House Democrats’ key bloc supports debt limit deal.

Centrist House Democrats Show Support for Debt Ceiling Deal

A key bloc of centrist House Democrats appears to be warming up to the debt ceiling deal made between President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (D-CA).

New Democrat Coalition Chair Rep. Annie Kuster (D-NH) has praised the agreement and emphasized the importance of avoiding an economically catastrophic default. The support of Democrats is crucial for the passage of the debt ceiling deal, as some Republicans have expressed their dissatisfaction with the plan.

Encouragement from the New Democrat Coalition

“Our Members are encouraged that the two sides have reached an agreement, and are confident that President Biden and White House negotiators have delivered a viable, bipartisan solution to end this crisis,” Kuster said in a statement.

“We are doing our due diligence as lawmakers to ensure that this agreement can receive support from both parties in both chambers of Congress,” she added. “We want to be clear — our Members are committed to upholding the full faith and credit of the United States.”

The New Democrat Coalition is a coalition of almost 100 members of the House Democratic caucus that aims to bridge the gap between left and right.

Progressives Express Concerns

Some progressives have expressed their dissatisfaction with the concessions made in the deal, particularly the work requirement provisions. Congressional Progressive Caucus Chairwoman Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) criticized the provisions but has not clarified how she intends to vote.

Members of the House are expected to receive access to the text of the bill on Sunday, and House Democrats are expected to hold a meeting later in the day to discuss the matter.

The Details of the Deal

The agreement is expected to lift the debt limit until 2025 in exchange for rescinding unspent COVID-19 pandemic funds, substantially curbing spending growth, and implementing more stringent work requirements for social programs.

United States Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen recently bumped the “X-date” for when the government runs out of cash to June 5.

Conclusion

The debt ceiling deal has garnered support from centrist House Democrats, but some progressives have expressed concerns. The details of the deal include lifting the debt limit until 2025 in exchange for various concessions. The passage of the deal will require support from both parties in both chambers of Congress.