Will the bailout work? World holds its breath

Those additions were enough to sway some House members who voted "no" the first time around. Others were swamped by calls from business and political leaders warning of the possible consequences of inaction.

"I've never talked to as many bank presidents in my life," said Rep. Joe Knollenberg, R-Mich., who said he had also been lobbied by General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner and other auto executives.

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger sent out a letter warning that, absent a clear resolution to the financial crisis, California and other states "may be unable to obtain the necessary level of financing to maintain government operations and may be forced to turn to the federal Treasury for short-term financing."

The two presidential candidates also weighed in. Democrat Barack Obama spoke to many in the Congressional Black Caucus and helped persuade 13 to switch their votes. Nine freshmen Democrats also switched to "yes" votes after a conference call with Obama in which he promised an economic stimulus bill would be a top priority if he is elected.

Republican John McCain also lobbied for the measure, according to aides who declined to release a list of lawmakers he called.

"It's disgusting that we would ever be brought to this floor to cast this vote," said Rep. Zach Wamp of Tennessee, a Republican who changed to a "yes" vote. But "Congress has to act. We are out of options. Hold your hand over your heart and vote 'yes.'"

Not all were convinced. "The Treasury plan throws an ungodly amount at Wall Street," said Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Ohio. "This is just an end run around, right before an election. Pray for our republic."

In the end, 33 Democrats and 25 Republicans switched from opposition to support. In all, 91 Republicans joined 172 Democrats to support the measure while 108 Republicans and 63 Democrats voted "no."

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