Democratic chairman says abortion foe is a ‘yes’ for health care, but office says no decision

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Dem chairman says abortion foe on board

WASHINGTON — A Democratic chairman says a leading abortion foe will back President Barack Obama’s health care bill. But the office of Democratic Rep. Bart Stupak of Michigan says no decision has been made.

Rep. Henry Waxman of California says party leaders have been able to secure the support of Stupak.

Waxman says they were able to win the promise of a “yes” vote on the health care bill by having Obama issue an executive order that reaffirms existing law barring federal dollars for abortion.

Stupak had favored stronger language in the legislation restricting taxpayer money for abortion.

Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. of Illinois said lawmakers who favor abortion rights shouldn’t have a problem with the executive order.