President Trump Demands More Money for Direct Payments in Covid Relief Bill

In a turn of events, President Trump has threatened to reject the newly passed bipartisan coronavirus relief bill unless Congress makes significant changes. “I’m asking Congress to amend this bill and increase the ridiculously low $600 to $2000 or $4000 per couple.” He further requested they “immediately get rid of the wasteful and unnecessary items in this legislation.” His announcement came as a surprise to both White House aides and Democrats after months of intense negotiations in which the president’s own administration participated in. Trump reportedly received regular updates during the divisive talks and signaled he would sign off on the legislation this week. Now he claims what was presented before him was a much different bill, calling it a “disgrace.” His request has now found him amongst unlikely allies that includes House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders. Concerns still loom over a possible government shutdown since federal funding runs out Monday. Despite the president’s threats, the bill was passed with veto proof majority. For now, fellow supporter Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has suggested President Trump sign the bill to avoid a shutdown before negotiating another round of direct stimulus payments.