National Journal Topics | NationalJournal.com

Marco Rubio Makes His Move For 2016

Beth Reinhard | May 17, 2013

Florida Sen. Marco Rubio hasn’t popped up in an early-primary state in six months, leaving potential Republican rivals like Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal to make the rounds while he carried the torch for his immigration reform plan.

Poll: How Damaging Is the IRS Controversy to Obama?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | May 16, 2013

Most Republicans and half of Democrats say the issue will haunt the president.

Poll: Will the Benghazi Controversy Hurt a Possible Presidential Run by Hillary Clinton?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | May 16, 2013

Says one Republican, "The 3 a.m. call came, and she was sleeping. Not a stellar example of leadership."

Blacks and Hispanics More Optimistic About Economy Than Whites

Stephanie Czekalinski | May 12, 2013

Despite significant wealth and income gaps, and higher than average unemployment rates, Hispanics and African-Americans are more optimistic about their economic prospects and the direction of the country than whites, recent polls show.

Congress Poised to Move on Farm Bill

Jerry Hagstrom | May 12, 2013

The atmosphere on Capitol Hill for the farm bill suddenly seems to be full speed ahead.

Inside the Cover: The Coming GOP Civil War Over Climate Change

National Journal Staff | May 9, 2013

In this week's National Journal cover story, Coral Davenport explores the Republican party's relationship with climate change. In this video, get inside the story with the author herself.

The Coming GOP Civil War Over Climate Change

Coral Davenport | May 9, 2013

Science, storms, and demographics are starting to change minds among the rank and file.

Poll: Will the Senate Immigration Bill Get 70 Votes?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | May 9, 2013

Republicans say it won't, while Democrats are more divided.

Poll: Which Senator Is Most Likely to Change His or Her Vote on Background-Check Legislation?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | May 9, 2013

Democrats look to Kelly Ayotte, R-N.H.

As Hispanic Vote Lags, Millions of Votes Left on the Table

Reid Wilson | May 9, 2013

Less than half of all eligible Hispanics turned out to vote in 2012, according to census data, suggesting they have yet to flex their political muscle.

The Diminishing Returns of Big-Data Campaigning

Brian Fung | May 8, 2013

What if we were all wrong about the Obama campaign’s vaunted technological advantage?

Life in Politics Can Be Comic

Cory Bennett | May 6, 2013

While tens of thousands of people make a living in politics, Darren Davis seems to have discovered a niche in political comics.

Marco Rubio: A Successful Salesman for Immigration Reform?

Rebecca Kaplan | May 5, 2013

Recess has been tough for Marco Rubio.

How Democrats Could Blow Immigration

Rebecca Kaplan | May 2, 2013

In their zeal to reach an agreement with Republicans, party strategists risk alienating the usually reliable Black Caucus.

Poll: What Are the Chances Congress Will Pass a Major Tax-Reform Bill?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | May 2, 2013

A majority of Insiders say prospects are poor.

Poll: What Impact Will the Boston Bombings Have on Immigration Reform?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | May 2, 2013

Neither party’s Insiders expect much of an effect.

Why Lindsey Graham's Support for Immigration Reform Isn't Popular in South Carolina

Beth Reinhard | May 2, 2013

The Republican senator is still in solid position for reelection, but he has reason to worry.

Asylum and Entry/Exit Systems Get Another Look in Congress After Boston

Fawn Johnson | April 28, 2013

The impact of the bombings on the immigration debate has narrowed in on just two isolated policy arenas.

Hispanics Actually Don't Share Republican 'Faith and Family' Values

Jill Lawrence | April 26, 2013

There's a gulf between how the GOP and the voters it needs define social and cultural issues.

Five Cool Innovations to Lift Workers Into the Middle Class

Sophie Quinton | April 25, 2013

From rent-subsidized apartments for single moms to an online medical clinic that saves $88 per diagnosis, American ingenuity works.

Schumer Thinks Senate Needs More Than 60 Votes for Immigration to Push House to Act

Shane Goldmacher | April 25, 2013

Just breaking up an expected GOP filibuster of immigration legislation may not be enough.

Now the House Takes On Immigration

Fawn Johnson | April 25, 2013

The Senate got lots of attention for its Gang of Eight. Now the House is taking a crack at reform.

Being In the Middle Class Means Worrying About Falling Behind

Ronald Brownstein | April 25, 2013

After years of economic turmoil, most families now believe the most valuable—and elusive—possession in American life is economic security.

Agricultural Workers and Farmers Unite to Push Congress on Immigration Reform

Jerry Hagstrom | April 24, 2013

The sight of the head of the United Farm Workers and farmer representatives testifying side by side before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday to promote the farmworker section of the immigration-reform bill was an extraordinary moment in American agriculture.

The 8 Senators Who Hold Immigration Reform in the Balance

Michael Catalini | April 24, 2013

A look at the positioning of key conservative senators and how the legislation is faring with the GOP base.

Poll Shows Garcetti Leading Greuel in L.A. Mayoral Runoff

Steven Shepard | April 21, 2013

City Councilman Eric Garcetti holds a 10-point lead over Controller Wendy Greuel with a month to go before the May 21 runoff to become Los Angeles' next mayor, according to a new USC Price/Los Angeles Times poll released Sunday. The poll, featured on the front page of the Times' Sunday editions, sh...

Were Boston Bombers Lone Wolves or Long Arm of al-Qaida?

