Trump demands changes to $900bn US stimulus bill, suggests veto

US President Donald Trump attacked the $900bn pandemic relief package that passed by Congress on Monday night, calling it a “disgrace” and demanded changes before he signed the bill.

Trump complained the bill delivered too much cash to foreign countries and not enough to Americans. The legislation provides a $600 payment to most Americans but Trump wants Congress to increase the “ridiculously low” figure to $2,000, or $4,000 for a couple.

Republican lawmakers rejected higher payments during months of tortuous negotiations, supported by Senate leader Mitch McConnell. The bill has enough votes to override a Trump veto if he uses it.

In a video, the president said he wanted Congress to “send me a suitable bill or else the next administration will have to deliver a Covid relief package”.

“House Democrats have fought for months to provide relief to the American people, which Republicans rejected at every turn,” said House of Representatives majority leader, Steny Hoyer

“Now that the president has agreed to direct payments of $2,000, we will ask for unanimous consent to pass a bill this week to give Americans this assistance.”

House speaker, Nancy Pelosi, addedchimed in: “Republicans repeatedly refused to say what amount the president wanted for direct checks. At last, the president has agreed to $2,000 … Let’s do it!”