Biden emphasizes bipartisanship as debate heats up on infrastructure bill

The $2 trillion bill covers roads, bridges, water systems, technology, climate-related measures and much more. But the bill has prompted criticism over its size.

News 12 Staff

Apr 7, 2021, 10:45 AM

Updated 1,339 days ago

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The next item on President Joe Biden's agenda is now the big debate on Capitol Hill. But while he wants bipartisanship on the infrastructure bill, he might not have it.
The $2 trillion bill covers roads, bridges, water systems, technology, climate-related measures and much more. But the bill has prompted criticism over its size.
"Although the Biden administration is calling it an infrastructure plan, it looks more like a $2 trillion tax hike plan," says Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves.
Biden's plan to pay for the bill is by raising the corporate tax rate from 21% to 28%. Most of the pushback comes from Republicans, but some Democrats have spoken up about it too.
Others support the idea, but think Biden should spend more.
"In order for us to realize this inspiring vision, we need to go way higher," says Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
The administration is emphasizing the need for bipartisanship, despite the party divide.
"He cares about what members of the Senate and the House and the public think," says Transportation Sec. Pete Buttigieg.
The Senate parliamentarian has suggested the Senate could use a procedural shortcut known as budget reconciliation to get the bill through without Republicans. The same process was used last month to pass the COVID-19 relief bill.
The final decision could mean Biden-- and future presidents with a majority in both houses -- would have the ability to push legislation through Congress along straight party lines.