The Hill News

Durbin's support for the plan surprised some Capitol Hill observers. The plan would raise the Social Security retirement age from 65 to 69, and trim future benefits. As part of an overall plan that would implement some tax increases and cut spending, the plan failed to pass the commission on Friday, with only 11 of 18 members supporting it â€" 14 senators were necessary.

Durbin and Budget Committee Chairman Kent Conrad (N.D.) were the only Senate Democrats to support it.

"Sure it was," Durbin said when asked if his decision was difficult. "There are parts of that report that I don't agree with.  But I really felt that it was time for progressive Democrats to come to the table, roll up their sleeves and say, 'We want in on this conversation.' "