2000 Stimulus Checks Still Aren't Approved
The Claim
The $2000 stimulus check for United States citizens was approved.
Emerging story
On December 28, 2020, Facebook user Lori Hendry wrote that “President Trump just got the stimulus checks increased to $2000!”
The claim soon went viral.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar’s investigation found that thus far, the claim is false. A bill for the $2000 stimulus check did pass in the House following President Donald Trump’s request for larger stimulus checks.
However, on Tuesday, December 29, 2020, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell blocked consideration of the bill for an immediate Senate vote.
The Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act added $1400 to the already-authorized $600 stimulus checks. It was passed by the House 275-134. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer placed the blame for it not passing on McConnell: "There's strong support for these $2,000 emergency checks from every corner of the country. Leader McConnell ought to make sure Senate Republicans do not stand in the way of helping to meet the needs of American workers and families who are crying out for help."
McConnell’s block does not mean the bill cannot be voted on at a later date. He stated that he wants to clarify three of Trump’s priorities before allowing the vote. McConnell said that direct financial support for Americans, Section 230's technology protections, and election integrity "are the three important subjects the President has linked together. This week, the Senate will begin a process to bring these three priorities into focus."
As of December 29, 2020, the stimulus checks have not been increased to $2000.
