Sunrise Movement Responds to Bipartisan Infrastructure Vote Failure

Today, following the failed Senate vote on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework, also known as the Exxon Plan, Lauren Maunus, Advocacy Director for Sunrise Movement, released the following statement:

"We've been saying for months that these bipartisan negotiations are a waste of time. Republicans made it clear from the start that they're not interested in working with Democrats. Back in May, Mitch McConnell said '100 percent of my focus is on stopping this new administration.' The GOP's plan all along was to drag out this process and make it as painful as possible in an effort to block urgently needed legislation to stop climate change and help working people.

"We are up against the climate crisis, which has been killing hundreds of people this summer, and can't afford to postpone action any longer. Democrats must stop dragging their feet and use their power to deliver for the American people. Biden and Schumer must realize they can't rely on the GOP and instead direct their caucus to focus on a bold reconciliation package - one greater than the $3.5 trillion proposed - that must include and go beyond all climate investments previously outlined in the bipartisan infrastructure framework.

"We need Democrats to pass an infrastructure package that will put us towards a Green New Deal. We need a fully funded Civilian Climate Corps, real investments in transit, schools, housing, renewable energy, and more to transform our economy while combating the climate crisis and creating millions of good jobs in the process."