Just a quick update on the state of financial reform: We're edging closer and closer to the endgame. Now that Sens. Susan Collins, Olympia Snowe, and Scott Brown have confirmed their support, Democrats ought to have the 60 votes they need to pass the bill and send it to President Obama's desk.
Predictably, Ben Nelson is saying he's still considering the legislation. That's pretty much par for the course; should Nebraska's man-in-the-middle once again seek suitable tribute for his vote -- some kind of home-state giveaway, perhaps -- the bill might be delayed until West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin appoints a replacement for the late Sen. Robert Byrd. However, I'd bet on the bill passing the Senate and becoming law before the week is out.
In case you'd like a deeper view of what that law will look like, I'll be on a panel this morning at the New America Foundation discussing just that with a group of very smart folks. You can view a live-stream here starting at 10 a.m.
-- Tim Fernholz
