President Donald Trump on Tuesday called on Republican leaders to approve legislation to increase direct payments to Americans from $600 to $2,000.
"Unless Republicans have a death wish, and it is also the right thing to do, they must approve the $2000 payments ASAP. $600 IS NOT ENOUGH! Also, get rid of Section 230 - Don't let Big Tech steal our Country, and don't let the Democrats steal the Presidential Election. Get tough!" Trump tweeted.
The Democrat-led House of Representatives approved the legislation on Monday. But on Tuesday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) blocked an attempt by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) to pass the bill via unanimous consent.
"McConnell brought the chamber back this week with one major goal: overriding Trump's veto of the annual National Defense Authorization Act. He has not yet committed to bringing the $2,000 payment bill up for a vote, and it is unclear now how one would take shape," CNBC explained in a report.
"Still, Democrats tried to use the limited tools at their disposal to force a vote. Speaking on the Senate floor Tuesday afternoon, McConnell said he planned to set up a Wednesday vote on the veto override."
Trump has faced criticism for waiting until the last minute to call for the $2,000 payments.
