White House strategists see an opportunity to paint Democrats who resist the president as soft on terrorism, much as they did after Democrats objected to some aspects of the new Homeland Security Department in 2002, or to the war in Iraq in 2004.

NPR: Congress, White House Clash over Prosecutions

He also is considered the strongest ally among House Democratic leaders of the chamber's fiscally conservative Blue Dog Democrats, some of whom have objected to House health care proposals.

CNN: Sources: Obama to address Congress on health care