(Neb.)-Senator Nelson Continues Call For Bipartisanship

By: Chad Franzen Posted at: 02/04/2010 10:04 AM
Senator Ben Nelson has called for Republicans to lend some support to the health care bill to avoid reconciliation however he isn't holding his breath that will be done.

"I somehow don't see the approach of just saying no is in the best long-term interests of our country. It is not in our best interest and I'm not sure it is in long-term best interest in political terms for others on the other side of the aisle," said Nelson.

Senator Nelson says lawmakers need to learn how to reach across the aisle to get things done. He says obviously, that isn't happening now.

"A review has shown there have been more filibusters in this past year than in the years of the 1950's and the 1960's combined and that is one year, not 20," said Nelson.

Senator Nelson says before anything is accomplished, those on Capitol Hill must realize they are working for one common cause.

"It just seems to me that we need to find a way to have a shared responsibility to govern. Maybe 59-41 is the answer and we will have to see," said Nelson.  "I hope it isn't just more of the same because that's not in this country's best interest long-term."