Politics News

Even though the country has become more pessimistic, President Barack Obama still enjoys the confidence of a majority of Americans. An Associated Press-GfK poll shows that he has an approval rating of 54 percent. But it also says the number of people who think the country is heading in the wrong direction has increased.

As if Democrats didn't have enough to worry about in overhauling health care, the weighty issue of abortion has suddenly rocketed to the forefront of the debate, dividing lawmakers and threatening the party's ability to pass reform legislation. So, will the Senate pass a measure with abortion restrictions like the House just did?
Also: Bill Clinton to Jump Into Fray

Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon goes on trial for an unusual form of corruption -- spending thousands of dollars in gift cards that had been donated for needy families. Dixon persuaded wealthy donors to fund the cards, then allegedly blew the proceeds at Best Buy, Old Navy, and Target. If convicted, she will be forced to step down as mayor.

Freshman Republican Joseph Cao of Louisiana, the only one in his party to support the House health care reform bill, explains his vote as some conservatives denounce him and others defend him. Cao brushes off the GOP chairman's warning of retribution for those who break from the party line.

Now that the House has passed a health care bill, the ball is in the Senate's court. But considering that the legislation is more liberal (it includes the contentious "public option"), will the more conservative Senate be able to pass a measure that can be meshed into something for the president to sign soon?

A day after the House passes its plan for overhauling the nation's health care system, President Barack Obama says it's time for the Senate to "take the baton" on health care reform. "For years we've been told that this couldn't be done," Obama says. "But last night the House proved different."
Politics Daily: The Ten Top (or Bottom) Moments of the Health Care Debate