Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2024

February 20, 2024

Q. Mr. President, good afternoon, sir. Going to California, is this about coming up with a plan B for 2024? Does Gavin need to stand by?

The President. Are you ready?

Q. Yes, sir.

The President. Well, I'm looking forâI'm looking at you. We're looking at you. Heyââ

[*At this point, several reporters began asking questions at once*.]

The President. Heyâwhoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. What I came to tell you was: I told you we'd be announcing sanctions on Russia. We'll have a major package announced on Friday, and I'll be happy to sit with you all while doing that. Okay?

[*Several reporters began speaking at once*.]

2024 Presidential Election

Q. Nikki Haley or Donald Trump. Who would you prefer in November? Who would you ratherâwho would rather challenge in November: Nikki Haley or Donald Trump?

The President. Oh, I don't care.

Q. Do you feel likeââ

[*Several reporters spoke at once*.]

Q. [Inaudible]âon Rafah? Have you gotten an evacuation plan for Rafah yet? [Several reporters spoke at once.]

NOTE: The President spoke at 1:08 p.m. on the South Lawn at the White House prior to boarding Marine One. Reporters referred to Gov. Gavin C. Newsom of California; former U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Nikki R. Haley; and former President Donald J. Trump.

Categories: Addresses and Remarks : U.S. sanctions against Russia, additional; Interviews With the News Media : Exchanges with reporters, White House.

Locations: Washington, DC.

Subjects: 2024 Presidential election; Russia, U.S. sanctions.

DCPD Number: DCPD202400115.

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