Trump accused of exploiting coronavirus stimulus package for political gain as cheques arrive with letter signed by the president

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Cheques sent to US citizens as part of the government’s coronavirus stimulus package are arriving with a signed letter from Donald Trump, amid accusations that the White House is politicising the payments.

The $2.2trn relief bill passed by Congress is aimed at combating the economic impact of the pandemic. People who earn less than $99,000 a year will receive up to $1,200 as a one-off payment.

But the programme has drawn controversy over claims that the Trump administration has used the payments as a political tool to improve his reelection chances.

The controversy first erupted when it was reported that the delivery of cheques was being delayed in order to add Mr Trump’s name to them. According to the Washington Post, which first reported the delay, it is customary for a civil servant to sign cheques issued by the Treasury Department to ensure that government payments are nonpartisan.

When the cheques did arrive, Mr Trump’s name appeared on the memo line.

The move prompted Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer to push for a measure in the next coronavirus package that would prevent Mr Trump from adding his name to any future stimulus cheques.

The “No PR Act” would prohibit the use of federal dollars for any material that promotes the names or signatures of Trump or Vice President Mike Pence, according to Politico

“President Trump unfortunately appears to see the pandemic as just another opportunity to promote his own political interests,” Mr Schumer said in a statement. “The No PR Act puts an end to the president’s exploitation of taxpayer money for promotional material that only benefits his re-election campaign.”

In response to criticism over his name appearing on the cheque, Mr Trump said: "Well, I don't know too much about it, but I understand my name is there. I don't know where they're going, how they're going.”

"I don't imagine it's a big deal. I'm sure people will be very happy to get a big fat beautiful cheque and my name is on it," he added.

The letter, which was not mentioned by Mr Schumer but will likely fall under the new legislation, is printed on White House letter headed paper and signed by Mr Trump.

“Every citizen should take tremendous pride in the selflessness, courage and compassion of our people. America's drive, determination, innovation and sheer willpower have conquered every previous challenge — and they will conquer this one too,” the letter reads.

More than 88 million people have already received their payments by cheque or direct deposit, according to the Treasury Department. More than 60 million people are still waiting for their payments, according to CNN.