President Donald Trump called out Senate Democrats for blocking additional funding geared toward helping small businesses on Twitter.
“Democrats are blocking a 251 Million Dollar funding boost for Small Businesses which will help them keep their employees,” the president tweeted. “It should be for only that reason, with no additions. We should have a big Infrastructure Phase Four with Payroll Tax Cuts & more. Big Economic Bounceback!”
On Thursday, the Senate failed to pass legislation that would extend funding for the Paycheck Protection Program, which is set up to help small businesses get through the economic downturn caused by the coronavirus.
Republicans tried to pass an additional $250 billion in funding for the program. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell attempted to approve the measure by unanimous consent, which doesn't require the presence of a majority of senators.
But Democrats opposed the proposal because it didn’t include funding for hospitals, state or local governments.
Trump's tweet suggests he does not want to negotiate with the Democrats.
The Senate adjourned without approving funding. A meeting is scheduled for April 20, but it is unclear if a session will be called before then.