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Last week, President Joe Biden introduced the American Jobs Plan, a significant economic initiative aimed at rebuilding the country’s infrastructure and jumpstarting the economy post-COVID-19. While boosting the economy is crucial, the plan’s $2.2 trillion price tag has sparked debate across party lines.
Republican senators like Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnel argue that the plan is too costly and not allocating funds effectively. On the other hand, Democratic senators, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, believe the plan is not ambitious enough and advocate for a more substantial investment to address the nation’s needs. Transportation Secretary and former Mayor Pete Buttigieg, a member of Biden’s cabinet, shared his perspective on the matter.
Buttigieg acknowledged the differing opinions, stating, “There are obviously a lot of people on the other side of the aisle saying, ‘This is too big, too bold.’ And then, some of our friends on our side of the aisle are saying, ‘It should be even bolder.’ This is the biggest investment in American job creation proposed or, if achieved, since World War II. This is a huge deal.”
This is not nearly enough. The important context here is that it’s $2.25T spread out over 10 years.
For context, the COVID package was $1.9T for this year *alone,* with some provisions lasting 2 years.
Needs to be way bigger. https://t.co/eTQ7cxuTzF
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) March 30, 2021
Buttigieg emphasized the transformative impact of the plan, envisioning the replacement or enhancement of thousands of bridges, nationwide broadband coverage, and the eradication of lead pipes in water service lines. Additionally, the estimated creation of 19 million jobs under the plan highlights its significant potential.
Discussions on the plan are still in progress, with no definite timeline for implementation.
