The American Spectator : The Spectacle Blog : Lincoln, Bayh, Nelson Come Out Against Reconciliation

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The Spectacle Blog

Lincoln, Bayh, Nelson Come Out Against Reconciliation

By Philip Klein on 1.26.10 @ 3:24PM

Three Senate Democrats who find themselves in political hot water back at home have come out opposed to using the reconciliation process to ram through a comprehensive health care bill. Sen. Blanche Lincoln said earlier today that she would fight any attempt to use reconciliation and Sen. Bayh said he would "consel against" its use. Also today, Sen. Ben Nelson's office said he opposed the maneuver.

Democrats could technically afford to lose Lincoln, Bayh, Nelson and 6 more Senators and still theoretically pass a bill through reconciliation, because they only need 50 votes plus Joe Biden as the tie-breaker. But the more moderates defect from the party line and portray reconciliation as an ugly process that should be avoided, the more difficult it will be for Democratic leadership to counter Republican attacks on its use.

View all comments (4) | Leave a comment

Oldefarte| 1.26.10 @ 3:59PM

I'd hope that all congressmen would be against in in Harry's, Barry's and nancy's attempt to pass WELFARECARE, since it's basically intended for use in budgetary matters, not social legislation !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Razorgirl| 1.26.10 @ 5:08PM

Too little, too late Blanche. You are TOAST!

danny| 1.26.10 @ 7:14PM

razorgirl, in all probability they are all three toast. fun to watch them squirm though. is it not?

Symrian| 1.26.10 @ 7:19PM

They have problems just as they stand right now. If this bill passes the House and becomes law, no amount of squirming or future "no" votes will save their careers. But by all means, let them try and backpedal. It might stop some other destructive legislation.