Biden's Infrastructure and Jobs Plan on the Line in Key States
The Facts -
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- Biden's policies have boosted infrastructure and job creation in the U.S.
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- Trump criticized Biden's acts, vowing to retract unspent funds if elected.
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- Pennsylvania's infrastructure progress depends on federal support continuity.
Infrastructure and Jobs: Biden's Progress in Battleground States
As president, Donald Trump promised improvements to the nation’s infrastructure, but little changed during his term. Under President Biden, however, funds for infrastructure repair and clean energy investments have surged across the country, creating jobs.
In Pennsylvania, known for its extensive neglected infrastructure, approximately $19.3 billion is being spent on revitalization efforts. This funding stems from legislative achievements like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. These initiatives aim to upgrade roads, bridges, and clean energy projects.
Civil engineers raised the nation's infrastructure grade for the first time in 20 years, highlighting positive strides but acknowledging ongoing work.
With the presidential election approaching, these federal initiatives face uncertainty in battleground states like Pennsylvania, influencing the decision between a second Trump term or Biden's successor, possibly Kamala Harris.
Trump has criticized Biden's efforts as a "waste" and plans to reverse unspent funds from the Inflation Reduction Act. Meanwhile, Project 2025 proposes repealing key legislation and easing pollution limits.
Harris has been cautious about her climate agenda, suggesting a strategy to appeal to Pennsylvania voters, a crucial state with 19 electoral votes. As a senator, she backed the Green New Deal, and as vice president, she supported the Inflation Reduction Act.
Projects in Pennsylvania cover diverse areas, including solar panels, electric vehicle chargers, and mine reclamation. Governor Josh Shapiro recently enacted state tax cuts for solar projects, aligning with federal support. The state has seen a 4.5% reduction in bridges in poor condition, and Shapiro has praised Pennsylvania for repairing more bridges than any other state.
Allegheny County, including Pittsburgh, is revitalizing its urban tree canopy to combat heat islands, supported by Landforce, an environmental stewardship company.
In Luzerne County, federal funding rejuvenates the Nanticoke Creek project, creating jobs and economic growth.
Biden Administration Investment Tracker reveals tangible impacts of federal funding, emphasizing Biden's fulfillment of campaign promises.
While Trump once pledged infrastructure improvements, his current campaign lacks significant commitments. Evergreen Action critiques his administration's past approach to environmental policies.
Biden's initiatives are considered steps toward a green future but face ongoing challenges. Advocates call for further actions, such as a federal clean electricity standard and emission regulations from heavy industry.
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