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Sen. Wicker opposes democratic

By Kevin Wheeler - bio | email | Twitter

HATTIESBURG, MS (WDAM) - Democrats passed their version of a healthcare reform bill last Saturday. The bill is one that has been praised by most democrats, but feared by some moderates and conservatives. Congressman Gene Taylor of the fourth congressional district did not support the bill.

 “They always say this is a historic vote to get people caught up in what I refer to as the herd mentality,” said Taylor. “The herd starts walking one way and they almost can always get the herd to do what they want and i was not a part of that herd."

 Democrats were not sure how many votes they could tally for the bill. The Stupak amendment may have gained them extra votes. That amendment barred federal money from being used to buy policies that cover abortions. Congressman Taylor supported that amendment, but there is talk on Capitol Hill that the amendment may be taken out in a conference bill.

 “It is my opinion that in the course of events that language is removed then the bill dies,” said Congressman Taylor.

 The senate democrat majority also faces a challenge of getting a bill put together and passed. 

 Senator Roger Wicker said he is opposed to what democrats have put forth so far.

 “It's clear that whatever they have it's going to be a huge expansion of federal power and a huge expansion of spending and Medicaid mandates and Medicare cuts,” Wicker said.

 He says democrats want to do too much and spend too much during tough economic times. Key independent Senator Joe Lieberman says the same. He vows to filibuster any plan that includes a public option. Senator wicker praised Lieberman for standing with republicans on the issue.

 “I appreciate people like Senator Lieberman, a democrat independent from up ease saying that he couldn't in conscious vote for something that's going on during an economic hardship,” Wicker added.

 The senate is expected to begin debating a bill next week. 

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