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Inside the Cover: The Cabal That Quietly Took Over the House

National Journal Staff | May 24, 2013

In this week's National Journal cover story, Tim Alberta looks at the cabal that has taken over the House of Representatives. In this video, get inside the story with the author himself.

The Cabal That Quietly Took Over the House

Tim Alberta | May 23, 2013

For 40 years, the Republican Study Committee has prized ideological purity over partisan loyalty. That mindset now dominates the GOP.

How the GOP Will Keep Stirring the Scandal Stew Over Recess

Chris Frates | May 23, 2013

Congressional Republicans head into next week’s Memorial Day recess armed with a strategy designed to keep the controversies that have consumed Washington in the news back home.

Republican Blueprint for 2014? Scandal, Most of the Time

Alex Roarty | May 23, 2013

Republicans are downplaying the need to retool the party, anticipating Obama's second-term struggles.

House Immigration 'Gang' Struggles, GOP Hints at Republican Bill

Rebecca Kaplan and Chris Frates contributed | May 23, 2013

As the House group struggling to write a bipartisan immigration bill huddled in the Capitol, Republican leadership indicated its wait-and-see approach was over. They'll consider legislation, but it won't be the Senate bill, and no matter what the House gang does, the bill will run through a largely conservative Judiciary Committee.

Play of the Day: Yes, the IRS Did Miss an Important Filing Deadline

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 23, 2013

Fast forward to 4:00 to see the irony in the IRS' problems with deadlines.

Parties Push For House Retirements

Reid Wilson | May 23, 2013

Exploring the tactics party committees use to pressure vulnerable members of Congress to retire.

Ted Cruz's Path From George W. Bush Adviser to Immigration Reform Opponent

Beth Reinhard | May 23, 2013

Republican critics scoff at Cruz's opposition to a pathway to citizenship.

GOP’s Switch on Financial Disclosure Wins Gold Medal in Hypocrisy Olympics

Norm Ornstein | May 22, 2013

First, let me be clear: There has been political intimidation of the Internal Revenue Service and other government agencies for partisan purposes.

First Hurdle Cleared in Immigration, but Bigger Ones Remain

Fawn Johnson | May 21, 2013

The Senate Judiciary Committee approves a bill that would give 11 million undocumented immigrants a path to citizenship and require employers to electronically verify all new hires.

Republicans Are Watching Their Rhetoric on Obama Scandals

Michael Catalini | May 20, 2013

It's more likely to hear Nixon comparisons from Bob Woodward or Bob Schieffer than GOP leaders.

Obama's Troubles Could Put Massachusetts Senate Seat In Play -- Again

Alex Roarty | May 19, 2013

In 2010, Republicans won a special election during a low point of Obama's presidency. Will it happen again?

Bipartisanship on Water Projects in Senate Spurred by Freedom to Fish Act

Amy Harder | May 19, 2013

The senior energy aide to Mitch McConnell, the Senate Republican leader from the coal state of Kentucky, was praised last week by one of the Senate’s top environmentalists, Environment and Public Works Chairwoman Barbara Boxer, D-Calif. The compliment seems unusual amid the hyper-partisanship that’s now the norm in Washington, but when put into context it makes sense.

More Scrutiny Ahead for the IRS

Nancy Cook | May 19, 2013

Think the Internal Revenue Service scandal will fade away in time for summer? That may be wishful thinking on the part of the White House and congressional Democrats, who are poised to endure another week of congressional hearings in both the House and Senate.

House Republicans Say They Can Legislate and Investigate at the Same Time

Tim Alberta | May 19, 2013

House Republicans are pushing back against a prominent conservative group’s suggestion that congressional leaders should avoid scheduling potentially divisive votes which could shift the media spotlight away from the White House’s recent woes.

The Importance of Being Orrin

Rebecca Kaplan | May 16, 2013

Immigration-reform advocates desperately hope to win over Hatch, the senior senator from Utah. For now, he’s playing coy.

The GOP Energy Tent Is Slowly Getting Bigger

Coral Davenport | May 16, 2013

House members like Rep. Kevin McCarthy are still avid fossil-fuel proponents, but they’ve begun to advocate for renewables, too.

Senate Confirms Energy Secretary, Stalls on EPA and Labor Nominees

Amy Harder | May 16, 2013

The Senate unanimously confirmed Obama’s choice for Energy but nominees for EPA administrator and Labor secretary are still on hold.

How the White House Scandals Could Hurt Republicans, Too

Ronald Brownstein | May 16, 2013

By enraging the base and strengthening the faction least willing to compromise with Obama, the IRS and Benghazi affairs could hurt a GOP shot at the presidency.

