CNN host Dana Bash wasted no time getting right to the issue during an interview with Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV), who is once again standing in the way of passing important climate change legislation in the Senate.

Earlier this month, Manchin wrote an op-ed that was published in the Wall Street Journal in which he explained why he will refuse to support a $3.5 trillion stimulus package that would devote significant resources to combating climate change. His op-ed led Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) to slam the senator on Twitter. Bash asked Manchin:

“I’m sure you’ve heard what your fellow Democrat, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said about you in a tweet. ‘Manchin has weekly huddles w/Exxon and is one of many senators who gives lobbyists their pen to write so-called bipartisan fossil fuel bills. It’s killing people. Our people. At least 12 last night. Sick of this ‘bipartisan’ corruption that masquerades as clear-eyed moderation.’

“That’s your fellow Democrat.  Is it true you have weekly meetings with Exxon and other companies?”

A clearly defensive Manchin responded:

“Absolutely not. I keep my door open for everybody. That’s totally false. Those type of superlatives, it’s just awful, that continue to divide, divide. I don’t know that young lady really well. I met her one time between sets but that’s it. We’ve not had any conversations. she’s speculating and saying things.”

But Bash noted that other Democrats have also slammed Manchin’s refusal to help pass much-needed legislation:

“She’s not the only one. I’m sure you’ve heard a number of fellow Democrats say you’re opposed to this because you’re bought and paid for by corporate donors.”

The West Virginia Democrat replied:

“It makes no sense at all. I gave you the facts. You’re entitled to your own facts — I mean your own opinions — you’re just not entitled to create your own facts to support it. That’s exactly what they’re doing.”

It’s instructive to keep in mind that Manchin represents a state that’s dependent on fossil fuels as one of its major industries. Is it really hard to believe he has a hidden agenda when it comes to not wanting to battle climate change? Something smells fishy, and Manchin’s excuses are growing old and incredibly tiresome.

Here’s the video:

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