Pool Reports by David Smith, The Guardian
| Sent: | Reports: |
| October 25, 2023 08:21 |
WH in-town pool report #1/ Checking in Greetings from the White House on a crisp and sunny morning. The daily guidance says POTUS's schedule includes an official arrival ceremony for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms Jodie Haydon of Australia at 10am (open press), a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Albanese at 11am, a joint press conference with Prime Minister Albanese at 12.30pm (open press) and a state dinner with Prime Minister Albanese and Ms Haydon at 8.45pm. |
| October 25, 2023 10:03 |
WH in-town pool report #2/ Attendees at arrival ceremony Pool is on the south lawn for the arrival ceremony, which is open press and has hundreds of spectators and military music playing. From the White House press office: 'The President and the First Lady are welcoming Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia for the Official Arrival Ceremony. Attendees U.S. Delegation Australia Delegation Speaking Program |
| October 25, 2023 10:08 |
WH in-town pool report 3/ Nearly 4,000 guests From the White House press office: 'The White House is hosting approximately 3,982 guests for the official arrival of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia.' |
| October 25, 2023 10:28 |
WH in-town pool report #4/ POTUS speaking POTUS and FLOTUS emerged from the south portico at 10.11am as trumpeters on the balcony played 'Hail to the chief'. POTUS and FLOTUS greeted Prime Minister Albanese and Jodie Haydon. The couples then walked a green carpet shaking the hands of dignitaries. POTUS and Prime Minister Albanese stood on a podium as the Australian and American national anthems played and a ceremonial cannon fired. POTUS is wearing shades. POTUS and Prime Minister Albanese walked the line of servicemen and women, then watched a parade by a band of pipers and drummers wearing traditional 18th century military uniforms, hats and wigs. POTUS began speaking at 10.25am. Remarks are open press. |
| October 25, 2023 10:44 |
WH in-town pool report #5/ Speeches end POTUS paid tribute to the US-Australia alliance and mentioned their shared support for Israel and Ukraine. Prime Minister Albanese concluded his remarks at 10.38am. The leaders had a warm handshake then departed as the band played. |
| October 25, 2023 10:58 |
WH in-town pool report #6/ POTUS and Albanese enter Oval Office POTUS and Prime Minister Albanese walked along the colonnade and entered the Oval Office at 10.54am. Pool is now in with them. POTUS has begun speaking. |
| October 25, 2023 11:02 |
WH in-town pool report #7/ Oval Office POTUS noted that he and Prime Minister Albanese will discuss how they "stand with Israel in the wake of Hamas's appalling terrorist attack". Remarks are ongoing. More to follow. |
| October 25, 2023 11:08 |
WH in-town pool report #8/ No responses to questions POTUS and Prime Minister Albanese finished speaking in the Oval Office at 11.02am. Pool shouted multiple questions but POTUS said there will be a press conference and a chance to ask questions then. More to follow. |
| October 25, 2023 11:10 |
WH in-town pool report #9/ Bilateral meeting From the White House press office: 'The President is participating in a restricted bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia. U.S. Restricted Delegation Australia Restricted Delegation |
| October 25, 2023 | [APP Note: Report #10 does not exist or was not received by the APP.] |
| October 25, 2023 12:22 |
WH in-town pool report #11/ Expanded bilat From the White House press office: 'The President is participating in an expanded bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia U.S. Delegation Australia Delegation |
| October 25, 2023 13:40 |
WH in-town pool report #12/ Awaiting joint press conference US and Australian reporters are seated in a sunny White House rose garden awaiting POTUS and Prime Minister Albanese's joint press conference, which is open press. Microphone tests are under way. |
| October 25, 2023 13:45 |
WH in-town pool report #13/ Press conference attendees From the White House press office: 'The President is participating in a joint press conference with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia. U.S. Delegation Australia Delegation |
| October 25, 2023 13:55 |
WH in-town pool report #14/ Press conference starts POTUS and Prime Minister Albanese walked from the Oval Office at 1.51pm and appeared to share a joke on their way to the podium in the rose garden. POTUS removed his sunglasses, remarking that he did not need them, and began speaking. Live stream here: |
| October 25, 2023 14:28 |
WH in-town pool report #15/ Press conference ends The joint press conference finished at 2.24pm after covering topics including Israel, China and new House Speaker Mike Johnson. POTUS smiled at additional shouted questions but did not respond. He and Prime Minister Albanese returned to the Oval Office. |
| October 25, 2023 15:11 |
WH in-town pool report #16/ Lid until 5.45pm A lid has been called until 5.45pm. |
| October 25, 2023 16:19 |
WH in-town pool report #17/ POTUS calls Speaker Johnson From the White House press office: 'This afternoon, President Biden called Speaker of the House Mike Johnson to congratulate him on his election, and expressed that he looks forward to working together to find common ground on behalf of the American people.' |
| October 25, 2023 17:16 |
WH in-town pool report #18/ State Dinner guest list From the White House press office: 'White House Releases State Dinner Guest List This evening, the President and the First Lady of the United States will hostPrime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia for a State Dinner. The following is a complete list of expected guests: THE PRESIDENT AND DR. BIDEN THE HONORABLE ANTHONY ALBANESE MP, PRIME MINISTER OF AUSTRALIA AND MS. JODIE HAYDON Ms. Joyce Aboussie & Mr. Greg Keller The Honorable Pete Aguilar, U.S. Representative & Mrs. Alisha Aguilar The Honorable Elizabeth Allen, Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, U.S. Department of State & Mr. Edward Price, Senior Advisor to the Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State Mr. Chris Ashton The Honorable Lloyd Austin, Secretary of Defense, U.S. Department of Defense & Mrs. Charlene Austin Dr. Sharada Balachandran Orihuela & Dr. Kali D. Cyrus The Honorable Xavier Becerra, Secretary of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services & Dr. Carolina Reyes Mr. Brendan Bechtel & Mrs. Helen Bechtel The Honorable Anthony Bernal, Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the First Lady & Mrs. Marisa Bernal Cox The Honorable Jared Bernstein, Chair of the Council of Economic Advisors & Ms. Kay Arndorfer The Honorable John Berry & Mr. Curtis Yee Ms. Naomi Biden & Mr. Peter Neal Ms. Finnegan Biden Ms. Maisy Biden The Honorable Maher Bitar, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Intelligence & Ms. Astrid Dorelien Mr. Bran Black The Honorable Jeffery Bleich & Ms. Rebecca Bleich The Honorable Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State & The Honorable Evan Ryan, Assistant to the President and Cabinet Secretary Mr. Francisco L. Borges & Mrs. Luisa Borges General Charles Q. Brown, Jr. & Mrs. Sharene Brown Dr. Alex Brown Ms. Taryn Brumfitt & Dr. Zali Yager Mr. Russell Budd & Reverend Dorothy Budd The Honorable William J. Burns, Director of the Central Intelligence Agency & The Honorable Lisa Carty, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Economic and Social Council The Honorable Pete Buttigieg, Secretary of Transportation, U.S. Department of Transportation & Mr. Chasten Buttigieg Professor Thomas Calma AO The Honorable Kurt Campbell, Deputy Assistant to the President and Coordinator for the Indo-Pacific, National Security Council & The Honorable Lael Brainard, Assistant to the President and Director of the National Economic Council The Honorable Ben Cardin, U.S. Senator & Mrs. Myrna Cardin Mrs. Laetitia Garriott de Cayeux & Miss. Kinga Garriott de Cayeux Mr. Craig Chittick OAM, First Assistant Secretary, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Dr. Melissa Chiu & Dr. Suzanne Hollman The Honorable Derek Chollet, Counselor of the U.S. Department of State & Ms. Heather Hostetter The Honorable Katherine Clark, U.S. Representative & Mr. Nathaniel Dowell Mr. Bruce Cohen & Mr. Gabe Catone Ms. Katie Connolly, Director of Strategic Communications and Outreach, Office of the Prime Minister The Honorable Roy Cooper, Governor of North Carolina & Mrs. Kristin Cooper Dr. Lynn Cornelius & Dr. Joseph Cornelius The Honorable Joe Courtney, U.S. Representative and Co-Chair of Australia Caucus & Mrs. Audrey Courtney Professor Glyn Davis AC, Secretary, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet The Honorable Michael C. Donilon, Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the President & Mrs. Patricia Donilon Mr. Mark David Ein & Mrs. Sally Ein The Honorable Jon Finer, Assistant to the President and Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Ms. Elizabeth Fitch, Media Director and Principal Press Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister Mr. Yance Ford & Ms. Amanda Lichtenberg Mr. Chip Forrester & Ms. Elizabeth Haselkorn Dr. Michael Fullilove Dr. Juliet V. Garcia Mr. Timothy Gartrell, Chief of Staff, Office of the Prime Minister Mr. Rory Gates & The Honorable Don Harmon, President of the Illinois State Senate Mr. Craig Gering & Mrs. Jane Gering The Honorable Rufus Gifford & Dr. Stephen DeVincent The Honorable Mark Gilbert & Mrs. Nancy Gilbert The Honorable Shuwanza Goff, Assistant to the President and Director of the Office of Legislative Affairs & Mr. Jamie Fleet Mr. Jeffrey Goldberg & Ms. Pamela Reeves The Honorable Philip Gordon, Assistant to the President and National Security Advisor to the Vice President & Mrs. Rachel Gordon Ms. Fatima Goss Graves & Ms. Carol Ann Goss Mr. Jon Gray & Mrs. Mindy Gray The Honorable Josh Green, Governor of Hawaii & Mrs. Jaime Green The Honorable Arthur J. Gregg & Mrs. Alicia G. Collier The Honorable Debra Haaland, Secretary of the Interior, U.S. Department of the Interior & Ms. Aleta Suazo The Honorable Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States & Mr. Douglas Emhoff Mr. Andrew Hauptman & Mrs. Ellen Bronfman Hauptman Mr. Jon Henes & Mrs. Pamela Henes The Honorable Jim Himes, U.S. Representative & Mrs. Mary Himes Mrs. Barbara Humpton & Mr. David Humpton Mrs. Shannon Hunt-Scott & Mr. Kevin Scott Ms. Laleh Ispahani & Mr. Tapio Vaskio Ms. Bonny Jacobs The Honorable Karine Jean-Pierre, Assistant to the President and Press Secretary The Honorable Bonnie Jenkins, Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs, U.S. Department of State & Mr. Matthew D. Steinhelfer, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Conflict and Stabilization Operations, U.S. Department of State Mr. Darius Jones & Mrs. Tori Johnson-Jones Mr. Joe Kahn & Ms. Shannon Wu The Honorable Tim Kaine, U.S. Senator & Ms. Anne Holton Mr. Brad Karp & Mrs. Roberta Karp Mr. Jeffrey Katzenberg & Mr. Sujay Jaswa Ms. Janet Keller & Ms. Katherine Schneider The Honorable Caroline Kennedy, Ambassador of the United States to Australia & Dr. Edwin Schlossberg The Honorable James F. Kenney, Mayor of Philadelphia & Ms. Letitia Santarelli Mr. James Keogh & Ms. Selen Us The Honorable John Kerry, U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate & Dr. Vanessa Kerry & Ms. Alexandra Kerry The Honorable Madeline King MP, Minister for Resources and Minister for Northern Australia Ms. Kathy Klugman, Principal Adviser, International, Office of the Prime Minister Mr. Orin Kramer & Ms. Barbara Marcin The Honorable Daniel J. Kritenbrink, Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs & Mrs. Nami Kritenbrink The Honorable Ben LaBolt, Assistant to the President and Director of Communications Ms. Amanda Lacaze The Honorable Sarah Ladislaw, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Climate & Mr. Gregg L. Ladislaw Kid Laroi & Ms. Sloane Howard Ms. Jane Lauder & Mr. Kevin Warsh Dr. Brenda Lauderback & Dr. Antonio D. Tillis Dr. Marsha Laufer & Dr. Henry Laufer Mr. James Lawrence & Dr. Mary Lawrence Ms. Nancy LeaMond & Mr. Colin Finan Mr. John Leguizamo & Mrs. Justine Leguizamo The Honorable Daniella Levine-Cava, Mayor of Miami-Dade County & Dr. Robert Cava Mr. Jeremy Liew & Miss. Ellie Liew Ms. Lori Lodes & Mr. Austin Evers Mr. Christopher Lowe & Ms. Bonnie Datt Mr. Eugene A. Ludwig & Dr. Carol L. Ludwig Imam Mohamed Magid & Dr. Amaarah DeCuir Ms. Sue Mandel & Mr. Steve Mandel Mr. Gerard Martin PSM, Head of Commonwealth Protocol, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Mr. Brett Mason, Head of the Press Office, Office of the Prime Minister The Honorable Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of Homeland Security & Mrs. Tanya Mayorkas The Honorable Michael McCaul, U.S. Representative & Mrs. Linda McCaul Mr. Ryan McInerney & Mrs. Angela McInerney Mr. Andrew McKellar Dr. Paul McKenzie The Honorable Gregory Meeks, U.S. Representative & Mrs. Simone Marie Meeks Ms. Prue Mercer, Senior Adviser, Office of the Prime Minister Ms. Andrea Mitchell & Ms. Chloe Arensberg Ambassador Paul Myler, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Australia Mr. Sam Nester & Dr. Maya Popa The Honorable Anne Neuberger, Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technology & Mr. Yehuda Neuberger Mr. James Newton, Speechwriter, Office of the Prime Minister The Honorable Victoria Nuland, Acting Deputy Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State & Dr. Robert Kagan The Honorable Kevin C. O'Connor, Physician to the President & Mrs. Christine F. O’Connor The Honorable Jen O'Malley Dillon, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff & Mr. Patrick Dillon Dr. Sharada Balachandran Orihuela & Dr. Kali D. Cyrus Ms. Michelle O’Neil Ms. Valerie Biden Owens & Mr. Jack Owens Ms. Missy Owens & Mr. Cuffe Owens The Honorable Thomas Perez, Assistant to the President and Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs & Ms. Ann Staudenmaier Mr. Itzhak Perlman & Mrs. Toby Perlman Mr. Marc Perrone & Ms. Lori Werner Ms. Kate Pierson & Ms. Monica Coleman Ms. Ruth Porat & Mr. Anthony Paduano The Honorable Natalie Quillian, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff & Mr. Ryan Quillian Mr. Bryan Rafanelli & Mr. Mark Walsh The Honorable Gina M. Raimondo, Secretary of Commerce, U.S. Department of Commerce & Mr. Tommy Moffit The Honorable Mira Rapp-Hooper, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for East Asia and Oceania, National Security Council & Mr. Matthew Brest Dr. Ely Ratner & Mrs. Jennifer Ratner The Honorable Bruce Reed, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff & Ms. Bonnie LePard The Honorable Jack Reed, U.S. Senator & Mrs. Helen Reed Mr. Blake Resnick & Ms. Katie Resnick The Honorable Steve Ricchetti, Assistant to the President and Counselor to the President & Mrs. Amy Ricchetti Mr. Gregory Riggs & Ms. Kaye Riggs The Honorable James Risch, U.S. Senator & Mrs. Vicki Risch The Honorable Charles Rivkin & Ms. Susan Tolson Mrs. Stephanie Robinson & Mr. Mark Robinson Mr. Ethan Rosenzweig, Acting Chief of Protocol of the United States, U.S. Department of State His Excellency The Honorable Kevin Rudd AC, Ambassador of Australia to the United States & Ms. Thérèse Rein The Honorable Emmy Ruiz, Assistant to the President and Director of Political Strategy and Outreach & Ms. Stephanie Grabow Mr. Lee Saunders & Mrs. Lynne Saunders Mr. Frederick Schneider III & Mr. Kevin P. Miller Mr. Martin Schroeter & Mrs. Susan Schroeter The Honorable Charles E. Schumer, Majority Leader of the U.S. Senate & Mr. Michael Shapiro The Honorable Liz Sherwood-Randall, Assistant to the President and Homeland Security Advisor and Deputy National Security Advisor & Dr. Jeffrey Randall Mr. Brian Sikes & Mrs. Dana Sikes The Honorable Adam Smith, U.S. Representative & Mrs. Sara Smith The Honorable Alan Solomont & Mrs. Susan Solomont Mr. John Stankey & Mrs. Shari Stankey Ms. Laura Strayer The Honorable Julie Su, Acting Secretary of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor The Honorable Jake Sullivan, Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs & Ms. Margaret Goodlander Mr. S. Donald Sussman & Ms. Michelle Howland The Honorable Katherine C. Tai, United States Trade Representative & Mr. Robert Skidmore Dr. Andrew Thomas & Dr. Shannon Walker The Honorable Linda Thomas-Greenfield, United States Ambassador to the United Nations & Mr. Lafayette M. Greenfield II The Honorable John Thune, U.S. Senator & Mrs. Kimberley Thune Mr. Andrew Tobias & Mr. Rob Frier The Honorable Annie Tomasini, Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the President and Director of Oval Office Operations & Mrs. Margaret Tomasini Mr. Sam Trobe, Director of Policy, Office of the Prime Minister Mr. D. James Umpleby III & Mrs. Katherine Umpleby The Honorable Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (CA) & Mr. Steve Valbuena Dr. Rosita Van Coevorden, & Ms. Isabelle Van Coevorden Mr. Mark Vassella The Honorable Richard Verma, Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, U.S. Department of State & Mrs. Melineh Verma Mr. Peter Vlandys Ms. Shemara Wikramanayake & Mr. Ben Way Mr. Innes Willox Ms. Cindy Wilson & Mr. Keith Bennett Dr. Justin Wolfers & Dr. Betsey Stevenson The Honorable Ron Wyden, U.S. Senator & Mrs. Nancy Wyden The Honorable Janet L. Yellen, Secretary of the Treasury, U.S. Department of Treasury & Dr. George Akerlof The Honorable Ali Zaidi, Assistant to the President and National Climate Advisor & Dr. Candace Fatima Zaidi The Honorable Jeffrey Zients, Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff to the President & Mrs. Mary Zients' |
| October 25, 2023 18:43 |
WH in-town pool report #19/ North Portico arrival for state dinner Pool is at the North Portico awaiting the arrival of Prime Minister Albanese and Jodie Haydon. An Honor Guard is on the steps. From the press office: 'The President and the First Lady are hosting Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia for a State Dinne Speaking Program |
| October 25, 2023 18:56 |
WH in-town pool report #20/ POTUS greets PM A black limousine pulled up at the North Portico at 6.44pm. Prime Minister Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon climbed out and ascended the steps. They were greeted by POTUS, wearing a black suit and tie, and FLOTUS, wearing a sparkly beige dress. POTUS said humorously to PM Albanese: "We both did very well." The couples exchanged greetings then stood in a row to be photographed. They turned and walked through the North Portico door with POTUS and FLOTUS leading the way. |
