Republicans are divided over how to handle aid for state and local governments hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.
The issue quickly became a flashpoint between Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Democrats, but there are also signs of fractures emerging among GOP lawmakers — posing a challenge for Republicans as they work to solidify their negotiating stance for the next relief bill.
Congress allocated $150 billion for state and municipal governments as part of the $2.2 trillion rescue package signed into law March 27. But Republicans are split on whether to loosen restrictions on how that money and any future funds can be spent, or if they should even support additional funding given GOP concerns about “state bailouts.” Continue reading.