Democrats secure majority for healthcare reform legislation

JUBILANT US Senate Democrats secured the 60th and decisive vote for historic healthcare reform legislation, putting President Barack Obama’s top domestic policy issue firmly on a path for Christmas Eve passage.

Obama swiftly welcomed the healthcare reform breakthrough: “After a nearly century-long struggle, we are on the cusp of making healthcare reform a reality.”

Senate majority leader Harry Reid smiled when asked if Nebraska senator Ben Nelson’s decision gave him the 60-vote majority necessary to overcome solid Republican opposition. “Seems that way,” he said.

The Congressional Budget Office said the bill would extend coverage to more than 30 million Americans who lack it.