ALBAWABA - The promise made by President Joe Biden to allocate federal funds for the reconstruction of the Key Bridge, which collapsed after being struck by a cargo ship, has sparked controversy.
Reports from The Hill indicate that discord has emerged regarding whether the rebuilding of the bridge in Maryland should be financed by the state or by the federal government.
Republican senators have voiced concerns about the potential increase in Washington's debt, particularly referencing the 2024 spending package in Congress.
Conversely, some Democratic lawmakers have defended Biden's decision, arguing that the bridge's significance extends beyond state borders and warrants federal assistance.
Former communications director for Vice President Kamala Harris, Jamal Simmons, emphasized the responsibility of the shipping company involved in the collision, suggesting they should contribute to repair costs.
Representative Ralph Norman, a Republican, criticized the notion of federal funding for the bridge's reconstruction, labeling it as "completely absurd."
The collapse of the Key Bridge occurred on Tuesday in Baltimore, Maryland, following a collision with a large cargo ship, resulting in a fire onboard the vessel and the collapse of a section of the bridge.
President Biden has expressed his commitment to rebuilding both the port and the bridge using federal resources, calling on Congress to support the initiative.
Senator Chris Van Hollen, representing Maryland in the National Congress since 2003, highlighted that the exact cost of the reconstruction remains undetermined. He clarified that the majority of the funding, approximately 90%, will come from the federal emergency fund, with the remaining portion covered by state funds.