Eric Cantor’s Caucus Thwarts His Push for an Alternative Agenda

Norm Ornstein | May 16, 2013

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor has learned, to his chagrin, that solving problems, much less finding compromises, is not on the agenda of a majority of his House Republican colleagues.

Scandals Tailor-Made For GOP Base

Reid Wilson | May 16, 2013

George W. Bush lost control of Congress when voters lost trust of his ability to manage government. Obama faces the same threat in 2014.

Next Stops for Farm Bill: Senate and House Floors

Jerry Hagstrom | May 15, 2013

The House Agriculture Committee prides itself on bipartisanship, but when the panel met Wednesday to consider a new farm bill, the deep cultural divides between its Republican majority and Democratic minority members were in full relief.

Under Pressure, the White House Releases More Than 100 Pages of Benghazi E-Mails

George E. Condon Jr. | May 15, 2013

The White House, in an effort to calm the swirl of controversy about the reaction to last year’s attacks on U.S. diplomats in Benghazi, Libya, late Wednesday released more than 100 pages of e-mails leading to the development of talking points that attempted to explain the violence that left four Americans dead. The e-mails had earlier been shown to members of Congress but the White House had resisted releasing them, citing the precedent of protecting internal discussions within an administration.

Eric Cantor’s Caucus Thwarts His Push for an Alternative Agenda

Norm Ornstein | May 15, 2013

Readers of It’s Even Worse Than It Looks know that I have not always treated House Majority Leader Eric Cantor kindly. I have excoriated him for engineering the debt-ceiling crisis in 2011 as a hostage-taking exercise, and then blowing up the talks between President Obama and House Speaker John Boehner that could have led to a grand bargain. Cantor himself recently took credit for the latter in a profile written by Ryan Lizza in The New Yorker. He told Lizza “that it was a ‘fair assessment’ that he talked Boehner out of accepting Obama’s deal. He said he told Boehner that it would be better, instead, to take the issues of taxes and spending to the voters and ‘have it out’ with the Democrats in the election. Why give Obama an enormous political victory, and potentially help him win reelection, when they might be able to negotiate a more favorable deal with a new Republican president? Boehner told Obama there was no deal. Instead of a grand bargain, Cantor and the House Republicans made a grand bet.”

For Abercrombie, Senate Primary Is a Chance to Make His Mark

Scott Bland | May 15, 2013

Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, D-Hawaii, may not be running for governor of her state, but she's still running against Gov. Neil Abercrombie as she gears up for a 2014 Senate primary. Nothing official has been worked out yet, but Democratic Sen. Brian Schatz will be able to count on strong support from th...

How the Ongoing Scandals Might Actually Aid Bipartisanship on Immigration Reform

Rebecca Kaplan | May 15, 2013

If Republicans assume a hyper-partisan stance on IRS, DOJ, and Benghazi, they may have room to act in a bipartisan manner when it comes to immigration.

Eric Holder in the Hot Seat as Congress Probes Scandals

Rebecca Kaplan and Kristin Roberts | May 15, 2013

The Attorney General is on Capitol Hill on today for a show of fireworks that could be unlike any seen in this Congress so far.

Democrats See the IRS Scandal as the Most Toxic

Shane Goldmacher | May 14, 2013

In triage mode, Congressional Democrats want to treat (and separate themselves from) the trio of this week's scandals one-by-one.

Senate Agriculture Committee Plows Forward on Farm Bill

Jerry Hagstrom | May 14, 2013

The Senate Agriculture Committee on Tuesday approved a five-year farm bill that reveals a new consensus on crop and nutrition policy, but it emerged over the objections of three Republican senators from the Plains—Pat Roberts of Kansas, Mike Johanns of Nebraska, and John Thune of South Dakota—who offered amendments on food stamps and commodities that a majority of the panel rejected.

Democrats in Triage Mode on White House Scandals

Shane Goldmacher | May 14, 2013

Congressional Democrats – knowing the fate of a progressive agenda and their own priorities lie with the continued political strength of the White House – hope to treat the emerging scandals independently.

How Can Conservatives Win Over Young Voters? Go For Their Guts.

Ben Terris | May 14, 2013

It's a lot easier to get young voters to care about government overreach if you're talking about food trucks.

Graphic: Five Things to Watch in the Farm Bill

Jerry Hagstrom and Joey Carolino | May 13, 2013

This week, the Senate and House Agriculture committees will each mark up a new five-year farm bill that would cover farm and nutrition policy through 2018. The Senate markup will be Tuesday,and the House’s markup will be the next day. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., proposes to cut $23 billion over 10 years from a bill that costs close to $1 trillion, while House Agriculture Committee Chairman Frank Lucas, R-Okla., proposes to cut almost $40 billion.

