The Daily

Why $600 Checks Are Tearing Republicans Apart

Jul 28, 2020

Nicholas Fandos, a Congressional reporter for The New York Times, discusses the unrest among Republicans over federal unemployment benefits during the pandemic. He reveals the deep divisions within the party about the $600 weekly support, highlighting the ideological clash between fiscal conservatives and moderates. Fandos also shares insights on how these internal conflicts could shape the party's identity and strategies moving forward, particularly in light of their response to urgent economic needs and the looming expiration of aid.

23:51

Creator website

Episode guests

Nicholas Fandos

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Episode notes

Intro

2min

The $600 Dilemma

5min

Fiscal Divides in the Republican Party

4min

Navigating Republican Identity Amidst Economic Relief Challenges

4min

Republican Strategies on Unemployment Benefits

10min

A fight has erupted among congressional Republicans over how long and how generously the government should help those unemployed during the pandemic. But what is that battle really about? Guest: Nicholas Fandos, who covers Congress for The New York Times. For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily

Background reading:

Supplemental checks for laid-off workers are set to stop at the end of July. Republicans and Democrats disagree on what to do next.
Why the two parties are unlikely to reach a deal before the end of the month.

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