Senate to Debate $2,000 Stimulus Checks, Defense Veto

The Republican-controlled Senate will soon debate whether to increase planned COVID-19 coronavirus stimulus checks from $600 to $2,000, and whether to override President Donald Trump's veto of a $740 billion defense bill. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) attempted to advance the issue of increased stimulus checks for a vote Tuesday, but it was blocked by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.). McConnell said he's planning a Senate vote on the veto override for Wednesday; it's unclear when the increased stimulus payments may be voted on. The Democrat-led House approved the increase in direct payments to $2,000 Monday and also voted to override Trump's veto of the defense bill. Updated 12/29/20 at 1:06 p.m. ET to mention Tuesday morning's Senate activity.