| October 25, 2023 19:02 |
WH in-town pool report #21/ FLOTUS dress From the White House press office: 'The First Lady is wearing a silver blush gown, embroidered with leaf motifs by Reem Acra.' |
| October 25, 2023 19:34 |
WH in-town pool report #22/ Grand staircase At 7.20pm an Honor Guard carrying flags descended the grand staircase in the White House entrance hall, followed by POTUS and FLOTUS holding hands, then Prime Minister Albanese and Jodie Haydon holding hands, accompanied by military band music. The two couples paused at the foot of the steps and stood side by side. POTUS smiled at the pool. There was a portrait of former President Barack Obama to FLOTUS's left. The two couples then proceeded to the Blue Room. |
| October 25, 2023 20:43 |
WH in-town pool report #23/ State dinner Pool is now in a white marquee tent on the south lawn where guests are standing or sitting in readiness for the state dinner. A band in red military tunics is on stage playing easy listening music. Behind them is a sky blue wall with giant images of flowers, some of which appear to be 3D, and butterflies. The pool counts 17 bronze-coloured chandeliers with similarly elaborate floral designs. There are curtains and drapes in greens, pinks and purples, while the carpet is blue. The tables have candles, flowers and wine glasses. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is sitting within touching distance of your pooler and sipping water. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan can be seen talking animatedly at another table. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre just took her seat. |
| October 25, 2023 21:05 |
WH in-town pool report #24/ State dinner toasts POTUS and FLOTUS entered the marquee at 8.54pm as guests applauded and the band played 'Hail to the Chief'. POTUS stood at a lectern on stage and welcomed his Australian guests, paying tribute to the country's strong bonds. He said much of the future will be written in the Indo-Pacific and the US and Australia must play a big role. "We must continue to advance freedom, secuity and prosperity for all… and continue to build a future worthy of our highest hopes, even when it's difficult, especially when it's difficult." At 9pm he toasted "our partnership, our mateship and the future we'll create together. Cheers!" Prime Minister Albanese joked that his one regret is he will not be able to top this on his next date night with Jodie. More details to follow. |
| October 25, 2023 21:14 |
WH in-town pool report #25/ Lid A travel/ photo lid was called at 9.13pm. |
| October 25, 2023 21:34 |
WH in-town pool report #26/ POTUS's toast at the state dinner POTUS told guests at the state dinner: "Good evening, everyone. The Prime Minister and I Jodie and members of the Australian delegation. Distinguished guests. Jill and I are honoured to welcome you tonight to celebrate the historic bonds between our two nations that's been going on for 72 years now. An alliance. "During world war two more than 150,000 American troops were based in Australia to fight in the Pacific theatre and, to be sure they were prepared to navigate down under, each one of them was given a manual entitled 'Instructions for American Servicemen in Australia'. I'd like to read it." [Laughter] "Not all the tips hold today but I thought one of them was pretty good. This is a quote from it. 'You'll find the Australians haven't much respect for stuffed shirts, their own or anyone else's.' Well, I've learned that from my trip Down Under, as well as becoming friends with the Prime Minister. No wonder we get along so well. Another tip from the manual not only stands out but stands up: 'Australians have been in all hot spots whenever the going has been tough.' That's a fact. They have been." [Applause] "That commitment to face tough challenges, that courage to fight for a better future, that's what's always brought America and Australia together. I saw this growing up. My grandfather, Ambrose Finnegan, lost his son in the Pacific in world war two. He would literally straighten his shoulders every time the country Australia was mentioned; he'd just straighten up, straighten his soldiers. "I saw it with my own son. Major Beau Biden of the National Guard spent a year in Iraq. He told me how he could always count on Aussies to have his back. That's a fact. He meant it. And the old remembrance promise, at the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them, period. "Look folks, today that bond first forged on the battlefield has grown to capturing the full range of human ingenuity. Australian and American workers are building the future together. Australian and American students are innovating together. Australian and American engineers are working together to support Artemis missions to return human beings to the moon and from there to Mars. "And as I saw on our visit in Australia in 2016, Australians and Americans are driving cutting edge research to end cancer as we know it, and we will. Research that has only grown for those Australian teams recently mapping 949 cancer cell lines across 40 types of cancer. "Ladies and gentlemen, a great deal of the history of our world will be written in the Indo-Pacific in the coming years. Australia and the United States must write that story together. We must continue to advance freedom, security and prosperity for all, continue the vital work of our nations of building strong partnerships, of holding nation to nation commitments and to native peoples. "Continue to defend the values of great democracies: freedom of expression, freedom of religion and freedom from fear. Continue to build a future worthy of our highest hopes, even when it's tough, especially when it's tough, for we know that's when it matters the most. "Mr Prime Minister, today our two nations meet the future, embolded with a confidence, all that's come before.... all that has brought us here and all that Australia and America are: innovative, courageous, loyal, unwavering, bold of heart and resolute of spirit, determined that tomorrow will be better than today. "It will be more than just – it will be more free, more fair for all people because we have the power to make it so. So please join me in a toast for our partnership, our mateship and the future we'll create together. Cheers! Prime minister, the floor is yours." |
| October 25, 2023 21:36 |
WH in-town pool report #27/ Guests at POTUS's table From the White House press office: 'Joining the President and the First Lady at the Head Table: The Honorable Anthony Albanese MP, Prime Minister of Australia and Ms. Jodie Haydon |
| October 25, 2023 21:38 |
WH in-town pool report #28/ POTUS briefed on mass shooting From the White House press office: 'The President has been briefed on what’s known so far about the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine and will continue to receive updates.' |
| October 25, 2023 22:42 |
WH in-town pool report #29/ POTUS calls re Maine shooting From the White House press office: 'The President spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston, Maine and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack.' |
Pool Reports below by Kimberly Seif, NHK Japan Broadcasting Corporation
| Sent: | Reports: |
| October 25, 2023 08:15 |
Foreign Pool Report #1 - Background on Australia Official Visit Good morning, I will be your foreign pool reporter for Prime Minister Albanese's first Official Visit to the White House today. Kindly find below some background information I hope will be useful going into today's events. Agenda President Biden extended the invitation to Prime Minister Albanese for an Official Visit back in May after canceling his trip to Sydney for the Quad Leaders Summit due to the ongoing debt ceiling negotiations. Prime Minister Albanese arrived in Washington D.C. on Sunday evening. On Monday, the Prime Minister participated in a ceremony at the Arlington National Ceremony, where he laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. He also paid respects to the two Australians that are buried at the cemetery -- World War II Royal Australian Air Force Pilot Officer Francis Milne, and Yvonne Kennedy, an Australian citizen that died on September 11, 2001 in the plane that was hijacked and crashed into the Pentagon. She is honored at the Pentagon Group Burial Marker. Prime Minister Albanese then met with Microsoft President Brad Smith at the Australian Embassy in Washington, D.C. and announced that Microsoft will be making a $5 billion AUD (around $3 billion USD) investment in Australia to expand artificial intelligence and cloud computing. Microsoft will also expand an information-sharing agreement on cyber threats with the Australian Signals Directorate and will support the training of 300,000 Australians in skills necessary for the digital economy, according to statements released by the Prime Minister's Office. