Yahoo Politics - Source Information

Source URL: http://news.yahoo.com/i/703;_ylt=AgZl0irjvliKqC0xuqkaGqayFz4D
Number of headlines in database: 513
Last update: 2010-03-11 20:13:12

Yahoo Politics Headlines

  • GOP loses bid for ethics probe of Dem leaders(AP) (2010-03-11 19:05:11)
    AP - House Democrats have stopped a Republican bid to force an investigation into whether Democratic leaders covered up allegations that former Rep. Eric Massa sexually harassed male employees.
  • House GOP adopts earmark moratorium(AP) (2010-03-11 19:02:56)
    AP - In an election-year appeal to voters frustrated with Washington, House Republicans promised Thursday not to stuff any of this year's spending bills with pet projects for their districts.
  • Obama health bill gets boost from budget office(AFP) (2010-03-11 18:53:55)
    AFP - In a boost to President Barack Obama's flagship reform drive, the Congressional Budget Office said Thursday a Senate health care bill would cut the deficit by 118 billion dollars.
  • House Republicans Embrace One-Year Moratorium on Earmarks(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-11 18:43:17)
    CQPolitics.com - House Republicans voted among themselves Thursday to forgo earmark requests for a year -- a move designed to trump a more limited curb on member-directed spending adopted by Democrats a day ago.
  • Obama pushing a new export initiative(AP) (2010-03-11 16:48:22)
    AP - President Barack Obama sought Thursday to put some detail behind his lofty drive to double U.S. exports over the next five years, calling the effort imperative to putting people back to work. But doubts remain about how many net jobs his trade agenda will create — and how he will get it done.
  • Ukraine creates new ruling coalition, gets new PM(AP) (2010-03-11 16:34:41)
    AP - Ukrainian lawmakers formed a new majority coalition around President Viktor Yanukovych on Thursday, allowing him to consolidate power by quickly approving his choices for a new prime minister and Cabinet.
  • Obama presses China on currency in trade speech(Reuters) (2010-03-11 16:30:07)
    Reuters - President Barack Obama pressed China on Thursday to move to a "more market-oriented exchange rate" in a speech where he laid out a plan to boost U.S. exports in the coming years.
  • EU condemns Cuba for rights violations(AP) (2010-03-11 16:19:32)
    AP - The European Parliament voted Thursday to condemn Cuba for the "avoidable and cruel" death of a dissident hunger striker, earning a stinging response from Havana, which said it did not appreciate the lecture and would not respond to international pressure.
  • GOP wants Massa probe reopened(Politico) (2010-03-11 16:12:47)
    Politico - They'll offer resolution to continue investigation.
  • Dodd to offer his own financial regulation bill(AP) (2010-03-11 15:39:03)
    AP - WASHINGTON AP) — Unable to muster bipartisan agreement on key banking provisions, Senate Banking Committee Chairman Christopher Dodd said Thursday he will offer his own version of a sweeping overhaul of financial regulations without Republican support.
  • Wis. high court sides with dealer in Volvo dispute(AP) (2010-03-11 15:25:24)
    AP - The Wisconsin Supreme Court has sided with a truck dealership in a dispute with a major manufacturer of semitrailers.
  • US senator to unveil new financial overhaul plan(AFP) (2010-03-11 15:17:23)
    AFP - A key US senator said Thursday he would unveil new legislation come Monday to rewrite US financial rules and prevent a repeat of the global economic meltdown of 2008.
  • UN wildlife watchdog considers ban on bluefin tuna(AP) (2010-03-11 15:04:34)
    AP - A U.N. body best known for protecting tigers and elephants will focus on the world's overfished oceans beginning this week with proposals to regulate the shark trade and ban the export of a tuna species prized by sushi lovers.
  • 'Little Billy's Letters' at a glance(AP) (2010-03-11 14:53:10)
    AP - Excerpts from the responses by prominent figures to letters from "Little Billy," the grade-schooler alter ego of prankster Bill Geerhart, appearing in the book "Little Billy's Letters":
  • Author assumes guise of 10-year-old to punk famous(AP) (2010-03-11 14:48:58)
    AP - Over the years, "Little Billy" learned much from the country's top minds.
  • Highway deaths drop to lowest levels since 1950s(AP) (2010-03-11 14:43:17)
    AP - U.S. highway deaths have fallen to their lowest levels since the 1950s, as more motorists bought into buckling up and embraced safety innovations. A sour economy that dampened traveling instincts also was a contributor.
  • Obama to sign order to execute export-doubling strategy(AFP) (2010-03-11 14:41:34)
    AFP - US President Barack Obama will sign an executive order Thursday to put into action his ambitious strategy to double American exports to ease an unemployment crisis at home, officials said.
  • Dodd goes on without GOP support(Politico) (2010-03-11 14:05:36)
    Politico - But he says talks with Sen. Bob Corker continue.
  • HSBC: data on 24,000 Swiss account holders stolen(AP) (2010-03-11 13:33:31)
    AP - Information on 24,000 HSBC customers with Swiss accounts has been stolen, the British bank said Thursday, potentially exposing large numbers of international clients to prosecution by tax authorities in their home countries.
  • 43 Somalis die in capital after 2 days of warfare(AP) (2010-03-11 13:32:52)
    AP - Heavy fighting between Somali insurgents and pro-government troops has killed at least 43 people over two days, as African Union peacekeepers used tanks to help the beleaguered government beat back an insurgent attack, officials said Thursday.
  • UK court grants bail to ex-Bosnian vice president(AP) (2010-03-11 13:31:31)
    AP - Britain's High Court on Thursday granted bail to former Bosnian Vice President Ejup Ganic, who was arrested at London's Heathrow Airport on a Serbian war crimes warrant earlier this month.
  • Toyota troubles put spotlight on US safety agency(AP) (2010-03-11 12:36:31)
    AP - Toyota's massive recalls are prompting Congress to reconsider whether the nation's auto safety agency has lived up to its mission of protecting motorists.
  • Gates: Iran support for Taliban 'pretty limited'(AP) (2010-03-11 12:36:10)
    AP - U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates on Thursday downplayed Iran's influence on Afghanistan, but the war of words escalated, with Iran's president promising that the region's people would "cut your hands off of the Persian Gulf oil."
  • Obama taps Boeing, Xerox chiefs to lead export body(Reuters) (2010-03-11 11:01:52)
    Reuters - President Barack Obama, anxious to spur growth and tackle unemployment, will name two top executives from Boeing and Xerox on Thursday to spearhead his drive to boost U.S. exports, the White House said.
  • CBC: Obama not listening(Politico) (2010-03-11 09:04:52)
    Politico - Tensions are rising as the caucus attempts to address the high unemployment rate among blacks.
  • Democrats, White House close in on health bill(AP) (2010-03-11 08:10:35)
    AP - A final agreement nearly in hand, President Barack Obama and Democratic leaders are about to embark on one last sales job that will determine the outcome of the president's signature health care overhaul.
  • Ex-freshman, veteran kingpin equal Democratic woes(AP) (2010-03-11 08:09:47)
    AP - One is a former Democratic freshman little known outside his Corning-Olean-Pittsford, N.Y., district. The other, a 20-term Democratic kingpin from Harlem, is widely known to New Yorkers and anyone following tax legislation.
  • Safety agency under spotlight in House hearing(AP) (2010-03-11 08:07:58)
    AP - Toyota's massive recalls are bringing new scrutiny to the government's auto safety agency, prompting Congress to look at how federal safety officials have lived up to their mission of protecting motorists.
  • Critics of Justice Dept. lawyers under fire(AP) (2010-03-11 08:05:58)
    AP - A conservative group's bashing of several Obama administration lawyers as the "al-Qaida Seven" has struck a nerve in the U.S. legal community, prompting even some fellow Republicans to denounce the group's attack.
  • Success of lone gunmen may shift al-Qaida strategy(AP) (2010-03-11 08:04:29)
    AP - On Christmas Day, a passenger on a Northwest Airlines flight bound for Detroit tried to blow up the plane with plastic explosives in his underwear. He failed, yet the very attempt shook the U.S. government, set federal agencies against each other and triggered months of political second-guessing.
  • Deforestation conference to turn plans to action(AP) (2010-03-11 05:05:44)
    AP - French President Nicolas Sarkozy will open a daylong conference Thursday of some 40 nations to start turning plans into action to save the world's forests and help rein in the noxious gases blamed for climate change.
  • Where are the Women GOP House Candidates?(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-11 05:01:15)
    CQPolitics.com - While Senate Republicans boast top-flight female candidates in several marquee races, there appears to be a dearth of GOP women running in some of the most competitive House races across the country.
  • Senate passes $149 billion for jobless aid(Reuters) (2010-03-11 04:45:06)
    Reuters - The Senate on Wednesday passed a $149 billion package of jobless aid and tax breaks, as Democrats continued efforts to lower the 9.7 percent unemployment rate before congressional elections in November.
  • POLITICO Interview: Karl Rove(Politico) (2010-03-11 03:34:35)
    Politico - Mike Allen speaks with Karl Rove about his new book "Courage and Consequence."
  • Earmark ban ruffles feathers(Politico) (2010-03-11 03:09:57)
    Politico - Both Democrats and Republicans are speaking against the ban.
  • 48 Hawaii-only species given endangered listing(AP) (2010-03-11 03:02:53)
    AP - Honeycreeper birds, a fly and several ferns, trees and shrubs found only on a Hawaiian island were among 48 species added Wednesday to the endangered species list, boosting the number of such classifications by the Obama administration from two to 50.
  • Pelosi: Dems close on health care agreement(AP) (2010-03-11 03:00:41)
    AP - Democrats claimed momentum Wednesday in their drive to enact the sweeping health care legislation sought by President Barack Obama, citing near agreement on crucial issues despite persistent Republican efforts to knock them off stride.
  • Pelosi: 'We're going to get started'(Politico) (2010-03-11 02:42:13)
    Politico - Pelosi is walking her team through major components of the final health care package.
  • US Senate adopts aid for unemployed(AFP) (2010-03-11 02:07:44)
    AFP - The US Senate has adopted a 140-billion-dollar raft of measures aimed at shoring up unemployment benefits and setting out tax breaks to spur job creation.
  • CA-CANADA Summary(Reuters) (2010-03-11 01:24:28)
    Reuters - Canadian parliamentarians tucked into a meal of seal meat on Wednesday to defy both animal right activists and the European Union, which has banned imports of seal products. Some two dozen guests, surrounded on all sides by media, crammed into a small room off the main parliamentary restaurant to hear speeches backing the annual hunt off Canada's East Coast, which the EU says is inhumane.
  • Obama aims fire at McConnell(Politico) (2010-03-11 01:05:24)
    Politico - St. Charles, MO – President Obama has met the enemy, and his name is Mitch.
  • House leader: Ethics panel ends Massa probe(AP) (2010-03-11 00:59:13)
    AP - The House Democratic campaign chief said Wednesday the ethics committee has ended an investigation of former Rep. Eric Massa, but the freshman's alleged harassment of his staff members — with possible sexual overtones — could spell continuing trouble for the party.
  • Pelosi says Dems near deal on health care bill(AP) (2010-03-11 00:54:15)
    AP - Democrats claimed momentum Wednesday in their drive to enact the sweeping health care legislation sought by President Barack Obama, citing near agreement on crucial issues despite persistent Republican efforts to knock them off stride.
  • Roll Call: Senate vote on jobless aid measure(AP) (2010-03-11 00:51:53)
    AP - The 62-36 roll call Wednesday by which the Senate voted to extend jobless aid, tax breaks to businesses and individuals and money to help financially strapped states pay for health care for the poor.
  • FedEx warns Congress not to pass UPS bill(Politico) (2010-03-11 00:40:21)
    Politico - The bill could significantly cut back FedEx's $2 billion in annual capital expenditures.
  • Chief Justice John Roberts and Obama White House: a tit for tat(The Christian Science Monitor) (2010-03-11 00:23:36)
    The Christian Science Monitor - It’s starting to look like the Hatfields versus the McCoys. Except, in this instance, it’s two branches of government duking it out: the judicial branch (Chief Justice John Roberts) versus the executive (President Obama).
  • Obama presses Reid to cut special deals from health bill(Politico) (2010-03-11 00:11:20)
    Politico - President wants Senate leader to strike narrow provisions from reform legislation.
  • US lawmakers reject Afghan pull-out(AFP) (2010-03-10 23:59:11)
    AFP - The House of Representatives on Wednesday roundly defeated a resolution demanding President Barack Obama withdraw all US forces from Afghanistan, in a key election-year test for his war strategy.
  • NJ judge scolded for mocking defendant's English(AP) (2010-03-10 23:33:52)
    AP - The New Jersey Supreme Court's disciplinary committee has publicly reprimanded a lower-court judge who belittled an immigrant defendant's poor English skills and compared another defendant to O.J Simpson.
  • Holder under fire for Padilla brief(Politico) (2010-03-10 23:31:31)
    Politico - In the brief, Holder admits that accused terrorists could go free if tried in civilian court.
  • Georgia Democrats Press for Wrapup of Deal Investigation(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-10 23:29:16)
    CQPolitics.com - Georgia Democrats this week called for the House ethics committee to wrap up its investigation of Rep. Nathan Deal (R-Ga.) before he leaves Congress at the end of March.
  • Swedish artist has no regrets over prophet drawing(AP) (2010-03-10 23:26:39)
    AP - The point of a caricature depicting the Prophet Muhammad as a dog was to show that artistic freedom allows mockery of all religions, including the most sacred symbols of Islam, the Swedish artist who created it said Wednesday.
  • House rejects bid to pull troops from Afghanistan(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-10 23:17:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - WASHINGTON — The House of Representatives rejected a resolution Wednesday that called on President Barack Obama to withdraw U.S. troops from Afghanistan by year's end.
  • Obama decries waste, fraud in gov't health system(AP) (2010-03-10 23:07:43)
    AP - President Barack Obama denounced waste, inefficiency and downright fraud in the government's health care system on Wednesday as he sought to rally public support for his revamped overhaul plan. "Improper payments cost taxpayers almost $100 billion last year alone," Obama said at a rally in this St. Louis suburb.
  • Republican Bunning stirs anger with WTO block(Reuters) (2010-03-10 23:04:29)
    Reuters - A Republican senator who held up action earlier this month on a bill to renew jobless benefits faced more criticism on Wednesday for blocking approval of President Barack Obama's nominee to be U.S. ambassador to the World Trade Organization.
  • Sebelius piles pressure on insurers(Reuters) (2010-03-10 22:48:30)
    Reuters - Health Secretary Kathleen Sebelius ratcheted up the pressure on health insurance companies on Wednesday, urging them to forgo short-term profits to make coverage more affordable and to stop fighting the Obama administration's reform effort.
  • House bans misleading census mailings(AP) (2010-03-10 22:28:05)
    AP - The House passed legislation Wednesday that would ban misleading mailings designed to appear they're from the Census Bureau, following criticism that Republican groups were sending fundraising letters using the census name.
  • GOP Opportunity in Massachusetts 10(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-10 22:16:19)
    CQPolitics.com - Rep. Bill Delahunt's (D-Mass.) decision to retire at the end of his current term offers a rare opportunity for Republicans to win a House seat in one of the country's bluest of blue states.
  • At emotional Capitol ceremony, WWII 'fly girls' finally honored(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-10 22:13:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - WASHINGTON — Macie Jo Wheelis, 91, has had a colorful life. A pioneering female aviator, she was one of the 1,102 Women Airforce Service Pilots in World War II. She was an avid golfer who played with the legendary Byron Nelson, a Dallas bowling champion and, for years, a West Texas racehorse breeder and owner.
  • Fed recovers, gets new look as financial regulator(AP) (2010-03-10 22:07:41)
    AP - The Federal Reserve, still dusting itself off from a fight that threatened to trim its powers, could emerge from a congressional overhaul of banking rules as the top cop over the nation's largest financial institutions.
  • US views Doha framework as 'not satisfactory': lawmaker(AFP) (2010-03-10 22:01:19)
    AFP - The United States is unhappy with the current framework of the Doha Round of negotiations to forge a global trade accord, a key lawmaker said Wednesday after talks with WTO chief Pascal Lamy.
