The Senate has voted 68-32 to end debate on the Gang of Eight immigration reform bill, setting up a final vote this afternoon. The bill is certain to pass, and almost certainly by an identical margin.
Fourteen Republicans joined every Democrat in support of the bill: Lamar Alexander (Tenn.), Kelly Ayotte (N.H.), Jeff Chiesa (N.J.), Susan Collins (Maine), Bob Corker (Tenn.), Jeff Flake (Ariz.), Lindsey Graham (S.C.), Orrin Hatch (Utah), Dean Heller (Nev.), John Hoeven (N.D., Mark Kirk (Ill.), John McCain (Ariz.), Lisa Murkowski (Alaska), and Marco Rubio (Fla.).
“This is one of the most divisive issues in one of the most divisive Congresses, but you know what? Our Republican guys showed amazing strength,” Senator Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.) told reporters after the vote.
“Our self-deportation days are behind us,” Lindsey Graham declared as he walked off the Senate floor. ”[Former Colorado congressman] Tom Tancredo’s view of life has been rejected.”
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D., Nev.) has scheduled a final vote for 4 p.m.