Topline
On Wednesday, Sen. Joe Manchin (D.W.Va.), rejected the notion that he could reach a deal on broad strokes of a social-spending package with progressives by tomorrow. However, House leaders signal they will still hold a vote for a separate core infrastructure bill.
WASHINGTON DC - September 29: Senator Joe Manchin (D.W.Va.) is surrounded after he left... [+] Senate side of U.S. Capitol Wednesday, September 29, 2021 in Washington DC. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
The Key Facts
Manchin laughed repeatedly and said that it was impossible when asked if he and progressive legislators who want to spend at least $3.5 trillion on social services, health care, and childcare could come up with a framework before the vote. Manchin, the key moderate senator who is crucial in passing the spending package in Senate without Republicans, laughed and repeatedly said no when asked if he and progressive lawmakers who want at least $3.5 trillion in spending on health care, childcare, and other social services could agree on a framework before the vote. Pelosi said that she had the power to delay Thursday's vote but did not say whether she would. Forbes has been told by Steny Hoyer, House Majority Leader, that he expects a vote on Thursday.
Tangent
Democrats face additional difficulties due to the requirement to suspend the debt limit by October in order to avoid a catastrophic default on U.S. loans. The House Republicans pledged to accept any single debt ceiling measure, and Democrats demanded it be added to the social spending bill. Forbes was told by some House Democrats that this may actually happen. Rep. Ami Bera (D.Calif.), said, "I would imagine that's the only vehicle that exists."
Chief Critic
Jayapal, chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus told NBC News of Manchin that they need to offer a counteroffer, and then we can negotiate from there. Jayapal and Sen. Kyrsten Silena (D-Ariz.), a moderate senator, said Jayapal to NBC News of Manchin. This demonstrates progressive frustration at their inability to provide a topline number for the social-spending bill.
