------est-serving vice president with this tween $2.2 million and $8 million, billion in aid was part of this official President-elect of the United distinction. thanks to speaking engagements policy. States: Role in the 2016 presidential cam- and a contract to write a set of Throughout 2019, Biden Biden was elected the 46th presi- paign: books. stayed generally ahead of other dent of the United States in Novem- During his second term, Biden was ------XXX------Democrats in national polls. De- ber 2020. He defeated the incum- often said to be preparing for a pos- 2020 presidential campaign: spite this, he finished fourth in the bent, Donald Trump, becoming the sible bid for the 2016 Democratic Speculation and announcement Iowa caucuses, and eight days first candidate to defeat a sitting presidential nomination. With his Between 2016 and 2019, media later, fifth in the New Hampshire president since Bill Clinton defeated family, many friends, and donors outlets often mentioned Biden as a primary. He performed better in the George H. W. Bush in 1992. He is encouraging him in mid-2015 to likely candidate for president in Nevada caucuses, reaching the the second non-incumbent vice enter the race, and with Hillary 2020. When asked if he would run, 15% required for delegates, but still president (after Richard Nixon in Clinton's favorability ratings in de- he gave varied and ambivalent an- was behind by 21.6 1968) to be elected president.[363] cline at that time, Biden was re- swers, saying "never say never". At percentage points. Making strong He is also expected to become the ported to again be seriously consid- one point he suggested he did not appeals to black voters on the cam- oldest president, as well as the first ering the prospect and a "Draft see a scenario where he would run paign trail and in the South Caro- president whose home state is

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Delaware (although he was born in for Democratic Action (ADA) movements. He opposed direct gan State University DPS 2017). Pennsylvania), and the second through 2004, while the American U.S. intervention in Libya; voted f Biden also received the Chan- Catholic president after John F. Conservative Union (ACU) gave against U.S. participation in the Gulf cellor Medal (1980) and the Kennedy. Biden is expected to be him a lifetime conservative rat- War;[408] voted in favor of the Iraq George Arents Pioneer Medal inaugurated at noon on January 20, ing of 13% through 2008. War; and supports a two-state solu- (2005) from Syracuse University. 2021. Biden supported the fiscal stimu- tion in the Israeli-Palestinian con- f In 2008, Biden received Working Days after the election, lus in the American Recovery and flict.[410] Biden has pledged to Mother magazine's Best of Congress Biden created the COVID-19 Advi- Reinvestment Act of 2009; the end U.S. support for the Saudi Award for "improving the American qual- sory Board to replace the previous Obama administration's pro- Arabian-led intervention in ity of life through family-friendly work White House Coronavirus Task posed increased infrastructure Yemen and to reevaluate the re- policies". Also in 2008, he shared with Force. He pledged a larger govern- spending; mass transit, including lationship with Saudi Arabia. He fellow senator Richard Lugar the Gov- ment response to the pandemic Amtrak, bus, and subway subsi- has called North Korea a "paper ernment of Pakistan's Hilal-i-Pakistan than Trump's, including increased dies; and the reduced military tiger". As vice president, Biden award "in recognition of their consistent testing, a steady supply of personal spending in the Obama supported Obama's Cuban thaw. support for Pakistan". In 2009, Kosovo protective equipment, distributing a administration's fiscal year 2014 He has said that, as president, gave Biden the Golden Medal of Free- vaccine, and funds for schools and budget. He has proposed par- he would restore U.S. member- dom, the region's highest award, for his hospitals, all under the aegis of a tially reversing the corporate tax ship in key United Nations bod- vocal support for its independence in national "supply chain commander" cuts of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ies, such as UN Educational, the late 1990s. who would coordinate manufactur- of 2017, saying that doing so would Scientific and Cultural Organiza- f Biden is an inductee of the Delaware ing and distribution of protective not hurt businesses' ability to hire. tion (UNESCO), the World Health Volunteer Firemen's Association Hall of gear and test kits. Testing materi- He voted for the North American Organization, and possibly the Fame.[438] He was named to the Little als would be distributed by a "Pan- Free Trade Agreement Human Rights Council.Biden League Hall of Excellence in 2009. demic Testing Board". Biden also (NAFTA)[388] and the Trans-Pacific pledged, if elected, to sanction f On May 15, 2016, the University of pledged to use the Defense Pro- Partnership.[389] Biden is a and commercially restrict Chi- Notre Dame gave Biden the Laetare duction Act more aggressively than staunch supporter of the Affordable nese government officials and Medal, considered the highest honor for Trump did in order to build up sup- Care Act (ACA). He has promoted entities who carry out repres- American Catholics. The medal was si- plies, and also pledged to employ a plan to expand and build upon it, sion. Biden supports extending multaneously awarded to John 100,000 contact tracers to track paid for by revenue gained from the New START arms control Boehner, Speaker of the United States and limit outbreaks. reversing some Trump adminis- treaty with Russia to limit the House of Representatives. On November 11, 2020, tration tax cuts. Biden's plan is number of nuclear weapons de- f On June 25, 2016, Biden received Biden chose as his White to create a public option for ployed by both sides. the Freedom of the City of County Louth House Chief of Staff. Klain was a health insurance, with the aim of ------xxx------in the Republic of Ireland. Senate aide to Biden in the 1980s, expanding health insurance cov- Distinctions: f On January 12, 2017, Obama sur- Biden's first chief of staff as vice erage to 97% of Americans. f Biden has received honorary prised Biden by awarding him the Presi- president, and chief of staff to Vice Biden has supported reproduc- degrees from the University of dential Medal of Freedom with Distinc- President Al Gore. tive rights; same-sex marriage; Scranton (1976),Saint Joseph's tion?—?for "faith in your fellow Ameri- On November 23, 2020, the Roe v. Wade decision; and University (LL.D 1981),[420] cans, for your love of country and a Biden made his first national secu- since 2019 has supported re- Widener University School of lifetime of service that will endure rity nominations and appointments, pealing the Hyde Amendment. Law (2000), Emerson College through the generations". It was the nominating for Sec- He opposes drilling for oil in the (2003), Delaware State Univer- only award by Obama of the Medal retary of State, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge sity (2003), his alma mater the of Freedom with Distinction; other for Secretary of Homeland Security, and supports governmental fund- University of Delaware (LL.D recipients include Ronald Reagan, Avril Haines for Director of National ing to find new energy sources. 2004), Suffolk University Law Colin Powell and Pope John Paul II. Intelligence, Jake Sullivan for Na- He believes action must be taken School (2005), his other alma f On December 11, 2018, the Uni- tional Security Advisor, Linda on global warming. He co-spon- mater Syracuse University versity of Delaware renamed its Thomas-Greenfield for United sored the Sense of the Senate (LL.D 2009), Wake Forest Uni- School of Public Policy and Admin- States Ambassador to the United resolution calling on the United versity (LL.D 2009), the Univer- istration the Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Nations, and former Secretary of States to take part in the United sity of Pennsylvania (LL.D School of Public Policy and Admin- State John Kerry for Special Nations climate negotiations and 2013), Miami Dade College istration. The Biden Institute is Presidential Envoy for Climate. If the Boxer–Sanders Global Warm- (2014), University of South housed there. confirmed, Haines would be the ing Pollution Reduction Act, the Carolina (DPA 2014), Trinity Col- f On December 10, 2020, Biden first woman to serve as Director most stringent climate bill in the lege, Dublin (LL.D 2016), Colby and Harris were jointly named of National Intelligence, and . He wants to College (LL.D 2017), and Mor- Time Person of the Year. Mayorkas would be the first Latin achieve a carbon-free power sec- American and first immigrant to tor in the U.S. by 2035 and stop serve as head of the United emissions completely by 2050. States Department of Homeland His program includes reentering Security. He later announced that the Paris Agreement, nature con- was his nominee for servation, and green building. Secretary of the Treasury. Biden wants to pressure China Also on November 23, and other countries to cut green- General Services Administrator house gas emissions, by carbon Emily W. Murphy formally recog- tariffs if necessary. As a senator, nized Biden as the apparent win- he forged deep relationships with ner of the 2020 election and au- police groups and was a chief pro- thorized the start of a transition ponent of a Police Officer's Bill of process to the Biden administra- Rights measure that police unions tion. supported but police chiefs op------xxxx------posed. As vice president, he Political positions: served as a White House liaison Biden has been characterized as to police. a moderate Democrat and a cen- Biden has said he is against re- trist. He has a lifetime liberal gime change, but for providing President Obama presents Biden with the Presidential Medal of 72% score from the Americans non-military support to opposition Freedom with Distinction, January 12, 2017.

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KamalaKamala HarrisHarris

he first Black and Indian-American tect Americans’ civil rights, restore indepen- cluding the Trump administration’s re- woman to represent California in the dence and integrity to the Justice Depart- sponse to COVID-19. TUnited States Senate, Vice Presi- ment, and scrutinized nominations coming Harris graduated from Howard University in dent-elect Kamala Harris grew up believing before the Committee. Washington, D.C., where she was a mem- in the promise of America and fighting to On the Senate Select Committee on Intel- ber of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., and make sure that promise is fulfilled for all ligence, Harris has dealt with the nation’s earned a law degree from the University of Americans. Harris’ father immigrated to the most sensitive national security and inter- California, Hastings College of Law. U.S. from Jamaica to study economics and national threats. She also has served on Harris has been married to her husband her mother immigrated from India. Harris’ the Senate Homeland Security and Gov- Doug Emhoff for the past six years. She is mother told her growing up, “Don’t sit around ernmental Affairs Committee where she has the stepmother of two children, Cole and and complain about things, do something,” overseen the federal government’s response Ella, who call her “Momala” and are her which is what drives Harris every single day. to natural disasters and emergencies, in- “endless source of love and pure joy.” Harris started fighting for working families in the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, where she focused on prosecuting child sexual assault cases. From there, she became the first Black woman elected for-profit education company that scammed as ’s District Attorney. In this students and veterans. Harris also fought position, she started a program to provide for California communities and prosecuted first-time drug offenders second chances transnational gangs who drove human traf- with the opportunity to earn a high school ficking, gun smuggling, and drug rings. degree and find a job. During her time as a U.S. Senator, Harris In 2010, Harris became the first Black has introduced and co-sponsored legisla- woman to be elected Attorney General of tion to help the middle class, increase the California, overseeing the country’s second minimum wage to $15, reform cash bail, largest Justice Department after the U.S. and defend the legal rights of refugees and Department of Justice. In this capacity, she immigrants. managed a $735 million budget and over- Harris has served on the Senate Judiciary saw more than 4,800 attorneys and other Committee, where she has fought to pro- employees. As California Attorney General, Harris fought for families and won a $20 bil- lion settlement for California homeowners against big banks that were unfairly fore- closing on homes. Harris worked to protect Obamacare, helped win marriage equality for all, defended California’s landmark climate change law and won a $1.1 billion settlement against a

Compiled by Parthiban Shanmugam General Secretary, World Federation of Tamil Youth, USA & Digital Director, BIDEN HARRIS CAMPAIGN, National Democratic Committee, Washington D.C.

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Gopalan received her PhD in 1964. Har- school. Kagan said Harris had recently ris' father, Donald J. Harris, is a Stanford told her that their friendship, and play- University professor emeritus of eco- ing a role in countering Kagan's exploi- nomics, who arrived in the U.S. from tation, helped form the commitment British Jamaica in 1961 for graduate Harris felt in protecting women and chil- study at UC Berkeley, receiving a PhD dren as a prosecutor. After high school, in economics in 1966. Along with her in 1982, Harris attended Howard Univer- younger sister, Maya, Harris lived in sity, a historically black university in Berkeley, California, briefly on Milvia Washington, D.C. While at Howard, she Street in central Berkeley, then a du- interned as a mailroom clerk for Califor- plex on Bancroft Way in West Berke- nia senator Alan Cranston, chaired the ley, an area often called "the flatlands" economics society, led the debate team, with a significant black population. and joined Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. when Harris began kindergarten, Harris graduated from Howard in 1986 she was bused as part of Berkeley's with a degree in political science and comprehensive desegregation program economics. to Thousand Oaks Elementary School, Harris then returned to Califor- a public school in a more prosperous nia to attend law school at the Univer- neighborhood in northern Berkeley sity of California, Hastings College of which previously had been 95 percent the Law through its Legal Education white, and after the desegregation plan Opportunity Program (LEOP). While at went into effect became 40 percent UC Hastings, she served as president Black. A neighbor regularly took the of its chapter of the Black Law Students Harris girls to an African American Association. She graduated with a Ju- church in Oakland where they sang in ris Doctor in 1989 and was admitted to the children's choir, and the girls and the California Bar in June 1990. their mother also frequently visited a In 1990, Harris was hired as a nearby African American cultural cen- deputy district attorney in Alameda ter. Their mother introduced them to County, California, where she was de- Hinduism and took them to a nearby scribed as "an able prosecutor on the Hindu temple, where she occasionally way up". In 1994, Speaker of the Cali- Kamala Devi Harris born October 20, Sanchez in the 2016 Senate election to sang. As children, she and her sister fornia Assembly Willie Brown, who was 1964 who is the vice president-elect of become the second African American visited their mother's family in Madras then dating Harris, appointed her to the the United States and the junior United woman and the first South Asian Ameri- (now Chennai) several times. She says state Unemployment Insurance Appeals States senator from California. Prior to can to serve in the United States Sen- she has been strongly influenced by her Board and later to the California Medi- her election to the Senate, she served ate. As a senator, she has advocated maternal grandfather P. V. Gopalan, a cal Assistance Commission. Harris took as the attorney general of California. healthcare reform, federal de-schedul- retired Indian civil servant whose pro- a six-month leave of absence in 1994 A member of the Democratic Party, she ing of cannabis, a path to citizenship gressive views on democracy and from her duties as prosecutor, then af- will become vice president upon inau- for undocumented immigrants, the women's rights impressed her. Harris terward resumed as prosecutor during guration on January 20, 2021, alongside DREAM Act, a ban on assault weapons, has remained in touch with her Indian the years she sat on the boards. Harris's President-elect Joe Biden, having de- and progressive tax reform. She gained aunts and uncles throughout her adult connection to Brown was noted in me- feated the incumbent president Donald a national profile for her pointed ques- life. Harris has also visited her father's dia reportage as part of a pattern of Trump and vice president Mike Pence tioning of Trump administration officials family in Jamaica. Californian political leaders appointing in the 2020 election. She will be the during Senate hearings, including Her parents divorced when she "friends and loyal political soldiers" to United States' first female vice presi- Trump's second Supreme Court nomi- was seven. Harris has said that when lucrative positions on the commissions. dent, the highest-ranking female elected nee Brett Kavanaugh, who was accused she and her sister visited their father in Harris has defended her work. official in U.S. history, and the first Afri- of sexual assault. Palo Alto on weekends, other children In February 1998, San Fran- can American and first Asian American Harris sought the 2020 Democratic in the neighborhood were not allowed to cisco district attorney Terence Hallinan vice president. presidential nomination, but dropped out play with them because they were recruited Harris as an assistant district Born in Oakland, California, Harris of the race prior to the primaries.[9] black. When she was twelve, Harris and attorney. There, she became the chief graduated from Howard University and Former vice president Joe Biden se- her sister moved with their mother to of the Career Criminal Division, super- the University of California, Hastings lected Harris as his running mate in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, where vising five other attorneys, where she College of the Law. She began her ca- August 2020, and the Biden–Harris Shyamala had accepted a research and prosecuted homicide, burglary, robbery, reer in the Alameda County District ticket won the November 2020 election. teaching position at the McGill Univer- and sexual assault cases – particularly Attorney's Office, before being recruited Kamala Harris was born in Oakland, sity-affiliated Jewish General Hospital. three-strikes cases. In 2000, Harris re- to the San Francisco District Attorney's California, on October 20, 1964. Her Harris attended a French-speaking pri- portedly clashed with Hallinan's assis- Office and later the City Attorney of San mother, , a biologist, mary school, Notre-Dame-des-Neiges, tant, Darrell Salomon, over Proposition Francisco's office. In 2003, she was Tamil immigrant whose work on the then F.A.C.E. School, and then 21, which granted prosecutors the op- elected district attorney of San Fran- progesterone receptor gene stimulated Westmount High School in Westmount, tion of trying juvenile defendants in Su- cisco. She was elected Attorney Gen- advances in breast cancer research, had Quebec, graduating in 1981. Wanda perior Court rather than juvenile courts. eral of California in 2010 and re-elected arrived in the U.S. from in Kagan, a high school friend of Harris, Harris campaigned against the mea- in 2014. Harris has served as the junior India in 1958 as a 19-year-old graduate later told CBC News in 2020 that Harris sure, which passed. Salomon opposed United States senator from California student in nutrition and endocrinology was her best friend and described how directing media inquiries about Prop 21 since 2017. Harris defeated Loretta at the University of California, Berkeley; she confided in Harris that she had been to Harris and reassigned her, a de facto molested by her stepfather. She said demotion. Harris filed a complaint that Harris told her mother, who then in- against Salomon and quit. sisted Kagan come to live with them for In August 2000, Harris took a the remainder of her final year of high new job at San Francisco City Hall,

