Manchin has always been a key catcher to the law, sharing concerns over certain provisions in the economic bill that would expand the country’s social safety net and how it could exacerbate rising inflation in the country.
“And I can’t vote to continue with this piece of legislation. I just can’t. I’ve done everything humanly possible. I can’t get there,” he said on “Fox News Sunday.” “It’s a no-no on this law. I’ve tried everything I know. And the president has worked diligently. It’s been wonderful working with him. He knows I have concerns and the problems that I have.” And, you know, the thing that we all should turn our attention to the variant, a covid that we are coming back to us in different ways in so many different aspects, it is affecting our life again. Has been doing. “
Progressive Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont strongly criticized Manchin for revoking his support, saying “I think he has to explain a lot to the people of West Virginia” and calling on Democrats to put the bill on the floor vote. Did. To pressure Munchkin to have the voting number on the record.
“I hope we get a strong bill on the Senate floor as soon as possible and that Mr. Manchin will explain to the people of West Virginia why they don’t have the courage to stand up for powerful special interests,” Sanders said on Sunday. State of the Union” told CNN’s Jake Tapper.
“If they don’t have the guts to do the right thing for working families in West Virginia and America, don’t let them vote in front of the whole world,” Sanders said.
A source familiar with Munchkin’s plan told CNN he told the White House and Democratic leadership his decision before making his announcement.
Munchkin had previously raised several concerns about the law, which was passed by the Democrat-controlled House last month. He wanted to reduce the bill in several areas, including paid family leave, methane charges on emissions from energy producers, and a medical extension to cover hearing costs. He was also demanding changes in certain provisions in the tax portion of the bill.
CNN has reached out to the White House for comment.
This story has been updated with comment and additional information from Sen. Bernie Sanders.
Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly identified Bernie Sanders’ political affiliation.
CNN’s Lauren Fox, Chandelis Duster, Aaron Pelish, Sarah Fortinsky, Caitlin Collins and John Harwood contributed to this report.