In contrast to CNN and MSNBC, Fox did not broadcast live coverage of proceedings in the Chamber showing the final vote. Before its passage, the channel showed some of the procedures for a few minutes, accompanied by a chyron on the screen reading: “HOUSE VOTES ON BIDEN’S PORK-CHELED BILL”.
The network also chose not to broadcast the press conference that spokeswoman Nancy Pelosi and Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer gave after the legislation was passed.
Fox’s first mention of approving the project, which is widely considered to be a major early Biden achievement, was approved.
Before interrupting the commercial break, presenter Sandra Smith said the network was “receiving the news” that it had passed. His co-host John Roberts commented, “$ 1.9 trillion coming out the back door.”
Fox offered additional coverage of passing the bill for the rest of the day, but it was clear that it was not one of the channel’s top programming priorities. Instead, the network has largely prioritized other stories more palatable to its audience.
On its website, the story got more coverage, but it was framed in a desirable way for its conservative readers.
“PARTISAN MONSTER PASSOU,” read the headline, with a subtitle read, “House Democrats pushed a huge $ 1.9T COVID bill without a single Republican Party vote, going to Biden’s table.”
The coronavirus relief bill will send checks for $ 1,400 to Americans and extend unemployment benefits, among other things.
Biden is expected to embark on a media campaign in the coming weeks to sell the account to the public. The first stop of this blitz will be a prime-time speech for the American people on Thursday night.