The civil rights leader also said his appeal may have come too late.

Speaking earlier in the day to reporters, both Jackson and Florida Senate President Tom Lee said that they didn't know of any senators who were willing to reverse themselves in a bid to save Terri.

Jackson's admission was in sharp contrast with his comments last night, when he told the Fox News Channel that four senators were now "flexible" on legislation to save the dying woman.

But the Florida Senate met on Wednesday without even discussing a new Schiavo bill, the Associated Press said.

"We pray for a miracle. We pray for a breakthrough," Jackson said after the defeat.

Editor's note: