Biden Praises Bipartisanship in Speech Alongside McConnell

President Joe Biden gave a speech alongside top Republican Mitch McConnell (R-KY) on Wednesday next to the Brent Spence Bridge, which crosses the Ohio River and connects Kentucky and Ohio. In the speech, Biden touted his administration’s infrastructure legislation and praised efforts for bipartisanship in Washington.

Key Quotes: In his address, Biden stated that “we can work together. We can get things done. We can move the nation forward if we just drop a little bit of our egos and focus on what’s needed in the country,” adding, “after years of politics being so divisive, there are bright spots across the country. The Brent Spence Bridge is one of them.” Addressing McConnell, Biden stated that he was “happy to be here with my friend and colleague of many years, and I might add the longest serving leader in the United States Senate.”

For Context: Biden’s bipartisan infrastructure bill provides approximately $1 trillion for road, bridge, rail, and other projects across the country. The Brent Spence Bridge is set to receive $1 billion in funds for repairs and to build an accompanying bridge alongside it.

How the Media Covered It: Biden’s address was covered lightly across the spectrum, overshadowed by the ongoing struggle in the House of Representatives to elect a new Speaker of the House. Outlets across the spectrum noted the contrast between Biden’s message of bipartisan progress and the Republican Party infighting in Washington.