Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia lashed out at a reporter over a report about the negotiations for President Joe Biden’s “Build Back Better” social spending bill.
The spending bill is a priority for Biden and the Democrats, but Manchin has balked at the price tag of the legislation, which comes in at about $2 trillion.
On Wednesday, the media reported that Manchin was demanding that monthly child tax credit payments be cut out of the bill. When Manchin was pressed about the report by journalists, he lashed out at Arthur Delaney of the Huffington Post, who dutifully reported the outburst on his social media account.
“This is bulls***. You’re bulls***!” said Manchin to Delaney.
The Democrat appeared to be upset with reporters constantly questioning him about the negotiations, and he specifically denied the report that he was against the child tax credit payments.
“I’m not opposed to child tax credit, I’ve never been opposed to child tax credit,” said Manchin.
“Guys, I’m not negotiating with any of you all. You can ask all the questions you want. Guys, let me go,” he added before grumbling angrily, “God almighty,” as he walked away.
Democrats were hoping to pass the massive spending bill before Christmas, but a source told the New York Post that Manchin and the president are “miles apart” on reaching an agreement. Democrats need the support of Manchin since they have only 50 votes in the Senate, and one dissenting Democrat could tank legislation needing 50 votes.
Manchin has voiced concerns that passing trillions more in government spending would add to the growing inflation that has hurt many working families and eroded wage gains. The White House has argued that some economists say the bill would not significantly add to inflation and may even relieve some of it.
Without passing the bill, the last advance child tax credit payment will be going out this week to Americans who qualify.
Here’s more about the Build Back Better spending negotiations:
Manchin explodes at reporters asking about $2T Biden bill | New York Post www.youtube.com