Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-Conn.) told reporters Tuesday he is optimistic Democrats will work with Republicans on a health reform package.
Even though Democrats have the capacity to pass a healthcare overhaul with few Republican votes, Dodd said without widespread Republican support, health reform won't last over the long haul.
"I believe we can get this done," he said. "Big things aren't accomplished without bipartisan support. This is too big an issue."
Dodd said he doesn't sense that Democrats will use the budget reconciliation process to pass health reform, an action feared by many Republicans because it won't allow for debate.
"My hope is that the Republicans will truly appreciate the sincerity Democrats have in wanting to pass a bipartisan bill," he said.
Dodd said the public plan option, promoted by Democrats, is something Americans want as a choice. Yet, the term "public plan" tends to make lawmakers "retreat to their respective political corners." He said once the concept is explained, Republicans might be willing to support some aspect of a public option.
"I believe there will be some common ground as we move forward," he said. "The question is whether or not reasonable people can craft something to satisfy a simple majority."
Dodd said any healthcare reform bill that Congress writes needs to have input from the White House. "We don't want to wait around and see if it would be vetoed or not," he said.
Congressional leaders have set a goal to pass a comprehensive health reform package by late June. When asked by reporters if this time-frame is too ambitious, Dodd said he approves of the deadline. In Washington, things don't happen unless you force them, he said.