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Last-ditch Virus Aid Talks Collapse; No New Help for Jobless

Associated Press

   WASHINGTON - A last-ditch effort by Democrats to revive collapsing
   Capitol Hill talks on vital COVID-19 rescue money ended in
   disappointment on Friday, making it increasingly likely that Washington
   gridlock will mean more hardship for millions of people who are losing
   enhanced jobless benefits and further damage for an economy pummeled by
   the still-raging coronavirus.

   "It was a disappointing meeting," declared top Senate Democrat Chuck
   Schumer, saying the White House had rejected an offer by House Speaker
   Nancy Pelosi to curb Democratic demands by about $1 trillion. He urged
   the White House to "negotiate with Democrats and meet us in the middle.
   Don't say it's your way or no way."

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