House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on Wednesday was poised to beat back a conservative revolt and opposition from progressive Democrats to pass his deal with President Biden to allow the government to surpass its $31.4 trillion debt limit.
Mr. McCarthy, California Republican, secured the support of 52 House Democrats on a test vote that advanced the package toward passage. The bill was expected to pass late Wednesday night, sending it to the upper chamber where senators were busy working on a deal to fast-track final passage before a Monday deadline when the U.S. government would not be able to pay all its obligations unless it gets an extended credit line.
Freedom Caucus members have also threatened to stage a coup against Mr. McCarthy because of the deal. The agreement would raise the $31.4 trillion debt limit until after the 2024 presidential election. It would also claw back billions of dollars in unspent pandemic relief and cut IRS funding by more than $20 billion over two years.
The agreement further expands work requirements for recipients of food stamps and direct cash payments until 2030. Able-bodied, childless recipients of each program 54 and younger would have to work at least 20 hours per week to keep their benefits. Despite that reality, progressive Democrats say the new work requirements are still too onerous for working people.
“The OMB director has sole waiver authority to spend if it’s ‘necessary for program delivery.’ So that one line wipes out PAYGO,” Rep. Nancy Mace, South Carolina Republican. “These words on paper are totally meaningless if you read the fine print.”
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