5 Questions About That Obama IRS Mess

Nancy Cook | May 13, 2013

Here's what you need to know about the alleged targeting of conservative groups' tax status.

Obama's Outrage Focused on Republicans More Than IRS

George E. Condon Jr. | May 13, 2013

At press briefing with British Prime Minister David Cameron, Obama slams Benghazi investigation as partisan.

'Obamacare' Repeal: Will the 37th Time Be the Charm?

Billy House and Nancy Cook and Coral Davenport and Fawn Johnson and Sara Sorcher and and George E. Condon Jr. contributed | May 12, 2013

With tensions over fiscal issues building, and the three-month suspension of the nation’s debt limit set to expire Sunday, lawmakers this week will be rehashing on the House floor their messaging war over repealing President Obama’s three-year-old health care law.

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.

What Jay Carney Could Have Said About Benghazi and Those IRS Probes

George E. Condon Jr. | May 11, 2013

It is never a good week for a president when twice in seven days the political opposition is trying to liken your administration to that of Richard M. Nixon.

Some Republicans Don’t Believe Austerity Is Enough

Nancy Cook | May 9, 2013

Strategists and wonks are urging House leaders to refocus their economic message on ideas that the middle class actually care about.

If Democrats Can’t Beat a Confessed Adulterer, What Chance Do They Have?

Alex Roarty | May 9, 2013

Mark Sanford’s win in South Carolina shows how difficult it will be for liberals to reclaim control of the House.

Why Obama Can Ignore the House of Representatives

Shane Goldmacher | May 9, 2013

By courting senators and shaping public opinion, the president thinks he can pressure lower-chamber Republicans to accept bipartisan compromises.

Overhauling the Tax Code With 'Max and Dave'

Nancy Cook | May 9, 2013

Max Baucus and Dave Camp, Congress's top tax-writers, are taking their message to the Internet in hopes of building public support for their efforts.

Can Bipartisan Cooperation Save Us From Stalemate?

Ronald Brownstein | May 9, 2013

Polarization and the breakdown of the committee system have helped spawn the “Gang of Eight” and its cousins.

GOP Forces Gridlock Over Obama’s Nominees for EPA, Labor

Amy Harder | May 9, 2013

Senate Republicans are forcing partisan debates about the role of the executive branch and its commitment to transparency by blocking the confirmation of two of President Obama’s nominees to top positions within his administration.

The Quiet Charm Offensive of Obama Chief of Staff Denis McDonough

Shane Goldmacher | May 9, 2013

For an administration that has had a hard time creating and maintaining relationships on Capitol Hill, President Obama's new chief of staff, Denis McDonough, has emerged as a bridge builder early in the administration’s second term.

Senate Democrats Starting On The Defensive

Michael Catalini | May 8, 2013

Facing a difficult landscape in 2014, Democrats having trouble recruiting for Republican-held seats.

The Myth of Presidential Leadership

Norm Ornstein | May 8, 2013

It is past time to abandon selective history and wishful thinking, and realize the inherent limits of presidential power.

The Myth of Presidential Leadership

Norm Ornstein | May 8, 2013

It is past time to abandon selective history and wishful thinking, and realize the inherent limits of presidential power.

The Budget Debate in 6 Simple Graphics

Niraj Chokshi | May 8, 2013

There are hundreds of ways to slice up the budget, but some of the simplest come from the Congressional Budget Office.

Mark Sanford's Sex Scandal Survival Guide

Beth Reinhard | May 7, 2013

The former governor violated all the rules of political comebacks, but he won a solidly-Republican seat anyway.

With a Special Election Win, Mark Sanford Completes His Comeback

Alex Roarty | May 7, 2013

Overcoming the disgrace of a bizarre extramarital affair while he was governor of South Carolina, former Rep. Mark Sanford reclaimed a seat in Congress on Tuesday by winning a special election over Democrat Elizabeth Colbert Busch.

Obama to Host Dinner for Top House Democrats

Shane Goldmacher | May 7, 2013

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Why South Carolina’s Election Could Matter More to Democrats

Alex Roarty | May 7, 2013

My, how things have changed. Tonight’s special election between Mark Sanford and Elizabeth Colbert Busch is a pure toss-up, and it’s not just the campaign’s competitiveness that’s unexpected. It’s that despite the district's heavy Republican lean, Democrats somehow have more to lose. Demo...

