Washington - Attempts by Senators John McCain and Russell Feingold to reform the system of campaign financing took a significant step forward here with the defeat late on Tuesday of the main alternative package, Patrick Smyth reports. Although the 60-40 vote against Senator Chuck Hagel's proposals brought hints from President Bush that he might reconsider his threat to veto McCain-Feingold, the legislation still faces several major hurdles before it is passed.
The legislation is scheduled to be voted on in its final form today after a two-week debate.