James Kitfield | April 19, 2013

What pushed two seemingly normal young immigrants past the tipping point of youthful anger and into wanton terrorism?

Why John McCain Is Barack Obama’s New Best Friend

Jill Lawrence | April 18, 2013

The two have their eyes on history as they transcend years of friction. The upshot could be good for the country.

Poll: Should John Boehner Allow Immigration Legislation to Go Through the Committees?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | April 18, 2013

Insiders from both parties see regular order as the smart move.

Poll: Will the Gang of Eight’s Immigration-Reform Proposal Help Your Party?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | April 18, 2013

Democratic and Republican Insiders have high hopes, but for different reasons.

House Fundraising Winners and Losers

Scott Bland and Kevin Brennan and Sarah Mimms and Alex Brown | April 18, 2013

The path back to a House majority is incredibly difficult for Democrats. But there was a lot of good news for them in the first set of campaign finance reports of the 2014 election cycle. For the big winners of the first quarter, just look toward the top of the list. A pair of Florida freshmen, Dem...

5 Things Immigration, Gay Marriage, and Gun Control Have That Climate Change Doesn't

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

The amount of change happening in Washington is impressive, but this kind of sea change can’t happen right now with energy and climate policy. Here's why.

Why the Immigration Plan Really Could Give Us Border Security

Niraj Chokshi | April 17, 2013

The "Gang of Eight" plan is encouraging news for legalization advocates, but first there’s the little issue of securing the border.

Play of the Day: What Republicans Can Learn From BuzzFeed

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 17, 2013

Fast forward to 3:10 to see how Buzzfeed can draw inspiration from the NRCC.

Experts Skeptical Homegrown Terrorists Were Behind Boston Bombings

Matt Vasilogambros | April 16, 2013

While officials are still investigating who was behind the deadly bombings at the Boston Marathon, President Obama made it clear on Tuesday that authorities are still unclear whether domestic or foreign actors are responsible for the attack.

Deportees Can Come Back Under Draft Immigration Bill

Fawn Johnson | April 16, 2013

Immigrants who were in the United States before Dec. 31, 2011 and were deported for noncriminal reasons could return to the country in a provisional legal status if they a legal spouse or child in the country or if they qualify for the Dream Act, according to a summary of the immigration bill slated to be unveiled this week in the Senate.

Immigration Reform Isn't Hurting Marco Rubio's Bottom Line

Beth Reinhard | April 16, 2013

Though championing immigration reform is widely viewed as a political gamble for Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, it hasn't hurt his bottom line.

Why Evangelicals Back Obama on Immigration (and Why They Should Agree on Guns and Climate Change, Too)

Ron Fournier | April 15, 2013

Pragmatic mega-church leaders are savvy about demographic shifts.

Poll: Which Senate Seats Are Likeliest to Flip?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | April 11, 2013

Insiders say those of Democrats Tim Johnson and Jay Rockefeller are the most vulnerable.

Poll: Is It Politically Advantageous for Obama to Cut Medicare and Social Security?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | April 11, 2013

Insiders from both parties say it is, though more Democrats are skeptical.

The Rubio Trap

Fawn Johnson and Shane Goldmacher | April 4, 2013

Liberal groups have one message for Democrats negotiating with the Florida Republican: Don't give in.

Poll: Which Senate Incumbents Are Most Vulnerable?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | April 4, 2013

Democratic Insiders say it's Mark Pryor or Kay Hagan, while Republicans point to Hagan by a wide margin.

Poll: Even Democrats Say the NRA Is Beating the White House on the Gun Debate

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | April 4, 2013

Insiders from both parties see Obama struggling on the issue.

The Politically Incorrect Caucus: 6 Controversy-Prone House Members

Michael Catalini | April 1, 2013

Rep. Don Young's ethnically charged reference to Hispanic ranch workers as "wetbacks" on an Alaska radio program reminded us of other controversial members of the 113th Congress.

3 Ways Work Visas Could Still Blow Up the Immigration Bill

Fawn Johnson | April 1, 2013

"Future Flow" has always lurked as the ogre that might not be tamed.

Why the Fight Over Work Visas Won't Doom the Immigration Bill

Fawn Johnson | March 25, 2013

Make no mistake. The immigration bill being crafted by the “Gang of Eight” senators will include foreign work visas despite warnings from both business and labor that their talks over the issue have broken down.

Insiders Agree Democrats Will Nominate Clinton in 2016

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | March 21, 2013

Repulicans are torn between Marco Rubio and Jeb Bush.

Border Triggers Could Sink Immigration Deal

Fawn Johnson | March 21, 2013

Republicans' insistence that border-security benchmarks be met before legalizing 11-12 million illegal immigrants could sink the emerging compromise measure.

The Man Who Could Turn Texas Blue: Rick Perry

Ronald Brownstein | March 21, 2013

By opposing Medicaid expansion, the governor could hurt the GOP in a must-win state.

Haley Barbour: Immigration Bill Isn't Going to Change Many Hispanic Voters' Minds

Beth Reinhard | March 21, 2013

The former RNC chairman supports immigration reform, but remains skeptical of immediate results.

DREAMers in 3 Charts: Rate of Applications and Where They're From

Jody Brannon | March 21, 2013

The number of approvals for deferred-action status is approaching a quarter-million undocumented immigrants, but the submission rate for so-called DREAMers to secure the right to remain in the U.S. is slowing.

