“The main point is, what’s the alternative?"

Jillian Bandes | December 08, 2010 10:12 AM

That's Joe Lieberman speaking about the tax deal that's floating through the Senate right now, after notorious fiscal stalwart Sen. Jim DeMint said he would oppose the deal. It's causing even more of a ruckus on the Democratic side, with Harry Reid even witholding his usual cheery support.

Vice President Joe Biden trekked down to the Senate to try and convince leery Dems that the plan was essential, but it still wasn't clear if the bill would garner enough support. Perhaps that's why Lieberman saw himself as the voice of reason. Roll Call:

During the meeting with Democrats, aides said, lawmakers were often openly combative with the vice president. “Biden got an unfriendly reception. Lots of hostile questioning and grousing, particularly about the estate tax. Senators were not on their best behavior,” a senior Democratic aide said.

Senate Democratic Conference Vice Chairman Charles Schumer (N.Y.) refused to comment after the meeting, repeatedly telling reporters, “I’m not talking.”

Senate Democrats are expected to vote on the measure next week.