Harris's childhood home on Bancroft Way in Berkeley Harris in 2004 with California congresswoman Nancy Pelosi

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] COVER STORY : BIDEN HARRIS 13 working for city attorney Louise Renne. such offenses was substantially lower. property). Leno alleged that merchants chronic truancy a matter of public Harris ran the Family and Children's Ser- Prosecutions for low-level marijuana of- drove through the public housing devel- safety and pointing out that the major- vices Division representing child abuse fenses were rare under Harris, and her opments nearby and illegally sold weap- ity of prison inmates and homicide vic- and neglect cases. Renne endorsed office had a policy of not pursuing jail ons to residents. While the bill would tims are dropouts or habitual truants, Harris during her D.A. campaign. time for marijuana possession of- stall, local opposition to the shows con- Harris's office met with thousands of In 2002, Harris prepared to run fenses.[69] Harris's successor as D.A., tinued until the Cow Palace Board of Di- parents at high-risk schools and sent for District Attorney of San Francisco George Gascón, expunged all San Fran- rectors in 2019 voted to approve a state- out letters warning all families of the against Hallinan (the incumbent) and cisco marijuana offenses going back to ment banning all future gun shows. legal consequences of truancy at the Bill Fazio. Harris was the least-known 1975. Reform efforts beginning of the fall semester, adding of the three candidates but persuaded Violent crimes Death penalty she would prosecute the parents of the Central Committee to withhold its In the early 2000s, the San Francisco Harris has said life imprisonment with- chronically truant elementary students; endorsement from Hallinan. Harris and murder rate per capita outpaced the na- out parole is a better and more cost- penalties included a $2,500 fine and up Hallinan advanced to the general elec- tional average. Within the first six effective punishment than the death pen- to a year in jail. The program was con- tion runoff with 33 and 37 percent of the months of taking office, Harris cleared alty, and has estimated that the result- troversial when introduced. vote, respectively. 27 of 74 backlogged homicide cases by ant cost savings could pay for a thou- In 2008, Harris issued citations In the runoff, Harris pledged settling 14 by plea bargain and taking sand additional police officers in San against six parents whose children never to seek the death penalty and to 11 to trial; of those trials, nine ended Francisco alone. missed at least fifty days of school, the prosecute three-strike offenders only in with convictions and two with hung ju- During her campaign, Harris first time San Francisco prosecuted cases of violent felonies. Harris ran a ries. She took 49 violent crime cases pledged never to seek the death pen- adults for student truancy. San "forceful" campaign, assisted by former to trial and secured 36 convictions. alty. After a San Francisco Police De- Francisco's school chief, Carlos Garcia, mayor Willie Brown, Senator Dianne From 2004 to 2006, Harris achieved an partment officer, Isaac Espinoza, was said the path from truancy to prosecu- Feinstein, writer and cartoonist Aaron 87 percent conviction rate for homicides shot and killed in 2004, U.S. senator tion was lengthy, and that the school McGruder, and comedians Eddie Griffin and a 90 percent conviction rate for all (and former San Francisco mayor) district usually spends months encour- and Chris Rock. Harris differentiated felony gun violations. Dianne Feinstein, U.S. senator Barbara aging parents through phone calls, re- herself from Hallinan by attacking his Harris also pushed for higher bail for Boxer, Oakland mayor Jerry Brown, and minder letters, private meetings, hear- performance. She argued that she left criminal defendants involved in gun-re- the San Francisco Police Officers As- ings before the School Attendance Re- his office because it was technologically lated crimes, arguing that historically sociation pressured Harris to reverse view Board, and offers of help from city inept, emphasizing his 52 percent con- low bail encouraged outsiders to com- that position, but she did not. (Polls agencies and social services; two of the viction rate for serious crimes despite mit crimes in San Francisco. SFPD of- found that seventy percent of voters sup- six parents entered no plea but said an 83 percent average conviction rate ficers credited Harris with tightening the ported Harris's decision.)[83] When they would work with the D.A.'s office statewide. Harris charged that his office loopholes defendants had used in the Edwin Ramos, an illegal immigrant and and social service agencies to create was not doing enough to stem the city's past. In addition to creating a gun crime alleged MS-13 gang member, was ac- "parental responsibility plans" to help gun violence, particularly in poor neigh- unit, Harris opposed releasing defen- cused of murdering a man and his two them start sending their children to borhoods like Bayview and the Tender- dants on their own recognizance if they sons in 2009,[84] Harris sought a sen- school regularly. By April 2009, 1,330 loin, and attacked his willingness to were arrested on gun crimes, sought tence of life in prison without parole, a elementary school students were ha- accept plea bargains in cases of domes- minimum 90-day sentences for posses- decision Mayor Gavin Newsom backed. bitual or chronic truants, down 23 per- tic violence. Harris won with 56 percent sion of concealed or loaded weapons, Recidivism and re-entry initiative cent from 1,730 in 2008, and down from of the vote, becoming the first person of and charged all assault weapons pos- In 2004, Harris recruited civil rights ac- 2,517 in 2007 and from 2,856 in 2006. color elected as district attorney of San session cases as felonies, adding that tivist Lateefah Simon to create the San Harris's office prosecuted seven parents Francisco. she would seek prison terms for crimi- Francisco Reentry Division. The flag- in three years, with none jailed. Harris ran unopposed for a second term nals who possessed or used assault ship program was the Back on Track ini- Elections - 2010 in 2007. weapons and would seek maximum tiative, a first-of-its-kind reentry program Nearly two years before the 2010 elec- Public safety penalties on gun-related crimes. for first-time nonviolent offenders aged tion, Harris announced she planned to Non-violent crimes: Harris created a Hate Crimes 18–30. Initiative participants whose run. She also stated she would only run In the summer of 2005, Harris cre- Unit, focusing on hate crimes against crimes were not weapon- or gang-related if then-Attorney General Jerry Brown did ated an environmental crimes unit. LGBT children and teens in schools.[74] would plead guilty in exchange for a not seek re-election for that position. In 2007, Harris and city attorney Den- In early 2006, Gwen Araujo, a 17-year- deferral of sentencing and regular ap- Brown instead chose to run for gover- nis Herrera investigated San Francisco old American Latina transgender teen- pearances before a judge over a twelve- nor and Harris consolidated support supervisor Ed Jew for violating residency ager, was murdered by two men who to eighteen-month period. The program from prominent California Democrats. requirements necessary to hold his su- later used the "gay panic defense" be- maintained rigorous graduation require- Both of California's senators, Dianne pervisor position; Harris charged Jew fore being convicted of second-degree ments, mandating completion of up to Feinstein and Barbara Boxer, House with nine felonies, alleging that he had murder. Harris, alongside Araujo's 220 hours of community service, obtain- Speaker Nancy Pelosi, United Farm lied under oath and falsified documents mother Sylvia Guerrero, convened a two- ing a high-school-equivalency diploma, Workers cofounder Dolores Huerta, and to make it appear he resided in a Sun- day conference of at least 200 prosecu- maintaining steady employment, taking mayor of Los Angeles Antonio set District home, necessary so he tors and law enforcement officials na- parenting classes, and passing drug Villaraigosa all endorsed her during the could run for supervisor in the 4th dis- tionwide to discuss strategies to counter tests. At graduation, the court would Democratic primary. In the June 8, 2010 trict.[65] Jew pleaded guilty in October such legal defenses. Harris subse- dismiss the case and expunge the primary, she was nominated with 33.6 2008 to unrelated federal corruption quently supported A.B. 1160, the Gwen graduate's record. Over six years, the percent of the vote, defeating Alberto charges (mail fraud, soliciting a bribe, Araujo Justice for Victims Act, advocat- 200 people graduated from the program Torrico and Chris Kelly. and extortion) and pleaded guilty the ing that California's penal code include had a recidivism rate of less than ten In the general election, she faced Re- following month in state court to a jury instructions to ignore bias, sympa- percent, compared to the 53 percent of publican Los Angeles County district at- charge of perjury for lying about his ad- thy, prejudice, or public opinion in mak- California's drug offenders who returned torney Steve Cooley, who led most of dress on nomination forms, as part of a ing their decision, also making manda- to prison within two years of release. the race. Cooley ran as a nonpartisan, plea agreement in which the other state tory for district attorney's offices in Cali- Back on Track earned recognition from distancing himself from Republican gu- charges were dropped and Jew agreed fornia to educate prosecutors about the U.S. Department of Justice as a bernatorial candidate Meg Whitman's to never again hold elected office in panic strategies and how to prevent bias model for reentry programs. The DOJ campaign.[citation needed] The election California. Harris described the case as from affecting trial outcomes. In Sep- found that the cost to the taxpayers per was held November 2 but after a pro- "about protecting the integrity of our tember 2006, California governor Arnold participant was markedly lower ($5,000) tracted period of counting mail-in and political process, which is part of the Schwarzenegger signed A.B. 1160 into than the cost of adjudicating a case provisional ballots, Cooley conceded on core of our democracy". For his federal law; the law put California on record as ($10,000) and housing a low-level of- November 25. Harris was sworn in on offenses, Jew was sentenced to 64 declaring it contrary to public policy for fender ($50,000). In 2009, a state law January 3, 2011; she is the first woman, months in federal prison and a $10,000 defendants to be acquitted or convicted (the Back on Track Reentry Act, A.B. the first African American, and the first fine; for the state perjury conviction, Jew of a lesser included offense on the ba- 750) was enacted, encouraging other South Asian American to hold the office was sentenced to one year in county sis of appeals to "societal bias". California counties to start similar pro- of Attorney General in the state's his- jail, three years' probation, and about In August 2007, state assembly- grams. Adopted by the National District tory. $2,000 in fines. man Mark Leno introduced legislation Attorneys Association as a model, pros- Attorney General election - 2014 Under Harris, the D.A.'s office to ban gun shows at the Cow Palace, ecutor offices in , Philadelphia, Harris announced her intention to run obtained more than 1,900 convictions for joined by Harris, police chief Heather and Atlanta have used Back on Track for re-election in February 2014 and filed marijuana offenses, including persons Fong, and mayor Gavin Newsom. City as a template for their own programs. paperwork to run on February 12. The simultaneously convicted of marijuana leaders contended the shows were di- Truancy initiative Sacramento Bee, Los Angeles Daily offenses and more serious crimes. The rectly contributing to the proliferation of In 2006, as part of an initiative to re- News, and Los Angeles Times endorsed rate at which Harris's office prosecuted illegal guns and spiking homicide rates duce the city's skyrocketing homicide her for re-election. marijuana crimes was higher than the in San Francisco (Newsom earlier that rate, Harris led a city-wide effort to com- On November 4, 2014, Harris was re- rate under Hallinan, but the number of month signed into law local legislation bat truancy for at-risk elementary school elected against Republican Ronald defendants sentenced to state prison for banning gun shows on city and county youth in San Francisco. Declaring Gold, winning 57.5 percent of the vote

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] COVER STORY : BIDEN HARRIS 14 to 42.5 percent. pursue prosecution hinged on the state's Consumer protection - Fraud, waste, inability to subpoena OneWest. Her and abuse spokesman said, "There was no ques- In 2011, Harris announced the creation tion OneWest conducted predatory of the Mortgage Fraud Strike Force in lending, and Senator Harris believes the wake of the 2010 United States fore- they should be punished. Unfortunately, closure crisis. That same year, Harris the law was squarely on their side and obtained two of the largest recoveries they were shielded from state subpoe- in the history of California's False nas because they're a federal bank." Claims Act – $241 million from Quest In 2014, Harris settled charges Diagnostics and then $323 million from she had brought against rent-to-own re- the SCAN healthcare network – over tailer Aaron's, Inc. on allegations of in- excess state Medi-Cal and federal Medi- correct late charges, overcharging cus- care payments. tomers who paid off their contracts be- In 2012, Harris leveraged fore the due date, and privacy violations. California's economic clout to obtain In the settlement, the retailer refunded better terms in the National Mortgage $28.4 million to California customers Settlement against the nation's five larg- and paid $3.4 million in civil penalties. est mortgage servicers – JPMorgan In 2015, Harris obtained a $1.2 Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, billion judgment against for-profit post- Citigroup and Ally Bank.[115] The mort- secondary education company Harris meets foreclosure victims in 2011. gage firms were accused of illegally fore- Corinthian Colleges for false advertising closing on homeowners. After dismiss- and deceptive marketing targeting vul- settlements with Comcast, one totaling ney general, publicly disagreed with the ing an initial offer of $2–4 billion in relief nerable, low-income students and mis- $33 million over allegations that it posted rationale. for Californians, Harris withdrew from ne- representing job placement rates to stu- online the names, phone numbers and In September 2014, attorneys for Har- gotiations. The offer eventually was in- dents, investors, and accreditation addresses of tens of thousands of cus- ris argued unsuccessfully in a court fil- creased to $18.4 billion in debt relief agencies.[131] The Court ordered tomers who had paid for unlisted voice ing against the early release of prison- and $2 billion in other financial assis- Corinthian to pay $820 million in resti- over internet protocol (VOIP) phone ser- ers, citing the need for inmate firefighting tance for California homeowners. tution and another $350 million in civil vice and another $26 million settlement labor. When the memo provoked head- Harris worked with Assembly penalties. That same year, Harris also to resolve allegations that it discarded lines, Harris spoke out against the speaker John Pérez and Senate presi- secured a $60 million settlement with paper records without first omitting or memo. She said she was unaware of it, dent pro tem Darrell Steinberg in 2013 JP Morgan Chase to resolve allegations redacting private customer information. and the attorneys had produced the to introduce the Homeowner Bill of of illegal debt collection with respect to Harris also settled with Houzz over al- memo without her knowledge. Since the Rights, considered one of the strongest credit card customers, with the bank legations that the company recorded 1940s, qualified California inmates have protections nationwide against aggres- also agreeing to change practices that phone calls without notifying customers the option of volunteering to receive com- sive foreclosure tactics. The Homeowner violated California consumer protection or employees. Houzz was forced to pay prehensive training from the California Bill of Rights banned the practices of laws by collecting incorrect amounts, $175,000, destroy the recorded calls, Department of Forestry and Fire Protec- "dual-tracking" (processing a modifica- selling bad credit card debt, and run- and hire a chief privacy officer, the first tion in exchange for sentence reduc- tion and foreclosure at the same time) ning a debt-collection mill that "robo- time such a provision has been included tions and more comfortable prison ac- and robo-signing and provided signed" court documents without first re- in a settlement with the California De- commodations; prison firefighters re- homeowners with a single point of con- viewing the files as it rushed to obtain partment of Justice. ceive about $2 a day, and another $1 tact at their lending institution. Harris judgments and wage garnishments. As Criminal justice reform when battling fires. achieved multiple nine-figure settle- part of the settlement, the bank was Launch of Division of Recidivism Re- LGBT rights ments for California homeowners under required to stop attempting to collect on duction and Re-Entry Opposing Prop 8 the bill mostly for robo-signing and dual- more than 528,000 customer accounts. In November 2013, Harris launched the Hollingsworth v. Perry track abuses, as well as prosecuting in- I California Department of Justice's Divi- In 2008, California voters passed Prop stances in which loan processors failed In 2015, Harris opened an inves- sion of Recidivism Reduction and Re- 8, a state constitutional amendment to promptly credit mortgage payments, tigation of the Office of Ratepayer Ad- Entry in partnership with district attor- providing that only marriages "between miscalculated interest rates, and vocates, San Diego Gas and Electric, ney offices in San Diego, Los Angeles, a man and a woman" are valid. Legal charged borrowers improper fees. Har- and Southern California Edison regard- and Alameda County. In March 2015, challenges were made by opponents ris secured hundreds of millions in re- ing the closure of San Onofre Nuclear Harris announced the creation of a pilot soon after its approval, and a pair of lief, including $268 million from Ocwen Generating Station. California state in- program in coordination with the Los same-sex couples filed a lawsuit Financial Corporation, $470 million from vestigators searched the home of Cali- Angeles County Sheriff's Department against the initiative in federal court in HSBC, and $550 million from SunTrust fornia utility regulator Michael Peevey called "Back on Track LA". Like Back the case of Perry v. Schwarzenegger Banks. and found handwritten notes that alleg- on Track, first time, non-violent, non- (later Hollingsworth v. Perry). In their From 2013 to 2015, Harris pur- edly showed he had met with an Edison sexual, offenders aged between 18 and 2010 campaigns, California attorney sued financial recoveries for California's executive in Poland, where the two had 30[failed verification] - 90 men partici- general Jerry Brown and Harris both public employee and teacher's pen- negotiated the terms of the San Onofre pated in the pilot program for 24–30 pledged to not defend Prop 8. sions, CalPERS and CalSTRS against settlement, leaving San Diego taxpay- months. Assigned a case manager, par- After being elected, Harris declared her various financial giants for misrepresen- ers with a $3.3 billion bill to pay for the ticipants received education through a office would not defend the marriage tation in the sale of mortgage-backed closure of the plant. The investigation partnership with the Los Angeles Com- ban, leaving the task to Prop 8's propo- securities. She secured multiple nine- was closed amidst Harris's 2016 run for munity College District and job training nents. In February 2013, Harris filed an figure recoveries for the state pensions, the U.S. Senate position. services. amicus curiae brief, arguing Prop 8 was recovering about $193 million from Privacy rights Sentencing and prison inmate reten- unconstitutional and that the initiative's Citigroup, $210 million from S&P, $300 In February 2012, Harris announced an tion sponsors did not have legal standing to million from JP Morgan Chase, and over agreement with Apple, Amazon, Google, After the 2011 United States Supreme represent California's interests by de- half a billion from Bank of America. Hewlett-Packard, Microsoft, and Re- Court in Brown v. Plata declared fending the law in federal court. In June In 2013, Harris declined to au- search in Motion to mandate that apps California's prisons so overcrowded they 2013, the Supreme Court ruled, 5–4, that thorize a civil complaint drafted by state sold in their stores display prominent inflicted cruel and unusual punishment, Prop 8's proponents lacked standing to investigators who accused OneWest privacy policies informing users of what Harris fought federal court supervision, defend it in federal court. The next day Bank, owned by an investment group private information they were sharing, explaining "I have a client, and I don't Harris delivered a speech in downtown headed by future U.S. treasury secre- and with whom.[136] later get to choose my client." Harris's record Los Angeles urging the Ninth Circuit to tary Steven Mnuchin (then a private citi- joined the agreement. That summer, on wrongful conviction cases as attor- lift the stay banning same-sex marriages zen), of "widespread violation" of Cali- Harris announced the creation of a Pri- ney general has engendered some criti- as soon as possible. The stay was lifted fornia foreclosure laws. During the 2016 vacy Enforcement and Protection Unit cism from academics and activists. Law two days later. elections, Harris was the only Demo- to enforce laws related to cyber privacy, professor Lara Bazelon contends Har- Gay and trans panic defense ban cratic Senate candidate to receive a do- identity theft, and data breaches. Later ris "weaponized technicalities to keep In 2014, Attorney General Kamala Har- nation from Mnuchin. Harris was criti- the same year, Harris notified a hundred wrongfully convicted people behind bars ris co-sponsored legislation to ban the cized for accepting the donation be- mobile-app developers of their non-com- rather than allow them new trials". Har- gay and trans panic defense in court, cause Mnuchin purportedly profited from pliance with state privacy laws and ris declined to take any position on which passed and California became the the subprime mortgage crisis through asked them to create privacy policies criminal sentencing-reform initiatives first state with such legislation. OneWest Bank; she later voted against or face a $2500 fine each time a non- Prop 36 (2012) and Prop 47 (2014), ar- In February 2014, Michelle-Lael his confirmation as treasury secretary compliant app is downloaded by a resi- guing it would be improper because her Norsworthy, a transgender inmate at in February 2017. In 2019, Harris's cam- dent of California. office prepares the ballot booklets. John California's Mule Creek State Prison, paign stated that the decision not to In 2015, Harris secured two Van de Kamp, a predecessor as attor- filed a federal lawsuit based on the Cali-