Debt-Ceiling Fight May Flare This Week

Billy House and George E. Condon Jr. and Nancy Cook and Amy Harder and Fawn Johnson and Margot Sanger-Katz and and Sara Sorcher contributed | May 5, 2013

House Republicans will push action on a bill signaling no retreat from their demand for spending cuts as a condition to any ceiling hike.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | May 3, 2013

This week the Sunday shows are focusing on Syria and the continuing investigation on the Boston Marathon Bombing. The specter of immigration reform will also have a role in the programming. Rep. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., who hasn't ruled out a bid against Sen. Mark Pryor, D-Ark., in 2014, will be on Meet...

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.

After the Obama Administration's Morning-After Pill Decision

Margot Sanger-Katz | May 2, 2013

President Obama has made a series of speeches in recent weeks, delighting scientists who work on controversial areas of research and advocates for reproductive and abortion rights.

Meet the Yahoo Caucus

Norm Ornstein | May 1, 2013

Congress is filled with informal caucuses, from the Black Caucus to the Wine Caucus. I have a new one to propose, which might be among the largest: the Yahoo Caucus.

Why Isn't Boehner a Target in Congressional Elections?

Billy House | May 1, 2013

Democrats haven't gotten around to demonizing the House speaker the way Republicans have with Nancy Pelosi.

Is Obama's Legacy Great Leadership or Bad Breaks? Check the Sports Pages

Ron Fournier | May 1, 2013

An old baseball adage applies to the president: 'The great ones play above the breaks.'

Rahall Won't Run For Senate

Sarah Mimms | April 30, 2013

Rep. Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., will soon announce he is running for a 20th term in the House, taking a pass on the race to replace retiring Democratic Sen. Jay Rockefeller, according to a statement obtained by Hotline On Call. "With U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller retiring at the end of this term, it is m...

Obama Channels Clinton’s Worst Day in Office, Raises Doubts About Relevancy

Ron Fournier | April 30, 2013

Like Clinton in April 1995, Obama struggles against forces out of his control.

What the Energy Panel Would Look Like Under Chairwoman Landrieu

Amy Harder | April 29, 2013

If Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La., takes over the gavel of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee next Congress, she is in a prime spot to lead on an issue that’s critically important to her state.

Ed Markey Will Face Gabriel Gomez in Massachusetts Senate Race

Alex Roarty | April 29, 2013

Markey, who has served in Congress since 1976, is the favorite to serve as the state's junior senator.

Connecticut Lawmakers Back 'Coltsville' Park at Firearms Site Near Newtown

Billy House | April 28, 2013

Members of Connecticut’s congressional delegation are supporting a plan to create a national park out of the historic Colt firearms manufacturing plant in Hartford, just 50 miles from the site of the Newtown shooting.

Landrieu Primed to Lead Energy Panel – If She Wins Reelection

Amy Harder | April 28, 2013

A domino effect prompted by Max Baucus’s coming retirement leaves her poised to chair what is arguably the most important committee to energy-rich Louisiana.

Obama and O'Brien Cast Their Versions of D.C. White House Correspondents' Dinner

Esther Zuckerman - The Atlantic Wire | April 27, 2013

Both President Barack Obama and Conan O'Brien decided to cast Hollywood versions of D.C. at the White House Correspondents' Dinner this year. Obama's version was directed by Steven Spielberg, O'Brien's starred "Tan Mom" as John Boehner.

FAA Furloughs to End, but Who Is to Blame for All the Flight Delays?

Billy House | April 26, 2013

The House gave final approval Friday to a bill designed to end the furloughs of air-traffic controllers, but not before a partisan floor fight over who is to blame for the thousands of flight delays this week.

Yucca Mountain Casts a Long Shadow Over Nuclear-Waste Bill Introduced in the Senate

Amy Harder | April 25, 2013

The legislation is silent on whether a proposed agency to manage nuclear waste might consider the nixed Nevada site as a future option.

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.

Is Brian Schatz Already Winning Hawaii's Invisible Primary?

Scott Bland | April 25, 2013

A competitive Hawaii Senate race is all but official. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser and other outlets reported Tuesday that Democratic Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has decided to challenge appointed Sen. Brian Schatz and try to make good on the late Sen. Daniel Inouye’s deathbed request that Hanabusa repl...

What Will Max Baucus Do With His New Political Freedom?

Nancy Cook and Stacy Kaper and Chris Frates and Rebecca Kaplan contributed | April 23, 2013

The Montana senator's retirement could affect legislation on guns, taxes, immigration, and the debt ceiling. If only he'll agree with his fellow Democrats.

For House Republicans, It’s Fiscal First

Tim Alberta | April 23, 2013

If the fiscal fights that defined the opening act of the 113th Congress were supposed to suddenly take a backseat to other issues, someone forgot to tell House Republicans.

