The dispute among Democrats foretells of a rowdy floor debate next month on legislation that would extend health care coverage to roughly 31 million Americans.
Roman Catholic Bishop Thomas Tobin has banned Rep. Patrick Kennedy from receiving Communion in Rhode Island because of the congressman's support for abortion rights, Kennedy says.
The decision by family members not to seek the seat held by Sen. Edward M. Kennedy for nearly five decades has prompted predictions that the family's political dynasty is over.