The issue of whether Americans will get relief checks of $600 or $2,000 is now in the hands of the Senate, and the legislative jiu-jitsu already has begun. It's expected to play out over a few days, and how it will end up is anyone's guess at this point. Meanwhile, a different argument has surfaced about who should get the money. Coverage:
- A shift: Axios reports that as recently as a few days ago, it seemed "impossible" the Senate would back $2,000 checks. But that has changed with senators feeling the pressure from President Trump and their own constituents. Some Republicans may not be able to risk a "no" vote, putting the needed threshold of 60 votes in sight. However, it's still an "uphill battle," per Axios.
- Support growing: So far, GOP Sens. David Perdue, Kelly Loeffler, Marco Rubio, Josh Hawley, and Deb Fischer have announced their support of the $2,000 checks, reports the Washington Post. Perdue and Loeffler are under particular pressure to back the larger amounts because they face runoff elections in Georgia next week. That still leaves Democrats seven votes short, though the numbers are changing quickly.