The Democratic-led Senate is set to hold a key test vote on a bipartisan bill to expand the child tax credit and provide tax breaks for businesses, but faces challenges in getting enough Republican support to advance the bill. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Senate Republicans for blocking the bill, which is meant to provide financial help to multi-child households. The bill, negotiated by Senators Ron Wyden and Jason Smith, is seen as a response to criticism from GOP vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance over past remarks disparaging childless women. Several Senate Republicans, led by Mike Crapo and Thom Tillis, oppose the bill, citing funding concerns and lack of requirements for the child tax credit. Senator Josh Hawley supports the bill, emphasizing the importance of helping families. Senator Lisa Murkowski is undecided on her vote but criticized Schumer for not allowing amendments. Senator Mark Kelly criticized Vance’s comments and accused him of prioritizing wealthy Americans over families in need. Vance’s team responded by accusing Kelly of hypocrisy for previously working with Vance. Despite challenges, Democrats are pushing for bipartisan support for the bill before the Senate leaves Washington for recess.
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