Schumer 'moved' by public option negotiations

Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) On Tuesday was tight lipped when asked about the progress of public option negotiations, but said that their civility was "a little bit moving."

"The amazing thing is, in that room, which is a little bit moving to me, you have people of very strong beliefs on other sides really straining and struggling to come to come to an agreement," Schumer told reporters.

But Schumer did not shine light on whether or not any of the alternative public option proposals have gained momentum in the Senate.

“We’re working on all the different aspects," he said. "We may get some, we may not get others. The question is, do we all agree on some?"

Some Senate Democrats are attempting to forge a compromise on the public health insurance option that can attract the 60 votes needed to break a Republican filibuster. Schumer, who is Senate Democratic Caucus vice chairman, is helping lead the negotiations.

One plan would establish national health insurance coverage operated by private nonprofit firms. The Office of Personnel Management, which oversees the Federal Employees Health Benefits Plan, would first negotiate the terms of the plans with private companies.

Another proposal would expand Medicare eligibility to those over the age of 55, instead of 65 as it stands now. A Medicare "buy-in" proposal would ensure that people over the age of 55 could enroll in Medicare quickly should they choose that plan.

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