  • Products recalled due to possible salmonella risk(AP) (2010-03-10 21:32:36)
    AP - The following products are being recalled because they could be contaminated with salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children and others with weakened immune systems:
  • Fla. gov fights for Everglades amid US Senate race(AP) (2010-03-10 21:03:37)
    AP - A key part of Gov. Charlie Crist's political legacy is his grand plan to revive the dying Florida Everglades.
  • Schumer upbeat on immigration(Politico) (2010-03-10 21:02:33)
    Politico - But tensions remain, including finding a second GOP co-sponsor.
  • First lady launches contest for healthy kids games(AP) (2010-03-10 21:01:07)
    AP - First lady Michelle Obama challenged software and video game designers Wednesday to develop games and tools that get kids, especially 9- to 12-year-olds, excited about eating better and exercising more.
  • UN report: Much of Somalia's food aid diverted(AP) (2010-03-10 20:54:00)
    AP - Up to half the food aid intended for the millions of hungry people in Somalia is being diverted to corrupt contractors, radical Islamic militants and local U.N. workers, according to a U.N. Security Council report.
  • Senate passes jobless aid, business tax breaks(AP) (2010-03-10 20:44:22)
    AP - The Senate voted Wednesday to extend a host of soon-to-expire elements of last year's economic stimulus measure, including help for the jobless and money to help financially strapped states pay for health care for the poor.
  • Issa raises questions on Sestak allegations(Politico) (2010-03-10 20:42:18)
    Politico - GOP Rep says Sestak claims of W.H. job offer may have crossed the line, if true.
  • Clinton, Gates say US help abroad improves image(AP) (2010-03-10 20:36:04)
    AP - Bill Clinton and Bill Gates said Wednesday that U.S. investments in fighting AIDS, malaria and other diseases in underdeveloped nations save lives and play a vital role in improving America's image abroad.
  • Italy parliament passes justice measure(AP) (2010-03-10 19:42:30)
    AP - Silvio Berlusconi's allies pushed a controversial measure through parliament on Wednesday that shields the Italian premier from prosecution in two ongoing trials.
  • Health secretary piles pressure on insurers(Reuters) (2010-03-10 19:05:42)
    Reuters - U.S. Health Secretary Kathleen Sebelius ratcheted up the pressure on health insurance companies on Wednesday, urging them to forgo short-term profits to make coverage more affordable and to stop fighting the Obama administration's reform effort.
  • Search for GOP Backing Delays Senate Immigration Bill(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-10 19:05:15)
    CQPolitics.com - Democratic Sen. Charles E. Schumer said Wednesday he and Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham are "getting real close" to a deal on a comprehensive immigration overhaul.
  • Obama renews backing of earthquake-stricken Haiti(AP) (2010-03-10 18:57:02)
    AP - President Barack Obama on Wednesday renewed America's commitment to the recovery and reconstruction of earthquake-devastated Haiti, telling visiting President Rene Preval he knows the crisis has not passed.
  • Technology Not the Main Problem in Sorting Intelligence, Expert Says(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-10 18:52:20)
    CQPolitics.com - A National Counterterrorism Center official told senators Wednesday that more effective analysis of the voluminous data available about potential terrorists could require more personnel, but not necessarily major computer upgrades.
  • Sharper scorn for Congress, fairly steady support for Obama(AP) (2010-03-10 18:44:32)
    AP - Americans have come to detest Congress ever more deeply as it nears the end of a nasty fight over health care. But more than half still back President Barack Obama, a bright spot for a Democratic Party counting on its leader to help stave off expected losses in elections this fall.
  • Reid: Reform filibuster next year(Politico) (2010-03-10 18:43:58)
    Politico - Senate Democrats seek to inject fresh momentum into efforts to overhaul the filibuster.
  • House Democrats ban earmarks to corporations(AP) (2010-03-10 18:26:01)
    AP - House Democratic leaders announced Wednesday that they will ban the much-criticized practice of using annual spending bills to direct pet projects to for-profit companies that often return the favor with campaign contributions.
  • First lady pushes healthy kids campaign forward(AP) (2010-03-10 18:21:45)
    AP - First lady Michelle Obama is challenging software and video game designers to develop games and applications that get kids excited about living healthy.
  • Female WWII aviators honored with gold medal(AP) (2010-03-10 18:16:29)
    AP - A long-overlooked group of women who flew aircraft during World War II were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal on Wednesday.
  • PPP: Meek vs. Rubio would be close(Politico) (2010-03-10 18:12:46)
    Politico - Public Policy Polling is out with a rare bit of good polling news for Democratic Senate candidate Kendrick Meek, showing the congressman within striking distance of former Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio in a general election match-up.
  • House debates troop withdrawal from Afghanistan(AP) (2010-03-10 17:52:53)
    AP - Anti-war lawmakers are getting a chance to make their case before facing almost certain defeat of a House resolution calling for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan.
  • Russian drivers forced to act as shield(AP) (2010-03-10 17:27:49)
    AP - Russian traffic police are under investigation for ordering civilian motorists to park their cars across a highway — and remain inside — to block a fleeing criminal suspect, prosecutors said Wednesday.
  • Turkish officials lower quake death toll to 41(AP) (2010-03-10 17:26:59)
    AP - Turkish officials on Wednesday lowered the death toll in this week's magnitude 6 earthquake from 51 to 41.
  • Senator Brown snags deal for memoirs(Reuters) (2010-03-10 16:33:46)
    Reuters - Scott Brown, the Republican whose surprise victory in the Senate race in Massachusetts rocked the political landscape, has signed a deal to write his memoirs, the publisher HarperCollins said on Wednesday.
  • Face-off: Sebelius confronts insurers(Politico) (2010-03-10 16:31:03)
    Politico - She's challenging them to divert millions in anti-reform advertising dollars toward cutting premiums.
  • European Parliament backs UN report on Gaza war(AP) (2010-03-10 16:21:24)
    AP - In a move likely to worsen EU ties with Israel, the European Parliament urged its 27-member states Wednesday to monitor the Israeli and Palestinian probes into alleged war crimes in Gaza.
  • Obama aide puts moral case to health insurers(AFP) (2010-03-10 16:14:18)
    AFP - Barack Obama's top health official made a tough moral case to insurance giants Wednesday: put people and patriotism before profits and drop opposition to the president's overhaul plans.
  • Ex-Christian Coalition head won't run for Congress(AP) (2010-03-10 16:10:59)
    AP - Former Christian Coalition head Ralph Reed announced Wednesday that he has decided not to run for Congress in Georgia.
  • Approps: No more for-profit earmarks(Politico) (2010-03-10 16:00:01)
    Politico - For-profit entities routinely collect millions in government dollars earmarked by lawmakers.
  • Fake fruit conceals cocaine cargo in Netherlands(AP) (2010-03-10 15:57:31)
    AP - First it was drugs among the flowers. Now, drug traffickers have stuffed real drugs into fake fruit in an effort to smuggle cocaine into the Netherlands, authorities said Wednesday.
  • Obama hosts Haitin President Preval for talks(AP) (2010-03-10 15:12:37)
    AP - President Barack Obama meets Wednesday with his Haitian counterpart, Rene Preval, who has come to Washington to thank Americans for the massive outpouring of earthquake aid and to outline what still is needed.
  • German Catholics to investigate abuse charges(AP) (2010-03-10 15:08:22)
    AP - Catholic authorities in Germany announced two major abuse investigations Wednesday — one into the renowned choir once led by Pope Benedict XVI's brother and another into what everyone, including the pope, knew about the sexual and physical abuse of students.
  • Analysis: Greece's crisis could presage America's(AP) (2010-03-10 15:00:10)
    AP - Greece is a financial basket case, begging for international help. Is America heading down that same road?
  • Tainted ingredient sold after salmonella found(AP) (2010-03-10 14:49:54)
    AP - The company responsible for a ballooning recall of processed foods continued to manufacture and distribute a flavor-enhancing ingredient for a month after tests confirmed it was made with contaminated equipment, according to a Food and Drug Administration report.
  • Obama visit fuels anti-terror raids in Indonesia(AFP) (2010-03-10 14:48:09)
    AFP - US President Barack Obama's planned visit to Indonesia this month has lent new impetus to raids that have left one top militant dead and his band of Islamist extremists on the ropes, analysts say.
  • Spain: Aid worker in Africa released by militants(AP) (2010-03-10 14:34:10)
    AP - A Spanish aid worker kidnapped late last year in Mauritania by suspected Islamic militants was freed Wednesday, but two colleagues remained in captivity, the Spanish government said.
  • Female World War II aviators to be honored(AP) (2010-03-10 14:05:53)
    AP - The first women to fly U.S. military planes will be awarded a Congressional Gold Medal on Capitol Hill.
  • Record 237 nominations for 2010 Nobel Peace Prize(AP) (2010-03-10 13:44:18)
    AP - A Nobel Peace Prize official says the committee that selects the winner is considering a record 237 nominations for the 2010 award.
  • Swedish papers publish Prophet Muhammad drawing(AP) (2010-03-10 13:38:49)
    AP - At least three Swedish newspapers on Wednesday published a cartoon depicting the Prophet Muhammad with the body of a dog after an alleged plot to murder the artist who created it was uncovered in Ireland.
  • Bill Clinton backs Mitchell in Maine(Politico) (2010-03-10 13:25:03)
    Politico - Former President Bill Clinton issued his latest endorsement of the 2010 cycle Tuesday, backing Maine State Senate President Libby Mitchell's bid for the Democratic nomination for governor. "As President, I appointed her as the first woman chair of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston, where she served with distinction for most of my administration and some of the next," Clinton said of Mitchell in a fundraising email.
  • Averting another Foley affair(Politico) (2010-03-10 12:57:16)
    Politico - In an Ideas piece, Sloan says Massa’s response to charges has been nothing less than schizophrenic.
  • Hoyer says some trying to politicize Massa case(AP) (2010-03-10 12:41:01)
    AP - House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer accused political opponents Wednesday of trying to exploit the controversy surrounding former Rep. Eric Massa, who resigned from Congress amid accusations of sexual harassment.
  • Michelle Obama's ball gown makes museum debut(AFP) (2010-03-10 12:02:00)
    AFP - First Lady Michelle Obama bowed to tradition Tuesday and donated the dazzling ball gown she wore for her husband's presidential inauguration last January to the Smithsonian museum institution.
  • Gates keeps up pressure on Iran with Gulf visit(AP) (2010-03-10 11:49:21)
    AP - U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates was keeping up the pressure on Iran on Wednesday, consulting with the United States' closest and most influential ally in the Persian Gulf about how to respond to Iran's disputed nuclear program.
  • Behind the scenes, crafting the US no-fly list(AP) (2010-03-10 10:05:30)
    AP - It starts with a tip, a scrap of intelligence, a fingerprint lifted from a suspected terrorist's home.
  • How names get onto America's no-fly list(AP) (2010-03-10 10:05:30)
    AP - It starts with a tip, a scrap of intelligence, a fingerprint lifted from a suspected terrorist's home.
  • DCCC unveils target list(Politico) (2010-03-10 10:04:07)
    Politico - The DCCC plans to announce the first 13 House challengers and open-seat candidates to receive support through the committee's "Red to Blue" program Wednesday, providing a guide to where the party senses it may have opportunities to play offense.
  • UK court to rule on Russian tycoon's libel claim(AP) (2010-03-10 09:38:33)
    AP - Britain's High Court is due to rule on a libel claim brought by self-exiled Russian oligarch Boris Berezovsky against a Kremlin-owned broadcaster.
  • Hurdles to financial reform(Politico) (2010-03-10 09:05:10)
    Politico - The legislation may fall short of resolving conflicts of interest.
  • Petition filed at UN over missing Chinese lawyer(AFP) (2010-03-10 09:04:30)
    AFP - A global team of prominent lawyers has petitioned the United Nations to condemn the detention of high-profile Chinese legal activist Gao Zhisheng as a violation of international law.
  • Afghanistan beyond left vs. right(Politico) (2010-03-10 09:00:39)
    Politico - In an Ideas piece, Innocent says there is a growing, if nascent, bipartisan consensus to end the war.
  • Cost, intrigue doomed Northrop bid(Politico) (2010-03-10 08:57:32)
    Politico - A crippling error for Northrop was its decision to bank too long and too heavily on Republicans.
  • Graham to Obama: Time to 'step it up'(Politico) (2010-03-10 08:31:24)
    Politico - GOP Sen. says Obama’s lack of direction on immigration reform is hampering efforts in Congress.
  • Obama pushing on health care end game(AP) (2010-03-10 08:20:58)
    AP - President Barack Obama has chosen a suburban St. Louis high school to make his closing argument for a health care overhaul, pushing a new anti-fraud plan as he cranks up the pressure on skittish Democratic lawmakers to act fast.
  • Senate to pass jobless aid, business tax breaks(AP) (2010-03-10 08:19:08)
    AP - Legislation blending help for the jobless with popular tax breaks for businesses and individuals is slated to pass the Senate Wednesday over protests from conservatives who say it adds too much to the $12.5 trillion national debt.
  • How the AP-GfK poll on Obama was conducted(AP) (2010-03-10 08:18:04)
    AP - The Associated Press-GfK Poll on President Obama, the direction of the country and health care was conducted by GfK Roper Public Affairs & Media from March 3-8. It is based on landline and cell phone telephone interviews with a nationally representative random sample of 1,002 adults. Interviews were conducted with 702 respondents on landline telephones and 300 on cellular phones.
  • AP-GfK Poll: Obama more popular than Congress(AP) (2010-03-10 08:17:36)
    AP - Americans have come to detest Congress ever more deeply as it nears the end of a nasty fight over health care. But more than half still back President Barack Obama, a bright spot for a Democratic Party counting on its leader to help stave off expected losses in elections this fall.
  • Report: States team up on new academic standards(AP) (2010-03-10 08:13:40)
    AP - Governors and state education leaders are proposing a new set of standards to define what should be taught in the nation's public schools, The Washington Post reported Wednesday.
  • Gates: Some troops could leave Afghanistan early(AP) (2010-03-10 07:57:01)
    AP - U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates raised the possibility Wednesday that some of the U.S. forces involved in the Afghanistan surge could leave the country before President Barack Obama's announced July 2011 date to begin withdrawal.
  • Obama to host president of quake-ravaged Haiti(AFP) (2010-03-10 07:39:18)
    AFP - President Barack Obama meets Wednesday with Haitian President Rene Preval, renewing his pledge of US support for efforts to rebuild the quake-shattered Caribbean nation.
  • Biden's West Bank tour clouded by settlement plans(AP) (2010-03-10 06:15:51)
    AP - Israel's new plan to build 1,600 homes for Jews in east Jerusalem is overshadowing Vice President Joe Biden's visit to the West Bank.
  • Pelosi faces biggest test on healthcare vote(Reuters) (2010-03-10 06:02:48)
    Reuters - The leader of the House of Representatives -- a persuasive arm-twister and deal maker -- faces her toughest challenge yet in the coming weeks: getting 216 votes to pass final legislation revamping the U.S. healthcare system.
  • Minority births on track to outnumber white births(AP) (2010-03-10 05:01:54)
    AP - Minorities make up nearly half the children born in the U.S., part of a historic trend in which minorities are expected to become the U.S. majority over the next 40 years.
  • Going on Offense With 'Red-to-Blue' Candidates(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-10 05:01:27)
    CQPolitics.com - The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, facing a tough political environment and the prospect of defending dozens of competitive seats, will announce today the first round of candidates selected for the "Red to Blue" program that targets GOP-held districts.
  • Obama using 'bounty hunters' to root out fraud(AP) (2010-03-10 04:14:14)
    AP - President Barack Obama said Tuesday he'll bring in high-tech bounty hunters to help root out health care fraud, grabbing a populist idea with bipartisan backing in his final push to overhaul the system.
  • Roberts: Scene at State of Union 'very troubling'(AP) (2010-03-10 03:09:46)
    AP - U.S. Chief Justice John Roberts said Tuesday the scene at President Barack Obama's first State of the Union address was "very troubling" and that the annual speech to Congress has "degenerated into a political pep rally."
