Health care costs and health law politics: How issues are shaking out in public opinion and policy strategies

A poll by The Associated Press/NORC Center for Public Affairs Research explores American's thoughts about health insurance, peace of mind and whether the health law is keeping costs down. Meanwhile, Politico explores the GOP's chances for repeal.

The Associated Press: Poll: Many Insured Struggle With Medical Bills
They have health insurance, but still no peace of mind. Overall, 1 in 4 privately insured adults say they doubt they could pay for a major unexpected illness or injury. A new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research may help explain why President Barack Obama faces such strong headwinds in trying to persuade the public that his health care law is holding down costs (10/13).

Politico: GOP Can't Give Up Obamacare Repeal Talk
Republicans may be split on many issues, but they remain fiercely united in their loathing for the Affordable Care Act; they still see it as a terrible law, and they want it to go away. But GOP staffers and health care wonks also know that, even if they win the Senate, they're not going to accomplish that in the next two years while President Barack Obama is still in office. And after that? Well, think of the last time a major social program was repealed after three enrollment seasons, with millions of people getting benefits. That's right -- it hasn't happened (Nather, 10/13).