Opening of Session

Senate Majority Leader McConnell opened the new year by reiterating his opposition to providing $2,000 coronavirus pandemic relief checks, continuing to call it “socialism for the rich.” He then talked about the importance of overriding President Trump’s veto of the fiscal year 2021 defense authorization. Minority Leader Schumer spoke next, calling for further economic assistance for the public, and attempted to bring the matter to a vote. Majority Whip Thune (R-SD) objected, and explained his reasons. Budget Committee Ranking Member Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Minority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) both tried get a vote on the increased stimulus. Senator Sanders later tried to bring up votes on both a stand-alone $2,000 increase bill and a bill with the other items Leader McConnell wanted. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO), who had also advocated for the increase, spoke in support of the motion. Republicans objected. close