  • Obama using 'bounty hunters' for health care fraud(AP) (2010-03-10 02:43:14)
    AP - President Barack Obama said Tuesday he'll bring in high-tech bounty hunters to help root out health care fraud, grabbing a populist idea with bipartisan backing in his final push to overhaul the system.
  • How much will health reform change federal abortion policy?(AP) (2010-03-10 01:01:14)
    AP - President Barack Obama's health care bill would change federal policy on abortion, but it would not open the spigot of taxpayer dollars as some abortion opponents fear.
  • Biden condemns new Israeli settlement plan(AP) (2010-03-10 00:55:53)
    AP - Vice President Joe Biden condemned an Israeli plan to build hundreds of homes in disputed east Jerusalem on Tuesday — a disagreement that tarnished a high-profile visit that had been aimed at repairing ties with the Jewish state and kickstarting Mideast peace talks.
  • Obama pushes senators for climate bill(AP) (2010-03-10 00:54:02)
    AP - President Barack Obama made a renewed push for a long-stalled climate and energy bill Tuesday, urging lawmakers at a White House meeting to pass a comprehensive bill this year.
  • Obama: Greece, facing bad days, has US as ally(AP) (2010-03-10 00:28:43)
    AP - President Barack Obama stood with Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou on Thursday and pledged that the United States would work with its ally, even as Greece's enormous debts sparked frenzied trading.
  • US seeks talks to avert trade war with Brazil(AFP) (2010-03-10 00:23:30)
    AFP - Visiting US Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said Tuesday that Washington was seeking talks with Brazil before it imposes retaliatory trade tariffs for US cotton subsidies the WTO ruled as discriminatory.
  • New 'gang' gathering on energy?(Politico) (2010-03-10 00:05:41)
    Politico - A bipartisan group of 14 Senators and top cabinet officials are forging ahead with a climate bill.
  • FACT CHECK: Lawmaker quits amid changing stories(AP) (2010-03-09 23:54:46)
    AP - New York congressman Eric Massa resigned his House seat this week under a sexual harassment cloud, claiming fellow Democrats forced his ouster to keep him from voting against their health care bill.
  • AP-GfK Poll: Public wants elusive accord on health(AP) (2010-03-09 23:41:01)
    AP - Americans and their lawmakers are dramatically out of sync on health care, with large majorities of people looking for bipartisan cooperation that's nowhere in sight.
  • Congress seeks data on Lejeune water contamination(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-09 23:41:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - WASHINGTON — Congressional investigators late Tuesday requested detailed documents from Navy Secretary Ray Mabus and a private contractor that was involved in the testing and cleanup of contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, N.C., over the past two decades.
  • Fishermen’s fear: Public's 'right to fish' shifting under Obama?(The Christian Science Monitor) (2010-03-09 23:17:56)
    The Christian Science Monitor - The Obama administration has proposed using United Nations-guided principles to expand a type of zoning to coastal and even some inland waters.
  • Massa Says He Tickled Staffer 'Until He Couldn't Breathe'(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-09 22:50:19)
    CQPolitics.com - Former Rep. Eric Massa, who resigned from the House Monday night as he battled allegations that he sexually harassed his aides, acknowledged on a Fox News program Tuesday that he touched a male staffer.
  • Massa Acknowledges Improper Contact With Staffer(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-09 22:50:18)
    CQPolitics.com - Former Rep. Eric Massa, who resigned from the House on Monday night as he battled allegations that he sexually harassed his aides, acknowledged on a Fox News program Tuesday that he touched a male staffer.
  • White House hosts meeting on energy, climate(AP) (2010-03-09 22:41:40)
    AP - President Barack Obama met Tuesday with Cabinet members and key senators from both parties in a bid to move forward on a long-stalled climate and energy bill.
  • Massa denies he sexually groped male staffer(AP) (2010-03-09 22:40:36)
    AP - Former New York Congressman Eric Massa says he groped a staffer but denies it was sexual. Massa's comments came Tuesday on conservative commentator Glenn Beck's Fox News Channel show.
  • Roberts: Scene at State of Union `very troubling'(AP) (2010-03-09 22:39:41)
    AP - U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts said Tuesday the scene at President Obama's State of the Union address was "very troubling" and the annual speech has "degenerated to a political pep rally."
  • Chief Justice Roberts calls State of Union scene 'troubling'(AP) (2010-03-09 22:39:41)
    AP - U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts said Tuesday the scene at President Obama's State of the Union address was "very troubling" and the annual speech has "degenerated to a political pep rally."
  • Carnahan to miss Obama visit(Politico) (2010-03-09 22:38:38)
    Politico - Robin Carnahan will not greet President Obama at the pitch for his health care overhaul in Missouri.
  • AP Poll: Public wants elusive accord on health(AP) (2010-03-09 22:21:25)
    AP - Americans and their lawmakers are dramatically out of sync on health care, with large majorities of people looking for bipartisan cooperation that's nowhere in sight.
  • Senators spar over consumer body(Politico) (2010-03-09 21:03:35)
    Politico - Shelby proposes yet another protections structure.
  • Biden condemns new E. Jerusalem settlements(AP) (2010-03-09 21:02:39)
    AP - Vice President Joe Biden is condemning Israel's approval of 1,600 new settlement homes in disputed East Jerusalem and says the timing undermines the peace process the United States is attempting to revive.
  • Reconciliation bill will be hard for GOP to derail(AP) (2010-03-09 20:57:21)
    AP - Democrats are tying the fate of President Barack Obama's health care overhaul to a fast-track process that will make the bill tough for Republicans to derail in the Senate. But GOP lawmakers will still be able to force votes and make arguments that could give them ammunition for November's congressional elections.
  • US official apologizes for joke about Gadhafi(AP) (2010-03-09 20:52:23)
    AP - A senior State Department official said Tuesday he's sorry for a joking remark he made about Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi that prompted Libya to threaten diplomatic retaliation unless he apologized.
  • Drudge vs. the Senate?(Politico) (2010-03-09 20:48:44)
    Politico - The Drudge Report fires at a Senate committee for urging staffers to avoid site because of viruses.
  • Business groups launch ad against health care bill(AP) (2010-03-09 20:23:22)
    AP - Major business groups Tuesday announced a multimillion-dollar ad campaign to stop President Barack Obama's health care overhaul as it approaches a make-or-break vote in the House.
  • Jobless aid measure clears Senate hurdle(AP) (2010-03-09 20:20:34)
    AP - Legislation to give additional months of unemployment benefits to people who have been out of a job for more than half a year has won key GOP support that means it will soon pass the Senate.
  • UN pays tribute to 101 staff killed in Haiti(AP) (2010-03-09 20:16:50)
    AP - An emotional Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon paid tribute Tuesday to "the 101 heroes" working for the United Nations who were killed in the Haiti earthquake, the single greatest loss for the world body in its 64-year history.
  • Missing body of Cyprus' ex-leader found, 3 arrests(AP) (2010-03-09 20:05:35)
    AP - Three months after it was stolen, the corpse of Cyprus' former president was found reburied in another grave and three men were arrested Tuesday in what officials called a case of bodysnatching for ransom.
  • Govt to warn on baby slings because of deaths(AP) (2010-03-09 20:04:22)
    AP - The U.S. government is preparing a safety warning about baby slings — those popular and fashionable infant carriers that parents can sling around their chests to carry their baby.
  • Baby slings to get federal warning after suffocations(AP) (2010-03-09 20:04:22)
    AP - The U.S. government is preparing a safety warning about baby slings — those popular and fashionable infant carriers that parents can sling around their chests to carry their baby.
  • Greece wants speculative curbs, U.S. has own plan(Reuters) (2010-03-09 19:44:45)
    Reuters - Top Greek officials pressed their case on Tuesday for curbs on speculative trading they blame for pushing the country into crisis, but the Obama administration reacted coolly, saying it was working on its own plans to make trading more transparent.
  • Turkey pledges safer homes after quake(AP) (2010-03-09 19:27:38)
    AP - Turkey's leaders pledged Tuesday to build quake-proof homes after a magnitude 6 temblor shattered mud-brick homes in the eastern part of the country, killing 51 people. Still, similar promises after devastating earthquakes in the west in 1999 have had limited impact.
  • Broad business coalition opposing health care bill(AP) (2010-03-09 19:01:28)
    AP - Major business groups say President Barack Obama's health care overhaul is a job killer, and they're launching a multimillion-dollar ad campaign to take that message to voters.
  • IRS eases rules on tax settlements(AP) (2010-03-09 18:58:03)
    AP - As tax day approaches, the Internal Revenue Service is giving agents more flexibility to work with taxpayers who have seen their incomes drop during the recession.
  • Woes at family bank loom over Ill. Senate race(AP) (2010-03-09 18:54:39)
    AP - With the public still furious over bank bailouts, Democrats desperate to keep President Barack Obama's old Senate seat are scrambling to counter revelations that a bank owned by their candidate's family may be nearing collapse.
  • (AP) (2010-03-09 18:54:19)
    AP - Cyprus police say 3 men arrested for theft of late president Papadopoulos' body.
  • Bangladesh cyclone victims face humanitarian crisis: EU(AFP) (2010-03-09 18:48:42)
    AFP - More than 200,000 people made homeless by a cyclone last year face a "catastrophic" humanitarian crisis because river embankments have not been repaired, the European Union said Tuesday.
  • Bush backs Byrne in Alabama(Politico) (2010-03-09 18:45:00)
    Politico - Alabama Republican gubernatorial candidate Bradley Byrne has landed the endorsement of former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush.
  • Lawmakers Look to Trade for Boost to Haiti's Recovery(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-09 18:23:19)
    CQPolitics.com - Senate Finance Committee members are working with their House counterparts on tariff-lowering legislation designed to boost Haiti's apparel industry as part of the effort to help the Caribbean nation recover from the devastating January earthquake.
  • Groups press Obama on Mexico, Brazil sanctions(Reuters) (2010-03-09 18:14:59)
    Reuters - U.S. business groups on Tuesday criticized President Barack Obama's administration for its continued failure to resolve a cross-border trucking dispute that prompted Mexico to slap duties on about $2.4 billion worth of U.S. exports nearly a year ago.
  • Britons honored for helping Holocaust victims(AP) (2010-03-09 18:04:57)
    AP - British Prime Minister Gordon Brown on Tuesday honored Britons whose extraordinary actions helped save Jews and other Holocaust victims during World War II, calling them a source of national pride.
  • Moderate Dem says opposes fast-track health bill(AP) (2010-03-09 18:01:39)
    AP - A moderate Democrat insisted Tuesday she remained opposed to pushing a health care bill through the Senate with a simple majority vote, despite saying she wanted to see what was in the legislation.
  • Britain begins inquiry into Iraq abuse claims(AP) (2010-03-09 17:44:47)
    AP - Britain opened an inquiry Tuesday into claims that its soldiers murdered and abused civilians in southern Iraq in 2004, some of the most serious allegations made against British forces over the war and occupation of the country.
  • House may impeach federal judge(Politico) (2010-03-09 17:43:04)
    Politico - G. Thomas Porteous is accused of accepting money from lawyers arguing cases before him.
  • Obama to push climate change in White House meeting(Reuters) (2010-03-09 17:01:41)
    Reuters - President Barack Obama will corral on Tuesday key Republican and Democratic senators whose support is critical for passing a climate change law, seeking to jump-start stalled efforts to overhaul energy policy.
  • NIreland lawmakers back next power-sharing step(AP) (2010-03-09 16:59:47)
    AP - Northern Ireland lawmakers have voted overwhelmingly in favor of taking the next key step in making their Catholic-Protestant government work.
  • Starr: Liz Cheney 'out of bounds'(Politico) (2010-03-09 16:35:04)
    Politico - He says she's “unwise" to attack DoJ lawyers.
  • Dem leader calls Massa claims 'absurd'(AP) (2010-03-09 16:32:02)
    AP - The House's No. 2 Democrat is dismissing as "absurd" former Rep. Eric Massa's claims that he was forced out by party leaders because of his opposition to health care legislation.
  • Hoyer, White House fire back at Massa(Politico) (2010-03-09 15:11:17)
    Politico - The N.Y. congressman receives criticism from both the House majority leader and the White House.
  • Hoyer, W.H. fire back at Massa(Politico) (2010-03-09 15:11:17)
    Politico - The N.Y. congressman receives criticism from both the House majority leader and the White House.
  • Turkey says Syria-Israel talks may restart(AP) (2010-03-09 14:15:47)
    AP - Turkey's prime minister said Tuesday that Israel had accepted that his country again mediate talks with Syria but the Israeli prime minister said no decision had been made.
  • Crist suggests Rubio got 'back wax'(Politico) (2010-03-09 13:22:41)
    Politico - Florida governor criticizes Rubio's “$130 haircut, or maybe it was a back wax.”
  • Missing body of Cyprus' ex-leader is found(AP) (2010-03-09 13:08:46)
    AP - Ransom was the motive behind the bizarre bodysnatching of Cyprus' former President Tassos Papadopoulos, the justice minister said Tuesday, hours after the body was found dumped in a Nicosia cemetery — but Papadopoulos' family denied receiving any such demand.
  • Amsterdam airport tightens security at duty free(AP) (2010-03-09 12:42:29)
    AP - Security has been tightened at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport after a team of investigative journalists smuggled bottles of liquid onto passenger jets bound for London and Washington, D.C., the airport and the Dutch anti-terror agency said Tuesday.
  • Biden urges Israel to take risks for peace(AP) (2010-03-09 12:23:29)
    AP - The U.S. will back those willing to "take risks for peace," U.S. Vice President Joe Biden said Tuesday during the highest-level visit to Israel by an Obama administration official.
  • Gibbs brushes off resigned congressman's complaint(AP) (2010-03-09 12:21:47)
    AP - President Obama's spokesman is brushing aside allegations by a resigned New York congressman who says he was forced out by the administration and Democratic leaders because of his opposition to health care reform.
  • Quake exposes poor construction in Turkey(AP) (2010-03-09 10:48:16)
    AP - Homes in eastern areas of Turkey prone to earthquakes must be better built to withstand jolts like the magnitude 6 temblor that toppled village houses and killed 51 people this week, the Turkish government acknowledged Tuesday.
  • Obama to meet with Greek PM, hold energy powwow(AP) (2010-03-09 10:39:12)
    AP - President Barack Obama meets with Prime Minister George Papandreou (pah-pahn-DRAY'-oh) of Greece on Tuesday before sitting down with senators from both parties to talk about energy.
  • Greek PM not looking for aid in meeting with Obama(AP) (2010-03-09 10:38:44)
    AP - Ahead of a meeting Tuesday with President Barack Obama, Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou said the United States cannot afford to ignore the financial woes of his country and, by extension, Europe.
  • Syria wants to develop nuclear energy(AP) (2010-03-09 09:27:09)
    AP - A senior Syrian official says his country would like to pursue nuclear power to meet growing energy needs.
  • The dangerous allure of third parties(Politico) (2010-03-09 09:01:23)
    Politico - In an Ideas piece, Gacek marvels at the energy of the tea party movement.
  • Obama, insurers wrestle over rates(Politico) (2010-03-09 09:00:42)
    Politico - Health care execs blame rising medical costs for premium hikes, but the president isn't buying.
  • Lights, camera, reconcile!(Politico) (2010-03-09 08:46:25)
    Politico - The titanic, yearlong health care epic is headed toward a wonkish finale.
  • W.H. no outpost of Chicago machine(Politico) (2010-03-09 08:43:23)
    Politico - In an Ideas piece, Rose says Obama's crew is more like Bush's Texas posse than Daley's city hall.
  • Pelosi faces inside challenges(Politico) (2010-03-09 08:39:03)
    Politico - Her handling of the Rangel scandal shows Pelosi's loss of authority over the Democratic Caucus.
  • Senate to take up unemployment insurance extension(AP) (2010-03-09 08:17:20)
    AP - Legislation extending unemployment insurance for the long-term jobless faces a key test vote in the Senate, its momentum helped by about 60 popular tax breaks for individuals and businesses that expired at the end of last year.
