Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2023

April 24, 2023

The President. Well, it's an honor to have you all three here. It really is.

And I know you got a chanceâthe Vice President went down to see you. I'm sorry I couldn't be with her at the time.

But you know, you're standing up for our kids. You're standing up for our communitiesâ safer communitiesâand democratic values. That's what it's all about.

And you're allâall three of you speak so well about why you're doing what you did and why you continue to do it.

And look, what that Republican legislature did was shocking, it was undemocratic, and it was without any precedent. But you turned it around very quickly.

And look, we passed the most significant gun laws that have passed in 30 years, but there's more to do. What happened was that we didâwe made background checks andâyou know, legislation with so-called "red flag laws."

But I signed the most extensive gun legislation in 30 years. But what I'm more proud of is, when I was a Senator, I was able to lead the fight with Dianne Feinstein to block the assault weaponsâthe sale of assault weapons and the number of cartridges that could be in a magazine. And I think we still have to do that.

Andâbut on so many issues, you've been out front. And you understand exactly what it's like. It's just tragic to see what's happening in your State in particular, in your city, but also across the country.

And you know, nothing is guaranteed about democracy. Every generation has to fight for it.

And you all are doing just that.

And so, you know, we have a lot to discuss. And with that, I know they're going to be really excited, but I'm going to ask the press to leave.

Thank you.

2024 Presidential Election

Q. Mr. President, why do you want 4 more years?

The President. So I get to answer your questions.

Q. What's your message aboutâ[inaudible]âcampaign message?

The President. Stay tuned.

Q. Stay tuned?

Q. What do you say those who question your age, Mr. President?

The President. What did she say?

State Representative Jones. [Inaudible]

NOTE: The President spoke at 3:40 p.m. in the Oval Office at the White House. In his remarks, he referred to Sen. Dianne Feinstein. Also participating in the meeting was Vice President Kamala

D. Harris.

Categories: Addresses and Remarks : Tennessee State Reps. Justin Jones, Justin J. Pearson, and Gloria Johnson, meeting with President; Interviews With the News Media : Exchanges with reporters, White House.

Locations: Washington, DC.

Names: Feinstein, Dianne; Harris, Kamala D.; Johnson, Gloria; Jones, Justin; Pearson, Justin J.

Subjects: Criminal background check procedures, strengthening efforts; Gun control efforts; Tennessee, State representatives meeting with President; Vice President.

DCPD Number: DCPD202300327.