As negotiations over the debt ceiling continue, a CNN poll appears to show a majority of Americans support Congressional Republicansâ position on the matter.
But during a Thursday appearance on CNN, Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) attempted to put a different spin on the results.
The networkâs Poppy Harlow noted the poll found 60% of respondents said Congress should raise the debt ceiling âonlyâ if spending cuts were included. Meanwhile, 24% said the debt ceiling should be raised âno matter what,â which is in line with President Joe Biden and the Democratsâ position.
âIs your position out of step now, congresswoman, with the majority of the American people?â Harlow asked.
Jayapal responded, âIâm so glad you raised that poll. Because I think itâs really important to look at what that poll says. If you just say, âShould we cut spending?â They will probably say yes.â
She continued:
âIf you say, âWould you rather cut spending and reduce the deficit by cutting the tax breaks to the wealthiest corporations and wealthiest individuals, or would you like to cut your own healthcare, education, care for veterans, etc.?â I guarantee you that you would have even higher numbers that say, âLetâs make sure that weâre making the wealthy pay their fair share.â
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However, Harlow interjected, âThatâs not what the poll says.â
âThis is the exact question that was asked of voters: What should Congress do on the debt ceiling?â she continued.
Harlow then repeated the responses to the poll.
Still, Jayapal insisted, âYou canât take tax cuts out of spending.â
The exchange comes as White House and Republican negotiators are seeking to reach a deal to raise the debt ceiling â the limit of how much the U.S. can borrow to pay its bills â and avoid a default on the nationâs debt.
Republicans are pushing for cutting spending in 2024 to less than the 2023 level, and a cap on spending over the next decade. However, Biden and the Democrats have suggested keeping spending levels at the 2023 amount.
Republicans have also proposed new work requirements for people who receive federal aid such as food stamps, which Biden has not ruled out.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned it is âalmost certainâ the U.S. will default on its debt by early June if the debt ceiling is not raised.