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] COVER STORY : BIDEN HARRIS 15 fornia Department of Corrections and toured the coastline and directed her mand-level staff received the training. Rehabilitation's failure to provide her office's resources and attorneys to in- The training was part of a package of with what she argued was medically nec- vestigate possible criminal violations. reforms introduced within the California essary sex reassignment surgery Thereafter, operator Plains All American Department of Justice, which also in- (SRS). In April 2015, a federal judge or- Pipeline was indicted on 46 criminal cluded additional resources deployed to dered the state to provide Norsworthy charges related to the spill, with one increase the recruitment and hiring of with SRS, finding that prison officials employee indicted on three criminal diverse special agents, an expanded had been "deliberately indifferent to her charges. In 2019, a Santa Barbara jury role for the department to investigate serious medical need". Harris, repre- returned a verdict finding Plains guilty officer-related shooting investigations senting CDCR, appealed the order to of failing to properly maintain its pipe- and community policing. The same year, AG Harris announces the arrest of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, ar- line and another eight misdemeanor Harris's California Department of Justice 101 gang members in Los Banos, guing that psychotherapy, as well as the charges; they were sentenced to pay became the first statewide agency in the California. hormone therapy Norsworthy had been over $3 million in fines and assess- country to require all its police officers receiving for her gender dysphoria over ments. to wear body cameras. Harris also an- identity theft and six counts of extor- the preceding fourteen years, were suf- From 2015 to 2016, Harris secured mul- nounced a new state law requiring ev- tion and sentenced to 18 years in prison. ficient medical treatment, and there was tiple multi-million-dollar settlements with ery law enforcement agency in Califor- Harris brought up these cases when "no evidence that Norsworthy is in seri- fuel service companies Chevron, BP, nia to collect, report, and publish ex- California Congresswoman Katie Hill ous, immediate physical or emotional ARCO, Phillips 66, and ConocoPhillips panded statistics on how many people was targeted for similar cyber exploita- danger". While Harris defended the to resolve allegations they failed to are shot, seriously injured or killed by tion by her ex-husband and forced to re- state's position in court, she said she properly monitor the hazardous materi- peace officers throughout the state. sign in late 2019. ultimately pushed the California Depart- als in its underground storage tanks Later that year, Harris appealed In 2016, Harris announced the ment of Corrections and Rehabilitation used to store gasoline for retail sale at a judge's order to take over the pros- arrest of Backpage CEO Carl Ferrer on to change their policy. In August 2015, hundreds of California gas stations. In ecution of a high-profile mass murder felony charges of pimping a minor, pimp- while the state's appeal was pending, summer 2016, automaker Volkswagen case and to eject all 250 prosecutors ing, and conspiracy to commit pimping. Norsworthy was released on parole, AG agreed to pay up to $14.7 billion to from the Orange County district The warrant alleged that 99 percent of obviating the state's duty to provide her settle a raft of claims related to so-called attorney's office over allegations of mis- Backpage's revenue was directly attrib- with inmate medical care and rendering defeat devices used to cheat emissions conduct by Republican D.A. Tony utable to prostitution-related ads, many the case moot. In 2019, Harris stated standards on its diesel cars while actu- Rackauckas. Rackauckas was alleged of which involved victims of sex traffick- that she took "full responsibility" for ally emitting up to forty times the levels to have illegally employed jailhouse in- ing, including children under the age of briefs her office filed in Norsworthy's of harmful nitrogen oxides allowed un- formants and concealed evidence. Har- 18. The pimping charge against Ferrer case and others involving access to gen- der state and federal law. Harris and the ris noted that it was unnecessary to ban was dismissed by the California courts der-affirming surgery for trans inmates. chair of the California Air Resources all 250 prosecutors from working on the in 2016 on the grounds of Section 230 Public safety Board, Mary D. Nichols, announced that case, as only a few had been directly of the Communications Decency Act, Anti-truancy efforts California would receive $1.18 billion as involved, later promising a narrower but in 2018, Ferrer pleaded guilty in In 2011, Harris urged criminal penalties well as another $86 million paid to the criminal investigation. The U.S. Depart- California to money laundering and for parents of truant children as she did state of California in civil penalties. ment of Justice began an investigation agreed to give evidence against the as District Attorney of San Francisco, Law enforcement into Rackauckas in December 2016, but former co-owners of Backpage. Ferrer allowing the court to defer judgment if California's Prop 69 (2004) required law he was not re-elected. simultaneously pleaded guilty to the parent agreed to a mediation period enforcement to collect DNA samples In 2016, Harris announced a pat- charges of money laundering and con- to get their child back in school. Critics from any adult arrested for a felony and terns and practices investigation into spiracy to facilitate prostitution in Texas charged that local prosecutors imple- from individuals arrested for certain purported civil rights violations and use state court and Arizona federal court. menting her directives were overzealous crimes. In 2012, Harris announced that of excessive force by the two largest law Under pressure, Backpage announced in their enforcement and Harris's policy the California Department of Justice had enforcement agencies in Kern County, that it was removing its adult section adversely affected some families. In improved its DNA testing capabilities California, the Bakersfield Police De- from all its U.S. sites. Harris welcomed 2013, Harris issued a report titled "In such that samples stored at the state's partment and the Kern County Sheriff's the move, saying, "I look forward to them School + On Track", which found that crime labs could now be analyzed four Department. Labeled the "deadliest po- shutting down completely." The investi- more than 250,000 elementary school times faster, within thirty days. Accord- lice departments in America" in a five- gations continued after she became a students in the state were "chronically ingly, Harris reported that the Rapid part Guardian expose, a separate inves- senator, and, in April 2018, Backpage absent" and the statewide truancy rate DNA Service Team within the Bureau of tigation commissioned by the ACLU and and affiliated sites were seized by fed- for elementary students in the 2012– Forensic Services had cleared submitted to the California Department eral law enforcement. 2013 school year was nearly thirty per- California's DNA backlog for the first of Justice corroborated reports of police Transnational criminal organizations cent, at a cost of nearly $1.4 billion to time). Harris's office was later awarded using excessive force. During her term as attorney gen- school districts, since funding is based a $1.6 million grant from the Manhattan Planned Parenthood eral, Harris's office oversaw major inves- on attendance rates. District Attorney's initiative to eliminate In 2016, Harris's office seized videos and tigations and prosecutions targeting Environmental protection the backlogs of untested rape kits. other information from the apartment of transnational criminal organizations for Harris prioritized environmental protec- In 2015, Harris conducted a 90- an antiabortion activist who had made their involvement in violent crime, fraud tion as attorney general, first securing day review of implicit bias in policing and secret recordings and then accused schemes, drug trafficking, and smug- a $44 million settlement to resolve all police use of deadly force. In April 2015, Planned Parenthood doctors of illegally gling. Significant arrests and seizures damages and costs associated with the Harris introduced the first of its kind selling fetal tissue. Harris had an- (of weapons, drugs, cash, and other as- Cosco Busan oil spill, in which a con- "Principled Policing: Procedural Justice nounced that her office would investi- sets) under Harris targeted the Tijuana tainer ship collided with San Francisco– and Implicit Bias" training, designed in gate the activist in the summer of 2015. Cartel (2011), the Nuestra Familia, Oakland Bay Bridge and spilled 50,000 conjunction with psy- She was facing increasing criticism for Norteños, and the Vagos Motorcycle gallons of bunker fuel into the San Fran- chologist and professor Jennifer not taking public action by the time Club (2011), the Norteños (2015), the cisco Bay. In the aftermath of the 2015 Eberhardt, to help law enforcement of- Planned Parenthood filed a lawsuit Crips (2015), the Mexican Mafia (2016), Refugio oil spill, which deposited about ficers overcome barriers to neutral po- against the activist. and businesses in the Los Angeles 140,000 gallons of crude oil off the coast licing and rebuild trust between law en- Sex crimes Fashion District accused of operating a of Santa Barbara, California, Harris forcement and the community. All Com- In 2011, Harris obtained a guilty plea and major money-laundering hub for Mexi- a four-year prison sentence from a can narcotics traffickers (2014). stalker who used Facebook and social In summer 2012, Harris signed engineering techniques to illegally ac- an accord with the attorney general of cess the private photographs of women Mexico, Marisela Morales, to improve whose social media accounts he hi- coordination of law enforcement re- jacked. Harris commented that the sources targeting transnational gangs Internet had "opened up a new frontier engaging in the sale and trafficking of for crime". Later that year, Harris cre- human beings across the San Ysidro ated the eCrime Unit within the Califor- border crossing. The accord called for nia Department of Justice, a 20-attor- closer integration on investigations be- ney unit specifically targeting technol- tween offices and sharing best prac- ogy crimes. In 2015, several purveyors tices.[206] In 2012, Governor Jerry of so-called revenge porn sites based Brown signed into law two bills ad- in California were arrested, charged with vanced by Harris to combat human traf- felonies, and sentenced to lengthy ficking. In November, Harris presented prison terms. In the first prosecution of a report titled "The State of Human Traf- its kind in the United States, Kevin ficking in California 2012" at a sympo- Harris and LAPD chief Charlie Beck celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Bollaert was convicted on 21 counts of sium attended by U.S. secretary of la- signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 bor Hilda Solis and Attorney General

