Economist Podcasts Reconciled to it: America’s stimulus bill
Mar 9, 2021
Idris Kaloun, The Economist's Washington correspondent, discusses the $1.9 trillion COVID relief bill's journey through Congress and its implications for future legislation in the Biden administration. Kinley Salmon, the Africa correspondent, delves into the political unrest in Senegal, sparked by the arrest of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, highlighting the social issues at stake. Together, they explore the intersection of politics and civic expression amidst a backdrop of shifting power dynamics in both the U.S. and Senegal.
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COVID Relief Bill Details
- The $1.9 trillion COVID relief bill includes $1,400 checks for most Americans.
- It also allocates billions to vaccines, testing, and school reopenings.
Senate Passage
- Democrats used a process called "budgetary reconciliation" to pass the bill in the Senate.
- This maneuver allowed them to bypass a potential Republican filibuster.
Republican Delay Tactics
- Republicans attempted to stall the bill's passage by forcing a full reading and numerous amendment votes.
- One vote on the minimum wage lasted 12 hours, the longest in Senate history.