Senate Dems moving ahead on crucial health vote

WASHINGTON – Senate Democratic leaders are looking ahead to a crucial test vote on health care amid indications the rank-and-file will stand together Saturday to give them the support they need.

Dick Durbin of Illinois, the No. 2 Senate Democrat, said Friday that leaders weren't assuming anything and were working to bring the caucus together ahead of Saturday's vote to begin debate on their health overhaul bill.

Two of three moderate holdouts have indicated in recent days that they will vote with fellow Democrats on the procedural vote. And Durbin said that the third, Blanche Lincoln of Arkansas, has informed Majority Leader Harry Reid how she plans to vote.

Durbin wouldn't disclose Lincoln's answer but Democrats are moving ahead with Saturday's vote.