In his first speech to a joint session of Congress, US President Joe Biden outlined a broad investment strategy for employment, education, and social care.
On the eve of his 100th day in office, the Democrat proposed $4 trillion (£2.9 trillion) in spending, according to analysts, the biggest overhaul of US benefits since the 1960s.
It’s a “once in a lifetime investment in America itself,” he said.
The proposals, however, will face opposition in Congress before becoming law.
The Republican Party, which is unlikely to support tax rises and increased government spending, has been vocal in its opposition to the plans.
Although the Democrats have a slim majority in both houses, there has been disagreement within the party over how far to take the plans.
During Mr Biden’s address on Wednesday night, US Vice-President Kamala Harris – the first woman to hold the role – and House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi sat behind him in a historic moment.
The American Jobs Plan, he said, is a “blue-collar blueprint to create America” that would increase investment in public transportation, high-speed broadband, and roads and bridges. He went on to say that the initiative would be motivated by the battle against global warming.
Meanwhile, he said the $1.8 trillion American Families Plan will be centered on children and will aim to provide:
Preschool is free for children aged three to four years old.
Paid family and medical leave, as well as health care subsidies are also available to employees.
All has access to a community college that is tuition-free.
A continuation of important tax cuts that were extended during the pandemic.
The initiative comes after the so-called American Rescue Plan, a $1.9 trillion bailout package.
A variation of vital tax breaks that were extended during the pandemic.
Mr. Biden signed into law last month the so-called American Rescue Plan, a $1.9 trillion coronavirus stimulus package that provided direct checks to most Americans.
He placed these new ideas in the light of foreign policy on Wednesday, saying the US was “in a race with China and other countries to win the twenty-first century.” He also urged politicians from both parties to support his proposals, saying he was open to working with both.