Big infrastructure bill in peril as GOP threatens filibuster
Source: Associated Press
Big infrastructure bill in peril as GOP threatens filibuster
By LISA MASCARO and KEVIN FREKING
July 20, 2021
WASHINGTON (AP) The bipartisan infrastructure deal senators brokered with President Joe Biden is hanging precariously ahead of a crucial Wednesday test vote as senators struggle over how to pay for nearly $1 trillion in public works spending.
Tensions were rising Tuesday as Republicans prepared to block the vote, mounting a filibuster over what they see as a rushed and misguided process. With Biden preparing to hit the road to rally support for his big infrastructure ideas including some $3.5 trillion in a follow up bill restless Democrats say its time to at least start debate on this first phase of his proposals.
It is not a fish or cut bait moment, said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., describing the procedural vote as just a first step to get the ball rolling, though Republicans say he is now downplaying the significance.
Six months after Biden took office, his signature Build Back Better campaign promise is at a key moment that will test the presidency and his hopes for a new era of bipartisan cooperation in Washington.
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