HEALTH CARE - NIGHT REPORT – AT 9:52 P.M. ET:  There have been no dramatic developments since our reports earlier today. 

The Dems are regularly sending the message, like a flashing neon sign, that they have the votes to pass the bill in the House, without even resorting to parliamentary gimmicks.  They probably do, although we won't know until late tomorrow.  Some of the "moderate" Democrats have clearly caved in.  I suspect they realized that their jobs would be worthless on Capitol Hill if they opposed Nancy Pelosi, even if those jobs will be in jeopardy in November.

Some moderate Dems may also figure – it's a line being spread rather actively by some liberal pundits – that health-care "reform" will become more popular once it's passed.  This line is based on the well-traveled idea that, when people start receiving benefits, they like them...and don't care how they're being paid for, or not being paid for.  And it's true:  It's almost impossible to take benefits away.

We'll know the House story within 24 hours.  Voting is expected late in the day, or at night. 

March 20, 2010