The Daily

Has Manchin Doomed the Build Back Better Plan?

Dec 21, 2021

Emily Cochrane, a New York Times correspondent covering Senator Joe Manchin, delves into the turmoil surrounding the Build Back Better plan. She discusses Manchin's recent rejection of the $2.2 trillion proposal, revealing how it has shattered the Biden administration's hopes. The conversation highlights the delicate balance of party negotiations, the implications for essential social programs, and the growing frustration among progressives who might push for executive action instead. Cochrane offers insights into the political challenges facing Democrats as they navigate an uncertain future.

25:16

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Episode guests

Emily Cochrane

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

Tensions in the Build Back Better Negotiations

11min

Struggles Over the Build Back Better Plan: Manchin's Role and Democratic Resilience

2min

Negotiating the Future of the Build Back Better Plan

2min

Navigating Legislative Frustration and Executive Action

2min

Legislative Challenges and Political Stakes

6min

Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia was always going to be the last Democrat to get on board with President Biden’s $2.2 trillion climate, social spending and tax bill. But the White House was confident that a compromise could be reached.

On Sunday, that confidence was shattered: In an interview on Fox News, Mr. Manchin essentially declared that he could not support the bill as written, and he indicated that he was done negotiating all together.

Where does this leave Mr. Biden’s signature domestic policy goal?

Guest: Emily Cochrane, a correspondent for The New York Times, based in Washington.

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Background reading:

Mr. Manchin said on Sunday that he could not support the president’s signature bill, dooming his party’s drive to pass its marquee domestic policy legislation as written.
Mr. Biden and his top aides have tried to salvage hopes of passing their domestic agenda, acknowledging that their only path forward is to repair a broken relationship with Mr. Manchin.

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