Hoyer says Biden administration 'not to blame for inflation'

In a potential preview of the Democrats' midterm election message, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said the Biden administration isn't to blame for the record inflation facing American families.

"We understand that inflation is a very serious problem and a concern for the American people," Hoyer said during a conference call with reporters on Wednesday. "This administration, in my opinion, is not to blame for inflation."

The Maryland Democrat attributed record inflation to factors including the supply chain crisis and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Republicans argue that President Biden's $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, which he signed last March, sent inflation into overdrive.

The rate of inflation has more than tripled since the legislation's passage. In March 2021, inflation was 2.6%. More than 1 year later, inflation is at 8.5%, a 40-year high.

A Politifact analysis found that the American Rescue Plan was a contributor to the record inflation that Americans are experiencing today.

Hoyer said Congress should move forward on parts of the $2 trillion Build Back Better Act, which includes new social programs and expands Obamacare subsidies, as a way to help families combat inflation. West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin vowed to vote against the original version of the spending package last December, citing concerns about inflation getting worse. 

Hoyer also said Congress should pass the America COMPETES Act, which includes more than $50 billion for chip makers to address the chip shortage.

Republican leaders view inflation and the record flood of illegal migration at the southern border as winning issues for their party heading into the midterm elections. Recent polls show Republicans are favored to take back control of the House and possibly the Senate.