Democrats began pushing Congress' biggest coronavirus relief bill yet toward expected House passage Friday, a USD 3 trillion behemoth they said a beleaguered country badly needs but that Republicans called a bloated election-year wish list.
Democratic leaders were pressing ahead despite grumbling from party moderates leery of the measure's massive price tag and liberals who wanted bolder steps, like money to cover workers' salaries.
As has become customary since the virus took hold, the sparsely populated House chamber was dotted with members and aides wearing protective masks, though some Republicans were not.
The bill was sure to go nowhere in the GOP-led Senate, let alone reach President Donald Trump's desk, where a promised veto awaited.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has said the legislation is Democrats' opening offer in what is expected to blossom into negotiations with the White House and congressional leaders of both parties.
The bill would flush almost USD 1 trillion to state and local governments and provide more money for virus testing and to pay front-line emergency workers.
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It would renew USD 1,200 cash payments for individuals and extend the added USD 600 weekly unemployment benefits being paid during the pandemic.
Democrats rejected GOP arguments that the measure was simply an effort by Democrats to display their priorities to voters.
I don't give a damn about sending a message," said Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass.
I want to send help to those in desperate need."
There may be some effort to pass a bill in September or October but it will get increasingly difficult."