In steering a financial regulatory overhaul bill to passage on Friday, House Democratic leaders once again had the votes to advance a major initiative – and enough to spare so that some of their members in conservative-leaning districts could side with the Republicans in a display of political independence.

Nineteen of the 27 Democrats who joined all 175 voting Republicans in opposing the bill represent districts that backed John McCain over Barack Obama in the 2008 presidential election.

Among those voting with the Republicans were Reps. Bobby Bright (Ala.), Tom Perriello (Va.) and Harry Teague (N.M.), three freshmen who are among the eight most vulnerable House Democrats.