Rick Perry: The Presidential Candidate Ahead of His Time

Michael Catalini | March 20, 2013

The Texas governor ran an awful campaign in 2012. But his platform is now belatedly being embraced by party leaders.

Seeking a Bigger Audience, Tea-Party Hero Embraces Immigration Reform

Beth Reinhard | March 20, 2013

Rand Paul suppports legalizing undocumented immigrants, signaling an interest to expand his following beyond the tea party movement.

DCCC Expands Its Voter-Outreach Efforts

Alex Roarty | March 19, 2013

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee rounded out its leadership team Wednesday, announcing a plethora of lawmakers to head outreach efforts to different voter groups.

Why Rand Paul's Hispanic Pitch Is Doomed

Matthew Cooper | March 19, 2013

He's pushing the idea that Hispanics are natural Republicans. The polling says that's wrong.

Meet the RNC's Curious Poster Boy for Hispanic Outreach

Scott Bland and Alex Roarty | March 18, 2013

How can Republicans win back Hispanic voters? According to Reince Priebus, they need to study how Congressman Steve Pearce did it. "When a conservative like Steve Pearce in New Mexico wins in a predominantly Latino district, we need to glean the lessons of his approach," said Priebus, who on Monday...

Why the RNC's Reforms Don't Solve the GOP's Problem

Matthew Cooper | March 18, 2013

The Republican Party's base still controls the debate in Washington.

How to Shrink the Dangerous Republican Empathy Gap

Jill Lawrence | March 17, 2013

The GOP ought to pray that Rob Portman's gay-marriage conversion is more defining than CPAC. The country should, too.

GOP Can't Win Latinos Over Immigration

Matthew Cooper | March 17, 2013

Earlier this winter, Ann Coulter brought her usual light touch to the question of the Hispanic vote. The author of Godless: The Church of Liberalism argued in a column that Republicans who support immigration reform in an effort to court Latinos are wasting their time. “It’s not clear that amnesty wins any Hispanics,” Coulter wrote, “apart from the ones who can’t vote (because they’re illegal) and their ethnic ‘spokesmen,’ whose power increases as the Hispanic population grows.” Hispanics gravitate toward Democrats, she insisted, because they believe in more government, and no immigration courtship will seduce them.

Rand Paul Narrowly Defeats Marco Rubio in CPAC Straw Poll

Rebecca Kaplan | March 16, 2013

Conservative divide reflects two different visions for the future of the party.

Mitt Romney's CPAC Speech Was As Lackluster As His Campaign

Beth Reinhard | March 15, 2013

But the former presidential nominee's speech was a reminder of his political mistakes during the 2012 presidential campaign.

A Pair of Senators Clash Over GOP Direction

Beth Reinhard and Ben Terris | March 15, 2013

For a life-sized representation of the identity crisis that’s been plaguing the Republican Party since the 2012 election, look to Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul.

The GOP's Identity Crisis: Marco Rubio Versus Rand Paul

Beth Reinhard and Ben Terris and Elahe Izadi contributed to this report. | March 15, 2013

The two ambitious senators are already clashing over the Republican party's direction.

At CPAC, Young Conservatives Calling for Change

Elahe Izadi | March 14, 2013

On immigration and gay marriage, there's a big GOP divide between young and old.

Republicans Can't Win Latinos With Immigration Reform

Matthew Cooper | March 14, 2013

From big government to gay rights, America's fastest-growing demographic bloc aligns with Democrats.

Republican Insiders Doubt a Grand Bargain Will Be Reached

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | March 14, 2013

But then again, so do Democrats. Plus: Neither party expects to gain much much politically from the upcoming budget process.

Let the 2016 Primaries Begin: Marco Rubio, Rand Paul Duel at CPAC

Rebecca Kaplan | March 14, 2013

The two leading Republican presidential contenders offered very different ideas for the GOP's future.

Report: Hispanic Population in Idaho Bloomed by 73 Percent Over 10 Years

Doris Nhan | March 13, 2013

The Hispanic population in Idaho grew by 73 percent over past decade, a dizzying number considering that in the U.S. overall, Hispanics grew by 43 percent between 2000 and 2010.

New Pope Reflects Spanish-Speaking Catholics' Importance to the Church

Jody Brannon | March 13, 2013

The selection of Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina, a 76-year-old Jesuit who is an advocate for the poor, as the first pontiff from outside Europe should please many U.S. Catholics, almost 30 percent of whom are of Hispanic or Latino heritage.

An Ingenious Business Model: Speak Spanish and Serve Immigrants

Sophie Quinton | March 12, 2013

For one North Carolina credit union, courting Latino immigrant members is a risk that pays off.

Why Politicians Need to Beware of the Meme

Elahe Izadi | March 12, 2013

In this rapid online environment, attention spans are short. Push jokes too often and you run the risk of looking lame.

Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Reported Pick for Labor Secretary

Charles S. Clark and Government Executive | March 11, 2013

President Obama is set to name Thomas Perez, a civil rights official at the Justice Department, as his new Labor secretary, according to weekend news reports.

Opinion: Immigration Reform Faces Hurdles, but Steadily Moves Forward

Tyler Reny | March 11, 2013

The debate over immigration reform may have been overshadowed by coverage of the sequester and Washington dysfunction, but the issue has hardly disappeared. In fact, the immigration reform bill is marching steadily forward.

