Senators block new virus aid, Pelosi decries ‘stunt’
By ANDREW TAYLOR and LISA MASCARO Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — Senators have torpedoed quick passage of a new coronavirus aid package. Democrats rejected a Trump administration request for $250 billion to boost a small business payroll fund and Republicans refused Democrats’ demand for another $250 billion for hospitals and states. The standoff doesn’t end the pursuit of more rescue funds. Democrats and Republicans agree the aid is urgently needed and talks continue. But it reinforces that Congress and the White House will need to find bipartisan agreement. Democrats are not opposed to boosting the payroll fund, but they want to ensure that the popular program delivers benefits to businesses in minority communities that are often under-served by traditional lenders.