US Stock Markets Sees Dip After Trump Announces Plan To Halt COVID-19 Relief Talks Until After Elections
US stock markets fell immediately on Tuesday afternoon, following US President Donald Trump’s announcement that he is ending negotiations over a Covid-19 relief bill, and will only resume talks after the election.
The startling announcement comes just one day after he was discharged from hospital, to continue his treatment for the coronavirus at the White House.
The President tweeted “Immediately after I win, we will pass a major Stimulus Bill that focuses on hardworking Americans,”
Budget talks between Democratic Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had been underway.
In response, Mrs Pelosi accused Mr Trump of “putting himself first at the expense of the country”.
“He shows his contempt for science, his disdain for our heroes… and he refuses to put money in workers’ pockets, unless his name is printed on the cheque,” she added.
On Monday night, Trump faced a fresh wave of criticism for his blatant downplaying of the virus, as he removed his mask as he stood at the White House balcony, waving at supporters.
In a tweet on Monday, he also urged Americans “not to be afraid” of COVID-19, adding that he feels the best he has felt in 20 years.