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President Biden to outline spending plan to Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Joe Biden will give his first address to a joint session of Congress on Wednesday evening.

He’ll make the case to the public and to lawmakers for trillions of dollars in new spending.

The president will lay out the second piece of his plan to rebuild the nation’s highways, bridges and airports.

He’ll also call for national paid family leave, universal pre-K and free community college.

Republicans say they’re looking for the president to act on bringing lawmakers together.

“So far I don’t think we’re building back better, I think we’re building back alone and when both parties aren’t at the table that gives me great concern,” said Rep. Mike Kelly (R-Pa.)

Republicans are expected to resist the president’s plan saying they don’t like the cost and don’t want to raise taxes on businesses.

Two other high-profile topics likely to face disagreement are police reform and gun control.

Democrats maintain they are ready for the challenge.

“We’ve got the gun violence that we’ve seen in communities of color across the country, so I’m sure he will address that,” said Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.)

President Biden’s address will have a different look with limited space due to coronavirus protocols.

The chamber holds about 1,600 people but only 200 will be on the inside.

“This is going to be quite a different event,” said Rep. Mike Doyle (D-Pa.)

After Wednesday’s address, the president heads to Georgia to take his message on the road.