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and Vice President Joe Biden endorsed In February, Harris spoke in opposition Harris. In the November 2016 election, to Trump's cabinet picks Betsy DeVos, Harris defeated Sanchez, capturing over for Secretary of Education, and Jeff Ses- 60% of the vote, carrying all but four sions, for United States attorney gen- counties. Following her victory, she eral. In early March, she called on Ses- promised to protect immigrants from the sions to resign, after it was reported that policies of President-elect Donald Trump Sessions spoke twice with Russian am- and announced her intention to remain bassador to the United States Sergey Attorney General through the end of Kislyak. 2016. In April, Harris voted against the confir- Harris was sworn into the Senate by then- Tenure and political positions mation of Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Su- Vice President Biden on January 3, 2017 2017 preme Court. Later that month, Harris Morales, outlining the growing preva- On January 28, after Trump signed Ex- took her first foreign trip to the Middle lence of human trafficking in the state, ecutive Order 13769, barring citizens East, visiting California troops stationed and highlighting the involvement of from several Muslim-majority countries in Iraq and the Zaatari refugee camp in transnational gangs in the practice. from entering the U.S. for ninety days, Jordan, the largest camp for Syrian refu- she condemned the order and was one gees. In early 2014, Harris issued a report Kamala Harris at SF of many to describe it as a "Muslim In June, Harris garnered media atten- titled, "Gangs Beyond Borders: Califor- Pride Parade 2019 nia and the Fight Against Transnational ban". She called White House chief of tion for her questioning of Rod Crime", addressing the prominent role staff John F. Kelly at home to gather Rosenstein, the deputy attorney gen- hearings, Harris questioned Brett of drug, weapons, and human traffick- information and push back against the eral, over the role he played in the May Kavanaugh about a meeting he may ing, money laundering, and technology executive order. 2017 firing of James Comey, the direc- have had regarding the Mueller Investi- crimes employed by various drug car- In February, Harris spoke in opposition tor of the Federal Bureau of Investiga- gation with a member of Kasowitz tels from Mexico, Armenian Power, 18th to Trump's cabinet picks Betsy DeVos, tion. The prosecutorial nature of her Benson Torres, the law firm founded by Street Gang, and MS-13 and offering for Secretary of Education, and Jeff Ses- questioning caused Senator John the President's personal attorney Marc recommendations for state and local law sions, for United States attorney gen- McCain, an ex officio member of the In- Kasowitz. Kavanaugh was unable to an- enforcement to combat the criminal ac- eral. In early March, she called on Ses- telligence Committee, and Senator Ri- swer and repeatedly deflected. Harris tivity. Later that year, Harris led a bipar- sions to resign, after it was reported that chard Burr, the committee chairman, to also participated in questioning the FBI tisan delegation of state attorneys gen- Sessions spoke twice with Russian am- interrupt her and request that she be director's limited scope of the investi- eral to Mexico City to discuss bassador to the United States Sergey more respectful of the witness. A week gation on Kavanaugh regarding allega- transnational crime with Mexican pros- Kislyak. later, she questioned Jeff Sessions, the tions of sexual assault. She voted ecutors. Harris then convened a sum- In April, Harris voted against the confir- attorney general, on the same topic. against his confirmation. mit focused on the use of technology to mation of Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Su- Sessions said her questioning "makes Harris was a target of the October 2018 fight transnational organized crime with preme Court. Later that month, Harris me nervous". Burr's singling out of Har- United States mail bombing attempts. state and federal officials from the U.S., took her first foreign trip to the Middle ris sparked suggestions in the news In December, the Senate passed the Mexico, and El Salvador. East, visiting California troops stationed media that his behavior was sexist, with Justice for Victims of Lynching Act (S. U.S. Senate (2017–2020) in Iraq and the Zaatari refugee camp in commentators arguing that Burr would 3178), sponsored by Harris. Election: Jordan, the largest camp for Syrian refu- not treat a male Senate colleague in a 2019 After more than 20 years as a U.S. gees. similar manner. In March 2019, after Special Counsel Senator from California, Senator Bar- In June, Harris garnered media atten- In December, Harris called for the res- Robert Mueller submitted his report on bara Boxer announced in January 2015 tion for her questioning of Rod ignation of Senator Al Franken, assert- Russian interference in the 2016 elec- that she would not run for reelection in Rosenstein, the deputy attorney gen- ing on Twitter, "Sexual harassment and tion, Harris called for U.S. Attorney Gen- 2016. Harris announced her candidacy eral, over the role he played in the May misconduct should not be allowed by eral William Barr to testify before Con- for the Senate seat the following week. 2017 firing of James Comey, the direc- anyone and should not occur any- gress in the interests of transparency. Harris was a top contender from the be- tor of the Federal Bureau of Investiga- where." Two days later, Barr released a four-page ginning of her campaign. tion. The prosecutorial nature of her 2018 "summary" of the redacted Mueller Re- The 2016 California Senate election used questioning caused Senator John In January, Harris was appointed to the port, which was criticized as a deliber- California's new top-two primary format McCain, an ex officio member of the In- Senate Judiciary Committee after the ate mischaracterization of its conclu- where the top two candidates in the pri- telligence Committee, and Senator Ri- resignation of Al Franken. Later that sions. Later that month, Harris was one mary would advance to the general elec- chard Burr, the committee chairman, to month, Harris questioned Homeland Se- of twelve Democratic senators to sign a tion regardless of party. In February interrupt her and request that she be curity Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen for fa- letter led by Mazie Hirono questioning 2016, Harris won 78% of the California more respectful of the witness. A week voring Norwegian immigrants over oth- Barr's decision to offer "his own con- Democratic Party vote at the party con- later, she questioned Jeff Sessions, the ers and claiming to be unaware that clusion that the President's conduct did vention, allowing Harris's campaign to attorney general, on the same topic. Norway is a predominantly white coun- not amount to obstruction of justice" and receive financial support from the party. Sessions said her questioning "makes try. called for an investigation into whether Three months later, Governor Jerry me nervous". Burr's singling out of Har- In May, Harris heatedly questioned Sec- Barr's summary of the Mueller Report Brown endorsed her. In the June 7 pri- ris sparked suggestions in the news retary Nielsen about the Trump admin- and his statements at a news confer- mary, Harris came in first with 40% of media that his behavior was sexist, with istration family separation policy, under ence were misleading. the vote and won with pluralities in most commentators arguing that Burr would which children were separated from their On May 1, 2019, Barr testified before counties. Harris faced congresswoman not treat a male Senate colleague in a families when the parents were taken the Senate Judiciary Committee. Dur- and fellow Democrat Loretta Sanchez similar manner. into custody for illegally entering the ing the hearing, Barr remained defiant in the general election. It was the first In December, Harris called for the res- U.S. In June, after visiting one of the about the misrepresentations in the four- time a Republican did not appear in a ignation of Senator Al Franken, assert- detention facilities near the border in page summary he had released ahead general election for the Senate since ing on Twitter, "Sexual harassment and San Diego, Harris became the first sena- of the full report. When asked by Harris California began directly electing sena- misconduct should not be allowed by tor to demand Nielsen's resignation. if he had reviewed the underlying evi- tors in 1914. anyone and should not occur any- In the September and October Brett dence before deciding not to charge the On July 19, President Barack Obama where." Kavanaugh Supreme Court confirmation President with obstruction of justice,

Harris (center) at the 2018 commemorations of Bloody Sunday in Selma, Kamala Harris formally announced her run for the Democratic nomination where she was invited to speak by John Lewis (right). for president on January 27, 2019.

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Barr admitted that neither he, Rod fCongressional Asian Pacific American Rosenstein, nor anyone in his office re- Caucus viewed the evidence supporting the re- fCongressional Black Caucus port before making the charging deci- fCongressional Caucus for Women's Is- sion. Harris later called for Barr to re- sues sign, and accused him of refusing to an- 2020 presidential election swer her questions because he could Presidential campaign open himself up to perjury, and stating Harris had been considered a top con- his responses disqualified him from serv- tender and potential frontrunner for the ing as U.S. attorney general. Two days 2020 Democratic nomination for president. Kamala Harris at Howard University in 2017 later, Harris demanded again that the In June 2018, she was quoted as "not rul- gressional Black Caucus endorsed the person with acknowledged non-European Department of Justice inspector general ing it out". In July 2018, it was announced idea of a Biden–Harris ticket. In late Feb- ancestry to reach one of the highest of- Michael E. Horowitz investigate whether that she would publish a memoir, a sign of ruary, Biden won a landslide victory in the fices in the executive branch, after Curtis Attorney General Barr acceded to pres- a possible run.[274] On January 21, 2019, 2020 South Carolina Democratic primary and former President Barack Obama. sure from the White House to investi- Harris officially announced her candidacy with the endorsement of House whip Jim Campaign logo for the Biden–Harris ticket gate Trump's political enemies. for president of the United States in the Clyburn, with more victories on Super Tues- Awards and honors In November 2019, Harris called for an 2020 United States presidential election. day. In early March, Clyburn suggested In 2005, the National Black Prosecutors investigation into the death of Roxsana In the first 24 hours after her candidacy Biden choose a black woman as a run- Association awarded Harris the Thurgood Hernández, a transgender woman and announcement, she tied a record set by ning mate, commenting that "African Marshall Award. That year, she was fea- immigrant who died in ICE custody. Bernie Sanders in 2016 for the most do- American women needed to be rewarded tured along with 19 other women in a In December, Harris led a group of nations raised in the day following an for their loyalty". In March, Biden commit- report profiling "20 of America's Democratic senators and civil rights or- announcement.[citation needed] More ted to choosing a woman for his running Most Powerful Women". A 2008 New York ganizations in demanding the removal than 20,000 people attended her formal mate. Times article published later that year also of White House senior adviser Stephen campaign launch event in her hometown On April 17, 2020, Harris re- identified her as a woman with potential to Miller after emails published by the of Oakland, California, on January 27, ac- sponded to media speculation and said become president of the United States, Southern Poverty Law Center revealed cording to a police estimate. she "would be honored" to be Biden's run- highlighting her reputation as a "tough frequent promotion of white nationalist During the first Democratic presi- ning mate. In late May, in relation to the fighter". literature to Breitbart website editors. dential debate in June 2019, Harris death of George Floyd and ensuing pro- 2020 scolded former vice president Joe Biden tests and demonstrations, Biden faced re- In 2013, Time named Harris as one of the Before the opening of the impeachment for "hurtful" remarks he made, speaking newed calls to select a black woman to "100 Most Influential People in the World". trial of Donald Trump on January 16, 2020, fondly of senators who opposed integra- be his running mate, highlighting the law In 2016, the 20/20 Bipartisan Justice Cen- Harris delivered remarks on the floor of the tion efforts in the 1970s and working with enforcement credentials of Harris and Val ter awarded Harris the Bipartisan Justice Senate, stating her views on the integrity them to oppose mandatory school bus- Demings. Award along with Senator Tim Scott. of the American justice system and the sing. Harris's support rose by between six On June 12, The New York Times Biden and Harris were jointly named principle that nobody, including an incum- and nine points in polls following that de- reported that Harris was emerging as the Time Person of the Year for 2020. bent president, is above the law. Harris later bate. In the second debate in August, Har- frontrunner to be Biden's running mate, as asked Senate Judiciary chairman Lindsey ris was confronted by Biden and Congress- she is the only African American woman Honorary degrees Graham to halt all judicial nominations dur- woman over her record as with the political experience typical of vice Gave commencement address ing the impeachment trial, to which Gra- Attorney General. The San Jose Mercury presidents. On June 26, CNN reported that California May 15, 2015 Univer- ham acquiesced. Harris voted to convict News assessed that some of Gabbard's more than a dozen people close to the sity of Southern California Doctor the president on charges of abuse of power and Biden's accusations were , Biden search process considered Harris of Laws (LL.D.) and obstruction of Congress. such as blocking the DNA testing of a one of Biden's top four contenders, along District of Columbia May 13, 2017 Harris has worked on bipartisan bills with death row inmate, while others did not with Elizabeth Warren, Val Demings, and Howard University Doctor of Hu- Republican co-sponsors, including a bail stand up to scrutiny. In the immediate af- Keisha Lance Bottoms. mane Letters (DHL) reform bill with Senator Rand Paul,[264] termath, Harris fell in the polls following On August 11, 2020, Biden an- Personal life of Kamala Devi Harris an election security bill with Senator that debate. Over the next few months her nounced that he had chosen Harris. She Kamala married attorney Doug Emhoff, James Lankford,[265] and a workplace ha- poll numbers fell to the low single digits. was the first African American, the first In- who was at one time partner-in-charge rassment bill with Senator Lisa Murkowski. At a time when liberals were increasingly dian American, and the third woman after at Venable LLP's Los Angeles office, on 2021 concerned about the excesses of the crimi- Geraldine Ferraro and Sarah Palin to be August 22, 2014, in Santa Barbara, Cali- Upon her election as Vice President of the nal justice system, Harris faced criticism picked as the vice-presidential nominee for fornia. Harris is a stepmother to United States, Harris is expected to re- from reformers for tough-on-crime policies a major party ticket. Emhoff's two children from his previous sign from her seat prior to taking office on she pursued while she was California's at- Harris became the vice president– marriage to the film producer Kerstin January 20, 2021, and be replaced by Cali- torney general. For example, in 2014, she elect following the Biden-Harris ticket's vic- Emhoff. As of August 2019, Harris and fornia Secretary of State Alex Padilla. decided to defend California's death pen- tory in the 2020 United States presidential her husband had an estimated net worth Committee assignments alty in court. election.[299] After the major networks of $5.8 million. Harris is a member of the following com- Prior to and during her presiden- called the election for Biden/Harris, Ka- In 2001, she briefly dated Montel Will- mittees: tial campaign an online informal organiza- mala Harris was recorded calling Biden, iams, the former host of The Montel Wil- f Committee on the Budget tion using the hashtag #KHive formed to saying, "We did it! We did it, Joe. You're liams Show. f Committee on Homeland Security and support her candidacy and defend her from going to be the next President of the United Harris is a multiracial American and a Governmental Affairs racist and sexist attacks. According to the States." The quote became one of the top Baptist, holding membership of the Third f Subcommittee on Federal Spending Daily Dot, first used the term in 10 tweets of 2020. Baptist Church of San Francisco, a con- Oversight and Emergency Management an August 2017 tweet saying Vice President–elect gregation of the American Baptist f Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and "@DrJasonJohnson @ZerlinaMaxwell and Churches USA. Federal Management I had a meeting and decided it's called the Following the election of Joe Biden as U.S. Her sister, Maya, is a lawyer and f Select Committee on Intelligence K-Hive." president in the 2020 election, Harris will MSNBC political analyst; her brother- f Committee on the Judiciary On December 3, 2019, Harris assume office as vice president of the in-law, , is general counsel f Subcommittee on the Constitution withdrew from seeking the 2020 Demo- United States on January 20, 2021. She of and a former United States De- f Subcommittee on Oversight, Agency Ac- cratic nomination, citing a shortage of will be the first female vice president, as partment of Justice senior official. Her tion, Federal Rights and Federal Courts funds. In March 2020, Harris endorsed Joe well as the first person of color to hold the niece, Meena, is the founder of the Phe- f Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology Biden for president. post since Charles Curtis, a Native Ameri- nomenal Women Action Campaign and and the Law Vice presidential campaign can, who served under Herbert Hoover from former head of strategy and leadership f Caucus memberships In May 2019, senior members of the Con- 1929 to 1933. She will also be the third at Uber.

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] COVER STORY : BIDEN HARRIS 18 US President-elect Biden ropes in 20 Indian-Americans in his administration, 17 at key WH positions Three Indian-Americans have made their way to the crucial National Security Council of the White House, thus leaving a permanent imprint on the country’s foreign policy and national security. WASHINGTON: Less than 100 hours over the years has been recognised in a ahead of his historic inauguration, US big way at the very start of this President-elect Joe Biden has either administration! I am particularly pleased nominated or named at least 20 Indian that the overwhelming majority are women. Americans, including 13 women, to key Our community has truly arrived in serving positions in his administration, a new the nation,” Indiaspora founder M R record in itself for this small ethnic Rangaswami told PTI. community that constitutes one per cent Mala Adiga has been appointed as of the country’s population. As many as Policy Director to the future First Lady Dr 17 of them would be part of the powerful Jill Biden and Garima Verma would be the White House complex. The January 20th Digital Director of the Office of the First inauguration, the 59th in all, wherein Biden Lady, while Sabrina Singh has been named would be sworn in as the 46th President of as her Deputy Press Secretary. For the first the United States is already historic in the time ever among the Indian-Americans making as for the first time ever a woman include two who trace their roots to Security Council of the White House, thus Kosoglu as Domestic Policy Advisor to the Kamala Harris would be sworn as the vice Kashmir: Aisha Shah, who has been named leaving a permanent imprint on the Vice President and Bangladeshi-American president of the country. Harris, 56, is also as Partnership Manager at the White country’s foreign policy and national Zayn Siddique: Senior Advisor to the White the first-ever Indian-origin and African House Office of Digital Strategy, and security. They are Tarun Chhabra: Senior House Deputy Chief of Staff. During the American to be sworn in as the vice Sameera Fazili, who would occupy the key Director for Technology and National campaign, Biden had indicated that he president of the United States. It is also for position of Deputy Director at the US Security, Sumona Guha, Senior Director would rope in a large number of Indian the first time ever that so many Indian- National Economic Council (NEC) in the for South Asia, Shanthi Kalathil: Coordinator Americans. “As President, I’ll also continue Americans have been roped into a White House. White House National for Democracy and Human Rights. Sonia to rely on Indian-American diaspora, that presidential administration ever before the Economic Council also has another Indian Aggarwal has been named Senior Advisor keeps our two nations together, as I have inauguration. American, Bharat Ramamurti, as Deputy for Climate Policy and Innovation in the throughout my career,” Biden had said in Biden is still quite far away from Director. Gautam Raghavan, who served at Office of the Domestic Climate Policy at his address to the Indian-American filling all the positions in his administration. the White House in the previous Obama the White House and Vidur Sharma has community during a virtual celebration of Topping the list is Neera Tanden, who has Administration returns to the White House been appointed as Policy Advisor for India’s Independence Day on August 15, been nominated as Director of the White as Deputy Director in Office of Presidential Testing for the White House COVID-19 2020. “My constituents in Delaware, my House Office of Management and Budget Personnel. Response Team. staff in the Senate, the Obama Biden and Dr Vivek Murthy, who has been Among Biden’s inner circle is his Two Indian Americans women have administration, which had more Indian nominated as the US Surgeon General. top confident for year Vinay Reddy, who been appointed to the Office of the White Americans than any other administration Vanita Gupta has been nominated as has been named as Director Speechwriting. House Counsel: Neha Gupta as Associate in the history of this country and this Associate Attorney General Department of Young Vedant Patel all set to occupy a seat Counsel and Reema Shah as Deputy campaign with Indian Americans at senior Justice, and on Saturday, Biden nominated in the White House lower press, behind the Associate Counsel. Also, for the first time levels, which of course includes the top of a former foreign service official Uzra Zeya briefing room, as Assistant Press Secretary in any administration, the White House the heap, our dear friend (Kamala Harris) as the Under Secretary of State for Civilian to the President. He is only the third-ever would have three other South Asians in key who will be the first Indian American vice Security, Democracy, and Human Rights. Indian American to be part of the White positions. Pakistani-American Ali Zaidi as president in the history of the United States “The dedication that the Indian-American House press shop. Three Indian-Americans Deputy National Climate Advisor White of America,” Biden said in his video community has shown to public service have made their way to the crucial National House; Sri Lankan American Rohini address. Biden names Bangladeshi-American Zayn Siddique to key WH position United States President-elect Joe Biden has named Bangladeshi-American Zayn Siddique to a key position in the office of the White House deputy chief of staff. to Justice Elena Kagan of the US Supreme House is efficient and effective in delivering rebuild our country in a way that lifts up all Court, Judge David Tatel of the US Court of for the American people," he added. Vice Americans," she added. "Today's skilled Appeals for the DC Circuit, and Judge Dean President-elect Kamala Harris said these and experienced appointees bring a Pregerson of the US District Court for the dedicated public servants reflected the very commitment to public service that will further Central District of California. In between best of the nation. "They have the enhance our historic White House team. his clerkships, Siddique practised law as knowledge and expertise to help us meet Each appointee will help ensure efficiency an associate at Orrick Herrington & the unprecedented challenges facing the and collaboration within the White House Sutcliffe LLP. President-elect Biden has American people. And President-elect and throughout the administration as we said that he will have one of the most Biden and I look forward to working with work to build back better and improve the diverse administrations in American history. them to contain this pandemic, provide lives of all Americans," said incoming White Other appointments made by Biden include more relief for families and businesses, and House Chief of Staff Ron Klain. John McCarthy, senior adviser to the counsellor to the president; Thomas Biden picks Samantha Power, Winslow, senior adviser to the deputy chief of staff; Lisa Kohnke, director of Presidential Scheduling; Sarah Feldmann, former UN envoy, for US aid post chief of staff for the Office of the Washington: According to a series of new Biden made the announcement Wednesday and said he was elevating Management and Administration; Michael announcements made by the Biden the position to the National Security Council in the White House. Leach, chief diversity and inclusion Transition Team on Wednesday, Siddique director; Christian Peele, deputy director WASHINGTON: President-elect Joe a Pulitzer Prize in 2003 for her book “A has been named senior advisor to the White of Management and Administration for House deputy chief of staff. He becomes Biden has selected Samantha Personnel; and Jeffrey Wexler, director of the first Bangladeshi-American to be named Power, the U.S. ambassador to the COVID-19 Operations. These diverse, to a senior position in the incoming Biden United Nations under President qualified and experienced appointees will administration. Originally from Bangladesh Barack Obama, to run the U.S. play key roles that will support day-to-day but raised in New York, Siddique is a Agency for International White House functions and facilitate broad graduate of the Princeton University and engagement with the American people, the Development. That's the agency the . Currently, he is the transition team said. "To tackle the that oversees U.S. foreign chief of staff for the Domestic and Economic challenges facing our country and restore humanitarian and development aid. Team of the Biden-Harris Transition. He faith in government, we must build an Biden made the announcement was also a member of Vice President-elect administration with experienced, principled, Wednesday and said he was Harris's prep team for the 2020 vice- and dedicated appointees. These elevating the position to the presidential debate. Previously, Siddique individuals are part of a White House staff National Security Council in the was the deputy policy director for Beto that is ready to build back better O’Rourke’s presidential campaign and a White House. He called Power “a immediately to make a difference in the senior policy adviser to his senate world-renowned voice of conscience and Problem from Hell: America and the Age lives of working families," Biden said. "They campaign. moral clarity." Power served as U.N. of Genocide,” about the U.S. foreign are accomplished public servants who will He has also served as a law clerk ambassador from 2013 to 2017. She won policy response to genocide. be instrumental in ensuring that our White

