1600 Daily The White House • March 12, 2019 The blue-collar Trump boom

The White House • March 12, 2019 The blue-collar Trump boom  The economy has been red hot since President Donald J. Trump took office. That’s great news on its own. But even better is that not all booms are created equal—and the blue-collar Trump Economy is paying off for exactly the working Americans who need it most. Last year, Council of Economic Advisers Chairman Kevin Hassett reported that blue-collar jobs grew at their fastest pace since 1984. And now, “after years of job losses, U.S. manufacturing employment has risen for 18 straight months among those holding production or nonsupervisory jobs, the longest stretch of gains since the mid-1990s,” The Wall Street Journal wrote this month. More good news today: “Real wages for American families are soaring,” the White House Council of Economic Advisers reported this morning. Hourly earnings rose by 1.9 percent in the past 12 months—far exceeding even last year’s pace. Complementing those rising wages is a significant drop in prices. American families are paying less at the pump as gasoline prices fell 9.1 percent during the past year. And in keeping with a major promise from President Trump, last month saw the biggest year-over-year decline in prescription drug costs since 1972. February’s jobs report, released Friday, revealed that the unemployment rate fell to 3.8 percent last month, remaining near a 50-year low. Behind these numbers is a renewal of hope among working-class families and blue-collar communities across the heartland. Nearly 70 percent of Americans told Gallup they expect their personal financial situation to be even better next year. Their employers are optimistic, too. On average, a stunning 91.8 percent of manufacturers feel positive about their companies’ future growth under President Trump, compared with an average of 68.6 percent during the last two years of the Obama Administration. Americans credit President Trump as the economy continues to soar The latest: February jobs report shows wage growth is the fastest since 2009 The First Lady takes “Be Best” across America First Lady Melania Trump made a three-state swing last week, taking her “Be Best” message for child well-being to Oklahoma, Washington state, and Nevada. The first stop was Dove School of Discovery in Tulsa, one of five public charter schools that aims to provide a character-development curriculum in every classroom from pre-K to the 12th grade. The First Lady participated in an activity with pre-K children that encouraged young students to think about ways they can show kindness in their lives. On the topic of online safety, the First Lady visited Microsoft Headquarters in Redmond, Washington, seeing firsthand how Microsoft is taking the lead on promoting online safety for children and parents. “The technology being designed not only includes safety features but also accessibility for all – a very exciting and new opportunity for many with limited mobility,” Mrs. Trump said. In Las Vegas, Nevada, the First Lady took her message of fighting opioid addiction into her second town hall with Eric Bolling. “This campaign will give a voice to those affected by the opioid crisis by allowing them to share their stories and Eric Bolling was one of the first to share his family’s story, inspiring hundreds more who have followed his lead,” the First Lady said. See First Lady Melania Trump visit the Dove School of Discovery Video of the Day First Lady Melania Trump Attends an Opioid Town Hall in Las Vegas, Nevada

President Donald J. Trump Announces Intent to Nominate and Appoint Individuals to Key Administration Posts

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2019 President Donald J. Trump Announces Intent to Nominate and Appoint Individuals to Key Administration Posts   Today, President Donald J. Trump announced his intent to nominate the following individual to a key position in his Administration: Michael O. Johanns of Nebraska, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Millennium Challenge Corporation.  --- Today, President Donald J. Trump announced his intent to appoint the following individuals to key positions in his Administration: J. Tucker Bailey of Virginia, to be a Member of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board. Andrew Kerwin Maloney of Virginia, to be a Member (Private Life) of the Board of Trustees of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in the Smithsonian Institution for the remainder of a six-year term, expiring October 23, 2024.

Statement by the President: Today signed into law S. 47, the "John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act" (the "Act"). Two provisions of the Act,

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2019 Statement by the President        Today, I have signed into law S. 47, the "John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act" (the "Act").  Two provisions of the Act, however, raise constitutional concerns.      First, section 2406 establishes the Adams Memorial Commission with responsibility to plan and establish a permanent memorial in Washington, D.C., to honor the life and legacy of President John Adams.  The Commission will include 12 members, 8 of whom will be Members of Congress.  While Members of Congress on the Commission are welcome to provide advice and recommendations and to participate in the ceremonial activities of the Commission, they may not participate in matters involving the execution of the laws, consistent with the separation of powers and the Appointments and Ineligibility Clauses of the Constitution.      Second, section 4301 amends section 3 of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 704) to direct the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to adopt the recommendation of a regional migratory bird Flyway Council in establishing hunting seasons for certain migratory birds, "if the Secretary determines that the recommendation is consistent with science‑based and sustainable harvest management."  The Flyway Councils are not composed of officers of the United States, raising constitutional concerns related to the manner of their appointment and removal.  To avoid these concerns, the Secretary shall not treat this provision as limiting his discretion to reject the recommendation of a Flyway Council when establishing hunting seasons, as permitted by the Act.                                 DONALD J. TRUMP   THE WHITE HOUSE,     March 12, 2019.