  • Brown team takes campaign template on the road(AP) (2010-03-09 08:08:40)
    AP - The political team that helped Scott Brown stage his improbable victory in the Massachusetts Senate race wants to apply its winning strategy elsewhere this election year. First stop: Rhode Island.
  • A policy change on abortion, but how radical?(AP) (2010-03-09 08:06:47)
    AP - President Barack Obama's health care bill would change federal policy on abortion, but not open the spigot of taxpayer dollars that some abortion opponents fear.
  • Gates praises troops in southern Afghanistan(AP) (2010-03-09 08:02:32)
    AP - U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates told a hard-hit battle unit Tuesday that its heavy losses have helped the U.S. begin to push back against the Taliban in southern Afghanistan.
  • Gates meets with troops in southern Afghanistan(AP) (2010-03-09 06:44:50)
    AP - U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates got a closer view of the Afghanistan war Tuesday, with a visit to troops fighting the Taliban in the country's rugged south.
  • When the Staff Tweets, Who's Talking?(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-09 05:01:18)
    CQPolitics.com - Among the many innovations that social media tools have brought to the world of campaign politics are new ways to conduct opposition research.
  • Insurgents Give Term Limits New Life(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-09 05:00:18)
    CQPolitics.com - In what is shaping up to be a turbulent election year, with voters disgusted with Congress and disenchanted with both major political parties, could term limits re-emerge as a salient issue?
  • Obama, Greek PM set to discuss financial reforms(AFP) (2010-03-09 04:55:16)
    AFP - US President Barack Obama and Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou are set to hold talks on economic issues amid concerns that speculators are undermining Greece's efforts to overcome a severe debt crisis.
  • Anti-gay protestors under Supreme Court scrutiny(AFP) (2010-03-09 03:03:10)
    AFP - The US Supreme Court has agreed to consider whether vitriolic anti-gay protestors who picket the funerals of US soldiers are protected by free speech laws.
  • Stupak: Health bill abortion fight can be resolved(AP) (2010-03-09 02:16:24)
    AP - Prospects are good for resolving a dispute over abortion that has led some House Democrats to threaten to withhold support of President Barack Obama's health care overhaul, a key Michigan Democrat said Monday.
  • Obama targets insurers, sells reform plan(Reuters) (2010-03-09 00:20:52)
    Reuters - President Barack Obama launched a sharp attack on health insurers on Monday and called on his fellow Democrats to rise above politics and pass a healthcare overhaul in the next few weeks.
  • Greece urging US to better regulate hedge funds(AP) (2010-03-08 23:52:42)
    AP - Greece is urging the United States to step up regulation of hedge funds that Athens blames for making Greece's economic crisis worse.
  • Obama to boost civil rights enforcement in schools(AP) (2010-03-08 23:06:04)
    AP - The Obama administration plans to toughen civil rights enforcement in the nation's schools with a broad review touching on everything from academics to discipline.
  • Obama pitches health plan in spirited appearance(AP) (2010-03-08 22:46:45)
    AP - Stirring memories of his campaign for the White House, President Barack Obama made a spirited, shirt-sleeved appeal for passage of long-stalled health care changes Monday as Democratic congressional leaders worked behind the scenes on legislation they hope can quickly gain passage.
  • Obama still wants US trial for some Gitmo suspects(AP) (2010-03-08 22:44:21)
    AP - White House aides are increasingly convinced that accused 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed will never face trial in a civilian court and are trying to cut a deal that would still transfer Guantanamo Bay terrorism suspects to the U.S., where many would faces criminal charges, a senior administration official said Monday.
  • AP Source: Health bill to affect part-time workers(AP) (2010-03-08 22:14:10)
    AP - A Democratic aide says a new provision in the health care bill will require businesses to count part-time workers when calculating penalties for failing to provide coverage.
  • Critz wins Dem nomination for Murtha seat(Politico) (2010-03-08 22:08:24)
    Politico - Mark Critz, the district director for the late Rep. John Murtha (D-Pa.), won the Democratic nomination in the special election to fill his former boss’ vacant seat through the end of this year.
  • Obama tells voters to push Congress for health care(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-08 21:42:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - GLENSIDE, Pa. — President Barack Obama took his pitch for health care legislation on the road Monday, urging voters in suburban Philadelphia to make their voices heard above the political echo chamber in Washington and demand an up-or-down vote now in Congress.
  • Ganley Gives GOP Hope of Making Sutton Sweat(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-08 21:30:20)
    CQPolitics.com - Republican strategists are thrilled that Ohio car dealer Tom Ganley (R) has shifted his focus from taking on former Rep. Rob Portman in the GOP Senate primary to unseating Rep. Betty Sutton (D) in the 13th district.
  • After setbacks, Obama looks to deal on Gitmo(AP) (2010-03-08 21:15:20)
    AP - A senior administration official says the U.S. still hopes to put some Guantanamo Bay detainees on trial in U.S. civilian courts.
  • Is 2010 the Year of Avoiding Taxes?(U.S. News & World Report) (2010-03-08 21:02:14)
    U.S. News & World Report - In a speech last May, President Obama said, "Nobody likes paying taxes . . . . And yet, even as most American citizens and businesses meet these responsibilities, there are others who are shirking theirs." He was referring to offshore tax havens and other loopholes that wealthy Americans often exploit to reduce their tax burden. But it doesn't take moving money to Switzerland to avoid paying taxes. If history is any guide, 2010 will be a year in which many Americans use a few simple methods to reduce their tax liability, which could potentially cost the government billions of dollars.
  • Northrop drops out of tanker competition(AP) (2010-03-08 20:51:40)
    AP - Northrop Grumman Corp. has decided not to compete against Boeing Co. for the $35 billion the Air Force will spend to buy its own fleet of refueling tankers.
  • Calif state senator says he's gay after DUI arrest(AP) (2010-03-08 20:49:40)
    AP - Republican state Sen. Roy Ashburn said Monday he is gay, ending days of speculation that began after his arrest last week for investigation of driving under the influence.
  • Petraeus for president? 'No' is his handy answer(AP) (2010-03-08 20:38:58)
    AP - For a guy who professes to have no interest in running for president, Gen. David Petraeus can come off as surprisingly eager to talk about it — sometimes without even being asked.
  • Israel to let UN chief, EU official into Gaza(AP) (2010-03-08 20:32:57)
    AP - Israel says it will allow the U.N. secretary general and the European Union's foreign policy chief to enter the Gaza Strip.
  • 'How much higher do premiums have to rise?' Obama asks(AP) (2010-03-08 20:29:05)
    AP - President Barack Obama accused insurance companies of placing profits over people and said Republicans ignored long-festering problems when they held power as he sought to build support Monday for swift passage of health care legislation stalled in Congress.
  • Bemba war crimes trial delayed(AP) (2010-03-08 20:26:00)
    AP - The International Criminal Court announced Monday it has delayed the start of the war crimes trial of former Congo vice president Jean-Pierre Bemba by more than two months after he claimed his case was inadmissible.
  • Packard: Fiorina almost destroyed HP(Politico) (2010-03-08 20:16:34)
    Politico - Granddaughter of Hewlett-Packard founder trashes California GOP Senate candidate.
  • Northrop pulls out of tanker bid(Politico) (2010-03-08 19:43:37)
    Politico - Boeing is now in line to win a $35 billion contract to build aerial refueling tankers – all by itself.
  • Long-term food aid risk to Haiti economy: Preval(Reuters) (2010-03-08 18:47:52)
    Reuters - Haitian President Rene Preval plans to tell U.S. President Barack Obama on Wednesday that food aid to the earthquake-devastated Caribbean nation should be stopped because of the risk of damaging its economy.
  • U.N. chief told Myanmar supremo of worries about vote(Reuters) (2010-03-08 18:43:57)
    Reuters - U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said on Monday he sent a letter to Myanmar's junta chief to voice concern about the credibility of this year's nationwide election, the country's first in 20 years.
  • Seal meat to be on menu at Canadian Parliament(Reuters) (2010-03-08 18:26:59)
    Reuters - Canada's parliamentary restaurant will be serving seal meat on Wednesday in a gesture of defiance aimed at a European Union ban on imports of seal products.
  • Top court to decide on anti-gay protests at military funerals(Reuters) (2010-03-08 18:07:20)
    Reuters - The Supreme Court said on Monday it would decide whether constitutional free-speech rights protected anti-gay protests by members of a Kansas church at funerals for U.S. military members killed in Iraq.
  • Cornyn Makes Clear NRSC Won't Play In Florida Primary(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-08 17:46:17)
    CQPolitics.com - National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman John Cornyn (Texas) on Monday all but expressed his regret for getting behind Florida Gov. Charlie Crist (R) last May in the Sunshine State's open-seat Senate race.
  • US seeks to persuade EU deputies to back terror data deal(AFP) (2010-03-08 17:44:37)
    AFP - A senior US Homeland Security officer was travelling to Strasbourg Monday to urge the European parliament not to scupper an air passenger data deal which Washington says is vital in the fight against terror.
  • 'Temporary' COBRA Subsidy Program Bobs Along in a Sea of Joblessness(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-08 17:44:15)
    CQPolitics.com - It's only a small lifeboat in a nation with 14.9 million unemployed people, but the COBRA subsidy program, created by Congress early last year to provide health benefits to laid-off workers, is a lifesaver to those able to climb aboard.
  • Rove denies role in McCain rumor(Politico) (2010-03-08 17:16:50)
    Politico - He instead accuses a professor from Bob Jones University of being behind the whisper campaign.
  • Drug addiction 'disaster' faces developing world: UN(AFP) (2010-03-08 17:12:18)
    AFP - Developing countries could face a "health disaster" if wealthy countries fail to control drugs, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime warned on Monday.
  • Pawlenty approval hits low(Politico) (2010-03-08 17:11:39)
    Politico - The Minnesota governor's low approval rating may hurt this chances for a 2012 run.
  • Obama takes aim at health insurers(Reuters) (2010-03-08 17:02:26)
    Reuters - President Barack Obama on Monday criticized U.S. health insurance companies for raising premiums and denying coverage to the sick, as he sought to rally Democratic support for his healthcare bill.
  • Obama appeals for public support on health care(AP) (2010-03-08 16:58:10)
    AP - President Barack Obama accused insurance companies of placing profits over people and said Republicans ignored long-festering problems when they held power as he sought to build support Monday for swift passage of legislation stalled in Congress.
  • 'How much higher do premiums have to rise?'(AP) (2010-03-08 16:58:10)
    AP - President Barack Obama accused insurance companies of placing profits over people and said Republicans ignored long-festering problems when they held power as he sought to build support Monday for swift passage of legislation stalled in Congress.
  • Greek PM seeks US, EU help in reforming economy(AP) (2010-03-08 16:37:17)
    AP - Greece's Prime Minister George Papandreou is urging the United States and Europe to help as it seeks to address its financial crisis and reform its economy.
  • US: Israel, Palestinians agree to indirect talks(AP) (2010-03-08 16:25:24)
    AP - The Obama administration said Monday that Israel and the Palestinians have agreed to indirect peace talks brokered by U.S. special Mideast envoy George Mitchell.
  • Court to decide if vaccine makers can be sued(Reuters) (2010-03-08 16:17:57)
    Reuters - The Supreme Court said on Monday that it would decide whether a federal law protects vaccine manufacturers from lawsuits in state court seeking damages for alleged design defects.
  • English nuclear bunker sold on eBay for $31,000(AP) (2010-03-08 15:58:12)
    AP - An underground Cold War nuclear bunker set in the picturesque English countryside has been sold on the auction site eBay.
  • German minister: Vatican rule hurts abuse probes(AP) (2010-03-08 15:41:18)
    AP - Germany's justice minister says a Vatican secrecy rule is complicating prosecutors' probes of sexual abuse of children by Catholic clergy in the pope's homeland.
  • Strong earthquake slams eastern Turkey, kills 51(AP) (2010-03-08 15:27:17)
    AP - A strong, pre-dawn earthquake knocked down stone and mud-brick houses, barns and minarets in eastern Turkey on Monday, killing 51 people in five villages, the government said.
  • Court will hear case about vaccine side effects(AP) (2010-03-08 15:20:48)
    AP - The Supreme Court says it will decide whether drug makers can be sued by parents who claim their children suffered serious health problems from vaccines.
  • Court to rule in military funeral protest case(AP) (2010-03-08 15:16:31)
    AP - The Supreme Court is getting involved in the legal fight over the anti-gay protesters who show up at military funerals with inflammatory messages like "Thank God for dead soldiers."
  • Obama: Health overhaul will stop insurers' abuses(AP) (2010-03-08 15:02:41)
    AP - President Barack Obama says his health care overhaul plan is needed to stop insurance companies from raising prices and refusing to cover people who are already sick.
  • Palin raising cash for McCain(Politico) (2010-03-08 14:40:47)
    Politico - For $2,500, donors can attend a reception with former Alaska governor and take a picture with her.
  • 53% Remain Opposed to Health Care Plan(Rasmussen Reports) (2010-03-08 13:38:45)
    Rasmussen Reports - As President Obama and his congressional allies search for a way to pass their proposed health care plan, most voters remain opposed to the legislative effort.
  • Gates meeting with military, political leaders(AP) (2010-03-08 11:02:57)
    AP - Preparations have begun for a crucial campaign to assert Afghan government control over Kandahar, spiritual home of the Taliban, the top U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan said Monday.
  • Republicans scold Liz Cheney(Politico) (2010-03-08 10:19:14)
    Politico - Ken Starr, Larry Thompson and others say attacks on administration lawyers are "unjust."
  • Massa slams Dems for ethics probe(Politico) (2010-03-08 10:04:46)
    Politico - Retiring Dem: Leaders want him out of Congress because he's a "no" vote on health care reform.
  • Obama to appeal for public support on health care(AP) (2010-03-08 09:12:44)
    AP - With the fate of his signature legislative initiative far from certain, President Barack Obama is taking his last-ditch push for health care reform on the road.
  • How Obama Is Making the Same Mistakes as Bush(Time.com) (2010-03-08 09:00:00)
    Time.com - Obama's stumbles atop the high-wire of running the federal government has created perhaps the greatest danger to his presidency, and they are oddly reminiscent of the misguided practices which tripped up his predecessor
  • Indonesia says raids will not affect Obama visit(AFP) (2010-03-08 08:48:36)
    AFP - Indonesia said Monday that raids against militants in Aceh province would not affect US President Barack Obama's planned visit to the country this month as police rounded up more terror suspects.
  • Obama wants former top Army intel officer at TSA(AP) (2010-03-08 08:45:15)
    AP - President Barack Obama plans to appoint a former senior Army official with a career in intelligence to lead the Transportation Security Administration.
  • Obama warns staff: Ignore palace intrigue(Politico) (2010-03-08 08:43:13)
    Politico - Axelrod says he can see reporters and pundits trying to detect tension between himself and Emanuel.
  • Analysis: For Obama, Iraq elections are good news(AP) (2010-03-08 08:41:39)
    AP - Consumed by domestic battles over health care and the ravaged economy, President Barack Obama had nearly fallen silent on foreign policy — until Sunday, when several things began breaking his way. First among them: the Iraq election.
  • White House tweeting spreads president's message(AP) (2010-03-08 08:35:57)
    AP - (pound sign)wanttospinWHreporters?
  • Coming to Israel, Biden flags U.S. support vs Iran(Reuters) (2010-03-08 06:27:34)
    Reuters - The Obama administration has boosted U.S. defense ties to Israel and will close ranks with its ally against any threat from a nuclear-armed Iran, Vice President Joe Biden said on Monday ahead of a trip to Israel.
  • Massa Details Ethics Case; Blames Democratic Leaders(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-08 06:11:15)
    CQPolitics.com - Rep. Eric Massa (D-N.Y.) told a New York radio station on Sunday that an ethics investigation into his behavior focused on sexually-charged comments he made to an aide at a New Year's Eve celebration, but charged he was unaware of an ethics committee investigation into the incident until after he had announced his retirement last week.
  • US defense chief lands in Afghanistan for meetings(AP) (2010-03-08 05:42:53)
    AP - U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates arrived in Afghanistan early Monday as coalition forces continue to restore order in the town of Marjah, the first major test of the U.S. and NATO counterinsurgency strategy since President Barack Obama ordered 30,000 new American troops to blunt the Taliban's momentum.
