House Democrats won a test vote today and pushed for passage of legislation designed to fight global warming and escort in a new era of cleaner energy. Republicans said the bill included the largest tax increase in American history.

The vote was 217-205 to advance the White House-backed legislation toward a final roll call expected within hours. Thirty Democrats defected, a reflection of the controversy the bill sparked.

The legislation would impose first-ever limits on carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas pollution from power plants, factories and refineries. It also would force a shift from coal and other fossil fuels to renewable and more efficient forms of energy. Supporters and opponents agreed the result would be higher energy costs, but disagreed widely on how much more consumers would pay. To read the full story, visit Huffington Post.