The U.S. Senate, led by its Democratic members and dragging a few brave Republicans, has voted not to reauthorize portions of the Patriot Act. A.P.:

Five Republicans voted against the reauthorization: Chuck Hagel of Nebraska, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, John Sununu of New Hampshire, Craig and Frist. Two Democrats voted to extend the provisions: Sens. Tim Johnson of South Dakota and Ben Nelson of Nebraska.

Who? Bill Frist?

Frist, R-Tenn., changed his vote at the last moment after seeing the critics would win. He decided to vote with the prevailing side so he could call for a new vote at any time. He immediately objected to an offer of a short term extension from Democrats, saying the House won’t approve it and the president won’t sign it.

Of course, Republicans are already figuring out how to gain political advantage from the defeat.

If the Patriot Act provisions expire, Republicans say they will place the blame on Democrats in next year’s midterm elections. “In the war on terror, we cannot afford to be without these vital tools for a single moment,” White House press secretary Scott McClellan said. “The time for Democrats to stop standing in the way has come.”

Standing in the way? Hey Scottie, I’m an American and I can stand wherever I want. And for a little while longer, it looks like you’re stuck with that.