Opinion
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Reid gets to 60 votes to move health care bill forward
By: Susan Ferrechio
Chief Congressional Correspondent
11/21/09 4:38 PM EST
Lincoln a 'Yes'
Senate Democrats will be able to begin debate on an $849 billion health care reform bill now that Sen. Blanche Lincoln has committed to voting to move the legislation to the floor. Lincoln, who is up for reelection in 2010 and is struggling in some polls, had been undecided until today.
Senate Democratic leaders need 60 votes to block a GOP filibuster.
Lincoln said it would be "misleading" to interpret her vote for cloture as a vote in favor of the bill, but Republicans hoping to convert her seat to the GOP will no doubt characterize Lincoln as the critical vote if the health care bill ultimately passes.
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