  • MI5 papers show Britain feared Nazi 'spyclists'(AP) (2010-03-08 05:38:59)
    AP - Clouds of war were gathering over Europe, and the English police officer was concerned. A group of black-clad Germans had been spotted heading for London — by bicycle.
  • Obama to nominate retired Army general for TSA: source(Reuters) (2010-03-08 03:35:29)
    Reuters - President Barack Obama plans to nominate retired Army Major Gen. Robert Harding to head the Transportation Security Administration after his first pick withdrew under political pressure, an administration official said Sunday.
  • Obama picks former Army intel officer to lead TSA(AP) (2010-03-08 01:53:32)
    AP - An Obama administration official says the president plans to nominate a former top Army intelligence official to lead the Transportation Security Administration.
  • Duncan won't cancel Montgomery school visit(AP) (2010-03-07 23:48:30)
    AP - U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan will meet with students as planned at Montgomery's Robert E. Lee High School, despite a state legislator's call to cancel the appearance.
  • Tempest in tea party needs defining(Politico) (2010-03-07 23:21:46)
    Politico - So far, success at the ballot box has been elusive for these grass-roots conservative activists.
  • Tea party candidates falling short(Politico) (2010-03-07 23:21:46)
    Politico - So far, success at the ballot box has been elusive for these grass-roots conservative activists.
  • Obama keeps U.S. troop withdrawal plan after Iraq poll(Reuters) (2010-03-07 22:16:52)
    Reuters - President Barack Obama called Iraq's election an "important milestone" on Sunday despite deadly violence, praising Iraqi security forces and repeating his end-2011 goal for removing all U.S. troops from the country.
  • Obama to host April space conference(AFP) (2010-03-07 21:08:42)
    AFP - US President Barack Obama will host a space conference next month in Florida to chart his vision for the future of human spaceflight, the White House said Sunday.
  • Obama calls Iraq vote an 'important milestone'(AP) (2010-03-07 21:04:30)
    AP - President Barack Obama praised the Iraqi people for passing "an important milestone" Sunday, when millions turned out for national elections despite insurgent attacks that killed more than 30 people.
  • NATO suspends training of Kosovo security force(AP) (2010-03-07 20:45:15)
    AP - NATO is suspending the training of Kosovo's security troops after a military-style parade that broke the force's agreement to focus only on civil emergencies, it said Sunday.
  • UNAMID: 2 missing Darfur peacekeepers found(AP) (2010-03-07 20:32:39)
    AP - The U.N.-African Union mission in Darfur says two of its peacekeepers who went missing after an ambush on their patrol earlier this week have safely returned to base.
  • Top Republican predicts big health care poll hit for Obama(AFP) (2010-03-07 20:17:23)
    AFP - The top US Senate Republican predicted Sunday that President Barack Obama would pay a hefty price in upcoming mid-term elections if he forces his health care reforms through Congress.
  • Pope's brother says he would testify in abuse case(AP) (2010-03-07 19:15:26)
    AP - The brother of Pope Benedict XVI has told a newspaper he is willing to testify in the sex scandal rocking Germany's Catholic Church, even though he says he knows nothing about the alleged abuse of boys in a choir he later led.
  • 3 Dems unsure about changing votes for health care(AP) (2010-03-07 18:05:35)
    AP - A top House Democrat said Sunday he believes Congress will pass a health care bill, but three fellow Democrats who opposed overhaul legislation last fall aren't committing themselves to backing President Barack Obama's late push.
  • Swiss voters reject giving abused animals a lawyer(AP) (2010-03-07 17:59:15)
    AP - The result was emphatic: Swiss voters don't think abused animals need to have their own lawyers.
  • McConnell Rejects Controversial RNC Fundraising Pitch(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-07 17:56:20)
    CQPolitics.com - The Senate's top Republican on Sunday joined the chorus of criticism at the Republican National Committee's fundraising strategy that openly acknowledged a plan to stoke the politics of fear.
  • GOP senator urges Obama to shift on terror trials(AP) (2010-03-07 17:35:21)
    AP - A Republican senator is offering the White House a deal on terror trials.
  • EU: Somali pirates free Thai fishing boat(AP) (2010-03-07 17:29:11)
    AP - Somali pirates freed a Thai fishing vessel they held for more than four months after receiving a ransom, the European Union Naval Force said Sunday, and French officials said their navy seized 11 suspected pirates elsewhere along Somalia's coast.
  • Obama remembers heroes of `Blood Sunday' march(AP) (2010-03-07 16:54:06)
    AP - President Barack Obama is marking the 45th anniversary of "Bloody Sunday" by praising "these heroes" who marched into history and endured beatings by Alabama state troopers at the start of their landmark voting rights trek.
  • Obama sets conference on future of space program(AP) (2010-03-07 16:14:25)
    AP - President Barack Obama plans to host a conference in Florida next month on his administration's approach to the next step in space exploration.
  • Obama hails 'courage' of Iraqi voters(AFP) (2010-03-07 16:14:03)
    AFP - President Barack Obama paid tribute to the "courage" of Iraqis who "defied threats to advance their democracy" by voting Sunday in Iraq's second general election since the 2003 invasion.
  • Obama congratulates Iraqis on national vote(AP) (2010-03-07 16:12:10)
    AP - President Barack Obama is congratulating Iraqis for turning out for elections despite "acts of violence" aimed at discouraging them from participating.
  • McConnell doesn't like GOP pitch based on fear(AP) (2010-03-07 15:52:40)
    AP - The Senate's top Republican says he didn't like a recent GOP appeal to party donors that was based on stoking fear and negative feelings toward President Barack Obama and other Democrats.
  • Iraq Elections LIVE REPORT(AFP) (2010-03-07 15:11:11)
    AFP - 5.58 p.m. The sun is setting over Baghdad at the end of another historic, and bloody, day in Iraq?s tumultuous history.
  • Sebelius: Bid for GOP support delayed health care(AP) (2010-03-07 14:34:24)
    AP - Health Secretary Kathleen Sebelius (seh-BEEL'-yuhs) says health care reform would have been "dead on arrival" if the White House had sent a finished proposal to Congress last year.
  • Obama's health care pitch to Democrats: Trust me(AP) (2010-03-07 14:21:58)
    AP - In private pitches to Democrats, President Barack Obama says he will persuade Congress to pass his health care overhaul even if it kills him and even if he has to ask deeply distrustful lawmakers to trust him on a promise the White House doesn't have the power to keep.
  • Sun setting on Harlem(Politico) (2010-03-07 11:01:01)
    Politico - Embattled pols embody legendary leaders' failure to cultivate a strong second generation.
  • STIMULUS WATCH: Less stimulus for minority firms(AP) (2010-03-07 10:01:34)
    AP - Hispanic and black businesses are receiving a disproportionately small number of federal stimulus contracts, creating a rising chorus of demands for the Obama administration to be more inclusive and more closely track who receives government-financed work.
  • Biden to try to boost Middle East peace prospects(Reuters) (2010-03-07 06:03:38)
    Reuters - U.S. President Barack Obama dispatches his vice president to the Middle East on Sunday to try to build support for reviving Israeli-Palestinian peace talks despite deep skepticism on both sides.
  • RNC Chairman Steele: GOP should focus on issues(AP) (2010-03-07 05:40:53)
    AP - Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele says the GOP should focus on issues like jobs and education and not on scare tactics.
  • China says it's up to the US to improve relations(AP) (2010-03-07 04:21:45)
    AP - China said Sunday that it is up to the United States to improve relations that soured over U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and a meeting between President Barack Obama and the Dalai Lama.
  • Partisan bickering in Washington is nothing new(AP) (2010-03-07 03:58:57)
    AP - The current partisan divide is as stark and nasty as any in recent history and on almost every issue — from health care to energy independence to reviving the economy — there's little or no effort to find common ground.
  • McCain, Scott Brown appear at Tucson, Ariz., rally(AP) (2010-03-07 03:00:34)
    AP - U.S. Sen. John McCain says the race for the Republican nomination for the seat he currently holds should be about fixing the economy, not about political ideology.
  • US ed secretary's visit to Ala. school draws ire(AP) (2010-03-07 02:48:17)
    AP - Alabama's Legislative Black Caucus on Saturday called on U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan to cancel a planned appearance at Robert E. Lee High School in Montgomery.
  • Partisanship's bad now in Washington? Think again(AP) (2010-03-07 01:21:10)
    AP - The current partisan divide is as stark and nasty as any in recent history and on almost every issue — from health care to energy independence to reviving the economy — there's little or no effort to find common ground.
  • Just one job now for ex-Va. Gov. Kaine — Dem chief(AP) (2010-03-07 00:18:22)
    AP - Tim Kaine spent President Barack Obama's first year in office pulling double duty as Virginia's governor and the Democratic National Committee chairman — and weathering criticism that he was an ineffective, absent party leader.
  • Right resists link to Pentagon incident(Politico) (2010-03-06 23:59:28)
    Politico - Commentators react just as they did after the discovery of the writings of the IRS suicide pilot.
  • NY gov faces legal minefield in conduct inquiries(AP) (2010-03-06 23:15:40)
    AP - Legal experts say the next few days and weeks could be the most dangerous yet for the embattled administration of Gov. David Paterson.
  • Texas Gov. Perry must win in Nov. before 2012 talk(AP) (2010-03-06 23:09:50)
    AP - Before Rick Perry can parlay his tea party-powered victory in the Texas governor's primary into something bigger — a 2012 Republican presidential ticket, perhaps — he'll have to actually win a record-setting, third four-year term.
  • Left gears up to fight media wars(Politico) (2010-03-06 22:41:20)
    Politico - From a glitzy new office in downtown Washington, the ideological war over the media is fully engaged.
  • Political Economy: Drawing a New Line(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-06 22:18:39)
    CQPolitics.com - Here's a change that everyone should believe in: The federal government, after almost 50 years, is about to alter the way it measures poverty in the United States. It's about time.
  • Obama turns up heat for health care overhaul plan(AP) (2010-03-06 21:41:34)
    AP - President Barack Obama is trying to persuade a weary public and wavering Democrats to get behind his frantic, late-stage push on health care, while Republicans dig in and demand starting from scratch after a year's worth of work.
  • Job One for Illinois' Brady: Make Up for Time Lost to Quinn(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-06 20:28:21)
    CQPolitics.com - Illinois politicians complained about the burdens imposed by the state's record-early Feb. 2 primary date, smack in the middle of a typically harsh winter. But for Bill Brady, Illinois' newly certified Republican nominee for governor, there might be an unexpected benefit.
  • Kosovo PM rejects talks on status(AFP) (2010-03-06 19:45:18)
    AFP - Kosovo will join the European Union and NATO as a whole, Prime Minister Hashim Thaci said, brushing off any new talks over its status, disputed by Serbia, Beta news agency reported on Saturday.
  • Departing UN envoy says Afghan strategy is too 'military-driven'(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-06 19:34:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - KABUL, Afghanistan — Hours before boarding a flight out of Kabul, Norwegian diplomat Kai Eide delivered a final warning Saturday as he wrapped up his two-year tenure as the top United Nations diplomat in Afghanistan.
  • Daring poker heist in German luxury hotel(AP) (2010-03-06 18:44:29)
    AP - A heavily armed group stormed a poker tournament in a German luxury hotel Saturday afternoon and made off with a jackpot, a police spokesman said.
  • Lawyer: New testimony in Knox murder case(AP) (2010-03-06 17:33:11)
    AP - A convict has offered new testimony in the murder case of American student Amanda Knox, according to the lawyer for Knox's former boyfriend.
  • Partisanship's bad now in Washington? Try again(AP) (2010-03-06 15:11:20)
    AP - The current partisan divide is as stark and nasty as any in recent history and on almost every issue — from health care to energy independence to reviving the economy — there's little or no effort to find common ground.
  • A furious health care push — but what about jobs?(AP) (2010-03-06 14:53:15)
    AP - President Barack Obama's furious, final push to get a health care bill passed threatens to shove aside the message he promised would top his list this year: creating jobs.
  • Just 1 job now for ex-Va. Gov. Kaine — Dem chief(AP) (2010-03-06 14:28:32)
    AP - Tim Kaine spent President Barack Obama's first year in office pulling double duty as Virginia's governor and the Democratic National Committee chairman. And he took a lot of heat — critics called him an ineffective, absent party leader.
  • Sri Lanka leader rejects UN panel on rights abuses(AP) (2010-03-06 13:45:47)
    AP - Sri Lanka's president has rejected the U.N. secretary-general's plan to appoint a panel of experts to look into alleged rights abuses in the island nation's civil war, a statement from the president's office said Saturday.
  • Obama turns up the heat for health care overhaul(AP) (2010-03-06 11:08:42)
    AP - Facing a tough political environment, President Barack Obama on Saturday turned up the heat for the health care overhaul that has been his top priority for a year yet has not been passed by Congress.
  • Obama urges action on health care without delay(AFP) (2010-03-06 11:07:57)
    AFP - US President Barack Obama on Saturday renewed his appeal to Congress to vote on his health care reform, arguing that any delay would allow insurance companies to continue their old practices.
  • Obama, Gates not always eye-to-eye on new nukes(Politico) (2010-03-06 10:45:59)
    Politico - An upcoming  nuclear policy review is calling attention to a past difference of views between Obama and Gates.
  • Sri Lanka calls U.N. rights panel "unwarranted"(Reuters) (2010-03-06 10:00:07)
    Reuters - Sri Lanka's president has told U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon a proposed U.N. panel to look into possible human rights abuses in the country's civil war was unwarranted, the president's office said on Saturday.
  • Partisanship comes in waves at US turning points(AP) (2010-03-06 08:56:53)
    AP - The current partisan divide is as stark and nasty as any in recent history and on almost every issue — from health care to energy independence to reviving the economy — there's little or no effort to find common ground.
  • U.S. repudiates U.N. council remarks on Mideast clash(Reuters) (2010-03-06 05:30:52)
    Reuters - A U.S. official denied on Friday that Washington had consented to a U.N. Security Council statement to reporters voicing concern about the fighting between Israeli forces and Palestinians.
  • Deficits higher than Obama forecast: CBO(Reuters) (2010-03-06 04:49:09)
    Reuters - President Barack Obama's budget plans would rack up $9.8 trillion more debt by 2020, or $1.2 trillion more than the White House has forecast, the Congressional Budget Office said on Friday.
  • Obama vows to reduce number, role of nuclear weapons(AFP) (2010-03-06 02:50:41)
    AFP - US President Barack Obama pledged to reduce both the number and the role of nuclear weapons as he recommitted himself to the abolition of the ultra-destructive arms.
  • Massa, facing harassment complaint, resigns(AP) (2010-03-06 02:28:15)
    AP - New York Democratic Rep. Eric Massa, facing a harassment complaint by a male staffer, said Friday that he is stepping down from his seat with "a profound sense of failure."
  • U.N. to start troop withdrawals from Congo in 2010(Reuters) (2010-03-06 01:40:36)
    Reuters - The United Nations could begin withdrawing troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo, the biggest U.N. peacekeeping mission in the world, as early as June, the peacekeeping chief said Friday.
  • Calif. Senate debate focuses on support for Israel(AP) (2010-03-06 00:49:47)
    AP - Former congressman Tom Campbell on Friday used the first debate in the California Senate race to demand that his challengers not engage in a "whispering campaign" claiming he is against Israel or is an anti-Semite.
  • US searching for 'radicalized' Americans(AP) (2010-03-06 00:31:21)
    AP - The top U.S. diplomat in Pakistan says the Obama administration does not know how many Americans might have disappeared overseas to train with al-Qaida or other terrorist groups.
  • Movement Begins In Race to Succeed Delahunt(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-06 00:29:19)
    CQPolitics.com - The Democratic field to succeed retiring Rep. Bill Delahunt (D-Mass.) began to shake out just hours after he made his retirement announcement official on Friday.
  • US military deaths in Afghan region at 930(AP) (2010-03-06 00:27:22)
    AP - As of Friday, March 5, 2010, at least 930 members of the U.S. military had died in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Uzbekistan as a result of the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in late 2001, according to an Associated Press count.
