Biden pitches 'once in a generation investment' to Congress

US President Joe Biden has laid out sweeping proposals for jobs, education and social care in his first speech to a joint session of Congress. Delivered on the eve of his 100th day in office, the Democrat pitched plans involving some $4 trillion (£2.9tn) in spending - the largest overhaul of US benefits since the 1960s, analysts say.

He called it a "once in a generation investment in America itself". But the proposals face strong opposition from the Republican party.

Republican Senator Tim Scott called Mr Biden's agenda a "liberal wish list of big government waste" while senior Republican official Ronna McDaniel said his first 100 days had been an "unqualified failure".

Despite slim Democratic control of both houses, the plans face a battle in Congress before they can become law. In a historic moment, US Vice-President Kamala Harris - the first woman to hold that office - and House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi both sat behind Mr Biden during Wednesday night's primetime address. It is the first time two women have appeared behind the president during a speech to Congress.

After addressing Ms Harris in his opening remarks as Madam Vice-President, Mr Biden added, "No president has ever said those words from this podium. And it's about time."

The event was far smaller than for past presidents, due to restrictions imposed to fight the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. National Guard troops remain in force around the Capitol after pro-Trump demonstrators stormed the building in January.

What did President Biden say?

He said that on taking power in January he had inherited "a nation in crisis". "The worst pandemic in a century. The worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. The worst attack on our democracy since the Civil War," he said.

"Now, after just 100 days, I can report to the nation: America is on the move again." Mr Biden touted the success of the vaccine rollout - calling on all Americans who had not already had a dose to "go get vaccinated" - and the growing economy.

But he stressed there was far more to do. With strong approval ratings and slender Democratic control of both houses, Mr Biden presented his proposals - the American Jobs Plan and the American Families Plan - which the White House has said will be funded by tax raises on US corporations and the wealthiest Americans.

"We have to prove democracy still works, that our government still works, and can deliver for the people," he said.Speaking directly to those who "feel left behind and forgotten" in a changing economy, he described the American Jobs Plan as "a blue-collar blueprint to build America". It will invest in public transport, high-speed broadband, and roads and bridges.

He also stressed that the plan would be guided by the fight against climate change.

"When I think climate change I think jobs," he said. "There's no reason why American workers can't lead the world in the production of electric vehicles and batteries."