Democratic Senator Joe Manchin said he will not vote to confirm President Biden’s choice to become director of the Office of Management and Budget. Neera Teeth, jeopardize and possibly endanger its confirmation. Due to the 50-50 split in the Senate, a Republican would have to support Teeth to offset Manchin’s “no” vote, which seems unlikely.
Citing Tanden’s history of partisan comments and tweets as a cause for concern, Manchin explained his decision in a written statement:
“I have carefully reviewed Neera Tanden’s public statements and tweets addressed personally to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, from Senator Sanders to Senator McConnell and others. I believe her openly biased statements will have a toxic and damaging impact. important relationship between members of Congress and the next director of the Office of Management and Budget. For this reason, I cannot support her appointment. As I have said before, we must take meaningful steps to to deal with the political divisions and dysfunction permeating our politics. In a time of severe crisis, it is more important than ever that we chart a new two-pronged course that helps address the many serious challenges facing our nation. ”
In the past, Tanden has referred to Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell as “Voldemort” and has fought Senator Bernie Sanders and his supporters online. Sanders’ vote on Teeth was also checked as a possible ‘no’. During her confirmation hearing, the Vermont Senator posed some of Teeth’s most pointed questions about the social media comment she addressed to his supporters.
Anna Moneymaker / AP
“There were brutal attacks against progressives, people I’ve worked with, me personally,” he said. “Could you think a little about some of your decisions and some of the personal statements you have made over the years?”
Teeth apologized and told senators at the hearing that she had deleted several of her tweets and promised to take a “radically” different approach if confirmed.
Despite Manchin’s opposition, when asked Friday night, Mr Biden said he will not withdraw the nomination.
“I think we’ll find the votes to get her confirmed,” the president said.
“Neera Tanden is a seasoned policy expert who would make an excellent budget director and we look forward to the committee’s vote next week and to continue to work on its confirmation through engagement with both parties,” said a statement from the press secretary of the White House, Jen Psaki. .
Sara Cook contributed to the reporting.