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] COVER STORY : BIDEN HARRIS 19 Biden gets second dose of vaccine as team readies COVID-19 plan Biden took off his sport jacket and said, “Ready, set, go.” Chief Nurse Executive Ric Cumin administered the Pfizer vaccine at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware.

NEWARK: President-elect Joe In comments to reporters after Biden received his second dose of the his shot, Biden said he has confidence coronavirus vaccine on Monday, three in his COVID-19 medical team to hit weeks after getting his first one with ambitious vaccination rate targets after television cameras rolling in an attempt he takes office on Jan. 20. He also to reassure the American public that the called the current rate of thousands of inoculations are safe. Biden took off his people dying daily because of the sport jacket and said, “Ready, set, go.” pandemic “beyond the pale.” “The No. Chief Nurse Executive Ric Cumin 1 priority is getting vaccines in people’s administered the Pfizer vaccine at arms as rapidly as we can,” Biden said. Christiana Hospital in Newark, He also said he'd spoken to Senate Delaware, close to the president-elect's leaders about splitting time between economic aid. Biden said he has a it would accelerate shipment of the first home. Scenes of the procedure aired approving key Cabinet nominations for virtual meeting later Monday with his doses and use the levers of government on cable news moments after it his new administration and proceeding virus team and planned to outline more power to provide required second doses occurred. Biden got his first shot on with an impeachment trial against of his pandemic response plan on in a timely manner. Like Biden, Vice Dec. 21. The virus has now killed more President Donald Trump. Thursday. His transition team has vowed President Mike Pence and other than 375,000 people in the United The House is preparing articles to release as many vaccine doses as national leaders got pre-Christmas, first States — about 60,000 more than when of impeachment against Trump — for possible, rather than continuing the rounds of vaccinations. Trump did not. the president-elect got his first round an unprecedented second time — for Trump administration policy of holding He was hospitalized with COVID-19 in of vaccination — and continues to helping incite last week's violent back millions of doses to ensure there October and given an experimental upend life around the globe. The Pfizer- insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Biden would be enough supply to allow those monoclonal antibody treatment that he BioNTech vaccine requires a second told reporters he'd mentioned the getting the first shot to get a second credited for his swift recovery. A shot about three weeks after the first possibility of going "a half day on one. Biden's goal is to protect more Centers for Disease Control and vaccination. Another vaccine, this one dealing with impeachment, a half day people, more quickly, his team Prevention advisory board has said produced by Moderna, requires a on getting my people nominated and announced last week. The plan would people who received that treatment second shot about four weeks confirmed in the Senate, as well as not involve cutting two-dose vaccines in should wait at least 90 days to be afterward. One-shot vaccines are still moving on the package” for further half, a strategy that top government vaccinated to avoid any potential undergoing testing. actions related to the coronavirus and scientists recommend against. Instead, interference. India, US negotiating on wide range of trade concerns: Congressional report Some Members of Congress have requested that the demand for higher-value food products such as fruits, nuts, dairy products, and other United States Trade Representative seek to reduce livestock products is growing among Indian the current 36 per cent tariffs faced by US pecans. consumers. While India is among the world's largest producers and consumers WASHINGTON: India and the US are allows it. of a range of crop and livestock negotiating on a wide range of trade India is seeking exemption from high duties commodities, United States Department of concerns, including greater access to the imposed by the US on some steel and Agriculture (USDA) projects that India will Indian market for American agricultural aluminium products, resumption of export medical devices, apart from cut in import continue to be an important importer of products, potentially in exchange for benefits to certain domestic products under duties on some information and dairy products, vegetable oils, pulses, tree America restoring 's status under the GSP, and greater market access for communication technology products. nuts, and fruit and that it will continue to the Generalised System of Preferences its products from sectors such as Noting that the United States and India view be a major exporter of rice, cotton, and (GSP), according to a Congressional agriculture, automobile,automobile one another as important strategic partners buffalo meat. Observing that US-India trade report. components and engineering. to advance common interests regionally negotiations follow a period of trade President Donald Trump in 2019 terminated On the other hand, the US wants greater and globally, the CRS report said given the tensions, the CRS said in March 2018, the India's designation as a beneficiary market access for its farm and rapid growth in population and income United States levied additional tariffs on developing nation under the key GSP trade manufacturing products, dairy items and among a large segment of the population, steel and aluminum imports from India. programme after determining that it has not assured the US that it will provide equitable and reasonable access to its markets. US President-elect Joe Biden chooses veteran diplomat William Burns as CIA director "The United States and India are negotiating WASHINGTON: William Burns, a well- on a wide range of trade concerns, including Trump also fired known figure in diplomatic circles around greater access to the Indian market for US the world, is President-elect Joe Biden’s several career agricultural products, potentially in choice to lead the CIA, a selection likely exchange for US restoration of India's intelligence to be embraced by the rank and file at the eligibility under GSP. professionals in favor nation’s premier spy agency. A former "The current status of the negotiations has ambassador to Russia and Jordan, Burns, of loyalists, including not been disclosed," the latest report by 64, had a 33-year career at the State some with little to no independent Congressional Research Department under both Republican and Service (CRS) said. experience in the field. Democratic presidents. He rose through Reports of the CRS are not an official report the ranks of the diplomatic corps to become of the US Congress. developed enormous respect for my hallmark of the agency and won plaudits deputy secretary of state before retiring in Its subject matter experts prepare reports colleagues in the CIA,” Burns said in an for his analysis and reporting abilities while 2014 to run the Carnegie Endowment of on various issues for the American online video statement Monday with Biden. he served as an American diplomat International Peace. If confirmed, he would lawmakers to make informed decisions. “I served with them in hard places around overseas. Burns was the author of some succeed , the first female CIA The comment on India is mentioned in the the world. I saw firsthand the courage and of the most insightful State Department director, who guided the agency under "Major Agricultural Trade Issues in the professionalism that they displayed and the cables that were published by Wikileaks President Donald Trump. Trump expressed 117th Congress" dated January 8. sacrifices that their families made.” in 2010 and is widely respected throughout skepticism about intelligence and In September last year, the Indian Burns called intelligence the first the national security community. Michael frequently disparaged the assessments of government enacted three laws intended, line of defense for the country and the basis Morell, a career intelligence officer and U.S. spy agencies, especially about in part, to help integrate Indian agriculture for making sound policy decisions. He also former acting director of the CIA whose Russia’s interference in the 2016 election into the global market. said he would deliver the intelligence to name was floated to hold the top position to help his campaign. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Biden and policymakers “without a hint of under Biden, praised the pick, an indication Trump also fired several career Goyal in September said most issues partisanship.” Burns is perhaps an that Burns likely will be embraced by the intelligence professionals in favor of preventing a limited trade deal between unconventional choice for the CIA job that spy agency’s rank and file. “I’ve known Bill loyalists, including some with little to no India and the United States have been many thought would go to a career Burns for decades. ... His command of the experience in the field. Burns has never resolved and an agreement could be signed intelligence officer. However, he is also issues, his deep respect for intelligence, been an American intelligence officer, but anytime the political situation in the US deeply experienced in the kind of cloak- and his care for people will ensure it,” Morell he has worked with many abroad. “I and-dagger secret contacts that is a tweeted. Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] COVER STORY : BIDEN HARRIS 20 “SENIORS EXPECT BIDEN-HARRIS TO DELIVER & EXPAND SERVICES TO THIS SIGNIFICANT POPULATION” The Founder/Executive Director of Metropolitan Asian Family Services (MAFS) / Universal Metro Asian Services (UMAS), serving the seniors of the Chicagoland area for 3 decades. for their wisdom for millennia. We zens over the past 28 years. MAFS has should never doubt the contributions created a broad framework for collective of our senior citizens, not as a group, not action for Senior Citizens to nurture their individually. innate talents, enrich their groundbreaking WHY ARE SENIORS IMPORTANT? ideas and engage in innovative experi- A Look at What Seniors Have to Offer ences which has become a global model. Seniors are important because of their long We play a vital role helping seniors accumulated knowledge, experience, and of the Chicagoland Area, live indepen- wisdom. dently by providing community-based care Seniors are important because, if given the and connecting them to the services they opportunity, they have much to teach us. truly deserve. Ours is one of the largest Seniors are important because they can and oldest Not for Profit Organization in be helpful in our applying lessons of life, the US. Our services include but not lim- e.g. self esteem, self respect, self disci- ited to helping the community navigate pline. American Government Public Policies and Seniors are important because they offer Benefit Programs to receive benefits in a great deal of satisfaction and joy to be Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, Ac- around them. cess To Care, Citizenship, Immigration, Seniors are important because of the prac- Transportation, Kids Care, SSI Prescrip- tical experience they offer. tion Drugs (Medicare Part D), SNAP Seniors are important because they have (Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program, so much to give, intangibly, to us. Seniors LIHEAP, Direct Vendor Payment and are important because they have learned Reconnection Assistance Cash Assistance the lessons of humility. Seniors are fun Program, Percentage of Income Payment SANTOSH KUMAR companions, when we learn how to be in Plan, Furnace Assistance, Peoples Gas Founder & Executive Director, MAFS their company. Share the warmth program, ComEd Resi- Seniors know things we would never guess dential Special hardship, Nutritional Con- We are all in the midst of a global pan- Western and Eastern countries, some sec- unless we ask. gregate Meals Program, SAHELI Research demic experiencing the new normal. The tors of society may dismiss older people, Seniors can help us deal with disappoint- Program, Adult Literacy Program, Memory world is seeing that if a successful battle as if they were only a list of care needs. ment and grief, illness and heartache. Se- Café and many such Public Benefit pro- has been fought anywhere across the But their gray hairs and stiff joints niors know how important a sense of hu- grams. We are dedicated and genuinely globe against the coronavirus. do not prevent them from being the unde- mor is. persevere to build a stable and strong or- Here, Timely detection of the infected per- niable rock-solid foundation of our soci- Seniors, most of the time, know when to ganization through our In-Home Care Pro- sons has helped in early treatment too. ety. If we’re willing to listen and learn, it’s talk and when not to talk (sit down.) gram and Adult Day Care Program. We The effective clinical management strate- easy to see that their importance tran- Seniors , should take the lead to Educate, require a plan from the most awaited gies have shown to yield positive results. scends babysitting grandchildren, Communicate & Cooperate during this BIDEN-HARRIS team to help us stand firm Almost 80% of the asymptomatic and mild storytelling, cooking and feeding. COVID pandemic. in the wake of challenges such as the cases have been advised home isolation Their bodies may be weaker, but Care of Seniors during this Covid time is COVID-19 pandemic. We need to develop under medical supervision. The strategy they have an immense ocean of experi- vitally important. Seniors need to have a better schemes to help sustain our numer- of home isolation for the mild and asymp- ence and wisdom that can serve as a bea- well balanced food intake always and more ous programs to keep the vulnerable se- tomatic patients has ensured to keep the con for younger generations. They also importantly now. Staying at home and prac- niors of America and especially the Ethnic hospitals unburdened, where the focus play a key role in teaching the youth cul- ticing social distancing, wearing masks, fre- population and the Limited English- has been on treatment of the severe cases tural values and preserving traditions, as quent washing of hands with soap along Speaking seniors, safe and and reduction of fatality. It is also notable they are the guardians of a rich cultural with a healthy diet is the cornerstone of healthy. We are eager to get an in- that less than heritage. prevention and protection for Seniors. sight of your plans to help us fight 1.94 per cent of the cases are in ICUs, Fortunately, times are changing Frequent monitoring of their health, includ- the COVID-19 Pandemic, ensuring 0.35 per cent cases are on ventilators and and newer generations are being raised ing the basics ;their body temperature, vaccination and access to Health 2.81 per cent cases are on Oxygen beds. in a different environment, one with the blood pressure, blood sugar levels are en- Care and Long-Term Care. Our Se- We need to redefine what is is to take care goal of protecting the older generations. couraged . niors need housing, safe Home care, of older family members so that task is not Still, it is important to state that there are We are at a good position in this and Adult Day Care Facilities with perceived as drudgery. individuals from all cultural backgrounds coronavirus battle and will continue this transportation. We want a plan that The challenge today is to build a willing to take care of their elderly parents fight with determination and there is no will assure Safety for seniors in Nurs- world that is just as responsive to the needs out of love, respect and a strong sense atmosphere of fear. We have the passion ing Homes, Better Health access to of very old people as to the very young.” of duty, but there is certainly a lot we to battle it and enthusiasm to defeat the older Adults, Improve In Home Care Both in western and eastern societies, the can learn from one another. Today, coronavirus. I salute all our Doctors, regardless of their Income Status percentage of senior citizens is rising rap- seniors are able to participate in so- Nurses, health care personnel,& front line (their assets should not be a reason to idly. But we aren’t conditioned for 25 or ciety more actively and contribute in- workers who are giving their best in sav- deny their homecare) Need More Adult even 30 years of leisure. This poses a chal- tellectually at an advanced age. But ing lives during this pandemic. Day Care Services in the community to lenge to our current societal structure and there is still work to be done. Hope- My appreciation to all the MAFS Board, break the Isolation. We need more trans- how we adapt will affect the role of senior fully, we can continue to progress to- staff , volunteers and the brave MAFS portation Services for Seniors, Mental citizens now and for years to come. wards becoming a society with a Corona warriors for your valuable service Health Centers and Nutritional Services. Perspectives on the elderly are greater appreciation and respect for during this pandemic in taking care of our As a senior care provider, we are anxious ever-changing, with treatment and respect the intelligence of our senior citizens, precious elders. MAFS has established a to know what the BIDEN-HARRIS team is varying from culture to culture and devel- just like the elders in Japan and Ab- proven successful multidisciplinary path- going to offer to improve the lives of our oping throughout different eras. Both in original Australia have been revered way to the empowerment of Senior Citi- susceptible seniors.

