Manchin says Democrats could reach spending bill outline this week

Sen. Joe Manchin told reporters at the Capitol on Monday that Democrats could reach a deal on the framework of their spending package this week.

Manchin has for weeks been a thorn in the side of liberals seeking a proposed $3.5 trillion spending package. Manchin, as well as Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, have raised objections to the size and scope of the package, with Manchin pushing for a $1.5 trillion deal.

The West Virginia Democrat told reporters he’s “still at $1.5 trillion” but believes a deal on a conceptual framework could be reached this week, citing “good faith” discussions between Democrats.

Manchin also said he pushed back on a Medicaid expansion under consideration in the package. Politico reported Monday that Manchin objected to a plan to expand Medicaid coverage in red states and swing states that did not elect to expand this coverage for low-income people. West Virginia did expand its Medicaid program several years ago.