These Nine Pennsylvanians in Congress Voted Against $1,400 Stimulus Checks, Other Pandemic Relief

In this image from video, Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-Pa., speaks during House debates on Jan. 7, 2021. (House Television via AP)

By The Keystone Staff

February 27, 2021

The US House of Representatives approved a pandemic relief package early Saturday. But nine of the 18 Pennsylvanians in the lower chamber of Congress opposed it.

WASHINGTON — The US House of Representatives has approved a $1.9 trillion pandemic relief bill that would give most Americans stimulus checks of $1,400, increase unemployment assistance, and provide extra funds to local governments, businesses, hospitals, and schools.

Around 2 a.m., US Representatives voted mostly along party lines to approve the American Rescue Plan Act. Two Democrats—Kurt Schrader (OR) and Jared Golden (ME)—broke ranks to vote against it.

The package now goes to the US Senate, where it will need 51 votes to pass through reconciliation.

President Joe Biden supports the package.

If approved, the package brings the total of direct Congressional support Americans have seen to $3,200—an average of $266 per month. The previous Republican majority in Congress refused to provide more relief throughout 2020.

US Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-Philadelphia) called the American Rescue Plan Act a “big and bold plan” and said it was necessary to help Americans recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

“After 12 months of death and despair, the American recovery begins tonight. This is a big and bold plan. One of the largest bills in the history of Congress. It is exactly the sort of bold plan that is needed to meet the crisis of this moment.” pic.twitter.com/xdW3aCp4u5
— Rep. Brendan Boyle (@CongBoyle) February 27, 2021

US Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Chester) urged the Senate to move quickly to approve the plan.

Early this morning, I voted to pass the American Rescue Plan because we need to get this virus under control once and for all. This legislation is comprehensive –

💵direct cash relief for Pennsylvanians
📈increased support for small businesses

/1
— Chrissy Houlahan (@RepHoulahan) February 27, 2021

Too many lives and livelihoods have already been lost. I urge the Senate to move expediently so we can get Pennsylvanians the relief they deserve. 3/3
— Chrissy Houlahan (@RepHoulahan) February 27, 2021

US Rep. Susan Wild (D-Lehigh) called the package “a lifeline to those who need it most.”

Late night, but I just got back from voting YES on the COVID relief bill.

We’re bringing relief checks, small business aid, and support for schools and working families to #PA07. More to be done, but this crucial legislation will be a lifeline to those who need it most. pic.twitter.com/7e7O65RBWx
— Rep. Susan Wild (@RepSusanWild) February 27, 2021