President-elect Joe Biden unveiled a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief proposal aimed at accelerating vaccination efforts and providing direct economic support. The plan included $1,400 stimulus checks, an increase in unemployment benefits, and $350 billion in aid to state and local governments. Biden called the package “a rescue plan for the American people.â€
The announcement came as transition officials coordinated with federal agencies still under emergency posture after the Capitol attack. Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller confirmed the National Guard presence would remain through the inauguration. The FBI continued background checks on all troops assigned to D.C. duty.
In Washington, confirmation hearings for Cabinet nominees were being scheduled, though Senate trial timing for Trump’s second impeachment remained uncertain. Senate leaders McConnell and Schumer negotiated terms for a post-January 20 proceeding.
COVID-19 deaths surpassed 390,000 nationwide. The CDC reported hospital systems in California and Arizona operating at near capacity. Biden emphasized vaccine logistics as his first priority, pledging “100 million shots in 100 days.â€
Markets closed higher on expectations of additional federal spending. The Dow ended the week at 30,814.26, up 0.97 percent.