Edwards still undecided on healthcare vote

Posted Friday, Nov. 06, 2009 Comments   (0) Print Share Share Reprints
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By MARIA RECIO

mrecio@mcclatchydc.com

WASHINGTON — Even if the House votes today on the healthcare overhaul bill, Rep. Chet Edwards, D-Waco, insisted Friday that he remained undecided, while the Texas Republicans who represent portions of Tarrant County continue to be solidly against the bill. Edwards’ concern about "socialized medicine," as he said last week, has been noteworthy because of his closeness to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., who put him on the vice presidential short list in 2008.

"He hasn’t made a decision," said Edwards’ spokesman Josh Taylor. "He’s still reading the bill."

Edwards was also focused on Fort Hood since the shootings were first reported Thursday. The Waco lawmaker represented the military facility for 14 years until redistricting put Fort Hood in the district of Rep. John Carter, R-Round Rock.

The four GOP lawmakers from Tarrant County — Reps. Joe Barton, Arlington; Kay Granger, Fort Worth; Michael Burgess, Lewisville; and Kenny Marchant, Coppell — have been strong opponents of the Democratic healthcare bill.

Maria Recio is the Star-Telegram’s Washington bureau chief. 202-383 6103

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