Under fire from Republicans who expect him to vote for cloture on the health care bill, Sen. Jim Webb’s office has issued the following statement to the Washington Post:

“Senator Webb has taken a number of tough votes in the last month– always voting his conscience and without bowing to party politics. It is not surprising that he is being lobbied by interests on both sides of the aisle. Senator Webb has a reputation for being very deliberative and independent-minded. The fact that he has said he is undecided about this bill is not extraordinary. He reviews all legislation with great care and deliberation. During this debate, he has broken with his party six times, including four votes to prevent cuts in Medicare. At the same time, he appreciates that the need for health care reform is great. The status quo of our health care system burdens families and undermines the competitive position of American business.”