COVID-19 Aid Talks Still Alive As Dems And GOP Agree To Keep Talking

Republicans are signaling their intent to spend more to save Americans from poverty and the U.S. economy from economic damage as a result of COVID-19.

The White House on Monday indicated its willingness to resume talks with Democrats on a fourth coronavirus rescue package that collapsed Friday.

Treasury secretary Steve Mnuchin said the administration had no objection to resuming talks with Democratic leaders. He said the Republican Party would offer more aid money in order to reach a compromise. "The president is determined to spend what we need to spend...We're prepared to put more money on the table," Mnuchin said.

Mnuchin said Democratic leaders appeared "willing to compromise" in spite of a gap in spending totals by both parties. "Again, if we can get a fair deal we're willing to do it this week," Mnuchin said.

President Donald Trump said the White House would be willing to talk with Democrats led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY).

Pelosi said Democrats could shorten the time financial aid is provided to Americans to lower the package's cost closer to the Trump administration's proposal.

The narrower deal will extend some federal financial aid until the end of the year. The need for more federal assistance will be discussed again in January. This proposed timetable is significant because it may suggest the Republican Party predicts a Trump defeat in November. The Senate may fall to the Democrats, too.

"Let's pass legislation on things that we agree on," Mnuchin said. "We don't have to get everything done at once." He said both parties should get things done for the American public now and discuss their stalled fourth coronavirus stimulus packages later.

Pelosi agreed a deal between congressional Democrats and the White House was essential. "Right now, we need to come to agreement," she said.