It now appears that Democrats have 60 votes for cloture on the Wall Street reform bill, even without Robert Byrd's replacement. As such, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid will file for cloture on the bill later today.
Reid made the announcement that he will file for cloture on the Senate floor this morning. From DemWarRoom on Twitter
"I also expect to consider the Wall St reform conference report some time later today," -- @SenatorReid
By "consider" Reid likely means "filing for cloture," thus setting up a Thursday vote. This Thursday timeline was floated by Senate sources yesterday, as well.
If Reid is filing for cloture, that means he has the support of Senator Ben Nelson. Yesterday, Nelson said he was undecided on the bill, thus putting the bill one vote shy of passage. However, I have heard that Nelson is expected to announce his support today, a rumor which is confirmed by Reid's announcement.
Update: An aide to Ben Nelson confirms the Senator's support.
So, it looks like Wall Street Reform will finish up this week. Huzzah. I should be thrilled, but mostly I am just tired. Every victory is both watered down and grueling.
What's next?
|
