WASHINGTON–President Trump has indicated he is open to new stimulus checks being sent to Americans, although the White House has not taken an official position on additional spending.
During an interview with Scripps, Trump was asked whether there are plans to provide another cash payment to some Americans. Trump responded yes, adding, "We will be doing another stimulus package. It'll be very good, it'll be very generous."
Trump did not say how much money is being discussed, only that “You’ll find out.”
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had also said during earlier congressional testimony that the administration is exploring sending another check.
"I think we're going to seriously look at whether we want to do more direct money to stimulate the economy," Mnuchin said.
Tax Rebates ‘On Table’
Meanwhile, White House Economic Adviser Larry Kudlow told Fox Business, “I think the tax rebates or the direct mail checks are on the table. This is all pre-decisional, that's a lot of discussions going on. Probably we would want to target those to those folks who lost their jobs and are most in need. That's a speculation on my part, but that's where I think this is going."
Fox News noted some Trump advisors, however, including Art Laffer and Stephen Moore, have questioned the need for additional spending, “sounding the alarm on what is expected to be the highest deficit in the nation's history. They've instead called for deregulation efforts, including a payroll tax cut.”
Congress has already enacted more than $3 trillion in spending and relief efforts in response to the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting economic slowdown.
House Democrats have been calling for much more expansive payments to Americans beyond the $1,200 checks that were distributed earlier.
White House officials have said they do not intend to pass more relief measures until at least the beginning of July, Fox News added.