End in sight, health care battle tilts Obama's way
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.
Final health bill omits some of Obama's promises
WASHINGTON (AP) — It was a bold response to skyrocketing health insurance premiums. President Barack Obama would give federal authorities the power to block unreasonable rate hikes.
» Full StoryJudge orders renegotiation of 9/11 settlement
NEW YORK (AP) — A federal judge on Friday rejected a legal settlement that would have given at least $575 million to people sickened by ash and dust from the World Trade Center, saying the deal...
» Full StoryMember of Texas polygamist sect sentenced 75 years
SAN ANGELO, Texas (AP) — The latest member of a polygamist group whose sprawling West Texas ranch was raided in 2008 has been sentenced to 75 years in prison for sexual assault of a child.
» Full StoryMedical examiner: Boy found on Wash. beach drowned
SEATTLE (AP) — A day after a boy's body was found on an island beach in Puget Sound, authorities searched unsuccessfully for his missing mothe.
» Full StoryPolice ID 9 women, all alive, in killer's photos
HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. (AP) — Police have identified nine women who appear in more than 100 photos found in a serial killer's storage locker and they are all alive.
» Full Story


