Dems Pave Way to Pass Biden’s Coronavirus Relief Package Soon

Democrats have now paved the way to pass their coronavirus relief bill without the support of Republicans. The Senate passed a budget resolution early this morning as part of a key procedural step to allow for Democrats to pass President Biden’s $1.9 trillion Covid-19 package without the threat of a Republican filibuster. It started with an hours-long “vote-a-rama” where senators offered as many amendments to the budget as they wanted, forcing each party to go on the record over their stance on the issues. Most GOP amendments were defeated but there was some bipartisan consensus. One of the most sweeping agreements was in regards to upper income households being ineligible to receive the $1,400 Covid stimulus checks. The measure finally passed 51 to 50 straight along a party line vote, with Vice President Kamala Harris casting her first tie breaking vote. Democrats will now be able to use “budget reconciliation” to pass the package without Republican support. The vote is expected to be held later this month or in March following the impeachment trial.