Hillary is technically a junior senator, that is true, but in terms of clout, public backing, etc she is probably up there with Daschle and Kennedy. It would be unthinkable that the Dems would fight her on a bill she publically supports. Personally I don't think she will ever be president (the only thing Susan Estrich and I agree on) but she does have a large core following among the Dems. We can't on one hand diminish her stature while on the other say she is a supreme threat to the GOP - either her power is something to fear or it is not.
Is she necessary for the bill's passage? I honestly don't know but I will bet we don't hear any dems whining about this issue.
Best to all, Randjuke (hanging his head because NYC GOP Chick didn't call him wise and witty like she did el_texicano)
Awww! You are very wise and witty, but you just didn't agree with me on this as my old friend ex_texicano does! :)