The GOP is betting that blocking this bill will kibosh Manchin’s hopes for re-election and get energy prices to the point that Democrat 2024 prospects will evaporate.
Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) told reporters he wanted to see more muscular changes to the permitting process that would require the Biden administration to issue faster approvals for projects.
“I agree with Joe that there should be permitting improvements,” Rounds said, “but you want something that actually requires the administration to follow through.”
However, Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), a friend of Manchin’s, said Republicans should recognize that another opportunity to enact permitting changes might not materialize for a while.
“Republicans have come together and said we need to advance permitting reforms,” she said. “If we have an opportunity to do it, let’s do it. Let’s not let the perfect be the enemy of the good.”]
Ah Murkowski: she publicly endorses Sara Palin Democrat opponent and still gets funding from Mitch.
If Manchin wants to retain Senator status in 2025 his only chance is to switch party now and spend next two years earning republican trust so he can be a shoe in for the republican 2024 primary. He can’t afford to wait as his value to the republican party lessens every day.
Why not? Get these reps off their fat asses and have the House pass a new, stronger bill in the House on Jan. 4, 2023.