Late last night, GOP leaders in the House were able to strong-arm enough moderate Republicans to support their long-delaysed and radical spending cuts bill. The bill passed 217 - 215, with unanimous opposition from Democrats and Independents, and 14 Republicans. OMB Watch Executive Director Gary Bass released the following statement after the vote: The close vote in the House on the Budget Reconciliation bill signifies the wrong national priorities. In this vote, the conservatives cut spending for programs serving poor people and others of moderate income in order to pay for their continuing and seemingly unending thirst for providing more tax cuts to the wealthy. Unfortunately, this vote also showcases how the House of Representatives has become captive to a radical minority of conservatives who are out of step with most of America. The end result of these reconciliation votes is an increased deficit, less support for those citizens struggling the most among us, and a significant step backwards for the progress of our country. If this is compassionate conservatism, then it's time for a change. Washington Post: House Approves Spending Reductions