On the recordAugust 1, 2021
Mr. President, I join tonight in the celebration of a significant next step in the passage of a $550 billion, over 5-year infrastructure package, with roads and bridges, highways, sewer systems, broadband, flood mitigation, and coastal resiliency. If our responsibility as Senators is to listen to the American people, this bill is a product of hearing their voices. It is a bipartisan package, which does not increase taxes but does meet the needs that we have heard of. Now, first, let me join others. Senators Portman and Sinema, they just did a fantastic job of leading this effort. Our colleagues, both those here who are speaking but those who are the chairs and ranking members of other committees have really guided us tremendously and produced a great work. I would also like to acknowledge our House colleagues: Brian Fitzpatrick, Josh Gottheimer, the Problem Solvers Caucus, who on their side of the Chamber have also seen fit to already endorse our effort. And when they did, it was certainly a strong wind of encouragement for us. But most of all, I thank the American people. The Constitution gives Congress the responsibility for infrastructure. Our duty gives us the responsibility to listen. If you listen to the American people right now, they are concerned about jobs, the economy, safety, and quality of life. With this bill, we give voice to their concerns. For example, as regards safety, there is $110 billion for better highways, bridges, and roads.…





