Grassley and Baucus, 1, Stark, 0

To be honest, I almost can't even stand to blog about S-chip anymore, I am so sick of hearing about it. But since it is my life and I love it, and I am a mere 10 days away from seeing SOMETHING actually happen with it, here's yet another post about S-chip.

The House gave in. The "compromise" bill (hopefully) is being released tomorrow and word on the Hill is that Stark lost his oh-so-precious cuts to Medicare Advantage. Baucus and Grassley must be thrilled. Sure, it's not really much of a compromise (considering it is so closely worded to the Senate bill they might not even have to re-vote on it, depending on whether the House can force some concessions). But still. At least it's something. That can pass in the Senate at least -- all bets are off in the House. Today I read that 17 House GOPers have said they will vote in favor of the new bill. Another Republican member (I forget who, but he's working along with Rahm Emanuel) predicted 30. The question becomes: Will it be enough to override a veto? I've heard some mixed predictions -- some say that there's these limited number of Republicans volunteering to support it, while others have said (over and over, I would say), Republican or not, you simply cannot vote against children.

Only 10 days before we find out. I'm going to fucking go into S-Chip withdrawl when this is over.