Story highlights McCain had remained a wild card and had kept his position on the tax bill unclear even from leadershipFor GOP leaders, McCain's decision to support the measure is equal parts major victory and relief(CNN) Sen. John McCain said Thursday he will support Senate Republicans' tax plan, a major sign of progress for GOP leaders as the party barrels toward a vote on their overhaul of the US tax system by the end of the week. "After careful thought and consideration, I have decided to support the Senate tax reform bill. Republicans have 52 members in the Senate, and could only afford to lose two votes and still pass their legislation. For GOP leaders, McCain's decision to support the measure is equal parts major victory and relief. One senior GOP aide said earlier this week his position was "a black box," and members and staff were consciously giving him space to come to a final decision.

Source: CNN November 30, 2017 16:09 UTC