One last chance for Congress to do something meaningful

It looks like it is now or never. Let’s hope the choice is now. Congress is back to negotiating another round of coronavirus relief, with reports some progress is being made. The two sides had walked away from negotiations weeks ago, but are making one more try before the election. They are still far apart, with democrats pushing a $2.2 trillion package, and republicans supporting $1.1 trillion in new spending. That would send most of us another $1200 check, extend unemployment benefits, and provide money to struggling businesses. Democrats want more, including bailouts of the airlines and restaurant industries, and a big sticking point, money for state and local governments. Then Congress should strip everything out of the bill they can’t agree on. Extend the unemployment benefits, help struggling businesses. Ensure eviction protections. This is too urgent to wait until after the election. We are at a precipice. Businesses barely hanging on won’t much longer. Those having trouble paying their rent or mortgage are increasingly becoming homeless. If Congress wants to show voters they are doing something as they beg for their vote, they should find common ground on the important things this country needs right now, before it is too late.