Insiders Weigh in On Hispanics and the GOP

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | March 9, 2013

National Journal's Political Insiders panel lacks confidence Congress and the president will reverse the sequestration spending cuts that took effect on March 1, this week's Insiders Poll shows. Meanwhile, Republicans believe their party in 2014 will earn a greater share of the Hispanic vote than their presidential nominee, Mitt Romney, did last year. According to exit polls, Romney won just 27 percent of Hispanics, who accounted for 10 percent of the electorate.

Citizenship Isn't Always Foremost What Undocumented Workers Want

Fawn Johnson | March 8, 2013

They just want to do their jobs, cash their paychecks, and be left alone. Here's a view of the immigration debate from the kitchen of your favorite restaurant.

Inside the Cover: What Undocumented Workers Really Want

National Journal Staff | March 7, 2013

It’s an awkward and often unacknowledged truth that many immigrants in the United States haven’t gone the citizenship route, illustrating the gulf between the immigrant population and the politicians who are angling for reform. About half of all the immigrants eligible to apply for citizenship don’t bother to do so, citing language and financial barriers and simple lack of interest, according to the Pew Hispanic Center. And for those who are here illegally, becoming a citizen one day might be the furthest thing from their minds. More than a dozen who spoke with National Journal said that they are far more concerned about ending President Obama’s deportations of people without papers.

What Undocumented Workers Really Want

Fawn Johnson | March 7, 2013

It's not always citizenship. They just want to do their jobs, cash their paychecks, and be left alone. A view of the immigration debate from the kitchen of your favorite restaurant.

Will a Bargain Be Struck to Reverse the Sequestration Cuts?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | March 7, 2013

In Washington, all financial skirmishes lead to the same place.

Labrador Says Reform More Important Than Political Gain

Fawn Johnson | March 5, 2013

At least one Republican leader on immigration in the House is ready to allow President Obama and Democrats to take credit for any reform efforts that might pass this year.

Can Texas Turn Blue? 'The GOP in Texas is Spoiled.'

Sophie Quinton | March 4, 2013

San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro talks about the economic turnaround in his city--and the emerging political changes in Texas.

Mitt Romney Isn't Done Proving Why He's Not President

Josh Kraushaar | March 4, 2013

One silver lining for Republicans: The GOP’s presidential nominee in 2016 will be much more politically savvy.

Which Party Really Owns the Sequester?

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | February 28, 2013

Neither party's Insiders think they’ll face strong pressure to undo it. And Democrats are more bullish than Republicans on the tea party's role as political asset.

How Both Sides Botched the Sequester Fight

Ronald Brownstein | February 28, 2013

The White House and congressional Republicans each notch tactical wins but fail on strategy.

Unemployment Rate for Hispanics Tops 17% in 5 States

Jody Brannon | February 26, 2013

The Hispanic unemployment rate at the end of 2012 in 13 states significantly exceeded the state rate, with the percentage of jobless Hispanics surpassing 17 percent in five states.

Fewer Dropouts, but Blacks, Hispanics Still Lag: Report

Jody Brannon | February 25, 2013

The U.S. high school graduation rate of 78.2 percent climbed 6.5 percentage points between 2006 and 2010, but the rates for Hispanics and blacks stands at 71.4 and 66.1 percent respectively.

Republicans Say They Have Almost Even Odds of Taking Control of the Senate

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | February 21, 2013

How likely are the Democrats to take over the House in 2014? Political Insiders weigh in.

Florida Governor's Embrace of Medicaid Money Undercuts GOP Attacks on 'Obamacare'

Beth Reinhard and Margot Sanger-Katz | February 21, 2013

Republicans who seemed united against "Obamacare" just two years ago suddenly find some prominent party leaders taking a different tack.

What Unites Obama's Coalition — and What Could Divide It

Ronald Brownstein | February 21, 2013

One conclusion that jumps from the Pew Research Center/USA Today national survey released Thursday is that the coalition that reelected President Obama last fall remains in step behind him — and is largely unified behind the key elements of his increasingly aggressive second-term agenda. But the poll also suggests that failure to generate more-rapid economic recovery could nonetheless strain the powerful coalition Obama has assembled.

6 Questions to Pose to Immigration Reformers

Matthew Cooper | February 21, 2013

With Congress still trying to hammer out an immigration reform bill, here are six questions worth thinking about:

6 Questions for the Immigration Reformers

Matthew Cooper | February 21, 2013

From border security to H1-B visas, much needs to be answered in the looming immigration debate.

Obama Legacy on Immigration Reform Tied to Rubio, His Frenemy

Beth Reinhard | February 20, 2013

President Obama and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, arguably the two most important people in a potential immigration deal, aren’t exactly pals.

Can Obama and Rubio Be Immigration Frenemies?

Beth Reinhard | February 19, 2013

President Obama and Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, arguably the two most important people in a potential immigration deal, aren’t exactly pals.

'Most Liberal' Label Probably Won't Hurt Sen. Tom Udall

Scott Bland | February 19, 2013

With New Mexico voters shifting to the left, his 90.7 percent composite liberal score for 2012 will likely have little effect on his reelection bid next year.

The Hidden Obstacles to Legal Immigration Reform

Major Garrett | February 19, 2013

If you think questions of legalization, border security, and fundamental party politics are the biggest obstacles to immigration reform, think again.

