Obama's star power fading as health care tempers flare.

Byline: CHRIS CERMAK

The prospects for President Barack Obama's signature domestic issue, overhauling a costly US health care system, have taken a dangerous and nasty turn this month. Lawmakers are spending August outside of Washington, criss- crossing their home states and districts.

The spectacle of senators being shouted down by angry opponents at townhall meetings has become regular fodder for television news channels. Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter, a Republican-turned Democrat, was warned by one outraged voter this week that "one day God will stand before you and judge you" for his role in the health debate.

It is a ferocious argument that could make or break Obama's young presidency. Many health reform efforts have collapsed …