Senate beats back GOP filibuster of defense bill

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By a vote of 63-33, the Senate voted early Friday to cut off debate on a defense funding bill. Some Republicans had sought to filibuster the measure to hold up action on the healthcare overhaul, which Senate Democrats hope to pass by Christmas.

At least three Republicans voted to invoke cloture, the cumbersome process by which the Senate limits debate. The vote means that 30 hours of debate remain. Four senators did not vote.

The post-midnight tally blocked GOP stalling tactics and forced a final vote no later than Saturday.

The defense measure provides $626 billion to the Defense Department for the budget year that began almost three months ago, including funding for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. It also includes short-term extensions of unemployment benefits, highway funding, and key pieces of the Patriot Act.

The House passed the bill Wednesday by an overwhelming vote.

-- Associated Press/Los Angeles Times