1 House To Vote Friday On New COVID Relief Package
The House will vote tomorrow on President Biden’s heralded – and huge – coronavirus relief package. House Majority leader Steny Hoyer said the nearly two-trillion-dollar measure will deliver quick relief to Americans. Republicans are steadfastly against the package, saying it simply costs too much. The bill, which is expected to be pushed through the Democratically-controlled House and Senate, will see 14-hundred-dollar stimulus checks doled out to many Americans. Outside of politics, a large group of big business executives including those from include Goldman Sachs, Google and IBM are backing the plan. More than 150 senior business execs sent a letter of support to congressional leaders. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki cheered the letter during a briefing and said there's a growing consensus in the U.S. for passage of the stimulus.
2 A New Coronavirus Variant Discovered In New York
A new coronavirus variant has been discovered in New York and officials say the B.1.526 variant has been detected as far back as November to the tune of about 12% of cases in the state. As with other variants, researchers aren’t sure if this one is more contagious or will make anyone sicker. But what they do know? That it may be more resistant to vaccines. Speaking of vaccines, the Food and Drug Administration is endorsing Johnson & Johnson's COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use. The latest data tracks with previous information which has said that the product is safe and effective. But it’s not just about efficacy. While the vax is 72% effective in preventing illness overall, it prevents 100% of hospitalizations and death. But that’s not all, unlike other vaccines, this one has no reports of any allergic reaction and prevents asymptomatic spread. An advisory committee at the FDA will meet tomorrow to review the request for emergency use authorization.
3 Trouble In The GOP As Trump's Expected To Criticize Biden During CPAC Speech
When former President Trump makes his first major political appearance since leaving office this weekend, we’re likely to hear much of what he said before leaving office. This, as he’s expected to be on the offensive when he makes a speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference – otherwise known as CPAC. According to reports, Trump plans to take aim at President Biden during his Sunday remarks, using the platform to attack his successor's first weeks in the White House. He's also expected to tease a potential 2024 presidential bid. That’s causing friction within the GOP as the party continues to try and solidify its identity with – or without – him in 2024 and beyond. That disagreement was on full display on Capitol Hill yesterday when House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Rep. Liz Cheney, the third-ranking Republican in the House were asked by reporters if Trump should be allowed to speak at the event. McCarthy said yes, and Cheney said no.