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Burris Not Being "Obstructionist" on Health Care
U.S. Sen. Roland W. Burris (D-Ill.) has been a quiet team player in his nine months in the Senate. But he is breaking out of that role, becoming a health care maverick and positioning himself as the swing vote on health care reform to be sought after.

Burris has told reporters he would absolutely stand in the way of any health care plan that lacks a sweeping public option, and he isn't sure the Democrats' "opt-out" proposal does that.

"I'm not trying to be any obstructionist," he said. "I'm just trying to make sure that we in this august body put together something that the majority of the public has requested. That's what I'm seeking to do."

With Democrats needing all 60 members of their caucus to proceed bring a health insurance bill to the floor for a vote, Burris has put himself in the position of the swing vote, who will have to be courted by the majority leader and the president to get health reform.

(Illinois Radio Network)
10 28 09 by Newsroom
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