Reply #43: Here is what I know [View All]

[NewJerseyDem]

John McCain competely opposes it and will probably filibuster it. I understand that Trent Lott also opposes it. John Sununu and Don Nickles have both indicated that they will probably oppose it as well, but I'm not sure if they will filibuster it. Sununu joined in the energy bill filibuster so he might do this as well or may think one filibuster is enought. Jon Kyl also opposes it but will not filibuster. I don't know what Lincoln Chafee will do. He is the most liberal republican but has generally sided with republicans on Medicare. I haven't heard anything about Wayne Allard but he signed Olympia Snowe's letter complaining about parts of the bill and he voted against the original one. Other conservatives like Lindsey Graham also should be watched.

On the Democratic side, Max Baucus, Kent Conrad, John Breaux, Mary Landrieu, Ben Nelson and Blanche Lincoln have all come out in favor. I assume Zell Miller will as well. Dianne Feinstein is rumored to be supporting the bill. I think that Tom Carper, Evan Bayh, Harry Reid, Mark Pryor, Herb Kohl, Tim Johnson (I think he will vote no) and Bill Nelson all seem like potential yes votes but I haven't heard anything about them. Tom Daschle has said he won't filibuster it but is opposed to the bill. So, it may be close.