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Albanese spoke at the opening ceremony for the newly renovated Australian Embassy in Washington, D.C., and then participated in a Critical Minerals and Industry Roundtable with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, according to statements released by the Prime Minister's Office. Prime Minister Albanese then gave remarks at the Australian Innovation Showcase. In the evening, Prime Minister Albanese and his partner, Jodie Haydon, were greeted by President Biden and the First Lady at the White House and joined them for a dinner, guest book signing, and official gift exchange, per the White House Press Office. Today, the program of the Official Visit begins with an arrival ceremony where President Biden and the First Lady will greet Prime Minister Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon on the South Lawn. Vice President Harris will also attend. President Biden and Prime Minister Albanese will then conduct a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office followed by a joint press conference in the Rose Garden. This evening, there will be a group photo at the Grand Staircase followed by a State Dinner. On Thursday, Prime Minister Albanese will conclude his visit by attending a State Luncheon hosted by Vice President Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, NSC Senior Director Dr. Mira Rapp-Hooper said in a Foreign Press Center briefing on Tuesday. I would also like to note that during press conferences before and after his arrival in the United States, Prime Minister Albanese stated he planned on meeting with legislators in the Senate and the House throughout his visit to discuss the legislation needed to move forward with AUKUS. The Australian embassy did not respond to an inquiry about the schedule of these meetings. Expected Announcements/Deliverables Technology Cooperation – In the White House press briefing on Tuesday, NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby stated that the two leaders will be announcing new advanced technology cooperation, specifically on artificial intelligence and a new space agreement that will permit U.S. companies to launch into space from Australia. Critical Minerals - In a Foreign Press Center briefing on Tuesday, Dr. Mira Rapp-Hooper, NSC Senior Director for East Asia and Oceania, said that there will be announcements relating to clean energy and critical mineral supply chains, building off of the launch of the critical minerals task force this week and the US-Australia Critical Minerals and Clean Energy Transformation Compact that was signed back in May. Defense cooperation NSC Senior Director Rapp-Hooper stated during the Foreign Press Center briefing that President Biden and Prime Minister Albanese will discuss enhancing defense cooperation, not only bilaterally between the two countries, but also trilaterally with Japan, in areas like defense exercises and information sharing. Dr. Rapp-Hooper stated there will be "concrete new initiatives"announced. Maritime infrastructure Per a senior administration official, there will be the launching of an undersea internet cable project, as part of the PGII initiative, and the announcement of a private sector company that will be building the cable. There will be two additional maritime infrastructure announcements, both relevant to the Pacific Islands. Other Notable Issues/Priorities AUKUS – We can expect the two leaders to discuss efforts to fully implement AUKUS. Congressional approval is still needed in order to authorize the sale of the 3 nuclear-powered submarines to Australia that was announced back in March 2023. Export exemption legislation also needs to be passed as well as the recent supplemental budget request which includes funding to strengthen the U.S. submarine industrial base. As mentioned above, Prime Minister Albanese stated his intention to meet with lawmakers to discuss the necessary legislation. President Biden is expected to assure Prime Minister Albanese that the U.S. will be able to follow through on its commitment to AUKUS, according to a senior administration official. China - Prime Minister and President Biden are expected to discuss the role China is playing in the Indo-Pacific and "share notes and compare details," according to a senior administration official. Prime Minister Albanese is also likely to speak to President Biden about his desire to improve relations with China. Before departing to the United States, Prime Minister Albanese announced he will be traveling to China in early November, where he will have meetings with President Xi Jinping. In the White House press briefing on Tuesday, John Kirby said the administration understands and fully supports the Prime Minister's decision. Middle East – The Israel-Hamas conflict will be a focus of the discussions between President Biden and Prime Minister Albanese. NSC Senior Director Mira Rapp-Hooper said to reporters in a Foreign Press Center briefing that the two leaders are united in their commitment to return peace to the region and to provide humanitarian aid to those who need it. Dr. Rapp-Hooper also said an important part of this Official Visit is demonstrating their continued commitment to the Indo-Pacific as well and that it is possible to focus on both regions at once. Previous Meetings This is the 9th time that President Biden and Prime Minister Albanese have met and the 5th bilateral meeting between the United States and Australia. It is Prime Minister Albanese's first visit to the White House. Previous Bilaterals
Brief Bio on Prime Minister Albanese Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was sworn in as the 31st Prime Minister of Australia on May 23, 2022. He was first elected to Parliament in 1996, served as Deputy Prime Minister in 2013 under Kevin Rudd, and was made the leader of the Labor Party in 2019 before getting elected as Prime Minister in 2022. Prime Minister Albanese was previously married in 2000, and got divorced in 2019. His current partner, Jodie Haydon, accompanied him on this trip to the United States. State Dinner program change This will be the fourth state dinner of the Biden administration. First Lady Dr. Jill Biden hosted a media preview on Tuesday to discuss the decor, menu and entertainment for the event. Regarding entertainment, the band The B-52s were slated to perform for the evening. However, Dr. Biden stated that in deference to recent world events, the decision was made to instead have the Marine Band and the Army and Air Force Strolling Strings play instrumental music for the dinner. The B-52s will still attend the dinner as guests. Gift Exchange The White House released the following statement about the official gift exchange that happened on Tuesday evening – " As the official gift, the President and First Lady will present an antique writing desk, designed in 1886 by an American furniture company in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The side panel will include an inscription set in gold to commemorate the Official Visit. President Biden will gift Prime Minster Albanese a custom signature turntable from a family-owned American audio manufacturer that includes a special engraved plaque to commemorate the Official Visit. Dr. Biden will gift Ms. Jodie Haydon a green enamel and diamond petite necklace designed and hand-crafted by an American jeweler." |
| October 25, 2023 08:22 |
Foreign Pool Report #2 - Schedule Good morning, Kindly find below today's schedule for the Australian Prime Minister's Official Visit. The first event is the arrival ceremony at 10 a.m, with a gather time at 8:40. 10:00 AM THE PRESIDENT and THE FIRST LADY greet Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia for the Official Arrival Ceremony; THE VICE PRESIDENT attends 11:00 AM THE PRESIDENT holds a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia 12:30 PM THE PRESIDENT holds a joint press conference with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia 6:30 PM THE PRESIDENT and THE FIRST LADY greet Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia on arrival for the State Dinner 7:05 PM THE PRESIDENT and THE FIRST LADY participate in a photo opportunity with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia at the Grand Staircase on the occasion of the State Dinner 8:45 PM THE PRESIDENT and THE FIRST LADY host Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia for a State Dinner; THE VICE PRESIDENT and THE SECOND GENTLEMAN attend |
| October 25, 2023 08:42 |
Foreign pool report #3 - gather Press is gathering now at the Palm Room Doors for the arrival ceremony |
| October 25, 2023 08:59 |
Foreign pool report #4 Press was led out onto the South Lawn at 8:49. There is stage set up on the lawn with a podium at the center. Hundreds of people are in attendance , most holding Australia and US flags. The arrival ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. |
| October 25, 2023 09:50 |
Foreign pool report #5 - Speaking program Passing along from the White House — The President and the First Lady are welcoming Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia for the Official Arrival Ceremony. Attendees U.S. Delegation Australia Delegation Speaking Program |
| October 25, 2023 10:01 |
Foreign pool report #6 From the WH — The White House is hosting approximately 3,982 guests for the official arrival of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia. |
| October 25, 2023 10:18 |
