JessicaRodriguezRivas, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, Cropped by Resist the Mainstream

President Biden has announced his ambitious plan to fund the reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, after the crucial piece of infrastructure was destroyed in a collision by a cargo ship—but members of Congress are gearing up for a contentious battle over the proposal.

President Biden pledged that the federal government will shoulder the extensive costs of reconstructing this crucial conduit to the Port of Baltimore, which was severely damaged when a nearly 1,000-foot cargo ship, having lost power, collided with a bridge support.

This commitment from Biden has garnered approval from several Democrats, particularly Maryland's representatives, who emphasize the port's national significance and significance and economic importance.

However, this proposal has incited criticism from conservatives concerned about the fiscal implications, arguing that the bridge's repair should fall under state jurisdiction.

“The very thought of having the Federal Government pay for the Baltimore bridge is TOTALLY ABSURD!!” Representative Ralph Norman said in a text message to The Hill.

Additionally, some voices within the Democratic camp suggest that the cargo ship's owners should bear some responsibility for the damages incurred.

With Congress reconvening in mid-April, this issue joins a list of contentious topics awaiting deliberation. Amid uncertainties regarding the overall cost of repairs, estimated at $2 billion, Biden remains confident in garnering legislative support for federal funding. Maryland's representatives, including Senator Chris Van Hollen, are prioritizing this funding, planning to supplement federal emergency funds with state resources to cover the expenses involved in the bridge's restoration.