Fourteen (14) Votes Short

The so-called bi-partisan effort at comprehensive immigration reform failed to get even a majority to vote to limit debate and move to a final vote. This pathetic showing is a testament to the power of the American people and a shocking display of poor leadership. The vote should have been a lot closer.

Voting to allow the bill to proceed by ending debate were 33 Democrats, 12 Republicans and independent Joe Lieberman, Conn. Voting to block the bill by not limiting debate were 37 Republicans, 15 Democrats and independent Bernard Sanders, Vt. Tim Johnson, D-S.D., did not vote.

15 Democrats!!! and the Socilalist Bernard Sanders!!!! Jeez, does Harry Reid have any sway over his caucus?

The defeat is a slap at two people. President Bush probably spent the last of what ever political capital he had on this doomed effort. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has proven to be stunningly ineffective as a leader.

The big winners are the Americna people. Sure we still have a problem of illegal immigration running rampant, but the American voting public has reasserted its dominion over the Senate, at least for a short time.

Now, can we talk about border security?

As she has through this whole debate, Michelle Malkin has more details, including the results of the Roll Call vote.