U.S. Politics News Bits for Wednesday, September 9

In a Wednesday night speech, President Barack Obama urged Congress to set aside partisan differences and agree on legislation that would prove beneficial to insured and uninsured Americans.

Obama's approach to health care: 42 percent approve

The Associated Press-GFK poll reports that the only 42 percent of Americans participating in the poll approve of the way President Barack Obama is approaching the health care reform issue.

Will the Supreme Court loosen current campaign finance laws?

Corporate America could regain some of the political influence it possessed a century ago. Members of the Supreme Court met Wednesday and debated the current campaign finance laws. Conservative members preferring fewer campaign restrictions are uneasy about laws restraining corporate spending in elections.

Sen. Baucus will press forward with health care bill

Senator Max Baucus (Dem.) of Montana has promised to press forward with a health care reform bill with or without Republican support. Baucus is set to draft the bill on September 21 with hopes of completing it by year's end. The bill is in line with President Barack Obama's proposed health care reform plan.

Senate votes to launch tourism campaign

The U.S. Senate voted in favor of launching a campaign encouraging tourists to visit the United States. Wednesday, the U.S. Senate voted (79-19) for a campaign, which could help stimulate the national economy through trillions of dollars in sales. The campaign also calls for charging foreign tourists visiting the U.S. and seeking a visa waiver $10.

Pentagon: US troops did not storm Afghan hospital

The Pentagon announced Tuesday that United States troops have not stormed Swedish Committee for Afghanistan's hospitals. Troops searched an Afghan hospital in a search for a Taliban militant wanted in connection with a roadside bombing responsible for the death of a civilian. Defense Department officials claim that the troops were escorted by Afghan law enforcement, troops received clearance from hospital administrators to conduct the search, and no hospital structures (except for one lock) were broken down in attempt to gain access. Last week, the Swedish charity accused United States troops of illegally storming Afghan hospitals.

References

Obama to Congress: 'Season for action' has arrived

Obama disapproval on health care up to 52 percent

Court signals it may loosen campaign spending

Last Senate panel sets timetable for health care

US Senate approves pro-tourism campaign

US officials deny Swedish hospital was 'stormed'