Democrats fail to cut off debate on Iraq strategy

CNN:

Senate Democrats failed to garner the necessary 60 votes they needed to consider a nonbinding resolution that opposes President Bush's plan to send more troops to Iraq.

The vote was 56-34, with seven Republicans crossing the aisle to vote with senators who oppose the troop buildup.

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Republican leaders insisted that members get a chance to vote on two GOP alternatives, and that the process be conducted under rules that called for 60 votes to pass.

Republican critics have claimed that passing the resolution could lead to a cutoff in funding for the troops.

Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, said before the vote that Republicans would insist on "a measure of fairness," allowing them to offer alternative resolutions -- including one stating the Senate won't cut off money for troops in the field.

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At least the headline writers have not gotten the story on the debate exactly opposite of the facts like the did the first time the Democrats tried to cut off debate while the stories accused the republicans of cutting off debate. While Democrats hope to hammer Republicans on this issue, the exact opposite should be happening. It is the Democrats who need to e hammered for their resolution giving hope to the enemy.