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Specter's Choice Saves Obama Labor Headache

GOP senator's threat to kill bill means Dems won't have to pick sides

By Gabriel Winant, Newser User

Posted Mar 25, 2009 10:20 AM CDT

(Newser) – Republican Sen. Arlen Specter’s choice to oppose a bill to ease unionization will let President Obama and congressional Democrats avoid a tough choice between labor and business interests, Politico notes. Obama had promised to sign the Employee Free Choice Act, but would have infuriated businesses whose support he needs. Dems “have to be very pleased,” a business insider says.

Interest groups on both sides are sounding off about Specter’s pivotal choice. Conservative Grover Norquist rejoices, “This is like Christmas and Easter and Valentine’s Day rolled up into one.” But the head of the AFL-CIO calls the announcement “a rebuke to working people.” And likely Pennsylvania primary challenger Pat Toomey warns to expect a reverse-flip “if he thinks his political fortunes have improved.”

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Senators announce an agreement on President Obama's stimulus plan; Arlen Specter is at right. (AP Photo)

Labor Secretary Hilda Solis, right, poses with AFL-CIO president John Sweeney as they attend a town hall meeting, March 2, 2009, in Miami. (AP Photo)

Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa., speaks to reporters just off the Senate floor. (AP Photo)

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[Specter gives] some encouragement to the many centrist Democrats who know this is bad policy, and they will now feel empowered to come forward and announce their opposition to cloture, as well. - Glenn Spencer, Chamber of Commerce

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Specter's Choice Saves Obama Labor Headache