Nelson's balancing act on Nebraska deal

Sen. Ben Nelson's (D-Neb.) effort to beat back claims that he "sold" his healthcare vote is forcing him into a delicate balancing act.

Consider his response when speaking to the Fremont Tribune about a supposed deal that gave Nebraska more Medicaid funding than other states.

"There was never a time when I fought to get something only for Nebraska; not then and not now," Nelson said.

Most lawmakers don't brag about not fighting specifically for their state.

Of course, it's not fair to attack Nelson both for seeking a special deal for his state and for NOT fighting for his state. But it demonstrates that Nelson is walking a pretty thin line.