Another Victory for America. The START Treaty

On all the television talk shows today,  constant reference was made to the possible passage of the START treaty with Russia and it being another victory for President Obama.  And although the win will be welcomed by this White House and adds to the list of other the accomplishments in this lame duck session, congress ratifying this treaty is a win for America.

Over the last 24 hour period, more and more Republicans have been recognizing the importance of this treaty – are in agreement that we’ve gone long enough without it since December 2009 – and are now coming aboard and making public statements on the need to vote “yes” and pass this bill.

The amount of votes needed for the ratification of the treaty to succeed is 65, or two thirds of the present members of the chamber. With all Democrats in Congress signaling that they will vote yes, the magic number was still short of 9 votes. Over the last 24 hours however, 10 Republican senators have come forward and stated that they will vote yes on the bill, going against their party leadership’s wish to see the treaty fail.

Some of the Republicans deciding to vote in favor of America’s security instead of their party’s politics, includes;

• Sen Scott Brown of Massachusetts, who said, “I believe it’s something that’s important for our country and I believe it’s a good move forward.”
• Sen Johnny Isakson of Georgia, who said, “I supported it in committee, I made a speech for it on the first day — sounds like it,” when ask if he will support the bill.
• Sen Judd Gregg of N.H, who said, ““I’m leaning toward supporting the treaty but I want to makes sure our side gets a fair hearing.”
• Sen George Voinovich of Ohio, who simply said, “I support it.”
• Sen Bob Corker (R – Tenn) was asked on Monday if he still supported the bill. He said, “I’m in the same place I was when I voted to pass it out of committee.”

The vote is expected to be held in the senate later on today.

Related articles

• START Treaty Up for Cliffhanger Vote in Senate Tuesday (politicsdaily.com)
• GOP senators concede arms treaty will secure enough votes to pass (thehill.com)
• Ratification Of START Treaty Looks Likely (outsidethebeltway.com)