Supporters of Oil Pipeline Scramble for Last Vote

WASHINGTON (AP/Staff) � Supporters of a Senate bill to approve the Keystone XL pipeline are still scrambling to find one last vote with the clock ticking. If approved and once completed, the pipeline will begin transporting controversial tar sands oil through East Texas, including eastern Smith County. The southern leg of the pipeline began transporting crude along that route in January.

With 59 Senators publicly voicing support, the hunt’s on for the 60th vote to advance the measure before a critical vote today. Maine independent Sen. Angus King left the possibility open, but he’s telling reporters he’s a “probable no.” The issue has taken center stage in the waning days of this Congress in hopes it will boost the prospects of Louisiana’s Senate candidates. Democratic Senator Mary Landrieu pushed for the Senate vote. Her rival, GOP Rep. Bill Cassidy, sponsored the bill the House passed late last week. All 45 Senate Republicans support it, along with 14 Democrats. The White House has issued veto threats of similar bills.