Drink It Up: Rubio's Response Earns a 'B' From GOP Insiders

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | February 17, 2013

There's been a low bar for the opposition response to the State of the Union in recent years. By that standard, Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., got a passing grade from both Democratic and Republican strategists in the latest National Journal Political Insiders poll. Sixty-three percent of Democratic insiders gave Rubio's response to President Obama's address a passing grade, compared to 92 percent of Republican insiders. What grade would you give Sen. Marco Rubio's response to the State of the Union? Democrats (87 votes) Republicans (78 votes) A 0% 21% B 18% 51% C 45% 21% D 31% 8% F 6% 0%

Can Marco Rubio Live Up to the Hype?

Beth Reinhard and Scott Bland contributed | February 14, 2013

He's the GOP's Barack Obama, a fresh-faced politician with an immigrant name, a playlist full of rap, and a collection of fawning press clips. The challenge: He's selling the same old party message.

We'll Give You That Visa if We Can Keep Our Assault Weapons

Tim Alberta | February 14, 2013

House conservatives craft a message that allows them to get behind an immigration overhaul but block White House efforts to further regulate guns.

GOP Insiders Give Obama's State of the Union a Solid C

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | February 14, 2013

Democratic Insiders give Sen. Marco Rubio's response Tuesday night the same grade.

Video: Inside This Week's Cover Story

National Journal Staff | February 14, 2013

{{ BIZOBJ (video: 4224) }} In a Wall Street Journal article titled, “Marco Rubio: Riding to the Immigration Rescue,” Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., laid out the sketch of a bipartisan immigration reform platform. The article came as a surprise to the bipartisan group of senators who had been wo...

Traditional Federal College Aid Needs Overhaul, Education Group Says

Doris Nhan | February 14, 2013

The rapid growth of the Hispanic population, among minorities needing better access to higher education, leads an advocacy group to suggest that the federal financial-aid structure is outdated.

Why GOP Sees a Conspiracy As Environmental Groups Join Fight Against Immigration

Fawn Johnson | February 13, 2013

Groups opposing proposals to legalize undocumented immigrants receive grant money from environmentalist population-control groups. It’s not a secret. You can find the evidence right there on the foundation websites. The immigration groups don’t deny it either.

In GOP Shift, Rubio Shows Power of Español

Beth Reinhard | February 13, 2013

By delivering the Republican response to the State of the Union speech in Spanish, Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., on Tuesday broke through an increasingly powerful language barrier between the political establishment and the nation’s fastest-growing demographic.

Is Gabriel Gomez the Next Scott Brown?

Elahe Izadi | February 13, 2013

Republicans getting behind political outsider, ex-Navy SEAL and businessman Gabriel Gomez.

In Dueling Addresses, Marco Rubio and President Obama Use Words You Wouldn't Expect

Matt Berman and Sarah Hall | February 12, 2013

Here are the word clouds for tonight's two big addresses: President Obama's State of the Union speech and Sen. Marco Rubio's response. Notice anything, uh, unexpected?

In a Shift for GOP, Marco Rubio Demonstrates the Power of Spanish

Beth Reinhard and George Condon contributed | February 12, 2013

By delivering the Republican response to the State of the Union speech in Spanish, Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., on Tuesday broke through an increasingly powerful language barrier between the political establishment and the nation’s fastest-growing demographic.

ABC-Univision Hopes to 'Fuse' With U.S. Hispanics

Jody Brannon | February 12, 2013

ABC and Univision hope to fuse with English-speaking Hispanics on its forthcoming 24-hour news and entertainment channel, aptly called Fusion, the companies announced Monday.

Marco Rubio's State of the Union Rebuttal May Be a Tall Order

George E. Condon Jr. | February 12, 2013

Given the sorry history of partisan rebuttals of presidential remarks, he just might want to reconsider.

Why Rand Paul Is Marco Rubio's Biggest Political Threat

Michael Catalini | February 12, 2013

Paul is acting like he’s already preparing a future presidential campaign, courting activists from early-primary states, smoothing out his positions on foreign policy, and delivering a high-profile national address, competing against a potential future GOP rival, Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida.

¿GOP en Español? Not So Fast

Ben Terris | February 11, 2013

While the House Republican Conference tries to court some voters in Spanish, some of their own are fighting the effort.

What Mike Coffman's Switch Means (and Doesn't Mean) for Immigration Reform

Scott Bland | February 11, 2013

Rep. Mike Coffman, R-Colo., has evolved on immigration, he announced during a town hall meeting in his district Sunday. The man who replaced noted immigration hawk Tom Tancredo in Congress says he now favors a pathway to legal status for immigrants in the country illegally, plus a pathway to citizen...

Insiders Rate Jobs, Immigration, Deficit As Top Priorities

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | February 9, 2013

Despite the storied paralysis in Washington, Democratic and Republican Insiders came to a rare moment of consensus this week on what priorities should top their parties' agendas this year. What two issues should be the top priorities for your party this year? Democrats (107 votes) Republicans (94 votes) Deficit reduction 21% 54% Energy 7% 7% Guns 14% 3% Immigration 64% 50% Jobs 66% 57% Tax reform 21% 24%

Obama Reelection Push Ratcheted Its Wooing of Hispanics

Charlie Cook | February 8, 2013

Overwhelming Hispanic support for President Obama was hardly preordained in 2012. He had to work hard for their votes.

