National

Axios AM

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, speaking virtually Thursday to the City Club of Cleveland, will appeal to business to back President Biden's social-infrastructure plans as "a competitive advantage" for America.

What she's saying: "I get it. We’re asking you to pay more in taxes," Raimondo, who has met with more than 100 CEOs since joining the Cabinet, says in remarks shared first with Axios.

"But I'd also suggest that if the business community doesn’t like the pay-fors we've proposed, it's time to come up with some real alternatives that don't raise taxes on middle class families."

Raimondo, former Rhode Island governor, promises this payoff: "A more stable democracy and a more sustainable capitalist system."

First look: Secretary Raimondo urges business to back social infrastructure plans

"A more stable democracy and a more sustainable capitalist system."

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo briefs at the White House in July. Photo: Michael Brochstein/Sipa USA

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo briefs at the White House in July. Photo: Michael Brochstein/Sipa USA

Infrastructure

Economy

After a record economic expansion, the coronavirus pandemic sent the U.S. economy into a recession as unemployment soared to staggering heights. The country now faces urgent questions about how much stimulus is needed for reeling consumers and businesses, and what a recovery might look like.

Economy & Business

President Biden has made the COVID-19 crisis and a post-Trump return to national unity and traditional democratic ideals his top priorities. From vaccinations to stimulus to schools, Biden is seeking bipartisan compromise while showing a willingness to use executive authority and bare Democratic majorities in the U.S. House and Senate to implement his policies. Republican leaders are navigating deep party divisions over if and how to move beyond former President Trump.

First look: Secretary Raimondo urges business to back social infrastructure plans

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