President Donald J. Trump to Award the Medal of Honor

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2019

President Donald J. Trump to Award the Medal of Honor                 On Wednesday, March 27, 2019, President Donald J. Trump will award the Medal of Honor to Staff Sergeant Travis W. Atkins, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry.  To commemorate the selfless service and sacrifice of Staff Sergeant Atkins, his son Trevor Oliver and family will join the President at the White House.                Staff Sergeant Travis W. Atkins will receive the Medal of Honor posthumously for his actions of June 1, 2007, in support of IRAQI FREEDOM.  While serving in Iraq with Company D, 2d Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2d Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Staff Sergeant Atkins engaged in hand-to hand combat with a suspected insurgent.  As he attempted to subdue the man, Staff Sergeant Atkins realized the insurgent was attempting to detonate a bomb strapped to his body.  When he noticed the insurgent was about to trigger the suicide vest, Staff Sergeant Atkins tackled him, selflessly using his own body to shield his fellow soldiers from the imminent explosion.  Staff Sergeant Atkins’ heroic actions, at the cost of his life, saved the lives of three of his teammates.   PERSONAL BACKGROUND: On November 9, 2000, Atkins enlisted in the United States Army.  He attended basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and was assigned to Company A, 3d Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.  He deployed to Iraq in 2003 and was later honorably discharged as a Sergeant.  After attending the University of Montana, he re-enlisted in the Army in 2005 and deployed again to Iraq in August 2006.  He was promoted to Staff Sergeant on May 1, 2007.  Staff Sergeant Atkins is survived by his son, Trevor Oliver, of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, and his parents, John and Elaine Atkins of Bozeman, Montana. Additional Information   THE MEDAL OF HONOR: The Medal of Honor is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of their own lives above and beyond the call of duty while:   engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States;   engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or   serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.               The meritorious conduct must involve great personal bravery or self-sacrifice so conspicuous as to clearly distinguish the individual above his or her comrades and must have involved risk of life. There must be incontestable proof of the performance of the meritorious conduct, and each recommendation for the award must be considered on the standard of extraordinary merit.                  PRESS CREDENTIALING:  Additional information about media credentials will be released at a later date.                 ###

TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT TO THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SENATE COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN AFFAIRS AND THE CHAIRWOMAN OF THE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL SERVICES

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2019 TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT TO THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SENATE COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN AFFAIRS AND THE CHAIRWOMAN OF THE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL SERVICES   March 12, 2019 Dear Mr. Chairman:  (Dear Madam Chairwoman:) In accordance with section 303(a)(6)(A) of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (the "Act") (50 U.S.C. 4533(a)(6)(A)), I transmit herewith notice of a shortfall in the defense industrial base relating to production capability for AN/SSQ series sonobuoys and of actions to remedy that shortfall.  The Department of Defense will take actions to develop and purchase equipment and materials needed for expanding production capability for AN/SSQ series sonobuoys. I have also included my determination required pursuant to section 303(a)(5) of the Act.  These proposed initiatives are essential to the national defense.           Sincerely,                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2019 March 12, 2019   Presidential Determination No.        2019-11           MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE SUBJECT:        Presidential Determination Pursuant to             Section 303 of the Defense Production Act             of 1950, as amended By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (the "Act") (50 U.S.C. 4533), I hereby determine, pursuant to section 303(a)(5) of the Act, that the domestic production capability for AN/SSQ series sonobuoys is essential to the national defense. Without Presidential action under section 303 of the Act, United States industry cannot reasonably be expected to provide the production capability for AN/SSQ series sonobuoys adequately and in a timely manner.  Further, purchases, purchase commitments, or other action pursuant to section 303 of the Act are the most cost-effective, expedient, and practical alternative method for meeting the need for this critical capability. You are authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.                         DONALD J. TRUMP

NOTICE : CONTINUATION OF THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY WITH RESPECT TO IRAN

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2019 NOTICE - - - - - - - CONTINUATION OF THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY WITH RESPECT TO IRAN   On March 15, 1995, by Executive Order 12957, the President declared a national emergency with respect to Iran to deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States constituted by the actions and policies of the Government of Iran.  On May 6, 1995, the President issued Executive Order 12959, imposing more comprehensive sanctions on Iran to further respond to this threat.  On August 19, 1997, the President issued Executive Order 13059, consolidating and clarifying those previous orders.  The President took additional steps pursuant to this national emergency in Executive Order 13553 of September 28, 2010; Executive Order 13574 of May 23, 2011; Executive Order 13590 of November 20, 2011; Executive Order 13599 of February 5, 2012; Executive Order 13606 of April 22, 2012; Executive Order 13608 of May 1, 2012; Executive Order 13622 of July 30, 2012; Executive Order 13628 of October 9, 2012; Executive Order 13645 of June 3, 2013; Executive Order 13716 of January 16, 2016; and Executive Order 13846 of August 6, 2018. As outlined in National Security Presidential Memorandum-11 of May 8, 2018 (Ceasing United States Participation in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and Taking Additional Action to Counter Iran's Malign Influence and Deny Iran All Paths to a Nuclear Weapon), the actions and policies of the Government of Iran, including its proliferation and development of missiles and other asymmetric and conventional weapons capabilities, its network and campaign of regional aggression, its support for terrorist groups, and the malign activities of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its surrogates continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States. For these reasons, the national emergency declared on March 15, 1995, must continue in effect beyond March 15, 2019.  Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency with respect to Iran declared in Executive Order 12957.  The emergency declared by Executive Order 12957 constitutes an emergency separate from that declared on November 14, 1979, by Executive Order 12170, in connection with the hostage crisis.  This renewal, therefore, is distinct from the emergency renewal of November 2018. This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress.                                   DONALD J. TRUMP   THE WHITE HOUSE,     March 12, 2019.