Max Baucus's Sudden Retirement Puts Pressure on Former Montana Governor

Alex Roarty and Elahe Izadi contributed | April 23, 2013

It's Schweitzer or bust for Democrats as they hope to hold a pivotal Senate seat.

Reid Set to Push for Conference on Budget

Stacy Kaper | April 23, 2013

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, is expected to ask the Senate for consent to move to a conference on the budget, according to a Democratic aide.

Hydropower Bills Enjoy Bipartisan Support in Congress

Amy Harder | April 22, 2013

With a pair of bills on hydropower, lawmakers are reviving two pieces of conventional wisdom long forgotten in gridlocked Washington: Energy issues tend to be more geographical than ideological, and Republicans can (and do) support renewable energy.

Bob Corker Charts Leadership Course

Stacy Kaper | April 22, 2013

Sen. Bob Corker's independent voice on high-profile issues and scholarly devotion to studying policies he is interested in have made GOP leaders take notice of him and want to keep the Tennessee Republican close at hand — both to capitalize on his expertise and to watch his moves.

How Immigration Opponents Are Trying to Use the Boston Bombings to Delay Reform

Rebecca Kaplan | April 22, 2013

Democrats, Gang of Eight members, are playing offense to prevent delays.

Immigration Debate May Grow More Complicated

Billy House and George E. Condon Jr. and Nancy Cook and Coral Davenport and Fawn Johnson and Margot Sanger-Katz and and Sara Sorcher | April 21, 2013

With Congress focused on immigration reform this week, the national security aspects of the issue are moving to the forefront amid efforts by some conservatives to inject the Boston Marathon bombing suspects into that debate.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | April 20, 2013

Friday night's capture of the second suspect in the Boston Marathon bombing will be the prominent topic for the Sunday shows, including the national security implications of the attack. Sunday Meet the Press hosts Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Mich., and Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin. Face the Nation h...

Insiders From Both Parties Embracing 'Gang of Eight' Immigration Bill

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | April 20, 2013

National Journal's Political Insiders -- both Democrats and Republicans -- think the bipartisan immigration reform proposal introduced Thursday by the Senate's "Gang of Eight" will help their party, according to the latest Insiders Poll. Insiders from both parties also think it's politically smart...

After Boston Marathon Bombings, What Next For Immigration Reform?

Fawn Johnson | April 19, 2013

“We screwed up. We can’t afford to screw up again,” said Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said on Friday.

Inside the Cover: Who Wants To Run For Congress?

National Journal Staff | April 19, 2013

In this week's National Journal cover story, Shane Goldmacher looks at why anyone would want to run for Congress. In the video above, go inside the story with the author himself.

Why Would Anyone Want to Run for Congress?

Shane Goldmacher | April 18, 2013

How both political parties seduce (and sometimes browbeat) ordinary citizens into seeking a position in the nation’s most despised club.

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.

‘Independent’ in Name Only

Shane Goldmacher and Scott Bland contributed | April 18, 2013

He promised to chart his own course, but a National Journal vote analysis shows that Sen. Angus King of Maine aligns with Democrats.

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.

Routes to a Budget Deal Appear Stalled

Nancy Cook | April 18, 2013

The two routes to an agreement—regular order or schmoozing—do not seem to be working, despite Washington's deep dive into fiscal issues.

Why the Senate Vote May Signal 2016 Problems for the Gun Lobby

Ronald Brownstein and Stephanie Czekalinski contributed | April 18, 2013

The outcome of Wednesday’s dramatic Senate vote on expanding background checks simultaneously demonstrated the difficult geography confronting gun-control advocates in the Senate and the potentially daunting math facing gun-rights proponents in the Electoral College.

Reid Appoints Besieged Regulator to Nuclear-Weapons Panel

Amy Harder | April 18, 2013

Late in the evening on Wednesday, one of the busiest and most unnerving times Washington has seen in a long while, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid quietly appointed Gregory Jaczko, a controversial former nuclear-energy regulator to a key but obscure panel.

How Obama Misread the Politics of Gun Control

Josh Kraushaar | April 18, 2013

Reality check: Gun-control opponents hold the upper hand politically in 2014.

Karen Lightfoot, Minority Communications Director

Coral Davenport | April 17, 2013

After 25 years on Capitol Hill, Karen Lightfoot has a wealth of experience communicating complicated policy issues. Indeed, her experience began before she even got to college.

Gary Andres, Majority Staff Director

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

In leading a staff of almost 70, Gary Andres says he gets the best of all the previous jobs he’s held throughout his career.

Alexa Marrero, Majority Deputy Staff Director

April 17, 2013

Alexa Marrero blends her former gig as the committee’s communications director with that of her more strategic role as deputy staff director, a position she took on in July 2012.

