President Biden Promotes Efforts to Replace Toxic Lead Pipes in North Carolina

President Biden traveled to North Carolina on Thursday to promote his administration’s efforts to replace toxic lead pipes as part of a larger infrastructure upgrade program. The president announced $3 billion in new spending from the bipartisan infrastructure law, emphasizing the importance of addressing lead exposure, which can have serious health effects.

In a passionate speech at the Wilmington Convention Center, President Biden highlighted the need for the United States to lead in addressing this issue, stating, “For God’s sake, we’re better than this.” The administration aims to replace all lead pipes nationwide within a decade, particularly focusing on communities of marginalized people where lead exposure is more prevalent.

Choosing North Carolina for this announcement was strategic, as the state has historically leaned Republican in presidential elections but Democrats believe it is trending their way. President Biden lost the state by a narrow margin in 2020 and has been actively campaigning there, with Vice President Kamala Harris also making multiple visits.

Before his speech in Wilmington, President Biden met with the families of law enforcement officers killed in a recent tragedy in Charlotte. While the meeting was private out of respect for the families, the president later paid tribute to them in his public remarks, acknowledging the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and their families.

Overall, President Biden’s visit to North Carolina showcased his commitment to addressing critical infrastructure issues and connecting with voters in a key swing state ahead of the upcoming election.