(CNN) The members of the Western States Pact -- California, Washington, Oregon, Colorado and Nevada -- are asking the federal government for $1 trillion in aid to help deal with the financial effects of the coronavirus pandemic. "That's why we are respectfully, and urgently, requesting $1 trillion in direct and flexible relief to states and local governments," the letter continues. In a letter to colleagues Monday morning, Pelosi made clear her push to help states and cities, a figure she has previously floated could cost $1 trillion. Senate Republicans remain divided over sending more federal aid to state and local governments after the March stimulus approved $150 billion for states and cities. The state's unemployment rate currently stands at about 20%, but Newsom predicts it could rise to nearly 25%.

Source: CNN May 11, 2020 20:37 UTC