Dems rebuff last GOP attempt to kill Iran deal

The Senate’s last showdown on Iran ended as expected Thursday, as Democrats blocked two separate measures from Republicans meant to unravel President Barack Obama’s nuclear accord with Tehran.

First, Democrats filibustered a plan from Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell that would require Iran to recognize Israel and release U.S. prisoners under Iranian custody before U.S. sanctions would be lifted. The tally was 53-45.

Then on a 56-42 vote, Democrats blocked a resolution meant to kill the Iran deal – the third such Senate tally in a week. Both measures needed 60 votes to advance.

Republicans wanted to push that bill to Obama’s desk and force him to veto it, but 42 Senate Democrats ultimately backed the nuclear accord. That was enough to deny the GOP a final vote on the disapproval measure. (Politico)