No Kennedy bounce for healthcare reform

WASHINGTON, Aug. 28 (UPI) -- Washington insiders are saying that invoking Sen. Edward Kennedy's name probably won't give healthcare reform much of a push forward.

Some Democrats have called for Kennedy's name to be put on the title of the controversial bill in an effort to galvanize support in the face of withering Republican and conservative opposition.

But The Hill reported Friday that while the late senator's passion for healthcare might be inspiring, Republicans appear dug in and unlikely to give ground unless Democrats make some significant concessions.

Sen. Judd Gregg, R-N.H., said that while placing Kennedy's name on the legislation might be appropriate, the contents of the bill could be the deciding factor.

Other observers told the newspaper Kennedy's death deprives the Democrats of a public champion and a skilled legislator who could have helped steer the measure through Congress.

Another complication, The Hill said, is the vacancy created by Kennedy's death this week. Massachusetts law keeps the seat vacant for 145-160 days, leaving the Democrats one vote short of the minimum needed to unplug a Republican filibuster in the Senate.