President Joe Biden plans to visit New Orleans during the week of Jan. 6 as the city begins to recover from the bloody attack that shook its streets on New Year’s Day. Bourbon Street, the site of the attack, was reopened to tourists Thursday, Jan. 2, with the area cleared in an effort to restore a sense of normalcy during the city’s typically busy tourist season.
In the wake of the attack, Biden emphasized the resilience of New Orleans, sending a message to both the nation and terrorist groups.
“I know while this person committed a terrible assault on the city, the spirit of our New Orleans will never, never, never be defeated,” Biden said during a televised update on the incident. “It always will shine forth. We’ve seen that time and time again throughout its history, and I know we’ll see it again in the days and weeks ahead.”
The attack occurred early on New Year’s Day when Shamsud-Din Jabbar drove his truck into the French Quarter, killing 14 people and injuring dozens more. The White House has confirmed that Biden and First Lady Jill Biden will meet with local officials and those affected by the tragedy during their visit.
The visit, coming on Monday, Jan. 6, visit coincides with Twelfth Night, a symbolic day in New Orleans that marks the beginning of the Mardi Gras season.
Tourism remains a cornerstone of the local economy, with 18 million visitors in 2023 bringing in more than $9 billion. Officials expect these numbers to grow, especially with the Super Bowl in February and Jazz Fest later in the spring.
In light of the heightened security risks, additional safety measures are being implemented for large public gatherings. Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry, R, reassured the public. He said his administration is focused on public safety.
“We intend to be transparent in assessing any defects in the system so we can address them,” Landry said.
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security continue to investigate the attack, working to determine the motive behind the driver’s actions.
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