By Katie Knapp Schubert
Omaha, NE – Nebraska Senator Ben Nelson says he stood by his principles when he decided to vote in favor of a health care reform bill.
Senator Nelson's decision has drawn sharp criticism. But Nelson says he decided to vote for the $871 billion legislation because it helps Nebraskans and contains provisions he supports. Nebraska's senior Senator says he didn't ask for a special deal in exchange for his vote.
The legislation has passed two test votes in the Senate. Final passage is expected Thursday morning. Nelson says if provisions he supports are removed during a House-Senate conference, he may not vote for the legislation.
Nelson's comments came Wednesday during his weekly conference call with reporters.