WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement after the Republican-controlled Senate failed to pass a so-called “skinny” COVID-19 relief bill, legislation negotiated among Republicans alone. The legislation failed by a vote of 52-47.

"This wasn't a serious bill and everybody knows it. Until Mitch McConnell stops boycotting negotiations, there's no way we can get a bill done that provides the help that millions of desperate Americans need. This isn't a time for political games—people are suffering, schools are running out of money, the post office is broke, businesses are going under, and the virus is still spreading. McConnell needs to come to the table and work out a compromise with Senator Schumer and Leader Pelosi. Putting partisan bills up for votes in a divided Congress, this late in the session, accomplishes nothing." said Murphy.

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