House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has recently created a plan for a bipartisan infrastructure bill worth $1.2 trillion, despite opposition from left-wing legislators. She also prepared a procedural rule to approve the Dems’ $1.75 trillion spending bill. She stated that she believes that the votes will pass the infrastructure bill and provide a way forward. She stated that they will continue to approve the rule for the Build back Better legislation and that it will be a huge step forward.
After announcing the plan, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer stated that he is 100% certain that they will pass the Build back Better legislation before Thanksgiving. Pelosi and Jim Clyburn, Majority Whip, presented a united front for a plan that Pelosi credited to members of the Black Caucus. After moderates wanted scores from the Congressional Budget Office before voting, Democrats have not stopped trying to pass Friday’s reconciliation bill. Pelosi had to call a vote on a procedural ruling, which, while it will bring reconciliation to the floor but not pass it, was a desperate attempt to save face.
However, the plan was immediately rescinded by members of the left-wing Congressional Progressive Caucus. Their leader stated that both bills should be voted upon together. According to the current plan, that would occur at a later time. Progressives are expected to oppose Friday’s infrastructure bill.
Pramila Jayapal, CPC Chair, stated that many of their members want both bills to be voted out of the House together. She also said that 6 progressive members would like to see a formal CBO score for Build Back Better before they vote. Pelosi expressed optimism that the infrastructure bill would pass despite apparent resistance from progressives. Pelosi continued by saying that it was not certain.
She stated that she believes that there are a lot of progressive caucus members who will vote in favor of the bill. Pelosi was asked if she had the votes necessary to pass infrastructure. Although there are likely to be some Republicans who support the bill on infrastructure, it is unclear if the number of Republicans who do so will exceed the number who oppose it.