Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy recommended using a voice vote to pass the $2 trillion phase three coronavirus economic package later this week.
Mr. McCarthy, California Republican, acknowledged the decision was ultimately up to House Speaker Pelosi but shared his doubts that a unanimous consent request would be successful.
“I don’t think this could pass via unanimous consent,” he said.
It only takes an objection from one member to tank a “UC” motion. A finalized version phase two bill was nearly derailed by Texas Republican Rep. Louie Gohmert.
However, he argued, a voice vote would allow members time to debate the bill and cast their vote — for or against — in the Congressional record.
Mr. McCarthy said he hoped that the Democratic leadership would still give members 24 hours to review the bill before scheduling a vote — meaning the House could potentially not vote on the package until Friday.
The Senate has scheduled their vote for later Wednesday, but has not released a final version of the text.
“I would think that on a bill spending more than $2 trillion that having 24 hours to review it is worth it,” he said.
• Gabriella Muñoz can be reached at gmunoz@washingtontimes.com.
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