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Manchin noted that the Democrats social spending bill would amount to major changes in policy on taxes, climate and social services. While Democrats have brought down the price tag of the social spending bill to $1.7 trillion from $3.5 trillion, the West Virginia Democrat said Democratic leadership only changed the amount of time the policies would last.

One goes for three years, one goes for one year one might go for the full 10 years, do they not intend for those programs to last the full 10 years? Manchin asked. Well if you dont intend for that to happen, whats the real cost? Because were either going to debt-finance it if were not going to pay for it or come back and change the tax code again.

Manchins comments come as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is pushing for the Senate to finish up the legislation before the chamber leaves for the holidays. But the social spending bill still needs to undergo a so-called scrub by the Senate parliamentarian, to ensure that it complies with Senate rules.

And the fate of certain provisions remains uncertain. Manchin opposes including paid family leave in the social spending bill, arguing that any proposal should be bipartisan. In addition, Senate Democrats are pushing to include some type of immigration reform in the social spending bill. Those discussions could go into next week, leaving a tight window before Christmas.

Democrats will need Manchins vote to move forward on the social spending bill, and some Democrats are pushing for Schumer to put the legislation on the floor, even without a public commitment from Manchin. The West Virginia Democrat told reporters this week that he doesnt control the floor schedule and that its up to Democratic leadership to decide when to hold the vote.

But Manchin also argued hes been consistent and his colleagues shouldnt be surprised by his position in the same way they are not surprised by the progressive positions of Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.). Manchin added that he has no intention of leaving the party.

The only thing Ive told my colleagues, I said that if you guys are upset, just go out and elect more liberals, Im not liberal, he said. I dont know what to tell you, I love you all, Im just not. I dont try to change Bernie. Bernie is true to himself, I respect and appreciate that. Why do they want to change me?

Original post:
Manchin issues warning about rising inflation, as clock ticks on social spending bill - POLITICO