BREAKING NEWS: Stimulus package passes Senate

The New York Times is reporting the $787 billion economic stimulus package got 60 votes, the minimum needed, in the U.S. Senate, readying it for the signature of President Barack Obama. Earlier, it cleared the House easily, but without even one Republican vote.

The Senate vote of 60 to 38 was similarly partisan. Only three centrist Republicans joined 55 Democrats and two independents in favor, the Times said.