Biden Meeting With Democrats as $3.5T Plan Faces Party Split

(AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

WASHINGTON (AP) – President Joe Biden plans to meet with Democrats from the House and Senate as Congress works to bridge party divisions over his big $3.5 trillion “build back better” agenda.

The afternoon meeting Wednesday comes ahead of crucial voting deadlines.

The House is to vote soon on the first part of Biden’s plan – a nearly $1 trillion public works package.

It was already approved by the Senate, but progressives are withholding their support unless it’s partnered with the bigger bill – while centrists view the $3.5 trillion price tag as too high.

Biden’s push can bring political heft to the negotiations.