“The fact that this assault
to the First Amendment is being considered as millions are desperately looking
for work is a complete outrage,” he said in prepared remarks. “Despite their
best efforts, there is no back room dark enough, no partisan motive strong
enough, and no cynicism profound enough to barter away Americans’ freedom of
speech.” 

The fate of the bill in the
Senate was unclear until Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) stripped provisions from
it that Republicans said gave preferential treatment to unions over
corporations. 

Democratic leaders hope the changes will entice Maine Republican
Sens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins into supporting the bill.