New Poll Shows Hillary Clinton, Marco Rubio More Popular Than Obama

Michael Catalini | February 8, 2013

Hillary Rodham Clinton is the most popular American politician, while John Boehner is the least, according to a new Quinnipiac poll.

Poll: Christie Approval Remains High, But Not on the Economy

Dan Roem | February 7, 2013

Just over two weeks after a Quinnipac University poll pegged New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's job approval rating at 74 percent, a new Rutgers-Eagleton poll reaffirmed that rating by giving the Republican a virtually identical approval mark of 73 percent. The leading Democratic challenger in the Nov...

There’s No Such Thing as Political Capital

Michael Hirsh | February 7, 2013

The idea of political capital—or mandates, or momentum—is so poorly defined that presidents and pundits often get it wrong. With Obama’s State of the Union upon us, it’s time to rethink the term.

Why Ted Cruz Will Not Be Quiet

Shane Goldmacher and Rebeca Kaplan contributed | February 7, 2013

The junior senator from Texas does not plan to wait patiently through his apprenticeship.

Topping Insiders' Priority Lists: Immigration, Jobs, and Deficit Reduction

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | February 7, 2013

Plus: Political Insiders speculate on which party will be blamed if the sequester takes effect.

Why the GOP's Resistance to Medicaid Expansion Is Eroding

Ronald Brownstein | February 7, 2013

Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer wants her state to join the expansion, key to Obama's health care reform. Will other Republican governors follow suit?

Where USA's Most Prominent Latina Politician Stands on Immigration Reform

Beth Reinhard | February 7, 2013

New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez is one of the Republican Party’s most prized ambassadors. She is female and Hispanic at a time when recruiting candidates like her is at the top of the Republican agenda.

What the Most Prominent Latina in the U.S. Thinks About Immigration Reform

Beth Reinhard | February 7, 2013

Susana Martinez is one of the most popular governors in the country, but she doesn't entirely agree with Marco Rubio on immigration.

5 Ways Marco Rubio Is Not Your Grandfather’s Republican

Elahe Izadi | February 6, 2013

The biggest reason Marco Rubio stands out in the Republican party: He's culturally hip.

Young Immigrants Take Baby Steps Toward Legalization, Fulfilling American Dream

Keegan Hamilton - The Atlantic | February 5, 2013

They can get temporary work permits and even go to college. But it may be a while before the children of undocumented workers can make real lives for themselves in America.

Opinion: We Need to End Our 'Natural Experiment' With Undocumented Children

Robert Courtney Smith | February 4, 2013

America and Congress now face a stark choice on immigration -- whether to continue the tragic “natural experiment” with a generation of children of immigrants, or to embark on a more inclusionary project that reflects American values.

GOP Senator: Super Bowl Blackout Could Add Momentum to Energy Policy

Amy Harder | February 4, 2013

The Super Bowl blackout could provide the momentum for energy policy like the Hispanic vote has done for immigration reform, according to Senate Energy and Natural Resources Ranking Member Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska.

Bush's Immigration Failure Offers Obama a Lesson

Ronald Brownstein | February 4, 2013

The failed 2006 effort to revamp laws serves as a cautionary tale for the current push.

With New Support Base, Obama Doesn't Need Right-Leaning Whites Anymore

Ronald Brownstein | February 1, 2013

For decades, Democrats shaped their policies around fears of the culturally conservative white voters to the GOP. But Obama’s winning coalition has altered that calculus.

Why Obama Is Giving Up on Right-Leaning Whites

Ronald Brownstein | January 31, 2013

For decades, Democrats shaped their policies around fears of losing right-leaning white voters to the GOP. But Obama’s winning coalition has altered that calculus.

Insiders: Immigration Reform Likely to Pass Congress

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | January 31, 2013

They’re divided over what the Republican Party needs to do to improve its standing.

On Immigration, What Obama Can Learn From Bush's Failed Efforts

Ronald Brownstein | January 31, 2013

The failed 2006 effort to revamp immigration laws serves as a cautionary tale for the current push.

Lindsey Graham: An Immigration-Reform Survivor

Elahe Izadi and Fawn Johnson | January 31, 2013

Graham's bipartisan bona fides aren't (yet) hurting him in a primary back home.

Why Tackling Immigration Reform Won't Close the Rift Between the GOP and Hispanics

Michael Catalini | January 30, 2013

Hispanic resistance to Republicans is rooted in the GOP’s skeptical view of government.

A Less Obvious Reason Why GOP Should Cave on Obama’s Immigration Plan: It’s Conservative

Ron Fournier | January 30, 2013

Citing American exceptionalism and economic necessity, Obama echoes Reagan and Rubio in his push for conditional amnesty.

Minority Students Are Saddled by School Loan Debt

Rosa Ramirez | January 30, 2013

By the time Krystina Martinez transferred to her third college, she knew all the questions to ask about financial aid, student loans, grants, and scholarships to help pay for her undergraduate degree in communications. An experience five years earlier had left her burdened by debt and no degree to show for it.

Crime and Punishment

Major Garrett | January 30, 2013

The Senate’s main struggle with immigration reform will be making the punishment fit the crime.

Taming the Tea Party on Immigration

Fawn Johnson | January 30, 2013

Tea party conservatives are not going to throw themselves on their swords over immigration. The ruby-red conservatives want to wait and see.

