Health care bill passes key Senate test
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
WASHINGTON, Dec 21 (AP): Landmark health care legislation backed by President Barack Obama passed its sternest Senate test early Monday, overcoming Republican delaying tactics on a 60-40 vote that all but assures its passage this week.
"Let's make history," said Democratic Sen. Tom Harkin, shortly before the bill's supporters demonstrated their command of the Senate floor in an extraordinary holiday season showdown. The bill would extend coverage to more than 30 million Americans who now lack it, while banning insurance company practices such as denial of benefits on the basis of pre-existing medical conditions.
The atmosphere was intensely partisan, but the outcome preordained as senators cast their votes from their desks, a practice reserved for issues of particular importance.
"Let's make history," said Democratic Sen. Tom Harkin, shortly before the bill's supporters demonstrated their command of the Senate floor in an extraordinary holiday season showdown. The bill would extend coverage to more than 30 million Americans who now lack it, while banning insurance company practices such as denial of benefits on the basis of pre-existing medical conditions.
The atmosphere was intensely partisan, but the outcome preordained as senators cast their votes from their desks, a practice reserved for issues of particular importance.