Victory ... Barack Obama

DEMOCRATS are celebrating after passing a sweeping healthcare reform bill, giving a landmark political victory to Barack Obama.

After hours of debate in the House of Representatives, the bill passed by 219 votes to 212.

Obama's victory came after the US President made concessions to party members opposed to abortion.

He promised to issue an order confirming a ban on using taxpayers' cash for terminations.

The bill will now go to the Senate and could become law within a week.

It will bring healthcare to 95 per cent of Americans, extending coverage to 32million people.

Republicans opposed the reforms, which analysts say will cost about £627billion over 10 years.

Protesters had chanted "Kill the bill!" in Washington as the House held a rare Sunday vote.