The White House Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2019 TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES: Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2019 TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:      Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency unless, within 90 days before the anniversary date of its declaration, the President publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Congress a notice stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond the anniversary date.  In accordance with this provision, I have sent to the Federal Register for publication the enclosed notice stating that the national emergency with respect to Iran that was declared on March 15, 1995, is to continue in effect beyond March 15, 2019.      The actions and policies of the Government of Iran continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.      For this reason, I have determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency declared with respect to Iran and to maintain in force comprehensive sanctions against Iran to respond to this threat.                                   DONALD J. TRUMP   THE WHITE HOUSE,     March 12, 2019.

FOUNDER OF THE HERITAGE FOUNDATION DR. ED FEULNER: “GIVE THE BORDER PATROL A BREAK”

Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2019 FOUNDER OF THE HERITAGE FOUNDATION DR. ED FEULNER: “GIVE THE BORDER PATROL A BREAK” “A new report from the U.S. Border Patrol proves that only the willfully ignorant can doubt that we’re dealing with an immigration crisis.”   Give the Border Patrol a break By Dr. Ed Feulner The Washington Times March 11, 2019 A new report from the U.S. Border Patrol proves that only the willfully ignorant can doubt that we’re dealing with an immigration crisis. “The entire system right now is at full capacity,” agent Manuel Padilla said. “Actually, it’s overwhelmed.” Border Patrol agents apprehended more than 66,000 migrants at the U.S.-Mexican border in February. That’s the highest total for a single month in almost a decade. … In February 2017, families and unaccompanied children made up 27 percent of those arrested or deemed inadmissible at the southern border. Two years later, it’s 62 percent. Why the change? According to immigration expert David Inserra, loopholes in U.S. immigration law are the culprit. Combined with a weak asylum process, they “are creating incentives for adults to use children as pawns to get into the U.S.,” he writes in The Wall Street Journal. Consider the unintended consequence of the Trafficking Victim Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008. It requires the Border Patrol to treat unaccompanied alien children from countries other than Mexico differently. Border Patrol turns them over to the Department of Health and Human Services and lets them enter the U.S. pending an immigration-court hearing — one that may be years in the future. … Another loophole is more recent: a 2016 court case that requires the Department of Homeland Security to release all children, including those accompanied by parents, from custody. … [T]here’s been a spike in asylum claims by those who say they face a “credible fear” of prosecution. It’s not hard for most of them to pass their initial hearing, but the immigration-court system that is supposed to give them a final ruling has a backup that averages two years. What happens in the meantime? “Most then simply disappear into the U.S.,” writes Mr. Inserra. … Read the full column here.   ###

West Wing Reads President Trump’s 2020 Budget Seeks More Border Wall Funding, Work Requirements for Welfare

President Trump’s 2020 Budget Seeks More Border Wall Funding, Work Requirements for Welfare “President Donald Trump’s fiscal 2020 budget proposal would eliminate the federal deficit in 15 years, add new work requirements for welfare recipients, and fund additional construction of a border wall,” Fred Lucas reports for The Daily Signal. “We have more reforms than any other president’s budget in history, but, look, what has happened for far too long is that Congress has blamed mandatory spending and then increased discretionary spending, which they have a vote on every single year by large degrees,” White House Office of Management and Budget Acting Director Russ Vought said. Click here to read more. In an interview with Breitbart News yesterday, President Trump said he does not want immigrants coming to the United States to be dependent on welfare programs. “We have a problem, because we have politicians that are not strong, or they have bad intentions, or they want to get votes, because they think if they come in they’re going to vote Democrat, you know, for the most part,” the President explained. “More than 2,000 people in Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody are being quarantined amid an outbreak of mumps and other diseases,” Geneva Sands, Michelle Lou, and Susan Scutti report for CNN. “The numbers of immigrants in custody with a contagious diseases has spiked in the past year. For the previous two years, the agency has not encountered a single case of mumps among its detainees.” The Boston Herald editorial board writes that Democrats are giving anti-Semitism safe harbor in their party. “It is remarkable that we find ourselves in a situation where the new faces of the Democrats in Congress speak freely in extremist terms and the rest of the party’s power structure is afraid to tamp it down in any real way. We must call on elected leaders to condemn hateful rhetoric rather than attempt to curry favor with a freshman congressman from the Bronx.”