Too bad we can’t all agree on what “Infrastructure” means. But it’s a complement of another “I” word: Investment. In the economy, the people—and all the restored bridges, upgraded seaports, enhanced highways, technology expansions and carbon reductions possible. In short, a master plan–one that pays for itself over time–for the critical needs of the 21st century, including the re-building of economic opportunity and a redefinition of “American exceptionalism.”
That said, here’s two telling takes on President Joe Biden’s $2 trillion, 8-year, infrastructure plan. “I look forward to working with President Biden to pass a big, bold plan that will drive America forward for decades to come.” That was Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. “A Trojan Horse.” That, unsurprisingly, was former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. Such partisan discord is a reminder of political pragmatics. The Biden Administration has plenty of incentive to go all-out and all-in in its first two years—before any mid-term, Republican rebooting.