Pelosi pushes new virus package as GOP resists big spending

‘It’s life and death,’ Democratic leader Chuck Schumer says

WASHINGTON — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi pressed ahead Tuesday with the next round of coronavirus aid, a sweeping $800 billion-plus package that is expected to be unveiled soon, even as the House stays closed while the Senate reopens.

Key to any plan to reopen the economy, Democrats say, is robust testing. They are also expected to propose another round of direct cash aid for anxious Americans, funds for states to prevent layoffs and more money to shore up businesses in the stayhome economy.

“We still don’t have a national testing strategy that is adequate,” Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said Tuesday. He called it embarrassing. “It’s life and death.”

The contours of the next package are taking shape despite Republican resistance to more outlays, and a deepening debate over how best to confront the deadly pandemic and its economic devastation.

President Donald Trump is encouraging states to reopen and Republicans hope the gradual comeback will kick-start the economy, reducing the pressure for more pricey aid.

“Now, it’s time to go back to work,” Trump said Tuesday at the White House.

Under strict social distancing guidelines, the Senate reconvened Monday for the first time since March, while the House is staying away due to health risks as the conflicted Congress ref lects an uneasy nation. The Washington area remains a virus hot spot under stay-home rules.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell opened the chamber defending his decision to focus the agenda on confirming Trump’s nominees rather than the virus outbreak.

On Tuesday, McConnell insisted that any new aid package must include liability protections for the hospitals, health care providers and businesses that are operating and reopening in the pandemic.

But the Republican leader also signaled an interest in beefed-up virus testing strategies as central to the nation’s ability to take steps “back toward normalcy.”

“Testing, tracking, treatments,” McConnell said from the Senate floor. “Our task ahead will be to keep seeking thoughtful solutions.”

By reconvening this week, Senate Republicans are trying to set the terms of debate, frustrated that Pelosi was able to fill up earlier aid bills with Democratic priorities. They’re reluctant to unleash federal funds beyond the nearly $3 trillion Congress already approved in virus relief and hope Trump’s push to reopen will reduce the need for more aid.