In a statement released by Senate Majority Leader’s office, Chuck Schumer announced that he and Joe Manchin have reached an agreement, and the Senator from West Virginia is set to vote yes to open debate on the election overhaul bill, which is allegedly curbing voting rights. However, the Democrats will still fall short of advancing the bill as the Republicans remain united in opposition.

In a statement released by Manchin’s office, the senator too confirmed he will vote in favour of opening debate on the bill.

“Over the past month, I have worked to eliminate the far-reaching provisions of S.1, the For the People Act – which I do not support. I’ve found common ground with my Democratic colleagues on a new version of the bill that ensures our elections are fair, accessible and secure.”

“Today I will vote ‘YES’ to move to debate this updated voting legislation as a substitute amendment to ensure every eligible voter is able to cast their ballot and participate in our great democracy,” the statement read.

“He came to my office about two hours ago, and we worked it out,” Schumer said, according to AFP inputs. “Senator Manchin has informed me that he will vote yes on the motion to proceed to debate the legislation. I have committed to him that if our Republican colleagues don’t obstruct and allow us to move forward on the debate will take up his proposed substitute amendment as the first amendment we will consider.”

Schumer says that he’s agreed to give Manchin’s proposal a vote as an amendment.

Manchin’s yes vote means Democrats will be united, and will get 50 votes on the measure. 

But Republicans are also united, meaning the Democrats won’t get the 60 votes needed to even begin debate.