Why Immigration Reform Won't Cure the GOP's Struggles with Hispanics

Michael Catalini | January 30, 2013

Hispanic resistance to Republicans isn't just about immigration — it's rooted in the GOP’s skeptical view of government.

Conservative Group Recommends How to Be ‘Tonally Sensitive’ On Immigration

Elahe Izadi | January 29, 2013

Want to be sensitive? Try avoiding terms like "anchor baby," "aliens" and "illegals."

How Two Violent Crimes Eclipsed the Facts About Illegal Immigration for One House Member

Ben Terris | January 29, 2013

Rep. Lou Barletta rose to prominence fighting illegal immigration. And he's not changing his mind on the issue anytime soon.

Obama Won't Issue Ultimatums on Immigration

January 29, 2013

CongressWhite HouseNational SecurityPoliticsEnergyEconomy & BudgetHealth Care TOP FIVE OBAMA WON’T ISSUE ULTIMATUMS ON IMMIGRATION. President Obama will make no ultimatums when he heads to Las Vegas to unveil his immigration proposal today, other than to insist that any legislation be comp...

For Heritage, A Squad of ‘Sentinels’ That Are Mostly White Men

Shane Goldmacher | January 28, 2013

The staunchest defenders of the conservative Heritage agenda are overwhelmingly white and male.

GOP Senator: We Are the Party of the 47 Percent

Michael Catalini | January 26, 2013

Freshman Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas on Saturday chided the GOP over its 2012 electoral losses, saying "Republicans are and should be the party of the 47 percent," a clear allusion to the remarks caught on video by presidential candidate Mitt Romney during the campaign.

Could One of the Senate's Few Hispanics Lead the GOP Push Against Immigration?

Shane Goldmacher | January 25, 2013

As a group of conservative GOP lawmakers and activists gathered behind closed doors to talk strategy ahead of the coming immigration battle with President Obama, one intriguing face was in the crowd: Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas. Will he join them?

Republican Leaders Have Obama Campaign Envy

Beth Reinhard | January 25, 2013

For all the grumbling about President Obama at this week's gathering of Republican Party leaders, they're eager to copy his campaign's 2012 strategy.

A 12-Step Program for the Republican Party

Tim Alberta and Jim O'Sullivan | January 24, 2013

The GOP has finally admitted it has a problem winning over voters. Here’s a 12-step program to get the party back on track.

The Waxman-Berman Machine Finally Shuts Down

Shane Goldmacher | January 24, 2013

For more than two decades in Southern California, if you wanted to run for office, you had to deal with the team of Howard Berman and Henry Waxman. That era is officially over with Berman’s loss last fall.

Majority of Americans Favor Path to Citizenship for Illegal Immigrants

Doris Nhan | January 24, 2013

Comprehensive immigration reform. It's the buzzword won't ever go away, and the one policy item that many expect to be at the top of President Obama's second-term agenda.

Is the GOP Moving to the Center? Or Just Getting Sane?

Ron Fournier | January 24, 2013

Capitulation on debt ceiling and immigration suggests the GOP is eying vacuum created by left-leaning White House.

How California's Budget Crisis Colors Minorities' College Hopes

Stephanie Czekalinski | January 22, 2013

Changes to California's public universities will affect a large number of students of color.

Why the GOP's Faith in Older, White Voters Won't Hold Out for Much Longer

Charlie Cook | January 18, 2013

The GOP's strength is older white voters. But to win elections, it needs to appeal to youth and minorities.

How the Democrats Are Taking Over California

Ronald Brownstein and Stephanie Czekalinski contributed | January 18, 2013

Demographic shifts and coastal liberalism have given huge power to Democrats. They control the state – but there's restlessness on the left.

Second-Term Exodus Leaves Zero Hispanics in Cabinet, Few on Dems' Bench

Jill Lawrence | January 18, 2013

The Obama administration is sorely in need of binders full of Latinos.

Why the Democrats Are Golden in California

Ronald Brownstein and Stephanie Czekalinski contributed | January 17, 2013

Demographic shifts and coastal liberalism have given huge power to Democrats. They control the state – but there's restlessness on the left.

Will Obama Really Fight for Judicial Nominees?

James Oliphant | January 17, 2013

So far, he hasn’t. If he wants them to win confirmation, he’ll have to spend some capital.

How Mini-Cliffs Could Ruin Obama's Second Term

Jim O'Sullivan | January 17, 2013

The GOP strategy to keep the focus on budget issues might thwart action on energy, immigration, and guns.

Expect Obama to Be More Aggressive in His Second Term

Ronald Brownstein | January 16, 2013

Obama's forceful moves on controversial fronts represent a calculated gamble that the evolution of the U.S. electorate has reached a critical tipping point.

The Inaugural Poet—a Gay Cuban-American Named After Nixon—Finds Inspiration in His Identity

Christopher Snow Hopkins | January 16, 2013

Like President Obama, poet Richard Blanco has been tormented by questions of race and identity.

Disparity Among First- and Second-Generation Immigrants in STEM Degrees

Rosa Ramirez | January 15, 2013

Latino and Asian immigrants and their U.S.-born offspring are studying in areas deemed critical—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—at different rates.

Immigration Plan Fuels Rubio's Prospects

Beth Reinhard | January 15, 2013

Florida Sen. Marco Rubio’s newly unveiled proposal for sweeping immigration reform could be a turning point for the Republican Party that’s been swimming against the demographic tide and subsequently drowning at the polls.