Foreign Pool Report #7 - Arrival The President and the First Lady exited the White House at 10:12 Prime Minister Albanese and Jodie Hayden arrived and exited their vehicle at 10:13. The two leaders, along with their partners, moved to the lawn and shook hands with people lined up next to the stage The two leaders walked onto the stage at 10:16 The Australian national anthem was played first followed by the US national anthem. The event is being live-streamed at https://www.whitehouse.gov/live/ |
| October 25, 2023 10:43 |
Foreign Pool Note #8 - Arrival ceremony remarks POTUS and the Prime Minister walked along the perimeter of the military service-members at the event. Both leaders then walked back onto the stage and watched a parade of a band with 18th century- style military uniforms on. President Biden began speaking first at 10:25. He spoke for about 6 minutes, ending his remarks at 10:31. He opened with welcoming the Prime Minister to the White House and said that Australia and the United States continue to stand together. Prime Minister Albanese started speaking at 10:31 and ended at 10:38. After remarks finished, POTUS and the Prime Minister left the stage and the two couples went up the stairs and stood together on the second-story balcony. They waved out to the crowd and then turned around and entered the White House. |
| October 25, 2023 11:10 |
Foreign Pool Report #9 - Oval Office Bilat POTUS began speaking at 10:57. He stated- "Today we are taking our alliance even further" Prime Minister Albanese started speaking at 10:58. He said that the alliance had never been more important and it has never been stronger. He thanked President Biden for working with legislators to ensure that AUKUS can move forward In response to shouted questions, POTUS said he would answer questions during the press conference. Pool was ushered out at 11:02 More quotes to come |
| October 25, 2023 11:12 |
Foreign Pool Report #10 From the WH press office — The President is participating in a restricted bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia. U.S. Restricted Delegation Australia Restricted Delegation |
| October 25, 2023 11:27 |
Foreign Pool Report #11 -- Some Albanese quotes from Oval Kindly find below some quotes from Prime Minister Albanese's remarks during the Oval Office Spray. Please check against the official transcript "And our alliance, I believe has never been more important. And it's also never been stronger. We've added a third tier. We have had defense and we've had the economic relationship -- defense through Qantas, the economic relationship through our free trade agreement. But we've added a third part of this alliance, front and center as well, through our Clean Energy critical minerals and climate change compact. Taking action to protect the world, to lower emissions, to take advantage of the shift to clean energy that, the opportunity that presents to grow economies as well. And to decouple particularly for developing nations to allow them to develop in a way at the same time as they're reducing emissions. And breaking that nexus between industrialization and emissions is so important." "The AUKUS agreement is so essential. and I thank you, Mr. President for the work that you've done in persuading legislators to make sure that we put in place permissions that are necessary to encourage that two way transfer of defense technology that will be at the center of the agreement" "In today's uncertain world, the alliance between Australia and the United States and the way that we stand steadfast against aggression whether it b Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine, for whether it be Hamas' terrorist attack on Israel is something that can be relied upon, to just stand up for our common values." |
| October 25, 2023 11:36 |
Foreign Pool Report #12 - Updated schedule Hello, Please note below the updated daily guidance. The joint press conference will now be at 1:15 p.m with a gather time at 12:45 1:15 PM THE PRESIDENT holds a joint press conference with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia |
| October 25, 2023 11:38 |
Foreign Pool Report #13 - Expanded Bilat From the White House Press Office -- The President is participating in an expanded bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia. U.S. Delegation Australia Delegation |
| October 25, 2023 13:53 |
Foreign Pool Report #14 - Joint Press Conference Begins Press are seated in the Rose Garden. The first two rows of seats are roped off and members of the US and Australian delegation have been seated there. President Biden and Prime Mnister Albanese entered the Rose Garden at 1:52. POTUS is speaking now. From the White House Press Office-- The President is participating in a joint press conference with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia. U.S. Delegation Australia Delegation |
| October 25, 2023 14:14 |
Foreign Pool Report #15 - Joint Press Conference Opening remarks Please check any quotes against the official transcript. POTUS began speaking at 1:52. Some quotes from POTUS' opening remarks He began with a statement about the ongoing conflict in the Middle East He stated "we will ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself against these terrorists. That's a guarantee. We also have to remember Hamas does not represent, let me say it again, does not represent the vast majority of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip or anywhere else." He thanked Prime Minister Albanese for his friendship "during this difficult hour." President Biden also stated that the administration is "working around the clock together with our partners in the region to secure the release of hostages." "I sent Congress a budget request, with commitments to boost our summer, our submarine production and maintenance capacity here in the United States. I want to thank you, Mr. Prime Minister, for the stark investments Australia has made to strengthen the submarine industry base as well. Democrats and Republicans alike understand the strategic value AUKUS brings to our nations and I urge Congress urge Congress to pass our AUKUS legislation this year. Thanked Australia for their recent announcment for additional aid to Ukraine" Prime Minister Albanese began speaking at 2:02 "Today, President Biden and I discussed the progress being made on Australia's acquisition of nuclear powered conventionally armed submarines, which we announced with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in March in San Diego. We're conscious that this is only the second time in history that the United States has shared this technology. And this back speaks to the deep trust of our alliances, and the significance of the challenge that we face together" "Australia appreciates your administration's efforts to operationalize AUKUS and work with Congress to pass the legislation needed" "We're working closely with the United States to build end to end sustainable, reliable and transparent supply chains for critical minerals. Of course, Australia has abundant supplies of these critical minerals that will drive our economies throughout the century" "Last night and again today we spoke about the situation in Israel and Gaza. Australia unequivocally condemns the terrorism of Hamas. We grieve for the loss of every innocent life whether they be Israeli or Palestinian. In times of crisis, respectful international humanitarian law is paramount." "We also discussed their joint position opposing Russia's illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine. Australian stand with Ukraine and President Biden welcomed the package of further assistance that I announced yesterday. This will provide Ukraine with additional military assistance utilizing the innovative technology that's produced by Australia's defense industry partners." We now turn to questions from the press. |
| October 25, 2023 14:44 |
Foreign Pool Report #16 - Additional quotes from Joint Press conference Kindly find below some additional quotes from the Joint Press Conference . Please check quotes against the official transcript Q - First question to President Biden was about the possibility of the Middle East conflict expanding in the region and if Americans should be worried about it escalating, and his warning to Iran. "We have had troops in the region since 9/11 to go after ISIS and (unclear) in the region, having nothing to do with Israel at all. My warning to the Ayatollah was that if they continue to move against those troops, we will respond and he should be prepared. It has nothing to do with Israel." Q -- Have you sought assurances from PM Netanyahu about holding off the ground invasion into Gaza until the release of hostages. "No. Well, I have indicated to him is that if that's possible, to get these folks out safely, that's what he should do, it's their decision, but I did not demand it" Q -- Can you guarantee AUKUS legislation will pass? It's important that Congress move quickly. And the fact is that I'm confident that we can get this done. Q -- You've previously asked Netanyahu to minimize civilian casualties. Do these numbers say to you that he is ignoring that message? I have no notion that Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed I'm sure innocents had been killed (unclear). I think we should be incredibly careful. I think when that we, Israel should be incredibly careful to be sure that they're focusing on going after the folks that are propagating this war against Israel. Questions to PM Albanese Q- Asked if recent dysfunction in the US makes Australia doubt if there are a reliable partner. "I regard the United States as a very reliable partner. And I regard the relationship that I have with the President as second to none other relationships that I have around the world or indeed domestically, for that matter. It's, it's a relationship of trust" Q -- Do you support extreme competition with China and what does that look like for you? "The relationship with with China is one where the principle that I bring to it is to cooperate where we can, disagree where we must but engage in our national interest. It is in Australia's interests as well as China but I believe in the global interests for us to have a relationship where there is dialogue" Q - On speaking with PM Netanyahu "I have spoken with the Israeli ambassador on a number of occasions. We continue to we understand that, obviously, Mr. Netanyahu has, has pressures on which at the top of the list is not the discussion with the Australian Prime Minister." |
