Three things for October 7
1. Trump delays stimulus negotiations, reverses decision
President Trump reversed his decision to halt stimulus bill negotiations until after the November 3 election. Originally, Trump made the decision to shift focus to confirming Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett.
“I have instructed my representatives to stop negotiating until after the election when, immediately after I win, we will pass a major Stimulus Bill that focuses on hardworking Americans and Small Business,” Trump tweeted Tuesday.
In the same Twitter thread, Trump stated his plan to focus specifically on Barrett.
“I have asked [Senate Majority Leader] Mitch McConnell not to delay, but to instead focus full time on approving my outstanding nominee to the United States Supreme Court, Amy Coney Barrett,” Trump said.
This morning, Trump seemingly reversed his decision to halt negotiations. According to AP News, Trump is now pressing for passage of this financial assistance.
The stock market fell after Trump stalled the discussion on negotiations, but is beginning to recover this afternoon after Trump discussed the idea of gradual aid.
2. Top Pentagon officials quarantine after COVID-19 exposure
The Joint Chief of Staff chairman, General Mark Milley, along with other top military officials, is quarantined after being exposed to COVID-19.
Admiral Charles Ray, the Vice Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, tested positive for COVID-19 following a meeting with military officials in the Pentagon.
“We are aware that Vice Commandant Ray has tested positive for COVID-19,” said Jonathan Hoffman, assistant to the secretary of defense for public affairs, in a statement.
All potential contacts with Ray are self-isolating at home. No additional positive cases have been confirmed as of Tuesday.
Additional government and military officials have quarantined due to possible COVID-19 exposure.
3. Eddie Van Halen dead at 65
Eddie Van Halen, lead guitarist of American rock band Van Halen, died at 65 after a long battle with cancer.
“I can’t believe I’m having to write this, but my father, Edward Lodewijk Van Halen, lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning,” Wolfgang Van Halen tweeted. “He was the best father I could ever ask for. Every moment I’ve shared with him on and off stage was a gift. My heart is broken and I don’t think I’ll ever fully recover from this loss.”
The famous rock band Van Halen formed in Pasadena, California in 1972.
Their songs “Jump,” “Why Can’t This Be Love” and “(Oh), Pretty Woman” are among the band’s most popular songs.
To listen to Van Halen’s music, click here.