Rubio Tries to Outduel Obama on Immigration

Beth Reinhard | January 15, 2013

Florida Sen. Marco Rubio’s newly unveiled proposal for sweeping immigration reform looms as a daunting leadership test for a freshman member of Congress on the fast track to the 2016 presidential campaign.

Is There Truly a Path to Major Immigration Reform?

Fawn Johnson | January 14, 2013

President Obama is moving full speed ahead on a broad immigration proposal that Congress will debate in the coming months.

How a Big Immigration Bill Could Actually Pass

Fawn Johnson | January 14, 2013

President Obama is proceeding full speed ahead on a broad immigration proposal that Congress will debate in the coming months. The plan from the White House will be comprehensive, seeking a path to citizenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants, creating new temporary-visa programs for low-skilled foreign workers when American workers aren’t available, mandating electronic verification of all new hires, and giving more green cards to foreign math and science graduates at U.S. universities.

Q&A: Why Immigration Reform Is Key to the GOP's Survival

Beth Reinhard | January 11, 2013

Carlos Gutierrez, former Commerce secretary, sees dangers in Republicans taking a "piecemeal" approach to legalization.

Carlos Gutierrez: GOP Needs Immigration Reform to Survive

Beth Reinhard | January 10, 2013

Carlos Gutierrez says the GOP needs immigration reform to survive.

Political Insiders: Republicans Divided on How to Address Gay Marriage

Alex Roarty and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | January 10, 2013

Plus, Democrats aren't sold that Chuck Hagel is President Obama's best choice for Defense secretary.

It's Not Just Partisanship That Divides Congress

Ronald Brownstein and Scott Bland | January 10, 2013

The same demographic trends that helped Republicans keep the House will hurt their shot at the presidency. And the trends that propelled Obama to reelection will impede Democrats from retaking the House.

The Republican Identity Crisis

Josh Kraushaar | January 9, 2013

The Republican Party could very well split into two by the 2016 presidential election, if it can't figure out what it stands for.

Internal GOP Politics Contributing to Growing N.Y. Mayoral Field

Steven Shepard | January 7, 2013

New York Republicans had hoped that a contentious Democratic primary would give their nominee an advantage in this year's mayoral race. But the GOP field is getting more crowded and rivalrous by the day. The city's five county Republican chairs were divided between billionaire John Castimatidis and...

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | January 4, 2013

On the heels of a fiscal cliff deal, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell will head to Meet the Press, Face the Nation and This Week to discuss the deal. He'll also talk about the upcoming challenges to the new Congress. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi will be on Face the Nation talking about...

Hispanics, Administration Sets Sights on Next Immigration Fight

Fawn Johnson | January 3, 2013

Like everyone else, the Hispanic community breathed a sigh of relief when the House passed legislation late on Tuesday to avert a tax increase for households making less than $450,000. Latinos are now bracing for the next stage of the fight on spending, hoping to protect government investments in workers, education, and infrastructure.

Paul Ryan vs. Marco Rubio: The Politics of the Cliff Vote

Beth Reinhard | January 3, 2013

In pursuing contrasting approaches on the fiscal-cliff compromise, Paul Ryan and Marco Rubio are laying different bets for what the political landscape will look like in 2016. Rubio is betting the tea party base will still be alive and well in four years, while Ryan believes that working from within to shape criitical legislation on spending and entitlement reform in a conservative manner is the path to political success.

Opinion: Mexican-American Kids Have Better Social Skills, Misunderstood by Institution

Bruce Fuller and Claudia Galindo and Alma Guerrero | January 2, 2013

Turns out that a rather conservative upbringing – mixed with ample affection – yields kids who enter school with remarkable social agility and emotional maturity, according to a study, tracking more than 4,700 young children nationwide, published in December.

Study: Blacks and Latinos Take Longer to Complete STEM Doctoral Degrees

Rosa Ramirez | January 2, 2013

African-American and Hispanic students typically take more time to earn a doctoral degree in science, technology, engineering, and math than nonminorities, delaying the time these groups enter the workforce and potentially costing them future earnings.

President Obama’s 5 New Year's Resolutions

Sophie Quinton | December 31, 2012

President Obama may have won four more years in the White House, but he has a narrower window of opportunity to act on a domestic policy agenda. Here’s a list of five New Year's resolutions that Obama will have on his To Do list for 2013.

Republicans Turn to An Unlikely Name for Inspiration: George W. Bush

Beth Reinhard | December 26, 2012

As Republicans reassess their future in the presidential wilderness, seeking a message and messenger to resonate with a new generation of voters, one unlikely name has popped up as a role model: former President George W. Bush.

Ex-NRCC Polling Director: Embrace Robo-Polls

Steven Shepard | December 19, 2012

Brock McCleary, the former deputy political and polling director of the National Republican Congressional Committee, has a message for media outlets that do not report the results of automated polls -- a list that includes The New York Times, ABC News, NBC News, and, yes, National Journal and Hotlin...

Incumbent Debate Curse: Barack Obama Falls to Mitt Romney

Ron Fournier | October 3, 2012

Call it the curse of incumbency. Like many of his predecessors, President Obama fell victim Wednesday night to high expectations, a short fuse, and a hungry challenger.

Hispanics: U.S. Demographic Snapshot

Stephanie Czekalinski | May 8, 2012

The handy demographic snapshot on the Hispanic community in the United States.

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