Tentative stimulus deal: The sequel to the updates

By GottaLaff

Chris Matthews: The Democrats are making the point that this is an imperfect package.

We know, nobody needs to make the point.

I'll be updating regularly.

Chris Matthews says the Democrats should make the Republicans filibuster. I couldn't agree more. Dare the Republicans to oppose it, he says. Bring the cots in, and point out the Republicans opposing the recovery package.

David Axelrod: We have enough votes to pass a package. We'd like to build the coalition.... Those who want to turn back the clock put themselves in jeopardy. The president believes there is value in talking, but the time for talk is done.

If you're tired of the punditiots saying that Obama is losing the p.r. war, raise your hand. Maybe if this weren't happening, he would "win" it.

Reid went to the Democratic Caucus... who objected to the cuts. But they have accepted the deal, and now Reid will try to get the amendment on the floor tonight. That will clear the way to final passage. Now the question is, will the Republicans try to filibuster?

The Dems say they have "about 3" Republicans, which gives them 60... barely.

UPDATE: It's 42% tax cuts, 58% spending now.

Ben Nelson and Susan Collins have been working together. Nelson is speaking now.

There will not be a vote tonight, but there are enough votes to pass the amendment and then the package, says MSNBC Guy. 58 Dems, including Ted Kennedy, 3 Republicans, so a total of 61.