The politics of health policies emerge in presidential contest

The AP reports that GOP presidential hopeful Rick Perry has backed an approach to health reform that could be "as controversial as Obama's remake." Meanwhile, President Barack Obama faces discontent from his base over many of his policies.

The Associated Press: Perry Wrestles With His Own Health Care Approach
Texas would be among the biggest beneficiaries of President Barack Obama's health care overhaul, standing to gain coverage for nearly 4 million uninsured residents. But Gov. Rick Perry blocked moves to lay the groundwork for that expansion of coverage, and among the alternatives he's supported is an untested regional solution that could prove as controversial as Obama's remake (Alonso-Zaldivar, 8/22).

The Associated Press/Washington Post: Obama Faces Discontent Among Liberal Groups As He Faces Re-Election; Will Base Come Through?
Liberals disappointed with Obama for compromising with the GOP during the debt-ceiling showdown now are calling on him to hold firm against Republicans this fall. They want him to push a bold jobs agenda while drawing a strong line on taxes and protecting Medicare and Social Security. In recent weeks, the gripes have become so loud that the president himself acknowledged them during his Midwest bus tour this week (8/20).