Then Manchin walked over to talk with Sen. Rob Portman, who has an alternative jobless benefits

[Donkees]

8. 'The concern over Manchin is why action is now stalled in the Senate.'

The underlying relief bill would extend jobless benefits at $400 per week through August. But it does not have the tax free provision. The concern over Manchin is why action is now stalled in the Senate.

GOP leaders are urging their colleagues to fall in line behind Rob Portman’s alternative jobless benefits extension, arguing that doing so could help pare back - or potentially scuttle - the overall relief bill, according to GOP sources

There are several members who are philosophically opposed to enhanced jobless benefits. But GOP leaders are trying to impress upon them that backing $300 a week could upset the delicate coalition between progressives and moderates — and throw a wrench into Democratic efforts

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