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] HEALTH 21

COVID -19 VACCINATIONS NEED OF THE HOUR.

There is no doubt we are in the midst one of the biggest success stories single dose which is a DNA virus. of unprecedented crisis of the life- of modern medicine along with anti- It’s no accident that mRNA vaccines time. COVID-19 has impacted every biotics. Everybody should be vacci- were the first to get it approved. By aspect of our livelihood and in fact nated to decrease the mortality and design, this type of vaccine can be created havoc in our daily activities morbidity from this invisible enemy. created faster than conventional of normal living with almost new and Unfortunately, we are not out of dan- ones. It works by using messenger tragic milestones every day. ger quite yet. Some of the RNA to deliver instructions to the We all agree this has been a devas- computer models suggest that the body to produce the distinctive spike tating year so far. More than 2 mil- pandemic could get even worse over protein. mRNA simply makes protein lion (402,000 in US and 153,000 in the next month or so. We also need in the cytosol and does not enter India) people have died from this to learn more about new variants of nucleus and hence cannot alter pandemic, with more than 96 million the virus that has appeared in UK, DNA. The mRNA degenerates rap- (24 million in US and 10 million in South Africa etc., which seems to idly and does not persist in the body. Dr Sreenivas Reddy, Member India) cases and of course trillions spread faster but not to be more Then our immune system kicks in Illinois Medical Disciplinary Board of dollars in economic damages. Mil- deadly. and attacks anything with that spike lions of people are out of work and We have many reasons to be hope- on it, including the COVID-19 virus. vaccination programs with antici- struggling to pay their bills, and mil- ful. Using the masks, social distanc- The proteins that are made are an- pated 30,000 vaccinations cen- lions of children are missing out on ing, and other interventions can slow tigenic and body makes antibodies. ters and almost 3 million vaccina- crucial time in school. the spread of the virus and save Making mRNA vaccines is relatively tions per day. There are 2 vaccines COVID-19 virus is unforgiving and lives while vaccines are being rolled fast because it’s much easier to pro- approved in India Covishield and does not discriminate anyone. In the out. duce large quantities of an RNA se- Covaxin. Covishield involves harm- US, low social economic communities We all know there are two vac- quence that codes for the spike pro- less viral vector (Chimpanzee virus) like African-American and Latino cines—one developed by Moderna, tein than it is to grow the spike pro- carrying corona virus genes when communities are affected more com- the other by Pfizer have received tein itself. And there’s a bonus ad- injected will stimulate the immune paring to the Caucasian communi- emergency approval in the U.S. more vantage: Unlike most conventional response. Covaxin is a live attenu- ties. As wise men said all crisis lead than 11.1 million people have got- vaccines, mRNA vaccines don’t con- ated corona virus (virus is alive but to long lasting changes. The ten the vaccine so far in the US. tain any virus at all, which means you rendered less infective but still able change of behavior has to continue There are several other vaccines can’t get COVID-19 infection from to provoke a robust immune re- and the virus has to be conquered. now undergoing efficacy studies in- them. People who are hesitant to get sponse). Based on the immune re- For that, primary prevention with cluding AstraZeneca, Johnson & a COVID-19 vaccine should be re- sponse, the efficacy of Covishield is mitigation measures such as social Johnson, Novavax etc. Just like assured that the approval process around 70 to 90% and Covaxin is distancing; wearing the mask etc. is moderna and Pfizer, most of these in the US has been independent and about 60%. Shelf life of these vac- the most important aspect. Still we vaccines also attack the same part transparent, made by people who cines is long of approximately 6 do not have a good handle on the of the novel corona virus that is have no allegiance to the federal months when compared with the treatment. Till the time we reach spike protein (it’s the protein that government or to pharmaceutical mRNA vaccines which is 5 to 10 herd immunity, vaccination is the spikes out of the virus} companies. The fact that we went days. Based on the data so far, the most important aspect to combat the The ones developed by Moderna and from a brand-new virus in January short-term side effects are minimal deadly virus. Pfizer involve what’s called mRNA to a vaccine that we're putting with both these vaccines. Many other People across the world are strong technology. Both these vaccines into people in December is not vaccines are being in clinical trials committed with great resilience. Hu- have efficacy around 94% and in- compromising safety, nor is it in India because of the large popu- mans have never made more volve 2 doses of 3 to 4 weeks apart compromising scientific integrity. lation including Zydus Cadila, Sput- progress on any disease in a year with minimal immediate side effects. It is a reflection of the extraordi- nik v, Bioloical E, Gennova ( Mrna ) than the world did on COVID-19 this Several studies have demonstrated nary scientific advances that etc. Like in the US, there is resistance year. Under normal circumstances, that the immunity starts to build up have been made in vaccine plat- with vaccine usage in India due to the creating a vaccine can take 10 7th day after the first dose of Pfizer form technology, which have al- controversy of the vaccines that were years. This time, multiple vaccines and 14th the day after the first dose lowed us to do things in months approved in a short period of time. were created in less than one year. of Moderna vaccine which does not that normally would have taken Successful campaign programs have I consider this as a scientific mod- have much difference in the big pic- years. There's no compromise in been started in India with sports stars, ern medical miracle. Vaccines have ture of epidemiology. Of all the vac- safety. On the other hand, India celebrities educating the people saved tens of millions of lives in the cines that are in the pipeline, only has been rolling out the world’s about the importance of vaccination past century. Vaccines have been Johnson & Johnson vaccine involves largest and most well organized to combat the deadly virus.

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] INDIA NEWS FEATURE 22 Allow States to borrow 5% of GDP, urges OPS Tamilnadu Deputy Chief Minister puts forth slew of demands during pre-Budget meeting, chaired by Union Finance Minister

CHENNAI: Deputy Chief Minister O ever it takes to sustain growth,” he added. their full share of the grants on time,” he Panneerselvam, who also holds the finance Pointing out that the State governments had added. portfolio, on Monday put forth a slew of de- given up their autonomy on their main source The Deputy CM also pointed out that Tamil Nadu mands before the Centre, while preparing the of revenue based on a assurance that the tran- was yet to receive grants of Rs 2,577.98 crore 2021-22 State Budget. The demands include sition to the GST regime would be revenue neu- recommended by the 14th Finance Commis- allowing States to borrow up to five per cent of tral in the long run, Panneerselvam said, “The sion for rural and urban local bodies. In fact, GDP, no abrupt fiscal correction during 2021- expectations of revenue growth with the imple- performance grants recommended by the 14th 22, discussions on continuance of the compen- mentation of GST have been belied. The rea- Finance Commission have not been released sation mechanism and devolving further taxa- sons for this tepid revenue growth have to be in the last three years to any State. tion powers on States, permission and fund al- analysed in detail.” “Tamil Nadu has a long track record of efficient location for water resource augmentation “Alternatives, including continuance of the com- implementation of Externally Aided Projects, projects, early disbursal of pending dues to the pensation mechanism and devolving further which later serve as models for other States and State, etc. taxation powers on States will have to be dis- countries in project design and execution. Now Addressing the pre-budget meeting chaired by cussed in the GST Council in order to ensure the Union Finance Ministry intends to approve Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on that States are not put to hardship in 2022-23. only one externally aided project per agency per a virtual platform, the Deputy CM said, “Though This very crucial issue should be addressed ur- State in a year. Such an abrupt change in policy the early signs of economic revival are appar- gently to ensure that the interests of the States greatly disrupts our development plans. So, the ent, the financial situation of State governments are not affected,” he added. projects that are at an advanced stage of con- would take more time to recover. Hence, no “With regard to the local body grants in the sideration should be approved for implementa- abrupt fiscal correction should be attempted first report of the 15th Finance Commis- tion without any restrictions and limitations,” he during 2021-22. The transition back to fiscal sion, the all-India ratio of rural to urban added. targets should be through a gradual path over population was applied uniformly for all “At present Rs 19,591.63 crore, including pend- two to three years.” States. In more urbanised States like Tamil ing GST compensation claims, arrears related Panneerselvam also said the viability of using Nadu, this deprived urban areas of much to 13th and 14th Finance Commission grants to all measures to support growth, including the needed funding. I request that this anomaly local bodies, and pending grants for escape clause in the Fiscal Responsibility and be set right when the final report of this programmes including Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Budget Management Act to permit the Reserve Commission is implemented during 2021- Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan, Right to Bank of India to subscribe to the Central 22. Besides, no further conditions should be Education Act, Flood Management Programme, government’s loans, should be explicitly placed imposed by the Centre for the release of and Post-matric Scholarship Scheme, is due to on the table for consideration. “This will give grants recommended by the Finance Com- Tamil Nadu. I request the Centre to release dues confidence that the government will do what- mission to ensure that the States receive at the earliest,” he added.

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] INDIA NEWS FEATURE 23

Bhutan PM wishes Modi for launching world's largest COVID-19 vaccination drive Shots of Covishield and Covaxin vaccines were being administered at medical centres across the country.

THIMPU: Bhutan Prime Minister Lotay Tshering on wide COVID-19 vaccination drive today. scientists, doctors and innovators," he tweeted. In- Saturday congratulated his Indian counterpart, We hope it comes as an answer to pacify all the suf- dia is ready to do everything possible for a healthy Narendra Modi, for the landmark launch of the world's ferings we have endured this pandemic," Tshering planet, Modi said. largest COVID-19 vaccination drive, hoping it would tweeted. In a similar post on his Facebook account, Earlier, launching the drive, Modi reminded people that mitigate the sufferings endured by the people due to Tshering said that, "in this pursuit of securing and two doses of the vaccine are very important and asked the pandemic. distributing the vaccine of an impressive magnitude, them to continue with masks and social distancing Modi on Saturday launched the world's largest vacci- Your Excellency has displayed profound and com- even after receiving the jabs. Reassuring people that nation drive with healthcare workers at the frontline passionate leadership. emergency use authorisation was given to the two of India's COVID-19 battle getting their first jabs, " "We send prayers for the good health and well be- 'made in India' vaccines only after scientists were showing the light at the end of a 10-month tunnel ing of Your Excellency and the people of India," convinced of their safety and effectiveness, he said that upended millions of lives and livelihoods. Tshering added. In his reply, Modi thanked Tshering the vaccines will ensure a decisive victory for the Shots of Covishield and Covaxin vaccines were being for the good wishes. country over the coronavirus pandemic. "Dawaai bhi, administered at medical centres across the country. "Thank you @PMBhutan! A vaccine, which was ear- kadaai bhi," Modi said, asking people to guard "I would like to congratulate PM @narendramodi and lier believed to be impossible in such a short time against complacency and follow COVID-19 appropri- the people of India for the landmark launch of nation- period has become a reality thanks to efforts of our ate behaviour.

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] INDIA NEWS FEATURE 24 Too much democracy for mandarins?

Over the centuries, the instrument of power passed from the common to the privileged, thereby perverting the sanguine spirit of democracy.

By Prabhu Chawla acquired the image of an information treasure when the masses discover that their elected lead- Democracy is both an idea and an ideal. It is chest to be mined to gauge the sarkar’s mood. ers are falling short on their promises. also an initiation and an institution. It thrives and Ever since Prime Minister Narendra Modi Since netas only draw the big picture, they survives on the principle of maximum participa- anointed him to his present post, Kant has ex- leave it to the civil servants to ensure timely de- tion. An ancient Greek political and philosophi- pounded on all subjects from potatoes to poli- livery. Rebellion is brewed out of distress every- cal architecture of governance, the term surfaced tics. Subsequently, his comments, though queru- where. Mahatma Gandhi used "too much of de- around 507 BC in Athens. Its etymology is a com- lously questioned by himself subsequently, be- mocracy" to bring down the British Empire. So bination of 'demos' (common people) and 'kratos' came a major embarrassment for the government. many freedom fighters died defending "too much (power). Over the centuries, the instrument of Both MSM (Main Stream Media) and SM (So- of democracy". Nelson Mandela used his prison power passed from the common to the privileged, cial Media) questioned Kant’s prognosis of what torture to fan the democratic process and de- thereby perverting the sanguine spirit of democ- ails the economy. At a time when Modi's detrac- posed apartheid. The entire culturally diverse racy. The ballot in the hands of people has be- tors are charging his administration with gagging Europe and the UK surrendered a part of their come a bullet in the hands of the executive, which dissent and demolishing democratic symbols, sovereign rights to form the EU, thanks to de- imposes its subjective authority and restricts the Kant couldn’t have given a more lethal weapon to mocracy because the people thought it was in contours of inclusive discourse. the Opposition with his unsolicited opinion. their interest. It is also democracy that led to The width, breadth and height of the democratic As the furore took a furious turn, many Union Brexit and the resignation of the UK prime minis- edifice are now decided by a cunning cabal, which ministers disowned Kant's words of wishful wis- ter. acquires powers by selection not an election. dom and declared their unflinching faith in democ- If some Middle Eastern Islamic monarchies Their postures and utterances have portrayed de- racy. The foot-in-the-mouth bureaucrat wrote ar- have partially liberalised their social order, it is mocracy as a demon. It is now diminishing the ticles in newspapers and behaved like a politi- due to the realisation on their part that demo- power of those elected by the people to work for cian by accusing the media of quoting his re- cratic will ultimately get the better of their royal their welfare. The erudite and highly visible faces marks out of context. But video cameras record order. In Independent India, Jaiprakash Narain of the New Establishment are scripting its new what the eyes see. Finally, it was left to Modi to united wide swathes of his countrymen to com- narrative. publicly distance his government from the unac- bat Indira Gandhi’s non-performing and corrupt Last week, Amitabh Kant, the NITI Aayog's flam- ceptable conclusion drawn by one of his pencil Congress government. boyant and cocktail CEO, defined democracy's pushers. She then used state power to strangulate demo- quantitative limit. Speaking at a media conclave, Though there wasn’t any direct connection, the cratic voices. Finally, she had to yield and lost he announced shockingly, "Tough reforms are very PM, while speaking at the foundation stone cer- the elections. Most of the current leaders includ- difficult in the Indian context, we are too much of emony of the new Parliament building, asserted: ing the prime minister, Mamata Banerjee, a democracy." "Democracy is not merely a system of governance Chandrashekhar Rao, Jagan Reddy, Jayalalithaa Since Kant is considered the most powerful of- for us. Democracy is in India’s ethos for centu- and Lalu are the fruits of "too much democracy". ficial voice on every subject under the political ries. A democratic temperament is a part of our If some of them like Mayawati and the Gandhis sun, his opinion is being interpreted as a reflec- culture…democracy is a way of life in India... It have been marginalised, the responsibility goes tion of the political leadership’s current mood. won’t be long before the world would say that In- to democratic hammer sledging. Despite cultural, His claim to fame is just one slogan. All other dia is the Mother of Democracy." linguistic and religious diversities, India has sur- projects entrusted to him over the past two de- Modi is aware that he, and many others like vived as a united nation because its citizens can cades remain incomplete. He ignores the fact that him hailing from ordinary backgrounds, is the cre- exercise their right to elect or reject their rulers. it is the excessive democratic process that has ation of democratic power play. Unlike babus who India has become one of the world’s top five ensured him plum posts in almost every govern- enter the power palace through written and oral economies due to the maximum participation of ment ruled by the extreme Left to the current one. examinations, leaders have to convince the all its stakeholders. Half a dozen national and As he is the only retired IAS officer, amongst masses about their relevance and identity. over 40 regional and state parties are not only 100 other compatriots holding sensitive posts, Modi could survive as the Gujarat's CM for 12 flourishing, but also ruling some of the states who have been given the mandate to authorita- years in an extremely hostile national environ- owing to free and fair democratic verdict. Since tively articulate and interpret policies and initia- ment and later become the PM precisely due to democracy demands vigorous scrutiny at every tives, his remarks placed the blame for tardy de- "too much of democracy". The BJP emerged as level, only incompetent dilettantes would cher- cision- making on gagging internal dissent on the the majority party after almost three decades, not ish the idea of curbing the freedom of expression. government. due to bureaucratic file movers but because of India is truly a democracy ruled by a "government In a democracy, it is the political leadership the faith in the ballot. Actually, it is the malicious of the people, by and for the people". and not the Civil Service, which normally ex- mandarin who pollutes the minds of leaders to Any Doubting Thomas should be dumped be- presses opinion on the efficacy of institutions. not only consolidate their own power and conti- fore they subvert the system. Or else, there will Since most Central ministers confine themselves nuity, but also to cover up their own failures. In a be no Credible India, only Indie-populism and In- to their own departments and policies, Kant has democracy, public outrage takes an ugly turn credible Inanity.

