Sunrise votes nudge health care bill forward

ERICA WERNER Associated Press Writer WASHINGTON

Two down, one to go. President Barack Obama's health care overhaul easily cleared its second 60-vote test in the Senate early this morning. Senate Democrats remained united in their goal of passing historic legislation by Christmas, and Republicans were steadfast in opposition. The motion to shut off debate on a package put together by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid passed 60-39. The final 60-vote hurdle, which would end debate on the bill itself, is expected Wednesday afternoon, starting a 30-hour countdown to a night-before-Christmas vote on...