A Polarized Committee Reflects a Gridlocked Congress

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

Shortly after Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., won the chairmanship of the House Energy and Commerce Committee in December 2010, he invited all the former committee chairmen and their wives to dinner at Carmine’s in downtown Washington.

Time Looks Right for Permanent ‘Doc Fix’

Margot Sanger-Katz | April 17, 2013

Since 1997, when Congress passed legislation with the dreaded “sustainable growth rate” formula, the problem of how to compensate doctors who treat Medicare patients has been a perennial issue before the House Energy and Commerce Committee and Congress as a whole.

A Polarized Congress Tests Fred Upton’s Instincts

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

In the final days of the last Congress, House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton spoke out against a bill to provide roughly $50 million to aid the victims of superstorm Sandy.

Senate Fundraising Winners and Losers

Scott Bland and Kevin Brennan and Alex Brown and Sarah Mimms | April 17, 2013

The Senate map favors Republicans this cycle, but Democrats are off to a hot fundraising start. Here are our first-quarter winners and losers: Winners: Red State Democrats: To win back the majority, Republicans probably need to unseat a majority of the five Democratic incumbents seeking reele...

6 Tragedies That Sparked Legislation

Matt Vasilogambros | April 17, 2013

When tragedy strikes this country, Americans react with grief, anger, hope, and sometimes legislation.

The ‘Liberal Bulldog’ Takes on His Biggest Challenge

Coral Davenport | April 16, 2013

Rep. Henry Waxman, the California liberal who has spent decades battling the tobacco, coal, and pharmaceutical industries, is taking on what appears to be the most insurmountable challenge of his long career.

Kingston Outraises Ga. Senate Potentials, As Gingrey Maintains Cash Lead

Sarah Mimms | April 16, 2013

Though he isn't officially in the race yet, Rep. Jack Kingston, R-Ga., leads his colleagues seeking to replace Sen. Saxby Chambliss with an impressive $845,600 haul in the first quarter of the year. But his $1.75 million warchest puts him in the middle of the pack. Rep. Phil Gingrey, who officially...

House Energy Committee’s Redux Agenda

Amy Harder | April 15, 2013

It’s a new Congress, but it’s hard to tell by looking at the agenda of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

Still a Long Way To Go in Senate On Gun Control

Chris Frates | April 15, 2013

Democrats were feeling pretty good last week after inking a bipartisan agreement on sweeping background checks for gun purchases and getting the votes to begin a Senate debate on new gun restrictions. But now they return to the Capitol at just the beginning of what will be a long, tough road to turn gun legislation into law.

Boston Blasts Bring a Chill to Washington

Billy House | April 15, 2013

Tax day in Washington turned into a tension-filled reminder that there are far worse problems to deal with than the federal budget, immigration reform, or even gun control, as bombings at the Boston Marathon brought the horrors of terrorism front and center into the national consciousness.

Inside Elizabeth Colbert Busch's Private D.C. Fundraiser

Sarah Mimms | April 15, 2013

Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee chairman Steve Israel pledged full support to Elizabeth Colbert Busch's special election campaign in South Carolina at a private fundraiser in Washington on Monday evening. "I am here to tell you that we are in this race. ... In three weeks and two days s...

Forget Working Groups, House Judiciary Moving Immigration on its Own

Rebecca Kaplan | April 15, 2013

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte, R-Va., isn’t interested in waiting on immigration.

Slow-Motion Gun Battle Plays Out in Senate

Billy House | April 14, 2013

Lawmakers will stage some slow-going drama this week as the Senate proceeds in its deliberations on gun-control legislation with a series of votes on amendments—many of them likely to usher in their own mini-floor fights, or even filibusters.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | April 12, 2013

A deal on gun control, President Obama's budget proposal and the Senate's Gang of Eight pending immigration proposal are at the top of the Sunday show agenda. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., is hitting the airwaves with a "Full Ginsburg," including Univision's Al Punto. Sens. Pat Toomey, R-Pa. and Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., will appear on State of the Union and Face the Nation talking about their bipartisan gun control deal. Check out the full listings after the jump.

It's Easy to Fix Social Security

Nancy Cook | April 11, 2013

Unlike Medicare and Medicaid, it's simple arithmetic. If only the politics added up.

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.

House GOP Shrugs Off Senate Progress on Guns

Tim Alberta | April 11, 2013

In the four months since Newtown, conservative House Republicans have made a consistent case against passing any new gun-related laws.

Obama's Budget Garners Anger From All Sides

Nancy Cook | April 11, 2013

Roughly 24 hours after the White House released its budget, liberal Democrats were furious about its so-called chained CPI provision, which would change the cost-of-living calculation for federal benefits like Social Security. Meanwhile, Republicans were criticizing President Obama's fiscal 2014 blueprint for not going far enough on its tweaks to Medicare and other cuts.