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] EDUCATION 25 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT,DRR, AND DISASTER RESILIENCE: AN OVERVIEW Climate Change, Sustainable Development and Disaster Resilience Climate change, biodiversity loss, and disasters have occurred, are the indicators of vulnerability (UNISDR, AES, 2014) 14. ecosystem degradation reduces the of resilience in the society leading to Now the manmade activities leading to resilience of communities and increases the sustainable development. creation of potential hazards, which includes vulnerability to the impact of climate change Key Words: Sustainable Development, the vulnerability of the community and causing natural disasters, which is a major Resilience, Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), exposure to the new risks arising out of threat to sustainable development. Climate Change Adaptation, Vulnerability climate change need to be included in the Disaster risk is increasing globally and Introduction effort of creating resilient societies. threatening development gains, owing largely Natural hazards are a cause of global food As we near 2015, we now have a a clearer to a mix of flawed urban development, insecurity and hunger, particularly when they understanding of trends (for example through climate change, and ecosystem compound existing economic vulnerability. climate and weather related evidence), that degradation. People around the world Large shocks and extensive risks destroy show how the impact of disasters caused constantly seek ways to reduce disaster agriculturally assets and infrastructure, by natural hazards and vulnerability will risks and techniques to adapt to changing causing serious damage to the livelihoods continue to intensify, presenting an climate. Some combine diverse livelihood and food security of millions of small farmers, increasingly significant challenge to strategies, such as fishing, farming and pastoralists, and fishers in many developing development. Disaster risk reduction and Dr. Parvez Hayat, IPS, LL.B,Ph.D, selling by manual labor, in order to reduce countries. Often, people depend on resilience therefore requires more central Former Director General of Police, India their vulnerability, while others use agriculture for their livelihoods and face consideration in the post-2015 development Advisor Centre for Disaster Management, knowledge (indigenous and new techniques) increasing exposure to disaster risk which agenda if the objectives of sustainable JMI -A Central University to obtain information about various can trap them in a cycle of food insecurity development are to be achieved. adaptation skills in agriculture and plan their and poverty. The high impact of disaster and Resilience -A Prerequisite to DRR. From the year 2000 till 2017 deaths related actions accordingly. climate risk on agriculture calls for The successful Disaster Risk Reduction to natural hazards have exceeded 4.1 Projected change in the climate includes enhanced mainstreaming of disaster risk (DRR) creates resilient communities (UNDP, million; over 2.7 billion people have been increased temperature on land and sea, sea- reduction and climate adaptation strategies 2004, UNISDR, 2004) while ensuring that affected. Another concern is the economic level rise, melting of glacier and ice cap, within the agriculture sector. Target 2.4 vulnerability is not increased through impact of disasters. Over the last 12 years irregular rainfall, drought pattern increasing supports the immediate need to advance development efforts or other externally USD 1.7 trillion has been lost to disasters. the intensity and frequency of extreme actions in mainstreaming disaster risk initiated activities. The resilience of the The trend is rising and now exceeds, on climatic events, thereby, making people reduction and climate adaptation into community is recognized to depend upon average, USD 100 million per year over the more vulnerable to hydro-meteorological agriculture sector planning and investments the ability to prepare and plan for, absorb, last decade. disasters. However, disaster risk and the in order to promote resilient livelihoods, food recover from, and more successfully adapt Based, in particular, on Intergovernmental impact of changing climate can be minimized production and ecosystems. In the context to adverse events. While resilience is rooted Panel for Climate Change reports we expect significantly by restoring and protecting of the Sendai Framework, relevant actions in the local communities affected by climate change to increase the frequency ecosystems, thereby increasing a including strengthening productive assets disasters, it involves a wide variety of and intensity of the most severe weather- community’s resilience to climate change. such as livestock, working animals, tools stakeholders, including families, the private related hazards over the next decades. In Addressing vulnerability and decreasing and seeds are required to achieve this goal sector, governments, academia, nonprofit addition to climate change, the main drivers exposure to hazards by adaptation and and target. groups, and faith-based groups on local, of risk are poorly planned and managed building risk-resilience capacity of the Sustainable development and Disaster state, and national scales. It is important to urbanization, environmental degradation, community are within wider efforts to resilience through disaster risk reduction are recognize that planning for one kind of poverty , and weak governance. Disaster address poverty and inequality, leading to two sides of the same coin (UNDP). Disaster disaster can increase the community’s vulnerability is reduced as a direct product sustainable development. risk reduction is viewed as the systematic resilience in the face of a different kind of of sound development. In light of the growing Measures taken in the form of preparedness, development and application of policies, event. This “all-hazards” approach is a levels of risk of disasters, reducing them based on advanced technology in early strategies, and practices to minimize condition to which all communities and the should be part of the post2015 development warning systems lead to DRR, which in turn vulnerabilities and risks throughout society nation should aspire for. Understanding and agenda in order to meet international leads to sustainable development. An to avoid (prevention) or limit (mitigation and managing disaster risk is critical to development objectives. Which now example to explain how public awareness preparedness) the adverse impact of increasing resilience to disasters. exceeds, on average, USD 100 million per through education and capacity building hazards, within the broad context of The Tools to manage disaster risk include year over the last decade. leads to DRR further leading to sustainable sustainable development (ISDR 2002) both structural and nonstructural measures Based, in particular, on the development is- ‘the villagers were disaster reduction policies should have a and approaches, which are complementary Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change concerned that their intensive farming two-fold aim: and can be used together. The requisites to reports, we expect climate change to practices were eroding the river banks, and i. To enable societies to be resilient to show the resilience for all the societies may increase the frequency and intensity of the so they had started a tree nursery, planting natural hazards; be outlined as the robust framework having most severe weather-related hazards over saplings along the banks to help bind the ii. To ensure that development efforts essential services such as health, education, the next decades. In addition to climate soil’. do not increase vulnerability public and private infrastructure the capacity change, the main drivers of risk are poorly Hazards are inherent in the environment we Disaster risk and resilience1 received of the Individuals and groups to understand planned and managed urbanization, live in. Many hazards are not turning into insufficient emphasis in the original and know about the risks and how to reduce environmental degradation, poverty and weak disasters because of increased public Millennium Development Goal agenda, them. Achieving resilience is a shared governance. Disaster vulnerability is reduced awareness, facilitating increased resilience despite the relationship between responsibility of the State along with the as a direct product of sound development. in communities besides ever-increasing disasters and development. Whilst community and the Disaster Managers, In light of the growing levels of risk of advancement in technology which is ever there is universal acceptance that requiring the engagement of everyone having disasters, reducing them should be part of upgradable. disasters can erode and destroy stakes in DRR. A Coalition is a key to the post-2015 development agenda in order Governments and civic society have development gains, there is limited improving the resilience of a community’s to meet international development launched many programs for capacity recognition of the role that different critical infrastructure and systems, such as objectives. Communities will have to adapt building in the community through education. approaches to development play in power and water systems, health care even more to these stressful environmental Indian school textbooks, from class 6th to creating or increasing vulnerability. services, and transportation systems while conditions, through disaster risk reduction 12th, has disaster management as a subject Reducing the risks of disasters (for creating synergy in the efforts of the public and resilience-building measures. This will that has empowered children with example prevention, preparedness, and private sectors towards DRR. (Disaster especially impact on least-developed knowledge about preparedness and early and early warning systems) for Resilience a National Imperative, 2012) countries and Small Island Developing warning systems, leading to transfer of predictable events like the major severe Disasters and Disaster Risk Reduction States. While all countries are vulnerable knowledge to their family members and weather impact conditions such as and Development Challenge (as demonstrated by the Great East Japan friends in the community. cyclones, large storms, heavy Vulnerability and exposure to disasters is earthquake and tsunami) the impact The Indian government has launched Sarv precipitation events, heat and cold increasing as more people and assets disasters have on Least Developed Countries Shiksha Abhiyan that too leads to public waves, helps to protect both human and located in areas of high risk. Since 1970, and Small Island Developing States is awareness about preparedness before and economic assets The focus on the the world’s population has grown by 87 perhaps the most challenging. For these during the disaster. Community-led early disaster risk reduction is based on the percent. During the States, disaster events have a significant warning systems, through social media understanding that with proper planning same time, the proportion of people living in impact on, or in some cases completely such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook of development programs and flood-prone river basins increased by 114 destroy, development gains built up over facilitate village communities using integrating disaster risk reduction in percent and on cyclone-exposed coastlines decades. Hurricane Ivan (2004) cost Grenada affordable smartphones to know the the development strategies, the by 192 percent. More than half of the world’s over 200 percent of GDP. likelihood of potential hazards, which they negative effects of development can be large cities, with populations ranging from 2 USA, France, AND UK HAVE BEEN KEY share with the community as the bottom- reduced, while the positive effects can to 15 million, are located in areas of high DRIVERS IN SUPPORTING INDIA EFFORT up transfer of knowledge, creating resiliency be enhanced through the reduction of earthquake risk. Rapid urbanization will UNDER ABLE LEADERSHIP OF DYNAMIC in the community. poverty, improvement of human livelihoods increase exposure to natural hazards, PM OF INDIA, SHRI MODY IN REDUCING What we build and where we build after and coping strategies and overall reduction especially in coastal zones. GREEN GAS EMISSIONS.

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Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] LIFESTYLE 27 TAXI TALKS – HEALERS OR PREDATORS !!! etc. was really put into deep thinking tals, but doctors of Yesteryear like P.K. be taken for granted. by her when she shared some painful Sethi of the Jaipur foot who spent all Medical accountability is an issue of information. How Human race is against their lives in Medical College, advanc- paramount importance and should not the human race just for the sake of fi- ing medicines and educating young. be ignored. Medical Profession is con- nancial benefits & personal growth? “Sama Dosha, Sama Agni, Sama sidered as a noble profession and the Everything is Business & cor- Dhatumalakriya…. moral responsibility cannot be evaded. rupted……!!!! Prasannatma Indriya Mana Swastha Indian doctors have huge expertise but Not all, but yes, majority of the health Ithyabideeyathi….. as a group, our reputation is poor. So, facilitators are corrupted and this is just If we just take a glance in the traditional the question is what can be done? an antithesis of patient centred care. Ayurveda defines the balancing of body Strengthening good governance and pre- Driven by greed, those in power divert and soul will never lead to bad health venting corruption in the health care are crucial resources away from patients in and that is the reason the health prob- universal challenges. need which results in poor quality of lems were almost zero decades ago. Effective laws and policies by the gov- care and worsening health outcomes. It This learning was given to the next gen- ernment, continued role of media and is an international problem and no eration Medical professionals “Serving strong action by the regularly body are health system is free from it. Corrup- Mankind is serving God “And the cur- needed. It is necessary to make the Prathiba Nair tion, an undeniable reality in the health rent scenario is that the system is the people aware about their needs and sector, is arguably the most serious root cause of unethical ways chosen by rights for better regulation of Medical Guest Relations Manager - AUREVOIR ethical crisis in Medicine today. How- some doctors and few powerful big practices and education. Government Being into this profession I was always ever, it remains poorly addressed by shots. only can enact laws for effective and blessed to have the opportunity of mak- scholarly journals, professional asso- Exceptional are everywhere. Isn’t it? Sa- proper functioning of Private hospi- ing a travel with so different kinds of ciations & Bioethicists. Any middle- luting each professional in the Medical tals & a responsible functioning of people (Both National & International). class family when approaches a hospi- field who stayed with the common citi- the government hospitals. This Pan- This made me to understand and realise tal for any reason, the first important zen for all their safety, taking risks for demic was a real learning to each one that every human being although is dif- thing that they need to do is an arrange- their life during this Pandemic – 2020.It of us as how important is Medical ferent but each one of us have a com- ment of the financial part however their is important for us to understand that Professionals, how mandatory is the mon factor, that’s our EMOTIONS. situation is, does not matter. After all not all are Financially Sound, there rises advance medicining and what would a Here, I share with you an understand- who will take the risk of taking a chance situations when your pocket is empty common man do if this system is hit. “If ing of mine from a discussion recently with the life of their loved ones. At a and your loved ones suddenly need a it were easy, everyone would be a doc- with a very lovable person who is basi- seminar in the Govt. Medical College, hospitalisation. Every citizen globally, tor, this is the best job in the world. cally a doctor and her stay with us was Kozhikode in Kerala Dr Nandi said that should have a confidence to immediately Despite Everything, because of every- for Stress & Strain from Tanzania. We “Indian doctors were going to America move to any Medical purpose to safe- thing. “Wherever the art of medicine is were on the way to hospital and she & Europe because Merit was not being guard the life without any hesitations or loved, there is also a love of humanity. happened to ask me certain doubts re- recognised here due to Corruption. Our a fear of being ignored or not consid- The lessons you are learning today will lated to the medical policies, situations Heroes should not be people who make ered as important just because of their save the life of someone tomorrow, Pay in different places globally, public health a lot of money from Corporate Hospi- Financial constraints. They should not attention!!!

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FIRST ASIAN AMERICAN KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN FOR NAPERVILLE CITY COUNCIL MEMBER 2021 Naperville is a city , 45 km west of Chicago , Illinois and founded in 1831. Naperville developed into the THIRD LARGEST CITY in the State of Illinois.

Community Leader, Small Business Owner, Dr. Uma Katiki, Community Activist endorsing Dr. Suresh Reddy, AAPI Past President and Distin- Vasavi Chakka officially launched her campaign Vasavi Chakka described her as a fierce and guished Physician of Oak Brook Village, Illinois on Saturday January 16, 2021 at the Mall of passionate community leader who believes in lauded Vasavi Chakka's efforts to stand up for the India, Naperville. civic engagement. Asian American Community and predicted her victory in the April 2021 elections.

The Family of Vasavi Chakka, Husband Dr.Sridhar IT Giant and Founder-Chairman of Indian Community Vasavi Chakka's Campaign Manager Jesus Solorio Chakka, Daughter Siri and Son Prahith were on Outreach, Naperville Krishna Bansal gave a rousing spoke about the need to reach out to all sections hand to support their mother to run for office. clarion call to the community to vote for Vasavi Chakka of the community during the next ten weeks and , the First Indian American Lincoln Scholar to the City ensure Chakka's victory which will make history as Council. Bansal urged the community to volunteer for the FIRST Asian American to be elected to the campaign by Phone banking, Knocking on Doors Naperville city Council. and spreading the word about Vasavi's candidacy.

Telugu Community Leader Dinakar Karumuri Campaign Youth Chair Gautham Jaiganesh gave an Dynamic Anica Dubey , Campaign Community Rela- endorsed Vasavi Chakka, a long time Naperville inspiring address of how important is for the youth to tions Chair who served as the co host for the event resident who is fighting for reform and change. get involved in civic engagement and especially in the applauded the community in coming out in such good Dinakar also recalled how Chakka 's relentless development of the City of Naperville. This election is numbers to cheer and support Vasavi in her journey to efforts brought about STEM education in 204 not about an individual Vasavi but about us the Com- Naperville City Council and exhorted the whole School district. munity to be heard and be represented , he thundered. community to be united in ensuring Vasavi's victory.

Naperville City Councilman Kevin Coyne , Busi- The show stopper was the presence of Sixth Campaign Outreach Chair Ratna Kapur , Founder of KS ness Attorney and Community Leader endorsing generation Napervillian Paul Hinterlong who Foundation saluted Vinoz Chanamolu, CEO and Pramod Vasavi Chakka for the City Council said that embodies Naperville's Spirit of Community Chintamaneni, COO of the Mall of India, Naperville for their Vasavi's eye on economic development and fiscal Volunteerism and serves on Naperville City Council from May 2009 till present. Councilman generous support by donating space for Vasavi's campaign oversight of the City will be a great asset to Paul Hinterlong heartily endorsed Vasavi Chakka office and hosting this kick off event. Kapur said both of Naperville. and said she is well suited for the office. them led by example, "Actions speaks louder than Words."

