And if only one senator were absent, how many defections could Republicans afford then? (CNN)

[yallerdawg]

From: http://www.cnn.com/2017/12/15/politics/senate-votes-tax-reform/index.html

99 voting senators:

That would bring the magic majority number needed to 50, rather than 51. Republicans could still afford to lose one Republican to side with the Democrats in that case. The vote tally would be 50-49. Done. Passed.

But they couldn't afford to lose two Republican votes, which would put the vote at 49-50. Bill is killed.

To sum up: If no senators are absent, Republicans can afford to lose two Republican votes and still pass the bill (thanks to Pence's tie-breaking vote).

They can also still pass it if two senators are absent and one Republican votes no (thanks again to Pence), or if only one senator is absent and one Republican votes no.

McCain's absence means we only need two Republicans to vote no. And 99 votes means there is no tie Pence can break!

McCain's absence is equivalent to a NO vote! I bet he won't be flying back to save the day!

[dhol82]

1. Who are you looking at to switch?

Not seeing any likely candidates.
Fuck Collins and Corker!

[atreides1]

2. Not Corker

Flake is a possibility, he's retiring he's got nothing to lose!

Collins still might jump, she didn't get what McConnell promised, the last I heard!

[dhol82]

5. I do not trust Collins to do anything right

She has been a great disappointment many times.

[yallerdawg]

3. Any two.

For any reason.

I don't think "Fuck Collins and Corker" would be very persuasive.

[dhol82]

4. Indeed, that is not a sweet inducement.

[bdamomma]

8. Corker flipped

didn't he, now he is for it. All he seems to be for is his blind ambition and this $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

[MiniMe]

6. What about Thad Cochran?

Wasn't he ill too. I think they are only have 50 votes and Pence will break the tie.

[yallerdawg]

7. Still only two no's.

50-48 if two Republicans are absent.

1 'no' 49-49. Pence breaks tie.

2 'no's' 48-50, we win!

[LeftInTX]

9. Cochran had skin cancer removed from his.nose

At the worst, he'll show up with a bandage.