Debating Health Care

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Senate Democratic leader says the end is in sight on passage of a sweeping health care overhaul. Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said Monday that presidents and lawmakers have tried for some 70 years to remake the nation’s health care system. This time, however, Reid said, “We’re there.“ The 10-year, nearly $1 trillion Senate bill would expand coverage to some 30 million uninsured and bar insurance company practices of denying coverage to those with a medical history. The Senate began its eighth day of debate on Monday. Democrats hope to finish the legislation by Christmas. Republicans are nearly unanimous in opposition. Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., said the 2,074-page bill would turn the current health care system upside down.