Sen. Kerry thinks compromise on contraception rule possible

Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.) suggested the Obama administration could possibly compromise with critics of a rule requiring some religious organizations to cover contraception in healthcare plans.

"I think the Administration is working towards a final rule that reflects a reasonable compromise," Kerry, a Roman Catholic, said in a statement on Thursday. "I think there's a way to protect everybody's interest here. I think you can implement it effectively in a way that protects women's access, but at the same time protects people's religious beliefs, and that should be everyone’s goal."

The rule has sparked strong criticism from Catholic organizations, Republicans (including most of the presidential field) and even a few Democrats. 

Similar to Kerry, during an interview with a local radio station on Thursday, Vice President Biden said "there is going to be a significant attempt to work this out and there is time to do that."

The White House has generally kept quiet on the rule. President Obama did not answer in response to a question on the matter Thursday.

Also on Thursday, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) blocked legislation by Republicans to repeal the rule.

—This story was updated at 6:09 p.m.