Republicans Block Debate On Bipartisan Infrastructure Package

GOP senators opposed starting debate on a $1.1 trillion spending bill on roads and bridges because negotiators have yet to agree on the legislative text.

Senate Republicans on Wednesday blocked debate on a bipartisan infrastructure package that includes $1.1 trillion in spending aimed at overhauling the nation’s roads, bridges and waterways.  The procedural vote to advance the bill was 49-51, with every Republican opposed. It needed 60 votes to pass. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) also voted no in a procedural move that will allow him to call it up for a vote again.  GOP senators said that bipartisan negotiators should come to a final agreement on the legislative text and how the spending is to be financed before the Senate moves to consider the measure. They urged Schumer to postpone the vote until next week to give negotiators more time.