House Democratic leaders appear to be succeeding in their push to peel off abortion-rights opponents lined up with Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.) against a health care overhaul.
Stupak said those standing with him now number about six -- down from the rough dozen he has claimed for weeks. That is likely enough to put the majority within striking distance of the 216 votes they need for passage.
"I don't know if it's enough," Stupak said of those now backing him in demanding stricter language preventing public funding of abortion.
Pelosi has (allegedly) 206 votes in hand as of 5:00 p.m. today. She needs to find another ten votes by tomorrow. I wouldn't bet against her, Pelosi does not lose very many votes in the House.