In recent weeks, some mainstream media figures and outlets have pushed outdated arguments for austerity and misguided calls for bipartisanship in covering the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package — which is expected to clear Congress this week — putting the onus for GOP obstruction on Democrats and emphasizing debt and inflation concerns that economists say are unwarranted amid a historically devastating crisis. Some in the media have emphasized the lack of Republican support for the relief bill, suggesting that Democrats should have done more to get GOP votes. Yet, the proposal -- which includes $1,400 stimulus checks, extended unemployment benefits, child allowances, state and local aid, and resources for vaccine distribution and health care -- has widespread, bipartisan support. According to a recent poll by Politico and Morning Consult, 76% of voters approve of the bill, including 60% of Republicans. Polls have also indicated that voters favor a strong relief package over a more targeted bipartisanship measure by roughly 2-to-1.