Following President Biden’s first speech to Congress that took place on Wednesday night, several Republican lawmakers began pointing out the stark differences between Biden’s rhetoric and actions during his first 100 days as president. More specifically, his lack of bipartisanship and unity, despite calling for it during his inaugural address on his first day in office.
For instance, during his address on Wednesday, Biden praised Democrats for working with Republicans to pass the $1.8 trillion American Rescue Plan, although no Republican senators voted for the bill.
Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican who represents Alaska, said, “As I sat and listened to the remarks tonight, I’m left with a strong concern at the lack of bipartisanship shown in the first 100 days. I call on President Biden to follow through on his inaugural promise to work in a bipartisan manner, and to spend the next 100 days working to build consensus across the aisle.”
“That is the only way to truly bring people together, make progress for the betterment of our nation, and craft enduring solutions for generations to come,” the Republican Senator added.
Biden and other top Democrats have also hinted at the possibility of removing the requirement of 60-votes to pass legislation in the Senate, which has left Republicans concerned that Democrats are willing to continue working in a purely partisan manner.
Even Senator Mitt Romney, one of the most moderate Republicans in Congress, shared a similar sentiment with his conservative colleagues.
“Well, I think, with the experience we’ve had with the $1.9 trillion rescue plan, he would like Republicans to vote for his plan. But in terms of meeting in the middle, that hasn’t been something the administration has shown,” Romney said.
Romney then called on Biden to “get back to the job of bipartisan governing.”