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FORMER STATE COMPTROLLER &STATE REP DARLENE SENGER CHAIRS CHAKKA’S CAMPAIGN ACCORDING TO THE 2016 AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY, POPULATION OF NAPERVILLE IS 141,122 WITH A RACIAL MAKE UP OF NAPERVILLE BEING 76.5% WHITE, 14.9% ASIAN, 5.3% HISPANIC AND 4.7% AFRICAN AMERICAN.

Campaign Chair Darlene Senger, former Illinois State Young Gauri Yadav, a High School Senior gave a Ma Santosh Kumar, Senior Community Leader Comptroller & State Representative of IL-46 th District powerful rendition of America's National Anthem blessed Vasavi Chakka to be victorious in her welcomed the candidacy of Vasavi Chakka for the four that opened the kick off ceremonies of Vasavi campaign and said that Vasavi Chakka is the best current vacancies of the Naperville City Council where 11 Chakka's campaign . The talented Singer Gauri candidate for Naperville City Council . Dr Kumar candidates are contesting the April 6,2021 election. Chair Yadav got a standing ovation and ushered in a added that Chakka is a proven leader with forti- Darlene Senger underscored the importance of reaching out to the community by phone calls and personalizing spirit of unity . tude, commitment and integrity that will shine for the campaign at the grassroot level. the community.

U.S. Congressional Multi Ethnic Advisory Task Vinoz Chanamolu, CEO, MALL OF INDIA, Naperville American Mutli Ethnic Coalition (AMEC )Vice Force (MEATF ) Chairman Martino Tangkar en- & Executive of IT SERVE, Chicago congratulated President Neelam Dwivedi, popularly known as dorsed Vasavi Chakka for Naperville City Council. Vasavi Chakka in following in the footsteps of fellow Bihari Beti presented AMEC's endorsement to Vasavi Tangkar said that Chakka will add the much elected Indian American leaders from the State of Chakka for Naperville city council in recognition of needed diversity to Naperville City Council in this Illinois, U.S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthy her inclusive leadership and relentless pursuit of digital age. and State Senator Ram Villivallam. excellence for our community's youth over the years.

Vasavi Chakka flanked by Telugu Community Campaign Advisory Panel Chief Dr Santosh Kumar, Ravikumar Govindaraj, a Naperville resident and leaders Manne Lingiah From Naperville and Ms. Chairman of Global Strategic Alliance Inc. Dr Vijay enthusiastic volunteer for Vasavi Chakka For Chandini Divoori of Chicago Andhra Association. G Prabhakar and Maharashtra Mandal President Naperville since October 2020. Special appreciation Vidya Joshi cheering Vasavi Chakka's candidacy for for Ravikumar G's innumerable hours of support that Naperville City Council. he is rendering to the campaign. Chakka's campaign runs on the likes of Ravi G.

Indian American Candidates who are running for elections Midway Business Brokers CEO Ajeeth Singh and Vasavi Chakka flanked by Campaign Chair Darlene in other parts of Illinois showed up to support Vasavi Indian American Christian Council Secretary Satish Senger and Campaign Advisory Panel Chief Dr Chakka, left to right: Dr Suresh Reddy (Oak Brook Village Dadepogu enjoying the kick off celebrations Santosh Kumar, Naperville City Councilmen Kevin Trustee), Shweta Baid (Aurora 10th Ward Alderman), Coyne and Paul Hinterlong along with the Campaign Vasavi Chakka (Naperville City Councilman ), Meghna Committee leaders at the kick-off event Bansal (Wheatland Township Trustee) and Rajesh Narayan (Naperville School Dist #204 Board Member)

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Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] COMMUNITY NEWS 35 BJP LEADER ANAND SAHU’s MAIDEN VISIT TO CHICAGO, USA

Ma Santosh Kumar , Founder of MAFS & UMAS receives Anand Sahu, Member Hindi Advisory Committee, U. S. Congressman Danny Davis being honored with a Anand Sahu at MAFS Schaumburg office .Dr Vijay Ministry of Finance, Govt. Of India receiving the MAFS traditional silk shawl by Anand Sahu when he called on Prabhakar, Chairman Global Strategic Alliance Inc. also Annual Report 2020 highlighting the MAFS Hindi him at Congressman’s Chicago office. in the picture. Academy.

Anand Sahu , Member Minimum Wages Advisory Board, U. S. Congressman Danny K Davis, Ranking Member of Anand Sahu, BJP Nationalist Thinker Speaker called on Ministry of Labour & Employment, Govt. Of India explaining to the House Ways & Means Committee presenting a book India’s Consul General at Chicago Amit Kumar in his Congressman Davis the positive aspects of the recently to Anand Sahu, Senior BJP leader from Delhi. office. introduced Farm Bills in India.

Left to Right : Dr Vijay Prabhakar, Chairman GSA, Anand Anand Sahu having a meeting with OFBJP Chicago leaders Ma Santosh Kumar hosted a Christmas Day Brunch at her Sahu , Consul General Amit Kumar and Dr Santosh Kumar, Amar Upadhyay, Rohit Joshi, Soham Upadhyay and Senior home in South Barrington for Chicago leaders to hear Founder MAFS & UMAS. VHP & HSS leader Sridhar Damle on December 25 morning. Anand Sahu’s update on P. M. Modi’s recent reforms.

OFBJP Chicago Coordinator presents a memento to Anand Amar Upadhyay, National General Secretary of Overseas Anand Sahu, BJP Nationalist Thinket Speaker & National Secretary, Sahu while Ma Santosh Kumar, Amar Upadhyay, And Sridhar Friends of BJP- USA presenting a City of Chicago memento Bharatiya Janta Mazdoor Mahasangh, Delhi with Chicago youth Damle look on. to Anand Sahu on his maiden visit to Chicago. leaders Prashant Kumar, Sagar Kumar and Soham Upadhyay.

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] YOUTH 36 How The Biden-Harris Administration Could Affect Students Across America

Gautham Jai Ganesh

During the ’20-’21 school year, roughly 93% of American The Biden administration’s success in handling borrower, a step in the direction towards lowering the ever- households with K-12 students reported that their children the current pandemic will play a serious role in the increasing student debt America faces. Although President engaged in some kind of online/distance learning. On top education of America’s youth. President Biden has Biden is a bit more conservative than some of his fellow of elementary through high schoolers, nearly every already laid out his plan to administer 100 million vaccines Democrats such as Bernie Sanders, the transition from American university has offered their students some form in his first 100 days in office. With more a more rigid and a Republican to Democrat party holding office has given of online learning option, with many colleges even effective response to the pandemic being announced, many students hope that progress can be made in cancelling in-person learning for the Fall 2020 semester. students across the country are hopeful that their providing college education at lower prices to university With the majority of schools having gone online in early education can return to normal for the 2021-2022 school students. While things such as free state university March 2020, education for students has been completely year. Beyond a return to normal schooling and in-person education are not realistic goals that can be achieved changed by the rampant spread of the coronavirus. The education, the Biden administration also means hope for under Biden’s term, the future of the next four years does big question on many students’ minds is what Biden college students ridden with debt. President Biden has hold promise of improving the quality and cost of education taking office means for their educational experience. called for Congress to forgive $10,000 in student debt per in America - on both the K-12 and university levels. A new beginning with President Biden and Vice President Harris Department of Commerce and Shital Shah for Department of Education; R Ramesh and Rama Zakaria for the Department of Energy; Subhasri Ramanathan for the Department of Homeland Security; Raj De for Department of Justice; and Seema Nanda and Raj Nayak for Department of Labour. Reena Aggarwal, and Satyam Khanna have been named to the Federal Reserve, Banking and Securities Regulators ARTs; Bhavya Lal for NASA; Dilpreet Sidhu for National Security Council, Divya Kumaraiah for Office of Management and Budget; Kumar Chandran for Department of Agriculture; and to US Postal Service. “We are I am extremely thrilled to celebrate the Americans as members, including three as enthused by the incoming Biden-Harris victory of President-Elect Joe Biden and team leads, to his agency review teams administration’s recognition of the Shree Gurusamy Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris in the (ARTs) that are responsible for evaluating contributions of our South Asian community. Board Member, recent Presidential election. As a Board the operations of the key federal agencies They have selected several talented South Asians for Biden Member of South Asians for Biden, I know in the current administration to ensure individuals for key roles, including Neera the Indian American community played a smooth transfer of power. At least three Tanden, Vivek Murthy, Rohini Kosoglu, ensure that this administration is key role in engaging and mobilizing voters Indian Americans have been named as team Ali Zaidi, Bharat Ramamurti, Vedant accountable and always operates in in large numbers to elect the Biden-Harris leads to various ARTs. Arun Majumdar from Patel, Vinay Reddy and Gautam service of the American people," said ticket. The election results demonstrated the prestigious Stanford University is the Raghavan. We look forward to their Biden. Vice President-elect Kamala Harris that every phone call to an undecided team lead for the Department of Energy ART. service on behalf of the country,” said said: "The American people deserve a voter, every conversation we had with a Rahul Gupta is the team lead for Office of Neha Dewan, national director, South government that is open, honest, and friend or family member about what this National Drug Control Policy. Kiran Ahuja Asians for Biden. US President-elect Joe transparent. These dedicated public election means had a significant impact has been named Team Lead for Office of Biden on Monday, January 11th named servants will help us meet the on the outcome. Personnel Management. Puneet Talwar has two Indian Americans Reema Shah as the unprecedented challenges facing our nation The Biden-Harris administration will move been named to the Department of State ART. Deputy Associate Counsel and Neha while upholding the highest standards of our country forward in the right direction Pav Singh has been named to two ARTs for Gupta, as Associate Counsel in the ethics and integrity". I eagerly look forward ensuring prosperity for all people National Security Council and Office of Office of the . "My to US President-elect Joe Biden's irrespective of their race, color, religion, Science and Technology. Similarly, Arun administration has no greater task than inauguration as the 46th US President on sexual orientation and socio-economic Venkatraman has been named to two ARTs restoring faith in American government. Our January 20, who has lived up to his status. The Indian American diaspora is Department of Commerce and USTR. Other White House Counsel's Office will be built promise to build the most diverse Cabinet elated to know that US President-elect Joe prominent Indian Americans named to ARTs upon a foundation of integrity and honesty. in US history representing the people of Biden has named more than 20 Indian- are Pravina Raghavan, Atman Trivedi for This qualified and crisis-tested legal team will this great country. God Bless America.

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Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] BOLLYWOOD 60 Priyanka Chopra is excited as The White Tiger makers send her name for awards season in Best Supporting Actress category

Actor Priyanka Chopra is excited about her the Best Actor in a Leading Role category while Divine upcoming Netflix movie, The White Tiger. On Wednesday, and others were asked to be considered in the Best she took to Instagram to share pictures and videos of the Original Song category for their song, Jungle Mantra. Priyanka screener package she had received for the Director Ramin Bahrani and multiple others' names have movie. Also attached with the screener also been submitted in different categories. Chopra was a 'For Your Consideration' leaflet, Sharing the leaflet on Instagram Stories, Priyanka added asking awards academies, by fire effects and wrote, "And then I saw this!!" Adarsh, associations and other too, reposted her video on his Instagram page. organisations to consider the film Rajkummar, meanwhile, shared a picture of a large and its team for the upcoming billboard, bearing the film's poster in New York City. awards season. Priyanka's The White Tiger opened to largely positive reviews last name was submitted in the week. It released in select theatres in the US and will Best Actress in a Supporting start streaming on Netflix on January 22. Based on the Role while her co-star Man Booker Prize-winning novel by the same name, it is Rajkummar Rao's name was being called among the few frontrunners this awards submitted in Best Actor in a season.Priyanka also celebrated the success of her other Supporting Role category. film, We Can Be Heroes, on Instagram. The film has once The film's lead, Adarsh again gained the number 1 spot on Netflix. Directed by Robert Gourav, was championed for Rodriguez, the film starred Priyanka in a negative role. Bhumi Pednekar shares pic with Rajkummar Rao as Sumi and Shardul from Badhaai Do

Actors Bhumi Pednekar and Mirza wrote "Cuties! Dono," followed by a heart Rajkummar Rao have been shooting for their emoji, while Jackky Bhagnani wrote "can't film, Badhaai Do. Bhumi shared a picture wait". Another Instagram user said: "Two with her co-star from the film's powerhouse actor bahut set while both were in maza ayega to see character. Sharing the picture, @rajkummar_rao n she wrote: "Do mastane @bhumipednekar chale zindagi banane, Bande together... Jaldi shoot sayane aur naam ke deewane karo aur release #SumiAurShardul karo."Bhumi also #BadhaaiDo @rajkummar_rao shared a picture of a (two happy souls are out to massive set being live their lives, both clever and prepared.Earlier this somewhat romantic)." The month, the team of picture showed Rajkummar Badhaai Do began sporting a thick moustache, shooting for their film. while Bhumi looked pretty in a pink kurta. Both were lying on their backs and Bhumi covered herself with a light blanket. Some of their industry colleagues reacted to the picture. Dia Hina Khan completes 12 years as an actor: 'It has been overwhelming'

Twelve years back, Hina years."What makes it more special the project was amazing! I do have Khan started her career with is her bagging the Best Actress another film coming up soon, but I television, with her very first show award at Montgomery International will only be able reveal details about turning out to be so popular that Film Festival Lines. The 33-year-old it later."The actor adds that she isn't she became a household name. gushes, "The feeling is amazing, going to differentiate between And then came visiting the Cannes overwhelming and I am filled with projects on the basis of whether it film festival in 2019 with her film gratitude for such a prestigious is a masala entertainer or content Lines, and she made her Bollywood honour. Our work getting recognised driven and it's only content that debut with Hacked last year. As on an International level is definitely would matter."Content is the king for she hits this milestone in her a huge achievement for our entire me so whatever I choose to take career, an elated Khan says, "The team and we are all ecstatic about upon - an artsy film or a full- journey has been amazing! When I what we have achieved."Since her fledged commercial film - the look back at where I started off from film career is clearly panning out content has to be appealing to where I am now, all that I have well, are more Bollywood projects on and interesting. experienced has been very the horizon in the near future, we Hence, taking a step overwhelming and I am grateful to ask. Kha says, "Hacked was my forward into films with God for giving me some of the best first commercial film in 2020, and Lines was one of the experiences in life through these 12 the entire experience of working on best decisions I took.

Free Subscription to The Global Eye Digital News Magazine by sending Email to [email protected] INTERNATIONAL MARKET PLACE 61 Homeownership Still More Affordable than Renting AND Will we have a buyer’s housing market in 2021? It’s not likely we’ll see a buyer’s housing actually predicts a 2.8% rate across the 83% of the counties tracked, the study market in 2021, at least according to entire year. notes. “Home prices are rising faster than experts. Most major players are The biggest problem will be the rents and wages in a majority of the projecting home prices to rise, and while low levels of inventory met by ever- country,” says Todd Teta, chief product strong construction could put more increasing demand. Though work-from- officer with ATTOM Data Solutions. “Yet, inventory on the market, it likely won’t home opportunities have certainly homeownership is still more affordable, be enough to tip the scales in buyers’ contributed to this (and will continue to as amazingly low mortgage rates that favors. do so), there’s also rising demand from dropped below 3% are helping to keep With that said, it does seem like younger buyers to consider. the cost of rising home prices in check. buyers will see some relief at some point. Homeownership is a better deal It’s starting to see that kind of trend. But For example, home prices are still than renting, despite rapidly escalating it shows how both the cost of renting has expected to rise in 2021, but at a smaller home prices over the last few months, been relatively high compared to the cost pace than we saw in 2020. Freddie Mac according to a new study released by of ownership and how declining interest projects prices to rise only 2.6% — much ATTOM Data Solutions, a real estate rates are having a notable impact on the better than 2020’s 5.5% clip. research firm. Owning a median-priced housing market and homeownership.” Low mortgage rates will also help three-bedroom home is more affordable That said, Teta adds that the offset those rising prices. Though rates than renting a three-bedroom property. coming year is uncertain with the COVID- probably won’t hit the bargain-basement Record low mortgage rates may 19 outbreak still raging on and hampering Nick Verma numbers seen this year, most be helping to offset some of the steeper economic growth. “But right now, owning CEO, SRS, Broker economists project they’ll stay in the home prices lately. Median home prices a home still appears to be a financially high-2% to low-3% range. Fannie Mae have risen more than average rents in sound choice for those who can afford it. A proud owner of Midway Realty Group who specializes in local community, I am also a License broker and member of Mainstreet Organization and National Organization of Realtors. I also have thirst about researching and then sharing the most vital information about real estate market.

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