Senate Republicans say they are sticking to their guns and will continue to drag out passage of the Democrats’ health care reform legislation, forcing the chamber to remain in session through Christmas Eve.

During a luncheon of the GOP Conference Monday, Republicans discussed whether to drop their filibuster or find some other way to allow lawmakers to break camp before 7 p.m. Thursday, when the Senate is scheduled to cast a final vote on the health care bill.

But while some Members had expressed interest in getting out of Washington earlier than expected, the Conference still plans to stick it out to the bitter end.

“It’s still the same schedule,— Senate Minority Whip Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) said following the lunch.