Sanders would support reconciliation to break filibuster

[babylonsister]

http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/67123-sanders-would-support-reconciliation-to-break-filibuster


Sanders would support reconciliation to break filibuster
By Tony Romm - 11/10/09 07:34 AM ET



A leading Senate independent on Monday stressed he would support using reconciliation to break a filibuster and bring healthcare reform to a conclusive vote.

That affirmation, offered Monday night by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt), perhaps eases lingering concerns among Democrats that the Vermont lawmaker could buck the majority party on procedural votes and further jeopardize the chamber's healthcare bill future.

"I think the role that is now attempting to play on health care is very, very unfortunate," Sanders told MSNBC in an interview, noting Lieberman's intended filibuster is precisely why he wanted his fellow independent sanctioned last year for stumping with GOP presidential candidate Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.).

"The American people overwhelmingly want a public option for a variety of reasons," he added. "Correctly, they want a choice between a private insurance company and a Medicare-type plan. And they should have that choice."

And when asked whether he would support reconciliation in the event Lieberman and other Democrats blocked consideration of the bill, Sanders said: "Absolutely. Look, the trick here is to do the best that we can for the American people."

"And that is quality, affordable health care for all of our people," he added. "If we can`t do it because we don`t get 60 votes, then there are other ways that we have to proceed. And I would strongly support those other ways."

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http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/67123-sanders-would-support-reconciliation-to-break-filibuster