Lieberman Won't Sink Health Reform: Reid

Forget all the grandstanding about joining a GOP filibuster of health care reform if it contains any kind of public option: Sen. Joe Lieberman won't do it, Harry Reid tells liberal interest groups, who tell the Hill. He has a deal with the Connecticut Independent, the majority leader claims. Lieberman is the likeliest lawmaker outside the Democratic caucus to provide the extra vote needed to shut down a GOP filibuster.

Insiders assume Lieberman’s tough talk is meant to gain concessions for his corporate constituency, which includes many health insurers. But “at the end of the day Sen. Lieberman will vote to cut off debate,” an activist tells the Hill. “He’s making a lot of noise.” One source who confirmed the deal between the two senators was still a bit skeptical. Lieberman is “one of those characters—you never know with Joe.” (More Harry Reid stories.)