  • Abortion could be deal breaker(Politico) (2010-03-06 00:00:04)
    Politico - Pelosi is insisting abortion isn't a make or break issue, but Stupak is threatening to block the bill.
  • British child-killers return to jail sparks debate(AP) (2010-03-05 23:26:11)
    AP - The pink-cheeked 10-year-old staring from the front pages of Britain's newspapers is, some argue, the face of evil.
  • Report: Afghan 'civilian surge' is struggling(AP) (2010-03-05 23:15:05)
    AP - The so-called "civilian surge" in Afghanistan is mired in bureaucracy and may not succeed in time to help the war effort, a State Department report found.
  • Pentagon shooter had a history of mental illness(AP) (2010-03-05 23:01:12)
    AP - The man who opened fire in front of the Pentagon had a history of mental illness and had become so erratic that his parents reached out to local authorities weeks ago with a warning that he was unstable and might have a gun, authorities said Friday.
  • Congressional panel to examine campaign spending(Reuters) (2010-03-05 23:00:54)
    Reuters - A top lawmaker said on Friday he is holding a hearing to examine the need for legislative reform after the Supreme Court ruled that corporations can spend freely to support or oppose candidates for president and Congress.
  • US deficit tops Obama forecast by 1.2 trillion dollars: CBO(AFP) (2010-03-05 23:00:12)
    AFP - The US government budget deficit for the next decade is expected to be wider by 1.2 trillions dollars than projected by President Barack Obama's administration, estimates by Congress showed Friday.
  • When raw anger at government turns violent(AP) (2010-03-05 22:54:35)
    AP - The river of discontent running through America turned toxic in the fevered mind of the Pentagon shooter and others of his ilk. In a culture awash in conspiracy theories and raw anger at government, they are lone wolves who find a sense of community for their hate — yet act alone.
  • 'I am guilty' and will quit, says Democratic Rep. Massa(AP) (2010-03-05 22:48:42)
    AP - New York Democratic Rep. Eric Massa, facing a harassment complaint by a male staffer, said Friday that he is stepping down from his seat with "a profound sense of failure."
  • US military deaths in Afghan region at 929(AP) (2010-03-05 22:36:23)
    AP - As of Friday, March 5, 2010, at least 929 members of the U.S. military had died in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Uzbekistan as a result of the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in late 2001, according to an Associated Press count.
  • Senator: Japan must lift US beef curbs(AFP) (2010-03-05 22:32:59)
    AFP - A US senator told Japan's ambassador to the United States on Friday that Tokyo's restrictions on US beef exports are "blatantly unfair" and should be lifted immediately.
  • WH may switch to military trials for 9/11 suspects(AP) (2010-03-05 22:24:17)
    AP - Looking to breathe life into President Barack Obama's stalled pledge to close the Guantanamo Bay prison, White House advisers are inching toward recommending military trials for alleged Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed and four accused henchmen.
  • Germany's Merkel meets Greece PM over debt bailout tensions(The Christian Science Monitor) (2010-03-05 21:57:00)
    The Christian Science Monitor - German Chancellor Angela Merkel met her Greek counterpart George Papandreou here tonight to discuss Greece’s financial crisis, as tensions rise over whether Germany will provide crucial support to an EU bailout for the heavily indebted Mediterranean country.
  • Brown blames US over Iraq reconstruction errors(AP) (2010-03-05 21:38:39)
    AP - British Prime Minister Gordon Brown insisted Friday the decision to invade Iraq was justified, but told a major inquiry into the war that the United States dismissed warnings of chaos and violence once Saddam Hussein was toppled.
  • Ashton at centre of EU turf war over new diplomatic service(AFP) (2010-03-05 21:19:30)
    AFP - The EU's under-fire foreign affairs chief Catherine Ashton attempted to stem unease Friday over her position and what some see as a turf war over the top jobs in her new diplomatic service.
  • AP Sources: Massa to resign under ethics cloud(AP) (2010-03-05 20:58:32)
    AP - New York Democratic Rep. Eric Massa, the subject of a harassment complaint by a male staffer, is stepping down from his seat, The Associated Press has learned.
  • Obama says to reduce role of U.S. nuclear weapons(Reuters) (2010-03-05 20:56:35)
    Reuters - President Barack Obama said on Friday a forthcoming review of the United States' nuclear posture would reduce the number and role of nuclear weapons in the U.S. national security strategy.
  • Congressional estimates show grim deficit picture(AP) (2010-03-05 20:53:25)
    AP - A new congressional report says the United States' long-term fiscal woes are even worse than predicted by President Barack Obama's grim budget submission last month.
  • The nation's capital is one sorry spectacle these days(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-05 20:30:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - WASHINGTON — Washington has its moments when the nation's capital shines for all the world to see. Inaugurations. The Fourth of July.
  • Rep. Eric Massa to resign(Politico) (2010-03-05 19:34:30)
    Politico - The news comes after reports that he was under investigation.
  • Parents of Pentagon shooter warned authorities(AP) (2010-03-05 19:08:16)
    AP - The Pentagon shooter had been behaving erratically, and his family feared in January that he had bought a gun, a law enforcement official said Friday.
  • Democrats' EPA Legislation a Way to Vent on Clean-Air Rule(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-05 18:13:17)
    CQPolitics.com - At first glance, a pair of bills introduced this week by two West Virginia Democrats -- Sen. John D. Rockefeller IV and Rep. Nick J. Rahall II -- look like fresh attempts to rebuff a White House plan to regulate greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Levin Seen as Safe Choice for Ways and Means(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-05 18:11:17)
    CQPolitics.com - The ascension of Rep. Sander M. Levin to the chairmanship of the Ways and Means Committee relieves some political pressure on House Democrats, but it does not resolve the question of who will lead the panel over the long term.
  • RNC official behind 'fear' pitch under fire for fees(Politico) (2010-03-05 17:56:46)
    Politico - Rob Bickhart is the official behind this week's RNC fundraising presentation.
  • British soldier jailed for refusing Afghan tour(AP) (2010-03-05 17:51:48)
    AP - A British soldier who refused to serve in Afghanistan and spoke out against the war has been sentenced to nine months in jail.
  • Waste watchers? UK group fears trash bin spies(AP) (2010-03-05 17:39:54)
    AP - It's the new front in the nanny state: Microchips placed in garbage bins to monitor how much people throw away.
  • Free rain boots for 1,000 Polish kids facing mud(AP) (2010-03-05 17:39:53)
    AP - Hundreds of Polish school kids are getting a leg up with free rubber boots as they face months next to a muddy construction site.
  • US under pressure to deliver on Mideast peace(AFP) (2010-03-05 17:33:25)
    AFP - With new indirect Middle East peace talks on the horizon in the coming days, the Obama administration is under pressure to bring the Palestinians and the Israelis closer to an elusive accord.
  • Obama calls jobs report better than expected(AP) (2010-03-05 17:04:01)
    AP - President Barack Obama says the new jobs report "is actually better than expected."
  • Broun not sure if Obama is citizen(Politico) (2010-03-05 17:03:16)
    Politico - The Georgia Republican also attacks Obama as a "socialist" during an interview with Sirius XM.
  • In pope's homeland, child sex abuse scandal widens(AP) (2010-03-05 16:53:51)
    AP - An ever-widening sexual abuse scandal involving Germany's Roman Catholic Church spilled into the heart of Pope Benedict XVI's homeland Friday when a former member of the prominent Regensburg boy's choir claimed he was a victim.
  • Debate about bullfighting stepped up in Spain(AP) (2010-03-05 16:44:50)
    AP - Three conservative regions of Spain defended bullfighting on Friday and pledged legislation to enshrine it as a pillar of their cultural heritage, as another area of the country considers banning the sport.
  • Fatal car crash has Russians seething(AP) (2010-03-05 16:42:24)
    AP - A fatal car crash in downtown Moscow has exposed growing public anger at officials who seem to live above the law, as they flout the rules of the road and endanger the lives of ordinary Russians.
  • Dutch court jails pilot with alleged faked license(AP) (2010-03-05 16:35:45)
    AP - A Dutch court has extended for 14 days the detention of a man suspected of flying passenger jets with a forged license.
  • Officer says God shielded him from Pentagon gunman(AP) (2010-03-05 16:07:12)
    AP - One of the two police officers shot by a gunman outside the Pentagon says he is doing fine and credits God for shielding him.
  • Amanpour for 'This Week'?(Politico) (2010-03-05 16:01:00)
    Politico - Searching for a permanent host for "This Week," ABC News is in talks with Christiane Amanpour.
  • AP Sources: Pentagon gunman stayed in Nev. motel(AP) (2010-03-05 15:52:52)
    AP - Law enforcement officials say the California man who opened fire on police outside the Pentagon stopped at a motel in Reno, Nevada, before traveling to the nation's capital.
  • Angry anti-gov't writing linked to Pentagon gunman(AP) (2010-03-05 15:43:00)
    AP - A California man killed in a shootout with Pentagon police drove cross-country and arrived outside the military headquarters armed with two semiautomatic weapons, authorities said Friday. The shooter apparently left behind angry, anti-government Internet postings airing suspicions about the 9/11 attacks.
  • More anti-gov't writing linked to Pentagon shooter(AP) (2010-03-05 14:51:23)
    AP - Internet postings linked to the suspected gunman in a Pentagon subway shooting suggest long-held frustration with the government's reach into the private life of Americans.
  • Knox family to start appeal process in Italy(AP) (2010-03-05 14:10:16)
    AP - The family of Amanda Knox has asked lawyers to begin their appeal of the American's murder conviction in Italy after reviewing the court's motivation for the verdict.
  • Cyberattacks explode in Congress(Politico) (2010-03-05 14:04:03)
    Politico - Most are stopped by automated system defenses, but cyberattackers have become smarter.
  • Ten more U.S. airports get scanners(Politico) (2010-03-05 13:13:04)
    Politico - The full-body imaging machines can detect explosives hidden under passengers' clothing.
  • Indonesian students protest Barack Obama's visit(AP) (2010-03-05 12:53:48)
    AP - Scores of Islamic students staged protests outside Jakarta's parliament and in at least three other major Indonesian cities on Friday against President Barack Obama's upcoming visit to this predominantly Muslim country.
  • Wife of UK aircraft bomb plotter found innocent(AP) (2010-03-05 12:40:04)
    AP - A London jury has acquitted the wife of a convicted bomb plotter of failing to pass on information to authorities.
  • WH considering military trials for 9/11 suspects(AP) (2010-03-05 12:23:36)
    AP - In a potential reversal, White House advisers are close to recommending that President Barack Obama opt for military tribunals for self-professed Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed and four of his alleged henchman, senior officials said.
  • Scott Brown campaigns for McCain in Arizona(AP) (2010-03-05 12:23:02)
    AP - Facing the toughest re-election battle of his career, John McCain is bringing in the Republican Party's newest rising star in a bid to shore up support among conservative primary voters.
  • Poll: Paterson support collapsing(Politico) (2010-03-05 12:02:56)
    Politico - New poll shows 42 percent think he should go.
  • Passenger ferry freed from Baltic Sea ice(AP) (2010-03-05 11:31:37)
    AP - A passenger ferry with nearly 1,000 people on board returned safely to the Stockholm harbor early Friday after having broken free from heavy pack ice that had trapped it for hours in the Baltic Sea, officials said.
  • Report: Kildee to end gov bid(Politico) (2010-03-05 11:28:56)
    Politico - Former Genesee County Treasurer Dan Kildee plans to drop out of the governor's race, according to reports, after announcing his candidacy just last week.
  • Iceland braces for Icesave vote(AP) (2010-03-05 10:48:53)
    AP - Iceland is bracing for a public backlash against the use of taxpayer money to pay its international debts — the latest stumbling block in the tiny island's difficult struggle out of a deep recession.
  • Obama to visit Va. business, discuss clean energy(AP) (2010-03-05 10:09:54)
    AP - President Barack Obama has green jobs on his agenda.
  • Gunman killed after shooting 2 Pentagon police(AP) (2010-03-05 10:01:14)
    AP - Resentment of the U.S. government and suspicions over the 9/11 attacks have surfaced in writings by the Californian identified as the gunman who shot two Pentagon police officers before he was mortally wounded in a hail of return fire.
  • Interior to announce sage grouse finding Friday(AP) (2010-03-05 09:35:45)
    AP - The Interior Department plans to announce whether it will pursue endangered species protection for sage grouse, a decision with major ramifications for the West's renewable energy and oil and gas industries.
  • Abortion coverage dispute divides House Democrats(AP) (2010-03-05 09:34:18)
    AP - On the other side of the obstacle course that President Barack Obama must clear to get his health care overhaul, a final trapdoor is lurking: the divisive politics of abortion.
  • Navy vessels stage drag-race, probe shows(AP) (2010-03-05 09:20:44)
    AP - A Navy captain was demoted because she berated and assaulted her crew, not because she led her guided missile cruiser on a drag-race with another U.S. warship in the Pacific, an investigation shows.
  • State polls show gathering storm(Politico) (2010-03-05 09:17:34)
    Politico - Congress, it turns out, isn’t the only institution held in low esteem by voters this year. 
  • Arena Digest: RNC fundraising tactics(Politico) (2010-03-05 09:10:58)
    Politico - POLITICO's Arena contributors discuss if the RNC's fundraising tactics were out of line.
  • New York politics rocked by upheavals(AP) (2010-03-05 09:05:47)
    AP - The Empire State has a lot to recommend it — Broadway shows, Niagara Falls, and baseball's World Series champions, the New York Yankees. But politics? As the locals would say, Fuhgeddaboudit.
  • Ten who could decide health care(Politico) (2010-03-05 09:02:26)
    Politico - Here's a list of people who'll help determine whether Dems can get a reform bill through.
  • US ships race each other on open sea, probe shows(AP) (2010-03-05 08:53:48)
    AP - The Navy says two warships raced each other for fun out on the Pacific Ocean, but it could not prove that the activity endangered the vessels.
  • Officers hurt, gunman killed in Pentagon shooting(AP) (2010-03-05 08:42:34)
    AP - A gunman coolly drew a weapon from his pocket and opened fire at a security checkpoint into the Pentagon on Thursday in a point-blank attack that wounded two police officers before the suspect was fatally shot.
  • FACT CHECK: Obama approach at odds with past views(AP) (2010-03-05 08:31:04)
    AP - President Barack Obama is trying to achieve a health care overhaul the way he once said it couldn't, and shouldn't, be done.
  • Armenian genocide resolution wins House panel OK(AP) (2010-03-05 08:14:46)
    AP - Turkey was warning of a breakdown in cooperation with the United States after a congressional committee approved a resolution branding the World War I-era killing of Armenians a genocide.
  • Shooting suspect may have had 9/11 conspiracy(AP) (2010-03-05 06:25:13)
    AP - There are emerging signs that the suspect in a Pentagon subway station shooting may have harbored resentment for the military and had doubts about the facts behind the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
  • NYC black leaders: Paterson should stay in office(AP) (2010-03-05 05:51:55)
    AP - Influential black leaders in New York City said Thursday night that they believe Gov. David Paterson should stay in office amid allegations he and his staff interfered in a domestic violence case involving a top governor's aide.
  • WH leans toward military trials for 9/11 suspects(AP) (2010-03-05 05:42:40)
    AP - White House advisers are nearing a recommendation for President Barack Obama to choose a military trial for self-professed Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed and four of his alleged henchman, senior administration officials said Thursday.
  • Officials: Pentagon shooting suspect dies(AP) (2010-03-05 05:41:34)
    AP - The D.C. Medical Examiner's Office says the alleged shooter at the Pentagon has died.
  • Obama aides mull September 11 suspect military trial(Reuters) (2010-03-05 05:21:18)
    Reuters - Advisers to President Barack Obama are close to recommending that Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the self-professed mastermind of the September 11, 2001, attacks, be tried in a military tribunal instead of a civilian court, the Washington Post reported on Thursday.
