Trump’s Infrastructure Plan Already Imperiled Over Cost

"A $2 trillion infrastructure deal outlined this week by President Trump and top Democrats is already losing momentum, as the president’s own chief of staff is telling people inside and outside the administration that the effort is too expensive and unlikely to succeed.

The tentative accord to repair the nation’s roads, revitalize mass transit and expand broadband systems was reached at a private White House meeting Tuesday between Trump and Democratic leaders in Congress, who said they were pleasantly surprised by the president’s willingness to back a large-scale spending effort.

But the initiative has run into immediate opposition from Republicans who balk at the hefty price tag and from conservative allies who are pushing lawmakers to block it. Those opposed to the deal include Trump’s top aide, Mick Mulvaney, and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), who is not in favor of the spending, according to people who have spoken to him."

Seung Min Kim, Josh Dawsey, and Mike DeBonis report for the Washington Post May 4, 2019.

SEE ALSO:

"Rising Debt Imperils Trump, Dem Hopes On Infrastructure" (The Hill)

Commentary: "Infrastructure Week Is Over, and Infrastructure Is Dead" (Mother Jones)

"Trump Dials Back On Infrastructure Deal, Returns To Square One With Putin" (NPR)

"White House Adviser Kudlow Says He Does Not Favor Higher Federal Gas Tax" (Reuters)

"GOP and DFL Agree Minnesota Roads Need Work, But Not How To Pay For It" (Twin Cities Pioneer Press)

Source: Washington Post, 05/06/2019