Why Democrats are blocking a bill that boosts funding for small businesses

Democrats are blocking an attempt to give small businesses a $250 billion boost. But why?

At first glance, it’s a surprising move, since Democrats support providing more funding to small businesses and workers experiencing severe economic trouble caused by the fallout of the coronavirus outbreak. But the answer is simple: Democrats want to use the leverage they have in Congress so that Republicans don’t just approve more money for small businesses while leaving out other programs that also desperately need more funding.

This approach was evident Thursday when Senate Democrats blocked Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s attempt to pass a standalone small-business funding bill via unanimous consent.

Democratic leaders explained that the move was an opportunity to push for more expansive stimulus than Republicans have otherwise considered, a tactic they also used with the CARES Act. A few weeks ago, Democrats blocked the initial proposal offered by Senate Republicans, which included fewer restrictions on a $500 billion bailout fund aimed at corporations — and less generous unemployment insurance benefits. (Because every bill requires at least 60 votes to pass, all legislation requires at least some Democratic buy-in.)