Biden Hopeful of Debt Ceiling Deal as McCarthy Says Democrats ‘Want a Default’

President Joe Biden is optimistic about reaching an agreement with congressional Republicans on the nation’s debt ceiling. A follow-up meeting between the parties will take place on May 16, the president said.
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) told reporters that Democrats appear to want a default more than they want a solution to the problem.
Biden spoke briefly with reporters in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, on May 14 about the progress of negotiations. While he declined to give specifics, the president said he believes a settlement is within reach.
“Well, I’ve learned a long time ago, and you know as well as I do: It never is good to characterize a negotiation in the middle of a negotiation,” Biden said. “I remain optimistic because I’m a congenital optimist. But I really think there’s a desire on their part, as well as ours, to reach an agreement, and I think we’ll be able to do it.”…}