  • Freudenthal Move Ensures GOP Pickup In Wyoming(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-05 05:02:19)
    CQPolitics.com - Wyoming Gov. Dave Freudenthal (D) announced Thursday that he will retire at the end of the year and not seek a third term, ending any mystery about whether he would seek to overturn his state's two-term limit.
  • Rep. Delahunt, D-Mass., won't run for re-election(AP) (2010-03-05 05:02:13)
    AP - Massachusetts Rep. William Delahunt will not run for re-election, the seven-term Democrat said Thursday night, a decision he said was not politically motivated as he faces criticism for his handling of a 1986 shooting by a University of Alabama professor accused of killing three colleagues last month.
  • Black leaders believe NY gov should stay in office(AP) (2010-03-05 04:38:05)
    AP - Influential black leaders in New York City said Thursday night that they believe Gov. David Paterson should stay in office amid allegations he and his staff interfered in a domestic violence case involving a top governor's aide.
  • 2nd person scrutinized in Pentagon subway shooting(AP) (2010-03-05 02:59:02)
    AP - Law enforcement officials say they've got one person in custody and are investigating whether a second was involved in a shooting at the Pentagon subway entrance.
  • Obama bank tax would hit customers: U.S. lawmaker(Reuters) (2010-03-05 02:58:02)
    Reuters - The tax on banks proposed by the Obama administration would be passed along to consumers, a leading Republican lawmaker said on Thursday, citing a nonpartisan budget analysis.
  • Rep. Delahunt says he won't run for re-election(AP) (2010-03-05 02:51:11)
    AP - Massachusetts Rep. William Delahunt has decided not to run for re-election.
  • 2 Pentagon police officers shot(AP) (2010-03-05 02:35:40)
    AP - A gunman coolly drew a weapon from his pocket and opened fire at the teeming subway entrance to the Pentagon complex Thursday evening, wounding two police officers before being shot and critically wounded, officials said.
  • Delahunt Won't Run for Re-Election(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-05 02:14:16)
    CQPolitics.com - Rep. William Delahunt (D-Mass.) will announce on Friday that he won't run for re-election to an 8th term in November, becoming the 16th House Democrat to announce plans to leave at the end of this Congress.
  • Financial reform still on the table(Politico) (2010-03-05 01:16:43)
    Politico - Hope remains that senators will deliver Obama a sweeping financial reform package within weeks.
  • Gunman wounds 2 police officers at Pentagon subway(AP) (2010-03-05 01:06:59)
    AP - A gunman opened fire at the subway entrance to Pentagon complex Thursday evening, wounding two Pentagon police officers, a spokesman said. The alleged gunman also was wounded, said Chris Layman, a spokesman for the Pentagon Force Protection Agency. Authorities said all three were taken to a hospital. None the injuries were not thought to be life-threatening, Layman said.
  • Delahunt to retire(Politico) (2010-03-05 00:44:59)
    Politico - Democratic Rep. Bill Delahunt plans to announce his retirement Friday, he told the Boston Globe in an exclusive interview. Delahunt, a seven-term congressman from Quincy, had been publicly mulling leaving Congress at the end of this term for some time, and he had also recently come under fire over his handling of a 1986 shooting case he handled when he was the Norfolk County District Attorney.
  • Democrats mired in swamp they vowed to drain(AP) (2010-03-05 00:35:56)
    AP - A rash of ethics lapses has given Democrats an election-year headache: how to convince skeptical voters that they're any cleaner than Republicans they accused of fostering a "culture of corruption" in 2006.
  • Money worries curb GOP optimism(Politico) (2010-03-05 00:23:14)
    Politico - Republicans have wind at their backs headed into the midterms, but cash in the bank would be better.
  • RNC document caricatures Obama, appeals to fear(AP) (2010-03-05 00:05:11)
    AP - Barack Obama is "The Joker." Nancy Pelosi is portrayed as Cruella De Vil, and Harry Reid as Scooby Doo — all part of a Republican Party pitch to top fundraisers.
  • A Roberts rumor's blip on Washington's radar(AP) (2010-03-04 23:47:35)
    AP - For a short time Thursday, Washington buzzed over a rumor reported exclusively by an online gossip Web site with no particular Supreme Court expertise that Chief Justice John Roberts was considering stepping down.
  • Clarification: Poverty story(AP) (2010-03-04 23:45:50)
    AP - In a March 2 story, The Associated Press reported in a headline that the government adopted a formula that would double the number of older people classified as living in poverty.
  • Amid Democratic stumbles on ethics, Pelosi defends record(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-04 23:41:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - WASHINGTON — Unethical behavior by lawmakers helped Democrats win control of the Capitol in the 2006 elections, and the same issue could come back to haunt the party this November.
  • House Roll Call: How the House voted on jobs bill(AP) (2010-03-04 23:25:22)
    AP - The 217-201 roll call Thursday by which the House passed legislation giving companies that hire the unemployed a temporary payroll tax break.
  • Rove suspected Gore aide of DUI leak(Politico) (2010-03-04 23:01:36)
    Politico - Rove writes in his book that he thought Gore's camp leaked Bush's DUI on the eve of the 2000 election.
  • House passes jobs bill despite doubts(AP) (2010-03-04 23:00:54)
    AP - Despite doubts among many lawmakers that it will create many jobs, the House on Thursday passed legislation giving companies that hire the jobless a temporary payroll tax break. The measure passed 217-201 on a mostly party-line vote. The bill also extends federal highway programs through the end of the year.
  • Fire the teachers? When schools fail, it may work(AP) (2010-03-04 22:53:51)
    AP - When all the teachers were fired last month from Central Falls High School in Rhode Island, their superintendent was giving them a taste of the accountability that President Barack Obama says is necessary for failing schools.
  • Obama urges Dems to seize moment on health care(AP) (2010-03-04 22:52:48)
    AP - Support from his own party in doubt, President Barack Obama summoned more than a dozen House Democrats to the White House Thursday, pleading with them to put aside their qualms, seize a historic moment and vote for his massive health care overhaul.
  • Levin is acting chair of Ways and Means panel(AP) (2010-03-04 22:49:10)
    AP - Rep. Sander Levin of Michigan took over Thursday as chairman of the powerful tax-writing House Ways and Means Committee after Democrats decided they wanted a consensus builder rather than a firebrand going into the midterm elections.
  • House panel approves Armenian genocide resolution(AP) (2010-03-04 22:23:43)
    AP - A congressional panel approved a resolution Thursday declaring the Ottoman-era killing of Armenians genocide over protests by Turkey, a NATO ally that is crucial to U.S. interests in the Middle East and Afghanistan.
  • House panel approves Armenian genocide resolution(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-04 21:57:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - WASHINGTON — The House Foreign Affairs Committee on Thursday narrowly approved an Armenian genocide resolution over last-minute objections raised by the Obama administration.
  • Deal Postpones Departure For Health Care Vote(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-04 21:52:18)
    CQPolitics.com - Rep. Nathan Deal (R-Ga.) will not be leaving Congress on Monday, as he announced earlier this week, but will instead stay through the upcoming House vote on a health care overhaul.
  • GAO: What does the US export to Iran? Who knows?(AP) (2010-03-04 21:34:11)
    AP - Sloppy records make it hard to tell exactly what the United States is exporting to Iran, despite sanctions meant to ensure only humanitarian goods and no military items go there, congressional investigators say.
  • Turkey pulls ambassador from U.S.(Politico) (2010-03-04 21:31:42)
    Politico - The departure comes after a House Foreign Affairs Committee calls the killing of Armenians genocide.
  • U.S.: "Cavalier" violations of U.N. Darfur arms embargo(Reuters) (2010-03-04 21:28:03)
    Reuters - The U.S. envoy to the United Nations accused Sudan on Thursday of "cavalier" violations of U.N. sanctions aimed at limiting the flow of arms and curbing violence in its conflict-torn Darfur region.
  • Turkey recalls ambassador to US over genocide vote(AP) (2010-03-04 21:13:23)
    AP - Turkey says it is recalling its ambassador to the U.S. for consultations following a resolution declaring the killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks around the time of World War I genocide.
  • Biographical information on Rep. Sander Levin(AP) (2010-03-04 21:06:41)
    AP - NAME — Sander 'Sandy' Martin Levin.
  • China backs diplomacy, not sanctions, on Iran(AP) (2010-03-04 21:01:51)
    AP - Western powers pressed for new sanctions against Iran on Thursday but China and Russia called for diplomatic negotiations as the best way to achieve a peaceful settlement of the dispute over Tehran's nuclear program.
  • House passes tax breaks for new hires(AP) (2010-03-04 21:01:44)
    AP - Despite doubts among many lawmakers that it'll create many jobs, the House on Thursday passed legislation giving companies that hire the jobless a temporary payroll tax break.
  • Clinton urges recognition of Honduras government(AP) (2010-03-04 20:59:10)
    AP - U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says the Obama administration will restore aid to Honduras that was suspended after a coup last year.
  • Obama signs bill to entice foreign travelers to US(AP) (2010-03-04 20:54:29)
    AP - President Barack Obama has signed a bill creating a program to promote the U.S. as a premier tourism destination for international travelers.
  • Democrats pull tax cheat bill(Politico) (2010-03-04 20:19:01)
    Politico - Dems slam brakes on legislation that would force gov't and Hill staffers to pay back taxes.
  • California GOP U.S. Senate race focusing on . . . Israel?(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-04 20:17:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - WASHINGTON — California is broke, its 12.1 percent unemployment rate is among the highest in the nation, housing prices have plunged, home foreclosures have skyrocketed and a drought is threatening the state's dwindling water supply. There also are plenty of other issues for would-be U.S. senators to debate, including the battered economy and a massive effort to overhaul the nation's health care system.
  • Maybe no health care bill vote by Easter(AP) (2010-03-04 20:05:50)
    AP - House Democratic leaders are pushing to finish far-reaching health legislation and hold a climactic vote in the next three weeks, aiming to overcome reluctance from rank-and-file lawmakers. But they conceded Thursday they may not meet President Barack Obama's challenge for swift action.
  • GOP keeps distance from RNC pitch(Politico) (2010-03-04 19:47:44)
    Politico - GOP scurries to move away from presentation.
  • Russia's Olympic flop sparks Soviet nostalgia(AP) (2010-03-04 19:38:06)
    AP - Anger and Soviet nostalgia are sweeping Russia after its dismal showing at the Vancouver Olympics, triggering a purge of sporting officials in an effort to prevent another humiliation when the nation hosts the Winter games in Sochi in 2014.
  • GAO: US Iran export data's a mess(AP) (2010-03-04 19:21:58)
    AP - Sloppy records make it hard to tell exactly what the United States is exporting to Iran, despite sanctions meant to ensure only humanitarian goods and no military items go there, congressional investigators say.
  • Retiring Dem facing complaint by male staffer(AP) (2010-03-04 19:19:43)
    AP - The House ethics panel is reviewing a complaint against retiring New York Rep. Eric Massa by a male staffer who reportedly felt uncomfortable in a situation with Massa that had sexual overtones.
  • APNewsBreak: GAO: Iran export data's a mess(AP) (2010-03-04 19:02:27)
    AP - Congressional investigators say sloppy record keeping is making it hard to ensure Iran does not get U.S. military goods its not supposed to get.
  • Some Republicans criticize judge pick(Politico) (2010-03-04 19:00:22)
    Politico - Some GOP-ers train their sights on Obama's nomination of Rep. Matheson's brother for a federal judgeship.
  • Obama courts lawmakers on health overhaul(AFP) (2010-03-04 18:44:58)
    AFP - US President Barack Obama waged an all-out campaign Thursday to drive his historic health care overhaul through Congress, wooing wavering lawmakers and blasting "unacceptable" insurance rate hikes.
  • House Plans Vote on Modified Jobs Bill(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-04 18:40:19)
    CQPolitics.com - The House will consider the Senate-passed "jobs" package on Thursday after deciding to amend the bill so it is fully offset in order to address the concerns of moderates in the Democratic Caucus.
  • Democratic Factions Invited to White House for Health Care Talks(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-04 18:34:20)
    CQPolitics.com - President Obama on Thursday continued to press Congress to bring a health care overhaul to a vote, inviting a large group of House Democrats to the White House, including representatives of Democrats' liberal and minority caucuses and the New Democrat Coalition, a group of moderates.
  • UN asks flyers to click $2 for MassiveGood(AP) (2010-03-04 17:43:16)
    AP - With a simple click, U.S. travelers buying airline tickets via some travel agencies and Internet sites can now donate $2 or more to fight AIDS in developing countries.
  • Rep. Levin replacing Rangel on Ways and Means panel(AP) (2010-03-04 17:26:41)
    AP - Rep. Sander Levin of Michigan was chosen Thursday as acting chairman of the tax-writing House Ways and Means Committee, a post that plays a major role in health care and billions of dollars in expiring tax cuts.
  • Hafer raises Murtha's ethics woes(Politico) (2010-03-04 17:23:21)
    Politico - Former Pennsylvania Treasurer Barbara Hafer is attempting to tie her Democratic primary opponent in Pennsylvania's 12th Congressional District to the ethics woes of the late Rep. John Murtha.
  • UK to restrict prosecution for war crimes abroad(AP) (2010-03-04 17:20:11)
    AP - British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said Thursday he would block private groups from launching war crimes prosecutions against visiting foreign dignitaries, following a controversy inflamed by an arrest warrant for former Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni.
  • More men file workplace sexual harassment claims(AP) (2010-03-04 17:19:59)
    AP - Jonathan Pilkington's boss wouldn't take no for an answer.
  • Commander says Marines to stay in Marjah for now(AP) (2010-03-04 17:08:11)
    AP - A U.S. Marine commander says there are no immediate plans to pull back the 4,000 Marines and Afghan troops in the Afghan town of Marjah until the local government has a chance to get up and running.
  • SAfrican leader lobbies UK on Zimbabwe sanctions(AP) (2010-03-04 17:04:29)
    AP - South African President Jacob Zuma pressed Britain on Thursday to loosen European Union sanctions on Zimbabwe, which he said are limiting the effectiveness of that country's power-sharing government.
  • House leaders push toward health vote by Easter(AP) (2010-03-04 16:58:30)
    AP - House Democratic leaders are pushing to finish far-reaching health legislation and hold a climactic vote in the next three weeks, aiming to overcome reluctance from the rank-and-file lawmakers while answering President Barack Obama's challenge for swift action.
  • Grass, flowers, trees for Paris' Champs-Elysees(AP) (2010-03-04 16:42:53)
    AP - Paris' Champs-Elysees will be cleared of traffic and blanketed with grass, flowers and trees for three days in May — giving Parisians a chance to picnic there or stroll down the famous avenue barefoot.
  • Pelosi: Lawmakers' healthcare concerns can be satisfied(Reuters) (2010-03-04 16:40:16)
    Reuters - Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi said on Thursday she is confident concerns by fellow Democrats about a Senate-passed healthcare bill can be satisfied.
  • Sebelius tells insurers rate hikes causing fear(AP) (2010-03-04 16:34:49)
    AP - Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius is telling top insurance companies that their double-digit premium increases are one reason President Barack Obama's health care overhaul must become law.
  • 4 convicted for plot targeting US sites in Germany(AP) (2010-03-04 16:32:20)
    AP - Two German converts to Islam and two Turks were found guilty Thursday of plotting a thwarted attack that a judge said could have killed large numbers of U.S. soldiers and civilians in "a terrible bloodbath."
  • Anti-torture DoJ nominee advances(Politico) (2010-03-04 16:30:07)
    Politico - Senate Judiciary Committee votes to endorse Dawn Johnsen, Obama’s nominee for DoJ legal counsel.
  • Pelosi: Out of the loop on Massa(Politico) (2010-03-04 16:14:05)
    Politico - Speaker says her office was not formally notified.
  • Rep. Levin now acting chair of Ways and Means panel(AP) (2010-03-04 15:51:36)
    AP - Rep. Sander Levin of Michigan was chosen Thursday as acting chairman of the tax-writing House Ways and Means Committee, a post that plays a major role in health care and billions of dollars in expiring tax cuts.
  • Senator warns against $1B deal with Blackwater(AP) (2010-03-04 15:40:53)
    AP - A senior Senate Democrat says the Pentagon should consider scrapping a potential $1 billion deal with the company formerly known as Blackwater because of "serious questions" about the contractor's conduct.