Boehner Declares 'Hastert Rule' Was 'Never a Rule to Begin With'

Billy House | April 11, 2013

On the House battles over gun control, immigration, and long-term debt, the speaker won't commit to following the GOP's "majority of the majority" tradition.

Play of the Day: Look Out, Iranian Military Cats. The Navy Has a Laser.

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 11, 2013

Fast forward to 4:00 to see Colbert question the efficacy of the laser in Iran.

Background Checks Take Center Stage in Gun Debate

Fawn Johnson | April 10, 2013

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Boston Mayor Thomas Menino wanted background checks when background checks weren’t cool.

Food Stamps Are Key Component to Getting Farm Bill Passed

Jerry Hagstrom | April 10, 2013

Senate Agriculture Committee ranking member Thad Cochran, R-Miss., defended federal nutrition programs Tuesday to a group of agricultural journalists, and in the process demonstrated why dealing with food stamps may be harder this year than in 2012 when it comes to writing a farm bill.

The Real Budget Action Won't Come Until Tonight's Dinner With the GOP

Nancy Cook | April 10, 2013

Contrary to popular belief, the real budget action on Wednesday won’t begin until the early evening, when 12 Republican senators are scheduled to arrive at the White House for a private dinner with the president.

What to Expect in Obama’s Budget

Nancy Cook | April 8, 2013

Apart from the president’s plan to formalize cuts that he has already proposed, what else can Americans expect from a budget that’s roughly two months late and that follows both parties’ congressional budget proposals?

For Congress, A Rare Break From Fiscal Crises

Chris Frates | April 8, 2013

Though the delivery of the president’s budget will keep numbers in the news this week, lawmakers return to Washington from a recess for the first time this year without a fiscal crisis bearing down on them.

Agenda Is Stacked for Return of Congress; Obama Will Pile on More With His Budget

Billy House and George E. Condon Jr. and Nancy Cook and Coral Davenport and Fawn Johnson and Margot Sanger-Katz and and Sara Sorcher contributed | April 7, 2013

The prospects for renewed talks on a long-term deficit-reduction deal reach a pivotal point this week with the release Wednesday of President Obama’s budget plan, which offers cuts to Social Security and Medicare in the hope of softening Republican opposition to tax hikes.

With Morning-After Pill Ruling, the FDA Gets What It Wanted All Along

James Hamblin - The Atlantic | April 5, 2013

A federal judge ruled this morning that emergency contraception should be available without prescription to women of all ages, calling years of delays in making it so "intolerable."

Obama's Gambit Raises Pressure on Boehner, Edges Washington Toward Budget Deal

Ron Fournier | April 5, 2013

The president's budget will test whether the GOP's antitax rhetoric is bluster or a deal-killing fact.

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.

For Newt Gingrich, a Future in Ideas

Rebecca Kaplan | April 4, 2013

The former House speaker wants to turn great ideas into bills, but from the outside.

House Republicans Map Out Strategy for Debt-Ceiling Battle

Nancy Cook | April 4, 2013

When the House Republicans return from recess next week, one of their top priorities will be charting out the next fiscal battle—the debt ceiling.

Republicans Pushing For More Aggressive Enforcement of Current Gun Laws, Not New Gun Control

Tim Alberta | April 3, 2013

Republicans are aiming to shift the media’s focus from the prospects of new gun laws to the failures of current ones.

Sequestration Hurting Your Budget? It Didn't Stop a 13-Day Overseas Congressional Trip

Billy House | April 2, 2013

Roughly 16 Senate Finance Committee staffers are wrapping up a whirlwind 13-day trip to Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand, even as federal agencies have been forced by sequestration to limit employee travel and participation in out-of-town conferences.

Will Tax Reform See a Vote Anytime Soon?

Billy House | April 1, 2013

Despite pledges by the key chairmen in the House and Senate to move on tax reform, action is unlikely this year—and may not come at all in the 113th Congress.

Curious Friends: How Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg Can Help Republicans

Elahe Izadi | March 29, 2013

By zeroing in on issues where bipartisanship is possible, Zuckerberg’s political efforts can soften the GOP’s edges.

The House GOP's Strategy to Starve the Senate

Billy House | March 28, 2013

A strategy by House Republican leaders to bottle up revenue bills until a comprehensive overhaul of the tax code is finished is being sold to GOP lawmakers as a tactical way to hobble Senate Democrats.

Could Chuck Schumer Be Well-Set to Chair Senate Banking Committee?

