United States President, Joe Biden (pictured) has told Public Servants he considers them essential to keeping the country running and to enacting his agenda.
In a speech delivered at the Department of State and watch by thousands of Government employees via video link, he praised the Federal workforce for its courage and sacrifice, promising to support and empower employees after the “difficult” years of the previous Administration of Donald Trump.
Mr Biden noted that he had worked with career diplomats as Vice President and while he served in the Senate, where he chaired the Foreign Relations Committee, and “personally witnessed your tireless efforts”.
“The main message I want to communicate to you all is whether you’re part of the newest class of Foreign Service officers or you’ve been here for decades in the Civil Service or Foreign Service, or you’re locally employed staff, you’re vital and the strength of our nation depends in no small part on you,” Mr Biden said.
“You are the centre of all that I intend to do. You are the heart of it,” he said.
Mr Biden delivered his message as part of a campaign building on a theme from his inaugural address, namely that ‘America is back’ on the international stage after years of the ‘America First’ policy implemented under Mr Trump.
It was also part of a concerted effort the President has launched since his swearing in to reach out to the Federal workforce, letting Public Servants know he would not take the adversarial approach the Trump Administration often pursued.
He has already undone Trump policies that diminished Federal unions and threatened to erase Public Service protections.
“In our Administration you’re going to be entrusted and empowered to do your job,” Mr Biden said.
“I believe in you. We need you, badly. I trust you. I’m going to have your back. That I promise you,” he said.
Washington, 5 February 2021
