On Sunday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced that a deal on a coronavirus relief bill has been reached. The House and Senate are expected to vote on the legislation on Monday.
The bill had stalled, according to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, because Democratic leaders had thought earlier passage would benefit President Donald Trump and his chances for a second term.
“President Trump has pushed hard for months to send Americans badly needed financial relief. We look forward to Congress sending a bill to his desk imminently for signature,” said Special Assistant to the President Ben Williamson in a statement released Sunday.
According to several media reports, the latest bill would establish temporary $300 per week supplemental jobless benefits and $600 direct stimulus payments to most Americans.
While individuals receive a reduced amount from the last round of relief, schools and health care providers will receive the lion’s share of the massive spending bill.
Few of Arizona’s representatives weighed in on social media on Sunday night when the news broke. The most vocal on Twitter was Rep. Debbie Lesko, who expressed her displeasure about the timing.
(1/3) After wasting a week in the House by holding up COVID-19 relief, Speaker Pelosi called members back to Washington, D.C. and there is still NO VOTE in sight.
— Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (@RepDLesko) December 20, 2020
(2/3) She says she is worried about the spread of COVID-19, but forcing members to travel through crowded airports and on packed planes during the holiday season tells a different story. pic.twitter.com/ql9GeshggN
— Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (@RepDLesko) December 20, 2020
(3/3) While Republicans head to Washington, D.C. to do their constitutional duty of voting, Democrats in Pelosi’s caucus sit home and proxy vote—which is unconstitutional. Ridiculous.
— Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (@RepDLesko) December 20, 2020
On the other hand, Rep. Andy, who has regularly shared his concerns about the bill, said once again he would be a “no” vote.
A few reasons why conservatives will be voting NO tomorrow. @chiproytx https://t.co/jotS3uO1Pp pic.twitter.com/sMi2CteuZd
— Andy Biggs (@andybiggs4az) December 21, 2020
Rep. Raul Grijalva spoke out early against the proposed $600 payment.
Republicans didn’t care about the deficit when it came to giving tax cuts to big corporations & the wealthy.
But when it comes to aid for families facing economic hardship, some Republicans suddenly seem to care again.
The people need survival checks. https://t.co/TTBMky7zAR
— Raul M. Grijalva (@RepRaulGrijalva) December 18, 2020
Two roomies heading to late Sunday votes. And no, the tan coats are not required apparel on the House floor. pic.twitter.com/CecWNZYHFO
— Rep. Jason Crow (@RepJasonCrow) December 21, 2020