Cheney vote will free tiny Tim Cratchit from crutches

Cheney shares Christmas spirit

Vice President Dick Cheney cast the deciding vote Wednesday on legislation that will help disabled children learn to walk on their own.

"I have a soft spot in my, uh, heart for crippled children," Cheney said. "They're easier to catch."

The measure, passed 51-50, will reduce funding for Medicaid, Medicare and student loans.

Tiny Tim Cratchit, 9, is one of the children who will benefit.

"I understand," Cratchit said. "There's a (cough!) war on against ... somebody for ... something."

After the vote, Cheney was visited by three spirits.

"I told them to go f--- themselves," Cheney said.

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