Lincoln a Question Mark as Senate Pushes Toward Health Care Vote

WASHINGTON - With no margin for rebellion, Senate Democratic leaders pushed ahead Friday toward a crucial weekend test vote on their sweeping health care bill amid indications the rank-and-file would stand together on President Barack Obama's signature issue.

There have been just three question marks in recent days: moderate Democratic Sens. Ben Nelson of Nebraska, Mary Landrieu of Louisiana and Blanche Lincoln of Arkansas.

Nelson and Landrieu have made comments suggesting they'd allow debate to begin, focusing the spotlight on Lincoln, who's facing a difficult re-election next year.

Dick Durbin of Illinois, the No. 2 Senate Democrat, said Friday that Lincoln has informed Majority Leader Harry Reid how she plans to vote. Durbin wouldn't disclose Lincoln's answer and a spokeswoman for Lincoln had no immediate comment, but Democrats are moving ahead with the vote.

"I would say to Sen. Lincoln that I believe most people in Arkansas would be relieved and happy to see health care reform that gives them the peace of mind about the cost of health insurance and the protection of their ability to fight these health insurance companies," Durbin said.

"I think the failure to pass a bill is not good for America, it's not good for any of us in Congress, or those standing for re-election," Durbin said.

"We are not assuming a thing. We are working hard to bring all Democrats together for the 60 votes necessary to proceed to this historic debate," said Durbin. "I'm hoping that we can muster our ranks."

The nearly $1 trillion, 10-year Senate bill would extend coverage to millions of uninsured Americans, bar insurance company practices like denying coverage to people with medical conditions, and require nearly all individuals to purchase insurance.