Trump’s higher relief cheques stall in Senate as Republicans block vote

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell leaves the Capitol building after talks stalled on Donald Trump’s push for higher Covid relief cheques for most Americans (Jacquelyn Martin/AP)

President Donald Trump’s push for larger 2,000 dollar (£1,476) Covid-19 relief cheques stalled on Tuesday in the Senate as Republicans blocked a swift vote proposed by Democrats and split within their own ranks over whether to boost spending or defy the White House.

The roadblock mounted by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell may not be sustainable as pressure mounts.