Veteran Republican U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania intends to switch to the Democratic Party today or tomorrow, sources say. The switch would put Democrats one step closer to a 60-vote filibuster-resistant majority.
Update: Statement from Sen. Blanche Lincoln:
“Senator Specter is a highly respected colleague with whom I have had the pleasure to serve alongside in the Senate Special Committee on Aging. He has been a leading advocate for health care research funding, and I am proud to work with him in his efforts.
“Senator Specter’s party affiliation will not change his views or how he represents his constituents of Pennsylvania. I am a testament to the fact that the Democratic Party embraces a variety of viewpoints. I welcome Senator Specter to our diverse party, where I know his voice and his ideas will add to the spirited debate on issues critical to our country.”
Update: Statement from Sen. Blanche Lincoln:
“Senator Specter is a highly respected colleague with whom I have had the pleasure to serve alongside in the Senate Special Committee on Aging. He has been a leading advocate for health care research funding, and I am proud to work with him in his efforts.
“Senator Specter’s party affiliation will not change his views or how he represents his constituents of Pennsylvania. I am a testament to the fact that the Democratic Party embraces a variety of viewpoints. I welcome Senator Specter to our diverse party, where I know his voice and his ideas will add to the spirited debate on issues critical to our country.”