| October 25, 2023 14:25 |
Foreign Pool Report #16 -- Joint Press Conference ends [APP Note: See reporter's comment in Report #18 (below) regarding numbering.] The joint press conference ended at 2:24. 2 US reporters and 2 Australian reporters asked questions. More to come on the questions and quotes |
| October 25, 2023 14:49 |
Foreign Pool Report #18 - Misnumbered report Apologies, the previous report should have been labeled as Foreign Pool Report #17, not #16. This email will serve as Pool Report #18 and then we should be back on track. |
| October 25, 2023 17:08 |
Foreign Pool Report #19 - State Dinner Guest List Passing along from the WH -- White House Releases State Dinner Guest List This evening, the President and the First Lady of the United States will hostPrime Minister Anthony Albanese and Ms. Jodie Haydon of Australia for a State Dinner. The following is a complete list of expected guests: THE PRESIDENT AND DR. BIDEN THE HONORABLE ANTHONY ALBANESE MP, PRIME MINISTER OF AUSTRALIA AND MS. JODIE HAYDON Ms. Joyce Aboussie & Mr. Greg Keller The Honorable Pete Aguilar, U.S. Representative & Mrs. Alisha Aguilar The Honorable Elizabeth Allen, Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, U.S. Department of State & Mr. Edward Price, Senior Advisor to the Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State Mr. Chris Ashton The Honorable Lloyd Austin, Secretary of Defense, U.S. Department of Defense & Mrs. Charlene Austin Dr. Sharada Balachandran Orihuela & Dr. Kali D. Cyrus The Honorable Xavier Becerra, Secretary of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services & Dr. Carolina Reyes Mr. Brendan Bechtel & Mrs. Helen Bechtel The Honorable Anthony Bernal, Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the First Lady & Mrs. Marisa Bernal Cox The Honorable Jared Bernstein, Chair of the Council of Economic Advisors & Ms. Kay Arndorfer The Honorable John Berry & Mr. Curtis Yee Ms. Naomi Biden & Mr. Peter Neal Ms. Finnegan Biden Ms. Maisy Biden The Honorable Maher Bitar, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Intelligence & Ms. Astrid Dorelien Mr. Bran Black The Honorable Jeffery Bleich & Ms. Rebecca Bleich The Honorable Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State & The Honorable Evan Ryan, Assistant to the President and Cabinet Secretary Mr. Francisco L. Borges & Mrs. Luisa Borges General Charles Q. Brown, Jr. & Mrs. Sharene Brown Dr. Alex Brown Ms. Taryn Brumfitt & Dr. Zali Yager Mr. Russell Budd & Reverend Dorothy Budd The Honorable William J. Burns, Director of the Central Intelligence Agency & The Honorable Lisa Carty, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Economic and Social Council The Honorable Pete Buttigieg, Secretary of Transportation, U.S. Department of Transportation & Mr. Chasten Buttigieg Professor Thomas Calma AO The Honorable Kurt Campbell, Deputy Assistant to the President and Coordinator for the Indo-Pacific, National Security Council & The Honorable Lael Brainard, Assistant to the President and Director of the National Economic Council The Honorable Ben Cardin, U.S. Senator & Mrs. Myrna Cardin Mrs. Laetitia Garriott de Cayeux & Miss. Kinga Garriott de Cayeux Mr. Craig Chittick OAM, First Assistant Secretary, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Dr. Melissa Chiu & Dr. Suzanne Hollman The Honorable Derek Chollet, Counselor of the U.S. Department of State & Ms. Heather Hostetter The Honorable Katherine Clark, U.S. Representative & Mr. Nathaniel Dowell Mr. Bruce Cohen & Mr. Gabe Catone Ms. Katie Connolly, Director of Strategic Communications and Outreach, Office of the Prime Minister The Honorable Roy Cooper, Governor of North Carolina & Mrs. Kristin Cooper Dr. Lynn Cornelius & Dr. Joseph Cornelius The Honorable Joe Courtney, U.S. Representative and Co-Chair of Australia Caucus & Mrs. Audrey Courtney Professor Glyn Davis AC, Secretary, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet The Honorable Michael C. Donilon, Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the President & Mrs. Patricia Donilon Mr. Mark David Ein & Mrs. Sally Ein The Honorable Jon Finer, Assistant to the President and Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Ms. Elizabeth Fitch, Media Director and Principal Press Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister Mr. Yance Ford & Ms. Amanda Lichtenberg Mr. Chip Forrester & Ms. Elizabeth Haselkorn Dr. Michael Fullilove Dr. Juliet V. Garcia Mr. Timothy Gartrell, Chief of Staff, Office of the Prime Minister Mr. Rory Gates & The Honorable Don Harmon, President of the Illinois State Senate Mr. Craig Gering & Mrs. Jane Gering The Honorable Rufus Gifford & Dr. Stephen DeVincent The Honorable Mark Gilbert & Mrs. Nancy Gilbert The Honorable Shuwanza Goff, Assistant to the President and Director of the Office of Legislative Affairs & Mr. Jamie Fleet Mr. Jeffrey Goldberg & Ms. Pamela Reeves The Honorable Philip Gordon, Assistant to the President and National Security Advisor to the Vice President & Mrs. Rachel Gordon Ms. Fatima Goss Graves & Ms. Carol Ann Goss Mr. Jon Gray & Mrs. Mindy Gray The Honorable Josh Green, Governor of Hawaii & Mrs. Jaime Green The Honorable Arthur J. Gregg & Mrs. Alicia G. Collier The Honorable Debra Haaland, Secretary of the Interior, U.S. Department of the Interior & Ms. Aleta Suazo The Honorable Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States & Mr. Douglas Emhoff Mr. Andrew Hauptman & Mrs. Ellen Bronfman Hauptman Mr. Jon Henes & Mrs. Pamela Henes The Honorable Jim Himes, U.S. Representative & Mrs. Mary Himes Mrs. Barbara Humpton & Mr. David Humpton Mrs. Shannon Hunt-Scott & Mr. Kevin Scott Ms. Laleh Ispahani & Mr. Tapio Vaskio Ms. Bonny Jacobs The Honorable Karine Jean-Pierre, Assistant to the President and Press Secretary The Honorable Bonnie Jenkins, Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs, U.S. Department of State & Mr. Matthew D. Steinhelfer, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Conflict and Stabilization Operations, U.S. Department of State Mr. Darius Jones & Mrs. Tori Johnson-Jones Mr. Joe Kahn & Ms. Shannon Wu The Honorable Tim Kaine, U.S. Senator & Ms. Anne Holton Mr. Brad Karp & Mrs. Roberta Karp Mr. Jeffrey Katzenberg & Mr. Sujay Jaswa Ms. Janet Keller & Ms. Katherine Schneider The Honorable Caroline Kennedy, Ambassador of the United States to Australia & Dr. Edwin Schlossberg The Honorable James F. Kenney, Mayor of Philadelphia & Ms. Letitia Santarelli Mr. James Keogh & Ms. Selen Us The Honorable John Kerry, U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate & Dr. Vanessa Kerry & Ms. Alexandra Kerry The Honorable Madeline King MP, Minister for Resources and Minister for Northern Australia Ms. Kathy Klugman, Principal Adviser, International, Office of the Prime Minister Mr. Orin Kramer & Ms. Barbara Marcin The Honorable Daniel J. Kritenbrink, Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs & Mrs. Nami Kritenbrink The Honorable Ben LaBolt, Assistant to the President and Director of Communications Ms. Amanda Lacaze The Honorable Sarah Ladislaw, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Climate & Mr. Gregg L. Ladislaw Kid Laroi & Ms. Sloane Howard Ms. Jane Lauder & Mr. Kevin Warsh Dr. Brenda Lauderback & Dr. Antonio D. Tillis Dr. Marsha Laufer & Dr. Henry Laufer Mr. James Lawrence & Dr. Mary Lawrence Ms. Nancy LeaMond & Mr. Colin Finan Mr. John Leguizamo & Mrs. Justine Leguizamo The Honorable Daniella Levine-Cava, Mayor of Miami-Dade County & Dr. Robert Cava Mr. Jeremy Liew & Miss. Ellie Liew Ms. Lori Lodes & Mr. Austin Evers Mr. Christopher Lowe & Ms. Bonnie Datt Mr. Eugene A. Ludwig & Dr. Carol L. Ludwig Imam Mohamed Magid & Dr. Amaarah DeCuir Ms. Sue Mandel & Mr. Steve Mandel Mr. Gerard Martin PSM, Head of Commonwealth Protocol, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Mr. Brett Mason, Head of the Press Office, Office of the Prime Minister The Honorable Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of Homeland Security & Mrs. Tanya Mayorkas The Honorable Michael McCaul, U.S. Representative & Mrs. Linda McCaul Mr. Ryan McInerney & Mrs. Angela McInerney Mr. Andrew McKellar Dr. Paul McKenzie The Honorable Gregory Meeks, U.S. Representative & Mrs. Simone Marie Meeks Ms. Prue Mercer, Senior Adviser, Office of the Prime Minister Ms. Andrea Mitchell & Ms. Chloe Arensberg Ambassador Paul