Biden calls out Republicans for not supporting China competition bill

President Biden on Friday called out House Republicans for not supporting the China competition bill, which passed the House largely along party lines with just one Republican voting for it.

“If House Republicans are serious about lowering prices, making our economy stronger, and competing with China from a position of strength, then they should come to the table and support this legislation, which does just that,” the president said in a statement. 

The House earlier on Friday in a 222-210 voted passed the bill aimed at bolstering domestic supply chains and scientific research to make the U.S. more competitive with nations like China.

Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.), one of two Republicans on the panel investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, backed the bill and authored numerous provisions related to boosting supply chains.

The Senate had passed its own version of the legislation, with 18 Republicans supporting it, in June.

Biden, in a statement, argued the bill would lead to “stronger supply chains and lower prices.” He also said to would boost manufacturing to help the U.S. compete with China.

He noted that business and labor leaders have supported the legislation. 

The bill includes $52 billion to incentivize domestic semiconductor chip production and $45 billion in grants and loans through the Department of Commerce to help support and enhance manufacturing facilities to strengthen domestic supply chains, among other provisions.

Biden called for the House and Senate to come together quickly on a joint bill. 

The House and Senate will have to reconcile their competing versions and reach an agreement that at least 10 Senate Republicans can vote for, because the legislation will be subject to Senate rules requiring at least 60 votes.

One House Democrat, Rep. Stephanie Murphy (D-Fla.), voted “no” on Friday and said in a statement she objected to “problematic, poorly-vetted provisions” related to trade.