We're dreaming of a green Christmas

'Twas the night before Christmas. You're reading The Short List. Let's be honest, if this wasn't a poem, I think it'd be missed!

We're here with the news (but it's not full of glee), and next week we'll be back with your usual host Ashley.

Today's biggest news involves your stimulus checks. $2,000? $600? It's kind of a mess.

In a Thursday session, Republicans blocked that check raise. Congress returns Monday to address these delays.

But for now it imperils the full COVID-19 relief bill – and the $1.4 trillion spending that'd stop a government standstill.

Yes, those trillions are needed to keep open past Monday. But with Trump signaling he may veto without the $2,000 checks ... are we at an impasse?

So let's take a deep breath, enjoy Christmas Eve, and tonight pour one out for the 80th birthday of Dr. Fauci!

The news stops for no one, not even Saint Nick. So seekers of top headlines, hope this does the trick.👇