Did Health Insurance Company's Pr Blunder Boost Reform
Two months ago, healthcare reform looked all but dead. A Republican was elected to Ted Kennedy's former seat in Massachusetts, leaving Democrats without the super majority needed to pass the legislation without facing a filibuster. The public was strongly against their proposals. Moreover, the Democratic party itself was split by issues such as abortion. Meanwhile, Republicans were unified in their opposition.
Less than a month later, the historic legislation passed both chambers of Congress. The House of Representatives passed the Senate's legislation as-is, with the Senate then passing a package of tax- and budget related changes through reconciliation. After Republicans proposed a handful of amendments to minor elements against parliamentary rules (intending for the bill to come back for another vote, possibly wearing down wavering Democrats), the majority party quickly passed those proposals. Before April Fool's Day, President Obama signed the bill. How did its prospects change so quickly?

Two months ago, healthcare reform looked all but dead. A Republican was elected to Ted Kennedy's former seat in Massachusetts, leaving Democrats without the super majority needed to pass the legislation without facing a filibuster. The public was strongly against their proposals. Moreover, the Democratic party itself was split by issues such as abortion. Meanwhile, Republicans were unified in their opposition.
Less than a month later, the historic legislation passed both chambers of Congress. The House of Representatives passed the Senate's legislation as-is, with the Senate then passing a package of tax- and budget related changes through reconciliation. After Republicans proposed a handful of amendments to minor elements against parliamentary rules (intending for the bill to come back for another vote, possibly wearing down wavering Democrats), the majority party quickly passed those proposals. Before April Fool's Day, President Obama signed the bill. How did its prospects change so quickly?
















