Such is the discredit of his opponents that a loud No campaign from private business, some Catholic bishops and, especially, representatives of what remains of the once all-powerful traditional political parties could even prove to be markedly counter-productive.

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Its consideration was considered a big win for them and for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, which used its power -- especially with conservative Democrats in swing congressional districts -- to help force other Democratic leaders to permit a vote that most of them oppose.

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