Both of Maryland’s senators have gotten behind a last-ditch effort to revive a public, government-run health insurance option by using a controversial legislative procedure known as reconciliation.

Following up on comments from his recent State of the Union address, President Barack Obama took responsibility for the rocky path of comprehensive health reform, urging Democrats to continue the fight and welcoming Republicans to voice their ideas.

Health care reform was front and center the first time President Barack Obama addressed a joint session of Congress last year, but moved to the background in his latest address Wednesday night (Jan. 27) as he instead focused on jobs and the nation’s economy.

Foreshadowing the death of a public option in a comprehensive health reform bill that would garner the signature of President Barack Obama, Consumer Watchdog is urging House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to strengthen oversight of the health insurance industry.