McConnell sets up Tuesday session, buys time for virus aid deal

Sticking points on aid bill include funding for state and local governments, and how virus testing money would be distributed

Congressional leaders and the White House were unable to reach agreement on a nearly $500 billion coronavirus relief package before the Senate met for a brief session Monday, blowing past a deadline both parties hoped they’d be able to meet.

Negotiations are continuing on outstanding issues, with the Senate now expected to come back into session Tuesday afternoon to try to pass the bill.

“At this hour, our Democratic colleagues are still prolonging their discussions with the administration, so the Senate regretfully won’t be able to pass more funding for Americans’ paychecks today,” Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said on the floor. Continue reading.