Myler, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Australia Mr. Sam Nester & Dr. Maya Popa The Honorable Anne Neuberger, Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technology & Mr. Yehuda Neuberger Mr. James Newton, Speechwriter, Office of the Prime Minister The Honorable Victoria Nuland, Acting Deputy Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State & Dr. Robert Kagan The Honorable Kevin C. O'Connor, Physician to the President & Mrs. Christine F. O’Connor The Honorable Jen O'Malley Dillon, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff & Mr. Patrick Dillon Dr. Sharada Balachandran Orihuela & Dr. Kali D. Cyrus Ms. Michelle O’Neil Ms. Valerie Biden Owens & Mr. Jack Owens Ms. Missy Owens & Mr. Cuffe Owens The Honorable Thomas Perez, Assistant to the President and Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs & Ms. Ann Staudenmaier Mr. Itzhak Perlman & Mrs. Toby Perlman Mr. Marc Perrone & Ms. Lori Werner Ms. Kate Pierson & Ms. Monica Coleman Ms. Ruth Porat & Mr. Anthony Paduano The Honorable Natalie Quillian, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff & Mr. Ryan Quillian Mr. Bryan Rafanelli & Mr. Mark Walsh The Honorable Gina M. Raimondo, Secretary of Commerce, U.S. Department of Commerce & Mr. Tommy Moffit The Honorable Mira Rapp-Hooper, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for East Asia and Oceania, National Security Council & Mr. Matthew Brest Dr. Ely Ratner & Mrs. Jennifer Ratner The Honorable Bruce Reed, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff & Ms. Bonnie LePard The Honorable Jack Reed, U.S. Senator & Mrs. Helen Reed Mr. Blake Resnick & Ms. Katie Resnick The Honorable Steve Ricchetti, Assistant to the President and Counselor to the President & Mrs. Amy Ricchetti Mr. Gregory Riggs & Ms. Kaye Riggs The Honorable James Risch, U.S. Senator & Mrs. Vicki Risch The Honorable Charles Rivkin & Ms. Susan Tolson Mrs. Stephanie Robinson & Mr. Mark Robinson Mr. Ethan Rosenzweig, Acting Chief of Protocol of the United States, U.S. Department of State His Excellency The Honorable Kevin Rudd AC, Ambassador of Australia to the United States & Ms. Thérèse Rein The Honorable Emmy Ruiz, Assistant to the President and Director of Political Strategy and Outreach & Ms. Stephanie Grabow Mr. Lee Saunders & Mrs. Lynne Saunders Mr. Frederick Schneider III & Mr. Kevin P. Miller Mr. Martin Schroeter & Mrs. Susan Schroeter The Honorable Charles E. Schumer, Majority Leader of the U.S. Senate & Mr. Michael Shapiro The Honorable Liz Sherwood-Randall, Assistant to the President and Homeland Security Advisor and Deputy National Security Advisor & Dr. Jeffrey Randall Mr. Brian Sikes & Mrs. Dana Sikes The Honorable Adam Smith, U.S. Representative & Mrs. Sara Smith The Honorable Alan Solomont & Mrs. Susan Solomont Mr. John Stankey & Mrs. Shari Stankey Ms. Laura Strayer The Honorable Julie Su, Acting Secretary of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor The Honorable Jake Sullivan, Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs & Ms. Margaret Goodlander Mr. S. Donald Sussman & Ms. Michelle Howland The Honorable Katherine C. Tai, United States Trade Representative & Mr. Robert Skidmore Dr. Andrew Thomas & Dr. Shannon Walker The Honorable Linda Thomas-Greenfield, United States Ambassador to the United Nations & Mr. Lafayette M. Greenfield II The Honorable John Thune, U.S. Senator & Mrs. Kimberley Thune Mr. Andrew Tobias & Mr. Rob Frier The Honorable Annie Tomasini, Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the President and Director of Oval Office Operations & Mrs. Margaret Tomasini Mr. Sam Trobe, Director of Policy, Office of the Prime Minister Mr. D. James Umpleby III & Mrs. Katherine Umpleby The Honorable Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (CA) & Mr. Steve Valbuena Dr. Rosita Van Coevorden, & Ms. Isabelle Van Coevorden Mr. Mark Vassella The Honorable Richard Verma, Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, U.S. Department of State & Mrs. Melineh Verma Mr. Peter Vlandys Ms. Shemara Wikramanayake & Mr. Ben Way Mr. Innes Willox Ms. Cindy Wilson & Mr. Keith Bennett Dr. Justin Wolfers & Dr. Betsey Stevenson The Honorable Ron Wyden, U.S. Senator & Mrs. Nancy Wyden The Honorable Janet L. Yellen, Secretary of the Treasury, U.S. Department of Treasury & Dr. George Akerlof The Honorable Ali Zaidi, Assistant to the President and National Climate Advisor & Dr. Candace Fatima Zaidi The Honorable Jeffrey Zients, Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff to the President & Mrs. Mary Zients |
| October 25, 2023 18:47 |
Foreign Pool Report #20 - North Portico Arrival Pool was led onto risers facing the entrance to the White House at the North Portico. An Australian flag and a US flag were hung in the windows on either side of the double doors and uniformed military service-members were also lined up on either side of the door. POTUS and FLOTUS exited the White House at 6:43. Prime Minister Albanese car arrived at 6:43. Prime Minister Albanese and Jodie Hayden exited the car and greeted POTUS and FLOTUS. The couples entered the White House at 6:44 |
| October 25, 2023 | [APP Note: Report #21 does not exist or was not received by the APP.] |
| October 25, 2023 19:28 |
Foreign Pool Report #22 - Group Photo POTUS, FLOTUS, Prime Minister Albanese and Jodie Haydon began descending the staircase at 7:20. POTUS and FLOTUS were first followed by the PM and Jodie Haydon. They stopped at the base of the stairs and stood in a line facing the press for photos. The couples then walked into the Blue Room at 7:22. From the White House — The First Lady is wearing a silver blush gown, embroidered with leaf motifs by Reem Acra. |
| October 25, 2023 19:41 |
Foreign Pool Report #23 -- Jodie Haydon's Dress The Australian Prime Minister's Office released the following about the the dress Jodie Haydon is wearing for the State Dinner tonight. A big thank you to Katina Curtis from The West Australian for forwarding this along! Jodie Haydon, the Prime Minister's spouse, is immensely proud to be wearing Australian designed and Australian made to the White House State Dinner this evening. Jodie will wear a draped asymmetrical tulle gown by Paolo Sebastian, which features beautiful embroidery that includes native Australian birds, such as the Kookaburra, and native flora, including wattle and the Sturt's desert pea. Creative Director and Founder of Paolo Sebastian, Paul Vasileff, a former 'Young Australian of the Year', has built the Paolo Sebastian brand from its inception in 2007. He now has an international clientele, holds annual showings in Paris, and employs a highly skilled team in Adelaide. Jodie will accessorise with jewellery from Cerrone, who operate Australia's largest bespoke, handcrafted jewellery workshop in Leichhardt, New South Wales. Founded by Nicola Cerrone in 1972, Cerrone is highly regarded for its craftsmanship and design excellence. Both the gown and jewellery are on loan. |
| October 25, 2023 20:34 |
Foreign Pool Report #24 The pool was taken to the tent where the state dinner is being held at the end of the South Lawn near the Presidential Fountain. The pool observed several trolleys that were dropping people off at end of the walkway, taking them from the White House South Lawn entrance. Violinists lined the sidewalk leading to the entrance of the tent. Pool was led in at 8:29 and are lined up at the back of the room. We are waiting the start of the toasts. The President is meant to speak first followed by the Prime Minister |
| October 25, 2023 20:51 |
Foreign Pool Report #25 - Some color from the room While waiting for the toasts to begin, here is a some color from the room — Multi-colored drapes cover the ceiling and walls, ranging from blue to green to purple. There is a large stage at the front of the room with a floral-themed backdrop. Gold chandeliers hang from the ceiling accented with pink roses. The band is already on the stage. There’s a variety of circular and rectangular tables in the room. All the tables have one or more floral centerpieces, varying in size. There’s also an assortment of candles on every table. In front of each place setting is a name card. Your foreign pooler observed Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre walking towards her table. |
| October 25, 2023 21:13 |
Foreign pool report #26 - State Dinner toasts POTUS,FLOTUS, the Prime Minister, and Jodie Haydon entered the tent at 8:54 POTUS and the PM took to the stage and POTUS began speaking at 8:55. Some quotes from POTUS— please check against the transcript "Ladies and gentlemen, a great deal the history of our world will be written in the Indo Pacific in the coming years." "Please join me in a toast for our partnership, our mate-ship and the future that we will create together." PM Albanese began speaking at 9:00 "I must say I only have one regret about, to not, which is I'm not quite sure how I top this for date night with Jodie anytime, anywhere in the future." "America has never been held back by the unknown or slowed by trepidation. You stride boldly towards the future excited by all of its possibility in every field of human endeavor, Your nation is energized by a ceaseless curiosity and the confidence to follow up." "It is a spirit that Australians identify with, with a small population but a very big imagination. We punch above our weight all the while drawing inspiration from our friends across the Pacific." "We stand as close as we have ever been. And I think after this week, closer than we have ever been. We are firm allies strengthening defense cooperation through AUKUS and creating more economic opportunities for our peoples and our region." "So allow me to make a toast to such friends, because Australia has no greater friend than the United States of America." PM Albanese finished his remarks at 9:05. |
