President Obama on Monday issued his own blueprint for a health care overhaul, challenged Republicans to come forward with their ideas and laid the groundwork for an aggressive parliamentary maneuver to pass the legislation using only Democratic votes if this week brings no progress toward a bipartisan solution.
In laying out for the first time the details of what he wants in the legislation, Mr. Obama set in motion a new round of maneuvering intended to bring a bitterly divisive yearlong clash to a conclusion. With the two parties scheduled to meet Thursday for a televised session on the health care overhaul, Mr. Obama appeared intent on forcing the Republicans into a choice: either put a specific alternative on the table, giving Democrats a chance to draw pointed contrasts between the parties' approaches, or be cast as obstructionist and not serious about addressing an issue of great concern to voters.
For the full story in The New York Times, click here.
Related coverage:
Obama Stays on Offense With Health-Care Proposal; The Washington Post - Feb. 22, 2010
Obama's Health Bill Plan Largely Follows Senate Version, The New York Times
New Health Care Plan, But With the Same Old Problems, Politico
Outlook No Brighter for Obama's New Health Plan, AP
Obama Renews Health Push, The Wall Street Journal
Obama Unveils a $950B Restart on Health, USA Today
