Stefanik joins GOP effort to pass US debt bill with sharp cuts to Biden agenda

WASHINGTON (WCAX) - North Country Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, R-New York, joined her GOP colleagues Wednesday in supporting a bill to raise the nation’s borrowing cap, setting up a showdown with President Biden.

The bill passed by a razor-thin 217-215 margin, would raise the government’s legal debt ceiling in exchange for steep spending restrictions. It’s a tactical victory for Speaker Kevin McCarthy as he challenges President Joe Biden to negotiate and prevent a catastrophic federal default this summer.

“House Republicans will pass a sensible debt ceiling solution that limits Washington’s irresponsible spending, saves taxpayer dollars and grows the American economy,” Stefanik said.

Vermont Congresswoman Becca Balint, a Democrat, called the list of demands passed by House Republicans “dangerous.”

“I’m concerned by this reckless and heartless move by Republicans. I plan to continue to work alongside my colleagues to block this plan and find a path to passing a clean debt limit bill,” Balint said.

Copyright 2023 WCAX. All rights reserved.