| October 25, 2023 21:15 |
Foreign Pool Report #27 -- Head Table Passing on from the WH -- Joining the President and the First Lady at the Head Table: The Honorable Anthony Albanese MP, Prime Minister of Australia and Ms. Jodie Haydon |
| October 25, 2023 21:33 |
Foreign Pool Report #28 -- PM Albanese Gift Exchange to POTUS The Australian Prime Minister's Office released the following about the official gift that was presented to POTUS and FLOTUS on Tuesday night when PM Albanese and Jodie Haydon joined POTUS and FLOTUS for dinner at the White House. Many thanks to Emily Goodin with the Daily Mail for forwarding it along to me! President Biden will be presented with 'Fire Flower 8', a painting by Australian artist Katherine Boland. o In the wake of the 2019-20 Australia and US bushfires, Katherine Boland was selected as one of 10 artists (six from Australia and four from the US) to participate in OUTPUT: ART AFTER FIRE – a pilot project funded by DFAT. o The project supported fire-affected communities in southeast NSW and in the American west by assisting visual artists and creative writers impacted by the fires to make artwork about their experiences. o The Fire Flower series depicts the renewal of native flora and the resilience of the Australian bush. o With over 100 years of mateship, Australia and the United States have a proud history of helping each other in times of need, including when faced with natural disasters. · The First Lady will be presented with a silver leaf brooch by jewellery designer Shimara Carlow, and a silk scarf designed by Katarra Butler Napaltjarri. o Shimara Carlow's work is inspired by nature and natural forms, using intricately textured silver, 18ct gold, gum nuts and precious stones to create jewellery and silverware. o Katarra Butler's untitled painting depicted on the scarf is associated with the site of Tjukurla in Western Australia. During ancestral times, a group of women gathered at Tjukurla to perform the ceremonial songs and dances associated with the area. As they travelled, the women gathered large quantities of edible fruit. The various bush foods foraged by the women are represented by small circles in the painting As a reminder, the White House forwarded along this statement with the gift President Biden presented to Prime Minister Albanese on Tuesday evening -- " As the official gift, the President and First Lady will present an antique writing desk, designed in 1886 by an American furniture company in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The side panel will include an inscription set in gold to commemorate the Official Visit. President Biden will gift Prime Minster Albanese a custom signature turntable from a family-owned American audio manufacturer that includes a special engraved plaque to commemorate the Official Visit. Dr. Biden will gift Ms. Jodie Haydon a green enamel and diamond petite necklace designed and hand-crafted by an American jeweler." |
Pool Reports below by Judy Kurtz, The Hill
| Sent: | Reports: |
| October 25, 2023 17:02 |
Booksellers pool report #1
Hello from the East Wing, in a hallway known as Booksellers, where guests will be entering for tonight's state dinner for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the White House. A White House official tells your pooler that more than 300 guests are poised to attend tonight's dinner, the fourth of the Biden administration. Jill Biden said in a media preview on Tuesday that she was "inspired to bring together the vibrant Australian spring and crisp American autumn" with the décor for the event. The White House is expected to release a guest list shortly. |
| October 25, 2023 17:38 |
Booksellers pool report #2
Guests began arriving at 5:34 p.m. A band is playing an instrumental version of the 1986 Crowded House song, "Don't Dream It's Over." Among some of the names expected to attend, just announced by the White House: actor John Leguizamo, violinist Itzhak Perlman, Jeffrey Katzenberg, U.S. ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy, journalist Andrea Mitchell, rapper Kid Laroi, singer Vance Joy — whose legal name, James Keogh, is on the guest list — (hat tip to The Washington Examiner's Naomi Lim for the find) and members of the president's family, including Naomi Biden, Finnegan Biden, and Valerie Biden. |
| October 25, 2023 18:39 |
Booksellers pool report #3 Rep. Joe Courtney (D-Conn.), asked about Rep. Mike Johnson clinching the Speakership earlier today and if he had to Google the Louisiana Republican's name, said he knows him from both of them serving on the House Armed Services Committee. "He's a very bright guy, and you know, hope for the best," Courtney told your pooler of Johnson. Actor John Leguizamo spoke about lending his support to President Biden and said he would be hitting the campaign trail again in 2024, "Oh yeah, definitely. It must be done." Asked if he thought Biden would do well with Latino voters in next year's presidential race, Leguizamo said, "Yes, I think he is. I think he's doing the right things, which is getting Latin consultants and talking to Latin experts who will tell him how to address us, and make the effort. If you make the effort, we will be there, but you have to make the effort. I think he's doing all that — him and Kamala Harris as well." Is there a lawmaker who Leguizamo would like to play? Leguizamo replied with a smile, "Schumer." Told that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is among the night's guests, Leguizamo said, "Yeah I know I'll ask him, 'Can I play you? Is it alright?'" Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and husband Chasten Buttigieg, the fathers of twins, posed for photos together. Chasten Buttigieg said the thing he was most looking forward to about tonight is that "the babysitter's on duty." Asked what she was most looked forward to at the state dinner, Maisy Biden told reporters, "Everything." More to come. |
| October 25, 2023 19:00 |
Booksellers pool report #4 NBC News's Andrea Mitchell said tonight's state dinner is "appropriately" subdued because of the violence and conflict in the Middle East. "The first lady canceled the music performance," Mitchell said of the decision to have military bands play instrumental music at the dinner, rather than The B-52s, who were originally announced as the night's entertainers. "The music is wonderful and I'm thrilled to be here tonight," Mitchell said. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said the Israel-Hamas war was "very much on our mind." "My parents fled the Nazis in the 30s. All got out. We lost family in Kristallnacht and Theresienstadt. And absolutely this is very much on our mind tonight and I just want to commend the president and first lady because we would have loved to, under normal circumstances, had the music. That was a good call." A note from the White House on Jill Biden's attire for tonight: "The First Lady is wearing a silver blush gown, embroidered with leaf motifs by Reem Acra." |
| October 25, 2023 19:44 |
Booksellers pool report #5 Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), asked if his caucus is united on Ukraine, said, "They will be. The reason why linking all the threats together I think is a good way to do this is that it will bring the votes." McCaul spoke about what he viewed as the next steps after electing Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) as House Speaker on Wednesday: "The first order of business was my resolution, condemning Hamas and supporting Israel. And it passed overwhelmingly with 425 co-sponsors. And I think we'll pass our appropriations bills, and Iran bills that I passed that in my committee next week, and then we're gonna have a national security aid package that I think will link the major threats in the world and that will be: Russia's threat to Ukraine in Europe, China's threat to the Pacific, the Ayatollah's threat to the Middle East, and securing the border and keeping those threats out of the United States." McCaul said he had a message for President Biden: "Work with us on this. It's in the interest of the American people and it's all about national security. What's happening in Israel right now, we have to stand together. And we did on the House floor. And I mean, it was a great contrast to all this infighting, to the first bill on the floor uniting the United States and Israel." Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo's son, Tommy Moffitt, had reporters laughing as he joined his mom at the black-tie event. "I get dragged to lots of things," Moffitt said in response to a question about attending the state dinner. Guests finished entering the dinner through Booksellers at 7:10 p.m. |
Joseph R. Biden, Jr., Pool Reports of October 25, 2023 Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/367477