I never thought I’d say it. I’ve never liked or trusted Joe Lieberman. But I have been proven wrong tonight.

Joe Lieberman was integral to the passage of the stimulus bill. As discussions between Senators Collins, Snowe, Nelson, Specter and Reid dragged on Joe Lieberman pushed the centrist group to get back to the negotiating table and get a deal done.

What made him so effective? Joe Lieberman’s relationship with the Republicans – particularly the Northeastern Republicans.

I would never expect Senator Lieberman to agree with me on foreign policy matters. But on domestic policy – particularly economic issues – Lieberman is and has always been a solid liberal. The man who spent every moment of the last year campaigning for John McCain has now helped President Obama pass one of the most important pieces of legislation in recent history.

Thank you Joe Lieberman.

Oh, and remember when many Democrats wanted to kick Lieberman out of the caucus? And remember when Obama stepped in and said “Let bygones be bygones”? Turns out that was a smart move after all.