Situational Awareness
The Senate is in session this week and will consider a slimmed-down coronavirus package. The House is out of session until after the elections, but subject to the call of the Speaker should a deal be reached on a stimulus package.
Paycheck Protection Up in Senate
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) will bring a slimmed-down coronavirus package to the floor for consideration this week, though it is expected to be blocked by Democrats. The $500 billion package would extend the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), provide for additional unemployment relief, funding for schools and coronavirus testing. The debate and attempt to pass the package is largely seen as a symbolic gesture prior to the elections on November 3, 2020.
COVID-19 Relief Negotiations Reach a Crescendo
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) spoke with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Saturday about a comprehensive coronavirus package and there appears to have been some progress on reaching an agreement. Speaker Pelosi told Mnuchin an agreement needs to be reached today or tomorrow if there is any chance to pass a package before the elections. The Administration and the House remain deadlocked on a number of provisions including funds for testing and contact tracing. White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows said this morning that they are making progress and are hopeful a package can be agreed to soon.
Supreme Court Nomination
Associate Justice to the Supreme Court nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett will come to a vote in the Senate Committee on the Judiciary on Thursday. She is expected to be reported out favorably on a party line vote. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has committed to bringing her nomination to the full Senate next week where she is expected to be confirmed on a largely partisan vote. Senate Democrats have universally rejected filling a Supreme Court vacancy so close to the election.
What Do the Elections Mean for Private Clubs?
On Wed. Nov. 4 at 2 pm ET., go-in depth on the election results and what they mean for private clubs with NCA Vice President of Government Relations Joe Trauger and NCA Board Member and Chair of NCA’s Government Relations Committee Rob Smith. This webinar is free for NCA members. Register here.
Trauger recently wrote an article predicting how policies may change if Democrats win control of the White House and Senate and retain the House in November. Get a sneak peek of the new Club Director article here.