If you want to, I'm sure you can find a copy of Robert's Rules of Order, and read for yourself what the difference is between a vote on a motion to end debate... and a vote to approve or disapprove a bill.
Even more helpful would be the Senate's rules.
As you can see, what I said is correct: the bill NEVER CAME before the Senate for an 'up or down' vote.
The motion to end debate failed (needed 60 votes, got 48), so the leadership pulled the bill.
(If the leadership had gotten 60 votes to end debate, and put the bill before the Senate for approval, they would have needed at least 50 votes to pass it --- with the V.P.'s tie-breaker, of course. But there were a few Senators, such as Senator Warner of VA, who had indicated that they would NOT vote to approve the measure, but who DID vote with the leadership to end debate.)
No big deal, Pro... but when you're right, your right. |
