The Senate voted 47-42 Thursday to begin debate on a coronavirus stimulus bill passed by the House of Representatives next week, in a procedural measure that makes it easier to come up with a possible compromise that extends the additional unemployment benefit while talking about a broader relief measure Grind.
However, the vote meant the Senate left Washington without extending the $ 600 per week expanded unemployment benefit that has helped keep both families and the economy afloat as the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the country.
Friday’s expiration of the $ 600 unemployment benefit sent Republicans who control the Senate to fight to respond.
“We are so far apart on a longer-term deal right now, that even if we said ‘yes’ to a longer-term deal, it could (have) weeks of negotiation without reaching common ground,” said the chief of staff. The White House Mark Meadows told reporters.
But Democrats so far have rejected this unsystematic approach, saying the next aid bill should move forward as a complete package. Any extension of short-term unemployment benefits of less than $ 600 per week is not likely to be a start for them.
President Donald Trump, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows speak before Trump speaks to journalists about the South Lawn of the White House on Wednesday July 29, 2020, in Washington. Trump is on his way to Texas. (AP Photo / Alex Brandon)
Talks over the relief bill are stalled with little reason for optimism despite broad agreement among Washington’s top power players that Congress must pass more relief in the coming days and weeks.
President Trump is eager for another bill, and it’s also a priority for Republican Party allies like McConnell, as well as Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat from California, and Senate Top Democrat Chuck Schumer. Democrats have a strong negotiating hand, with Republicans very divided on their own proposal.
Raising the stakes, a grim government report released Thursday said the economy contracted at an annualized rate of 33% in the second quarter of the year, a clear reminder of the economic damage plaguing the country as lawmakers debate size and size. scope for new relief.
“This discordant news should compel Congress to act quickly to provide targeted and temporary assistance to unemployed Americans, employers, and state and local governments, and liability protections for businesses that follow public health guidelines,” said Neal Bradley of the United States Chamber of Commerce, The powerful business group.
But the bipartisan talks have not yet reached a serious and productive phase. Democrats are playing hard, insisting on a package that is much larger than the more than $ 1 trillion measure unveiled by McConnell on Monday. Thursday brought more eye for an eye.
“They won’t get involved. Period, “McConnell said when the Senate opened.” Democrats are saying, my way or on the highway. “
Chad Pergram and The Associated Press of Fox News contributed to this report.
