Democrats have the votes to pass health reform this evening

Late this afternoon the largest final block of Democratic congressman threatening to vote NO on health reform--the anti-abortion congressean led by Stupak--agreed to vote YES after Obama agreed to issue an executive order maintaining the existing ban on the use of federal funds for elective abortions. This was no change from existing policy but was considered necessary to win these congressmen over.

Democrats now have more than the 216 votes they needed to pass health reform. Final count could be as high as 220 votes.

The House will vote on rules to govern the health reform votes within the next half hour with a vote on the Senate bill and a vote on the reconciliation package later this evening. Obama is expected to address the nation once the final votes are taken.

This is a great day for all Americans.