  • Brother of Sinn Fein leader surrenders to police(AP) (2010-03-04 14:50:51)
    AP - Police say the brother of Sinn Fein party leader Gerry Adams has surrendered to Irish authorities to face 23 charges of sexually abusing his daughter.
  • Syria denies concealing nuclear activities(AP) (2010-03-04 14:37:42)
    AP - Syria on Thursday denied hiding nuclear activities from the world and said Israel was the source of suspicious uranium particles found at a Syrian desert complex bombed two years ago by the Jewish state.
  • AP source: Black leaders to meet on Paterson fate(AP) (2010-03-04 14:22:11)
    AP - The Rev. Al Sharpton is convening a group of black Democratic leaders who could urge Gov. David Paterson, who is embroiled in two misconduct scandals, to resign, a party adviser told The Associated Press on Thursday.
  • Lawmakers criticize Obama for delay in free-trade pacts(AFP) (2010-03-04 14:10:16)
    AFP - US lawmakers warned President Barack Obama's administration Wednesday that foot dragging over the implementation of free-trade agreements with nations such as South Korea was hurting American credibility.
  • Stark hands off gavel(Politico) (2010-03-04 14:01:39)
    Politico - Rep. Sander Levin will take over as chairman of the Ways and Means Committee.
  • US gives Russia back Czar's stolen medallion(AP) (2010-03-04 13:29:05)
    AP - The U.S. Ambassador to Russia returned a stolen silver medallion that belonged to the last Russian czar to Moscow Thursday after it was recovered from an online auction by U.S. investigators.
  • Blair's autobiography to be published in September(AP) (2010-03-04 13:13:42)
    AP - Will he expose the deal critics suspect carried Britain and the United States to war in Iraq? Take aim at those who dubbed him President George Bush's poodle? Describe his furious arguments with successor Gordon Brown?
  • Democrats would nix healthcare over abortion(Reuters) (2010-03-04 12:51:15)
    Reuters - A dozen House of Representatives Democrats opposed to abortion are willing to kill President Barack Obama's healthcare reform plan unless it satisfies their demand for language barring the procedure, Representative Bart Stupak said on Thursday.
  • NATO: Afghanistan is model for future crises(AP) (2010-03-04 12:21:21)
    AP - NATO's chief says Afghanistan will serve as a prototype for future civil-military cooperation in handling crises in other weak or failing nations.
  • Prosecutors seek prison terms for Auschwitz theft(AP) (2010-03-04 11:59:40)
    AP - Prosecutors say they are seeking prison terms of up to 2 1/2 years for three Poles who confessed to stealing the infamous "Arbeit Macht Frei" sign from the former Auschwitz Nazi death camp.
  • Obama to mark `America's Most Wanted' anniversary(AP) (2010-03-04 11:32:21)
    AP - President Barack Obama is going to help TV's "America's Most Wanted" mark the milestone broadcast of its 1,000th episode.
  • Scarborough: Fire RNC money man(Politico) (2010-03-04 11:26:13)
    Politico - The "Morning Joe” host rips Bickhart for encouraging operatives to use “fear” to solicit donations.
  • No is no: More men file sexual harassment claims(AP) (2010-03-04 11:05:41)
    AP - John Pilkington's boss wouldn't take no for an answer.
  • Is a voting machine merger too big to stand?(AP) (2010-03-04 10:56:01)
    AP - The largest voting machine company in the country bought its biggest competitor six months ago without advance fanfare. Now the Justice Department is investigating whether to unwind the merger that put a privately held Nebraska company in control of the voting machines in nearly 70 percent of the nation's precincts.
  • UN rights chief criticizes Iran, Sri Lanka(AP) (2010-03-04 10:42:31)
    AP - U.N. human rights chief Navi Pillay has singled out Iran for its crackdown on protestors after last year's election in an address at the U.N. Human Rights Council.
  • Vladislav Ardzinba, 1st leader of Abkhazia, dies(AP) (2010-03-04 09:49:04)
    AP - Vladislav Ardzinba, who led the breakaway Georgian province of Abkhazia to de facto independence through a bloody war and ethnic cleansing, died on Thursday, his doctor said. He was 64.
  • W.H. says access is not Smoot's point(Politico) (2010-03-04 09:25:22)
    Politico - Gibbs sees her role as continuing to make the White House the "people’s house."
  • CLICK Flick: Jay-Z for president?(Politico) (2010-03-04 09:00:05)
    Politico - The first family says they are big fans of Jay-Z and his wife Beyonce Knowles.
  • FLOTUS appraises 'phenomenal year'(Politico) (2010-03-04 08:53:22)
    Politico - Obama says that people finally got to know her after her freshman year as first lady.
  • Clinton to meet with Latin American officials(AP) (2010-03-04 08:49:31)
    AP - U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is in Costa Rica to press Latin American nations on democracy and development.
  • Ethics charge could be more damaging for Paterson(AP) (2010-03-04 08:32:21)
    AP - Already enveloped in a scandal that has raised unanswered questions about his conduct and brought calls for his resignation, New York Gov. David Paterson faces new charges of violating state ethics laws, a case that a political analyst says could be even more politically dangerous.
  • Controller complacency could jeopardize air safety(AP) (2010-03-04 08:26:03)
    AP - For the third time in seven months, the judgment of those who operate the nation's air traffic control system has been called into question and raised concerns that the system may not be as safe as officials claim.
  • House to vote on tax breaks for new hires(AP) (2010-03-04 08:22:53)
    AP - A measure blending highway funding eagerly sought by the states with tax breaks for companies that hire unemployed workers appeared headed for House passage Thursday as Democrats work to send President Barack Obama the first of several promised election-year jobs bills.
  • House panel to vote on Armenian genocide measure(AP) (2010-03-04 08:08:53)
    AP - A resolution declaring the Ottoman-era killing of Armenians genocide appears likely to be approved by a congressional committee, a move that could alienate Turkey, a NATO ally with a pivotal role for U.S. interests in the Middle East and Afghanistan.
  • Some Dems are wary of Obama's final health push(AP) (2010-03-04 08:06:29)
    AP - Rank-and-file Democrats in Congress remain wary of health care legislation in spite of President Barack Obama's closing argument for overhauling the system, well aware that success is far from assured and political perils abound.
  • Obama reasserts Volcker rule, Senate bill seen(Reuters) (2010-03-04 07:53:16)
    Reuters - The Obama administration reasserted its commitment to banning proprietary trading by banks with draft legislative language on Wednesday, despite signs that Congress is unlikely to adopt such a rule.
  • Anti-government voters factor in Texas race(AP) (2010-03-04 06:52:29)
    AP - Debra Medina was hardly the ideal candidate in Tuesday's Republican primary: She didn't raise much money and came under fire for suggesting the U.S. might have been involved in the Sept. 11 attacks. Still, she won nearly one out of every five votes, harnessing some support in the nascent tea party movement.
  • Testing a Court Decision and Campaign Clout(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-04 05:16:17)
    CQPolitics.com - Six weeks after the Supreme Court sent shock waves through the political world by lifting long-held bans on corporate and union involvement in federal elections, one district is looking ripe for the new rules to be put into play.
  • Will Spring Bring Good News for Democrats?(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-04 05:01:28)
    CQPolitics.com - With a nearly 80-seat House majority, 60 seats in the Senate for more than eight months, a GOP brand so damaged that the party looked completely incompetent and a charismatic African-American president taking over from a failed two-term Republican president, you'd have thought that Democrats were set up for a pretty decent two years.
  • EU envoy visits Haiti, defends lateness of trip(AFP) (2010-03-04 04:42:41)
    AFP - European Union foreign affairs chief Catherine Ashton visited quake-hit Haiti with pledges of long-term aid and sought to defend her delay in making the trip.
  • Hoyer: Retiring Dem faces misconduct allegation(AP) (2010-03-04 04:41:15)
    AP - A freshman congressman from New York who cited health reasons in announcing his retirement Wednesday is facing allegations of misconduct, a top House Democrat confirmed.
  • Clinton fails to win over Brazil on Iran(Reuters) (2010-03-04 04:12:23)
    Reuters - Secretary of State Hillary Clinton failed to win Brazil's support on Wednesday for more sanctions against Iran and said Tehran would not talk seriously about its nuclear program until the United Nations took new action.
  • Brown takes aim at GOP rival in Calif. gov race(AP) (2010-03-04 02:55:41)
    AP - California needs an elder statesman who can broker deals to lead it out of its current fiscal morass, not an autocratic CEO who is used to giving orders, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jerry Brown said Wednesday.
  • Hoyer knew of allegation against Rep. Massa(AP) (2010-03-04 02:23:33)
    AP - House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer says he received a report last month of allegations of misconduct against a New York congressman who has announced he will not seek a second term.
  • U.S. lawmakers challenge Army decisions on KBR(Reuters) (2010-03-04 01:19:35)
    Reuters - Lawmakers in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives on Wednesday questioned the Army's continued use of KBR Inc for logistics work in Iraq in the face of confirmed reports of poor past performance.
  • Senate rejects Social Security bonus payment(AP) (2010-03-04 01:02:57)
    AP - The Senate on Wednesday rejected a proposal by President Barack Obama to give people on Social Security a $250 bonus check.
  • NY Dem Massa to quit after 1 term, cites health(AP) (2010-03-04 00:56:41)
    AP - Rep. Eric Massa, a freshman Democrat from New York, said Wednesday that he will not seek a second term after a recurrence of cancer late last year, dismissing a report that he had been accused of harassing a staffer.
  • Long after Wall Street's crisis, Congress still arguing over fix(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-04 00:54:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - WASHINGTON — Eighteen months after the near-collapse of the U.S. financial system, lawmakers in the nation's capital still can't agree on how to fix what went wrong, despite the abundant evidence of the economic devastation the crisis has caused.
  • Lawmakers challenge Army decisions on KBR(Reuters) (2010-03-04 00:31:51)
    Reuters - Lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives on Wednesday questioned the Army's continued use of KBR Inc for logistics work in Iraq in the face of confirmed reports of poor past performance.
  • Govt slow to force safer designs for window blinds(AP) (2010-03-04 00:23:29)
    AP - Shopping for her nursery, Kelly Horvath bought a new window shade because its label advertised its child safety features. She later found her 16-month-old son dead in his crib, the shade's cord wrapped around his neck, another young victim of what U.S. government records show are some of the deadliest recalled consumer products.
  • Rangel may only give GOP more ammunition against Democrats(McClatchy Newspapers) (2010-03-03 23:59:00)
    McClatchy Newspapers - WASHINGTON — Rep. Charles Rangel's decision to step aside as the chairman of the tax-writing House Ways and Means Committee not only could be the beginning of the end of his storied career, but also gives Republicans fresh ammunition to use against Democrats in November's elections.
  • Volatile new top tax writer has his own baggage(AP) (2010-03-03 23:55:09)
    AP - Rep. Pete Stark is the California Democrat captured on YouTube in a steamy argument about body fluids, politics and lying. He challenged one colleague to a fist fight and called others an assortment of names through the years.
  • Guatemala arrests show drug corruption to the core(AP) (2010-03-03 22:57:19)
    AP - The arrests of Guatemala's drug czar and national police chief underscore how deeply the world's multibillion-dollar drug industry can corrupt small countries with weak institutions — a trend the Obama administration warned Wednesday threatens global security.
  • NY Democrat Massa retiring, citing health reasons(AP) (2010-03-03 22:55:58)
    AP - Rep. Eric Massa, a freshman Democrat from New York, said Wednesday that he will not seek a second term after a recurrence of cancer late last year, dismissing blog reports that he had harassed a staffer.
  • Leaders on gay ban study vow objectivity(AP) (2010-03-03 22:53:40)
    AP - The leaders of a new Pentagon study promised Congress on Wednesday an honest assessment on whether allowing gays to serve openly might cause troops to lose their edge in battle.
  • Facing ethics probes, Rangel drops tax leadership(AP) (2010-03-03 22:46:18)
    AP - Buffeted by ethics inquiries, 20-term Rep. Charles B. Rangel of New York stepped down Wednesday as chairman of the tax-writing House Ways and Means Committee, delivering a heavy new political jolt to a Democratic Party already facing angry voters.
  • Obama takes charge, demands vote on health care(AP) (2010-03-03 22:46:17)
    AP - The end game at hand, President Barack Obama took command Wednesday of one final attempt by Democrats to enact bitterly contested health care legislation, calling for an "up or down vote" within weeks under rules denying Republicans the ability to kill the bill with mere talk.
  • Rep. Massa Won't Run for Second Term(CQPolitics.com) (2010-03-03 22:24:00)
    CQPolitics.com - Freshman Rep. Eric Massa has had a recurrence of cancer and will not run for a second term in November.
  • Palin writing second book(Politico) (2010-03-03 22:09:39)
    Politico - Publisher announces Palin will write another book focusing on "national and spiritual" values.
  • US, EU call for new nuclear sanctions against Iran(AFP) (2010-03-03 21:44:29)
    AFP - The United States and the European Union said Wednesday that there must be more sanctions against Iran's nuclear programme if diplomacy fails to shift Tehran.
  • Govt slow to regulate deadly window blind cords(AP) (2010-03-03 21:24:22)
    AP - Shopping for her nursery, Kelly Horvath bought a new window shade because its label advertised its child safety features. She later found her 16-month-old son dead in his crib, the shade's cord wrapped around his neck, another young victim of what U.S. government records show are some of the deadliest recalled consumer products.
  • Exclusive: RNC document mocks donors, plays on 'fear'(Politico) (2010-03-03 20:23:12)
    Politico - RNC plans to raise money this election cycle through an aggressive campaign capitalizing on “fear.”
  • Turkey seeks to avert genocide vote in US Congress(AP) (2010-03-03 20:13:32)
    AP - Turkey's foreign minister said Wednesday he hopes the Obama administration will try to prevent a U.S. congressional panel from recognizing the World War I-era killings of Armenians by Ottoman Turks as genocide.
  • Greece's new austerity measures(AP) (2010-03-03 20:02:28)
    AP - Greece has announced a new euro4.8 billion (US$6.5 billion) austerity package to deal with the financial crisis. Here is a summary of some of the key measures:
  • Ex-UK spy accused of attempting to sell secrets(AP) (2010-03-03 18:45:33)
    AP - A former MI6 spy has been accused of stealing top-secret files on intelligence-gathering techniques and offering them to a foreign government for 2 million pounds ($2.9 million), a prosecutor said Wednesday.
  • EU, US concerned about Iran's nuclear activities(AP) (2010-03-03 18:32:01)
    AP - The U.S. and Europe say they share U.N. fears that Tehran may be secretly working on developing nuclear missiles, expressing support Wednesday for new sanctions if Tehran continues to defy Security Council demands.
  • Unwelcome spotlight falls on W.H. chief of staff(AP) (2010-03-03 12:05:31)
    AP - No-drama Obama was bound to get fireworks when he chose the expletive-spewing, hotheaded, never-at-rest Rahm Emanuel to be his White House chief of staff. The only questions were when — and how big.
  • Obama to offer amended health care plan(AP) (2010-03-03 09:57:21)
    AP - President Barack Obama is unveiling his revised version of a health care bill at the White House. It's expected to include several Republican proposals.
  • Gates says study on gays should include troops(AP) (2010-03-03 01:58:11)
    AP - Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Tuesday that a Pentagon review of how the ban on openly gay military service could be lifted must involve troops and their families at all levels of the armed forces without ensnaring them in the political debate.
  • US to share laser-guiding bomb kits with Pakistan(AP) (2010-03-02 17:35:54)
    AP - The U.S. will deliver this month to Pakistan 1,000 sophisticated laser-guided bomb kits that would enable the government there to strike insurgent targets with more precision.
  • Toyota Criticism Mounts on Eve of Recall Hearings(Bloomberg) (2010-02-23 02:28:42)
    Bloomberg - Feb. 23 (Bloomberg) -- Toyota Motor Corp.’s handling ofrecalls came under mounting criticism on the eve of theautomaker’s U.S. congressional testimony, including charges thatthe company misled the public on the adequacy of its recalls.