Today, the nation mourns the death of Sen. Edward Kennedy, one of the most influential senators of the 20th century. Later, when the eulogies end, his death may impact the health-care debate in unpredictable ways. It could push Democrats towards a more partisan approach (if that’s possible) by redoubling support for the “public option” to compete with private insurers and broad subsidies for Medicaid and SCHIP in a misguided attempt to claim victory for what Kennedy called “the cause of my life.” Or they could recognize — as Senator Kennedy sometimes did — that bipartisan compromise for half a loaf is better than none at all. Only time will tell. R.I.P.