“Coy” Republicans
July 9, 2010 | federal legislation, industry | Comments (0)From the Wall Street Journal:
If Mr. Grassley decides to vote against the bill, Democrats would be left with little margin for error when they bring the bill to the Senate floor, which could happen as soon as next week. Mr. Grassley was one of four Republicans to support an earlier version of the bill when it narrowly passed the Senate in May.
Democrats and White House officials likely need the support of at least two Republicans to secure the 60 votes necessary to block a potential filibuster.
Sen. Susan Collins (R., Maine) has said she’s “inclined” to support the bill. White House officials are also targeting the votes of Sens. Olympia Snowe of Maine and Scott Brown of Massachusetts. Both have said they are using the July recess to study the bill. Congressional aides believe both could ultimately back the bill.
Complicating Democrats’ efforts is the recent death of Sen. Robert Byrd (D., W.V.), whose seat remains vacant. If it isn’t filled quickly, and if Mr. Grassley balks, Democrats must secure the support of all three northeastern Republicans to ensure passage.
Iowa Republican Sen. Charles Grassley is “very concerned” about a provision in the financial overhaul bill designed to pay for the legislation, an aide said Thursday, potentially complicating White House efforts to build a filibuster-proof majority to back the measure.
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