President Trump supposedly wanted to have his signature appear on the coronavirus relief checks being mailed to people across the United States.
“Mr. Trump has told people he wants his signature to appear on the direct payment checks that will go out to many Americans in the coming weeks,” the Wall Street Journal reported, citing an administration official.
Congress passed a $2 trillion economic relief bill on Friday, which Trump then signed into law.
“I want to thank Democrats and Republicans for coming together and putting America first,” Trump said before signing the bill. “I never signed anything with a T on it.”
The law will lead the government to send $1,200 to people earning up to $75,000 a year and almost $3,000 for the average family of four. Those who do not have direct deposit set up with the federal government will have their checks mailed.
The U.S. economy has slowed since the outbreak of the virus, which has led leaders of several states to shutter bars, restaurants, and other nonessential businesses.
The Department of Labor reported on Thursday that claims for unemployment benefits reached 3.3 million last week.
Trump has made repeated promises to get the economy back open as early as Easter Sunday, April 12.
“We’re giving relief to affected industries and small businesses, and we’re ensuring that we emerge from this challenge with a prosperous and growing economy,” Trump said earlier this month.
