Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg has defended President Biden’s economic approach following a new ABC News/Washington Post poll showing that many Americans feel their financial situation has worsened under the current administration. In an interview on ABC’s “This Week,” Buttigieg acknowledged the economic struggles many Americans are facing but stressed that Biden’s policies are aimed at supporting families and workers.
Buttigieg pointed to the trillion-dollar bipartisan infrastructure law as an example of the administration’s success, citing the creation of over 13 million jobs since taking office. However, the new poll shows 44% of Americans feel worse off economically than they did when Biden first took office. This is the highest percentage for a president in ABC/Post polls since 1986.
Raddatz pressed Buttigieg on the disconnect between the administration’s messaging and the public’s perception of their economic situation. The secretary acknowledged that there is still work to be done in getting the message out, but emphasized that the results of the administration’s policies will speak for themselves over time.
One of the main concerns for Americans, according to the poll, is rising gas and food prices. Buttigieg acknowledged these challenges but noted that they are still below pandemic-era highs. He also contrasted the administration’s approach of investing in the supply chain to lower prices with that of Republicans, who are currently at an impasse over federal government spending.
Congress must pass funding by September 30 to avoid a government shutdown, which would affect military personnel’s pay and various government programs. Buttigieg criticized Republican efforts to shut down the government and rejected blame being placed on the administration for a potential shutdown. He also criticized Republicans for walking back on a previous agreement they had made with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on government spending.
Buttigieg also discussed the ongoing strike by the United Auto Workers union, which has targeted 38 additional General Motors and Chrysler-owner Stellantis locations. The union is pushing for a 46% pay raise over four years and a four-day work week, citing increased industry profits. The manufacturers have offered less substantial double-digit raises and a 40-hour work week. Biden has pledged his support for the striking workers and plans to join them on the picket line on Tuesday.
Buttigieg emphasized the administration’s support for the workers, stating that they believe auto workers should benefit from the industry’s success. He also stressed the importance of finding a win/win solution for both parties involved in the negotiations.
In conclusion, Buttigieg defended the administration’s economic policies and highlighted their successes in creating jobs and lowering costs for Americans. However, he acknowledged the challenges that still remain and the need to continue working towards positive outcomes for the public. He also called for constructive negotiations and a focus on finding solutions rather than resorting to a government shutdown.
