Members of the House are currently discussing the $ 1.9 billion Covid-19 relief bill. They are expected to take a final vote on the bill soon.
Here is what both sides say:
Democrats:
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic caucus chairman, says the package is all about helping Americans who are struggling. He said in his remarks on the floor today that Congress needs to act urgently.
“The Covid-19 pandemic is a one in a century crisis. It requires a comprehensive, compassionate and ongoing congressional response once in a century. That is what the US rescue plan is about,” he said.
Jeffries pointed out that more than 500,000 people died from the virus and that more than 100,000 businesses closed during the pandemic. He also said that the money is needed to help people dealing with food insecurity and homelessness, as well as to revive the economy.
“So much pain, suffering and death and our Republican colleagues want us to do nothing. What’s wrong with you?” he said.
“We will build better for the people. Help is on the way,” Jeffries added.
Other Democrats repeated Jeffries’ comments, repeating the phrase “help is on the way” several times. They also said the public supports the bill.
Republicans
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy said the Democrats were not trying to pass a two-party emergency relief plan, calling the package a “missed opportunity” to focus on the real needs of Americans.
He said the bill would cost taxpayers more than $ 5,000 each, saying it was one of the most expensive bills in U.S. history.
“You send your tax money to the government, but you only get a fraction of what you pay for at its best,” he said, referring to the direct payments of $ 1,400 sent to some Americans as part of the plan.
McCarthy said the U.S. rescue plan was “very liberal” and “in the House as well as in the Senate was the only dual vote against it.”
Rep. Jason Smith, a Republican from Missouri, also argued that the bill was a “biased process” and that Congress should focus on “timely and targeted relief to support those who need it most.”
“From the beginning of this process, Republicans have said that this lifeline is never about Covid’s relief, but rather about the Democrats trying to get some victories for their political base. Make sure they are their allies, rather than to help Americans, “Smith said.
Look at Representative Hakeem Jeffries:
Check out House minority leader Kevin McCarthy: