Fence-sitters begin choosing sides
WASHINGTON (AP) — One by one, House Democratic fence-sitters began choosing sides Friday, and the long, turbulent struggle over landmark health care legislation tilted unmistakably in President Barack Obama's direction. In full campaign mode, his voice rising, the president all but claimed victory, declaring to a cheering audience in Virginia, "We are going to fix health care in America." With the showdown vote set for Sunday in the House, Obama decided to make one final, personal appeal to rank-and-file Democrats, arranging a Saturday visit to the Capitol. Republicans, unanimous in opposition to the bill, complained anew about its cost and reach. Under a complex — and controversial — procedure the Democrats have devised, a single vote probably will be held to send one bill to Obama for his signature and to ship a second, fix-it measure to the Senate for final passage in the next several days.
» Full StoryNoon: Obama pushes health care bill
FAIRFAX, Virginia (AP) — President Barack Obama described the stakes of this weekend's health care vote in stark terms Friday, using words uttered so rarely out of the White House that they seem all but banned: "If this vote fail.
» Full Story11am: Boccieri switches to 'yes' on health care
WASHINGTON (AP) — Democratic Rep. John Boccieri of Ohio is switching his vote to "yes" on President Barack Obama's health care overhaul.
The freshman lawmaker announced his decision at a Capitol Hill news conference on Friday.
Final health bill omits some of Obama's promises
WASHINGTON — It was a bold response to skyrocketing health insurance premiums. President Barack Obama would give federal authorities the power to block unreasonable rate hike.
» Full StoryHealth care debate exposes Catholic rift
By ERIC GORSKI
AP National Writer
An unusual public split between U.S.
Noon: Obama signs jobs bill
WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama has signed into law a package of tax breaks and spending designed to give the nation a jobs boost.
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