White House hopeful of deal with Congress on climate, social spending

Official says the administration is optimistic about President Joe Biden's signature 'Build Back Better' proposal given the degree of alignment seen on issues

Reaching agreement with the U.S. Congress on new climate and social spending proposals will be a challenge, but the Biden administration remains upbeat it can be done, Brian Deese, the president's top economic adviser, said on Wednesday.

Deese, director of the National Economic Council, said he was optimistic about President Joe Biden's signature "Build Back Better" proposal given the degree of alignment seen on issues ranging from clean energy to lowering prescription drug costs and lowering child care costs.

If the proposals were fully paid for, as intended by the Biden administration, the spending package would not have a net impact on