Congresswoman Barbara Lee Releases Statement on Senator Manchin’s Opposition to the Build Back Better Act
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13), member of the House Progressive Caucus and senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement in response to Senator Joe Manchin’s (D-WV) opposition to President Biden’s economic agenda – the Build Back Better Act:
“Senator Manchin’s announcement today is disappointing, but unfortunately not at all shocking. He is keeping West Virginians and working families across the country from crucial investments in their quality of life. This is exactly why my progressive colleagues and I fought so hard to keep the Build Back Better and Bipartisan Infrastructure bills together, because we knew that Senator Manchin may choose to side with Republicans and corporate lobbyists over American families. Now, thanks to Senator Manchin, care givers— who are primarily black and brown women—children, the poor, those unsheltered in need of housing, our climate, and more lose out and are left behind.
“Senator Manchin had no reservations about supporting a $778 billion Defense bill last week, but when it comes to investing in working families, he’s not supportive. Senator Manchin and Senate Republicans must explain to their constituents why they oppose crucial investments in paid leave, child care, climate action, and more policies that help working families and the next generation. Millions of children — including nearly 350,000 children in West Virginia — will now miss out on continued Child Tax Credit payments that will help keep them out of poverty. It’s shameful and underscores the urgent need to reform the filibuster.
“I hope Senator Manchin reconsiders his decision, and I hope Leader Schumer brings the bill to the floor for a vote. Senator Manchin and Senate Republicans should be on the record showing the people what they actually stand for. In the meantime, we will continue working hard to deliver an economic agenda that reduces everyday costs, creates jobs and brings economic growth for the American people.”
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