The Senate Friday voted to end debate on a “fast track” trade bill, paving the way for passage as soon as tonight.
The bill provides President Obama with expanded powers to negotiate international tract pacts.
The vote was 61-38.
It cleared a final 60-vote hurdle after lawmakers rejected amendments that trade bill proponents said were potential “poison pills” that would kill the legislation.
Among the defeated amendments was a currency enforcement provision authored by Sens. Rob Portman, R-Ohio and Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich.
President Obama signaled he would veto the bill with the Portman language included.
Lawmakers also voted against amendments by Sens. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, and Jeff Flake, R-Ariz.
