Washington - Senator Arlen Specter, who has served as a Republican in Congress for nearly 30 years, announced Tuesday that he has switched parties, inching the Democrats closer to a super majority in Congress's upper chamber. The Pennsylvania senator's defection brings the Democrats to within one seat of the 60 needed in the 100-seat Senate to overcome Republican attempts to block votes on legislation, and enhances President Barack Obama's ability to advance his ambitious legislative agenda.

Washington - Senator Arlen Specter, who has served as a Republican in Congress for nearly 30 years, announced Tuesday that he has switched parties and will now join the majority Democrats. The Pennsylvania senator's defection bolsters Democratic control of the Senate and enhances President Barack Obama's ability to push through his ambitious legislative agenda in Congress.