The NPR Politics Podcast Congress Has A LOT To Do, But Can They Stop Fighting For Long Enough To Do It?
Nov 30, 2021
Congress is facing a daunting to-do list, but internal fighting threatens progress. Key issues like the debt ceiling and the Build Back Better bill dominate discussions, revealing the struggles within the Democratic Party, especially with Senator Joe Manchin's pivotal role. As bipartisan cooperation dwindles, the tension escalates, showcasing not just party divisions but also growing loyalty to Trump within the Republican ranks. Can they navigate their differences and actually get things done?
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Manchin's Stance
- Senator Joe Manchin's position highlights a disconnect between politics and practical needs.
- Despite his constituents' potential benefit from the Build Back Better bill, he opposes expanding the social safety net.
Debt Limit Politics
- The debt limit fight is purely political, with Republicans aiming to blame Democrats for increasing debt.
- There are no policy concessions being sought, unlike past debt ceiling standoffs.
Government Funding
- Congress is likely to pass a short-term bipartisan bill to avoid a government shutdown.
- While no agreement exists yet on the specifics, discussions point towards a stopgap measure until early 2022.