Shane Goldmacher and Stacy Kaper | March 28, 2013

The departure of Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Johnson after 2014 could set off a future chain of musical chairmanships. One of the leading contenders for the influential post is the chamber’s No. 3-ranking Democrat, Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York. Could the "senator from Wall Street" become the "chairman from Wall Street?"

Judd Won't Run for Senate, Focus Shifts to Lundergan Grimes

Sarah Mimms | March 27, 2013

Ashley Judd will not challenge Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell next year, the actress announced on Twitter this evening. Though speculation has mounted for months that Judd would run for McConnell's seat in her home state of Kentucky, Judd said on Twitter that she is "currently unable to con...

House GOP Leaders Silent on Marriage Law They're Paying to Defend

Rebecca Kaplan | March 27, 2013

Republicans strategists agree with leadership's call to stay mum as the Supreme Court takes up the case, saying it's best not to distract from the party's economic message.

Fla. Dems Pray for Crist's Resurrection

Jordain Carney | March 26, 2013

There are more than 4.7 million registered Democrats in Florida, but it looks more and more like only one is a viable -- and willing -- potential candidate to challenge vulnerable Gov. Rick Scott: former GOP Gov. Charlie Crist, who joined the Democratic Party in December. 2010 nominee Alex Sink and...

Five Easy Pieces of Energy Legislation

Coral Davenport | March 25, 2013

There are hopeful signs that years of gridlock could be replaced by action on some small-scale bills.

Clinton Backs Greuel in L.A. Mayor's Race

Courtney McBride | March 25, 2013

Los Angeles mayoral hopeful Wendy Greuel on Monday became the latest beneficiary of Bill Clinton's five-year thank-you tour, when the former president endorsed her over another Democrat in the upcoming runoff election. Greuel, the city's controller, served as a senior advisor at the Department of Ho...

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | March 22, 2013

The Sunday shows will cover a variety of topics this week, from the coming legal fight over same-sex marriage to President Obama's first trip to Israel as president. Check out the full listings: Sunday Meet the Press hosts New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg and NRA CEO Wayne LaPierre Face the Nat...

Halligan's Withdrawal Is a Victory for GOP and Gridlock

James Oliphant | March 22, 2013

Obama loses the battle to get his pick onto a court considered an on-ramp to the Supreme Court.

A Republican Divide in Sharp Relief

Reid Wilson | March 21, 2013

There's a growing split between the party's elites, based in D.C. and New York, and the increasingly vocal grassroots.

Can Rand Paul Bring Libertarians Into the GOP?

Alex Roarty | March 21, 2013

Mainstream Republicans may not welcome them, but the party could use the lift.

The Senate Trouble-Maker in Waiting

Tim Alberta | March 21, 2013

Rep. Justin Amash has already led a failed coup against House leadership. His next play may be the upper chamber.

On the Move: March 23, 2013

Christopher Snow Hopkins and Mike Magner | March 21, 2013

Kelly Nallen is American Crossroads' new director of digital. Former Hillary Clinton collaborator Kris Balderston is a senior partner at Fleishman-Hillard. Onetime DeLay policy director Juliane Sullivan heads the House Education and the Workforce staff.

Sparks, Politics, and Amendments Will Fly in Vote-a-Rama

Shane Goldmacher | March 21, 2013

Senators will offer a raft of amendments Friday as the chamber debates its first budget in 4 years, taking advantage of the rare chance to force the opposing party into an unlimited number of tough votes.

Obamacare Is a Prescription for a Democratic Headache in 2014

Alex Roarty and Beth Reinhard | March 21, 2013

With key provisions of "Obamacare" set to take effect in 2014, both parties are assessing the potential political fallout from the seismic changes coming to our health care system.

Mike Honda's Full-Bore Campaign Rolls On

Scott Bland | March 21, 2013

Rep. Mike Honda is not messing around. The California Democrat's campaign released an internal poll Thursday showing him with 57 percent support in a hypothetical open primary matchup against Republican Evelyn Li, his 2012 opponent, and potential Democratic challenger Ro Khanna.

Ten House GOPers Vote Against Ryan's Budget

Scott Bland and Sarah Mimms and Alex Brown | March 21, 2013

At least five of the 10 House Republicans who voted against the GOP budget proposal Thursday morning are facing electoral pressures, some from the left and some from the right. The bill passed the House, 221-207, with Democrats unanimous in opposition and most Republicans in support. Rep. Chris Gib...

Have Democrats Found Another Manchin in West Virginia?

Sarah Mimms | March 20, 2013

Though for the last several weeks, Democratic hopes of retaining Sen. Jay Rockefeller's seat in 2014 have looked bleak, it seems party operatives may have finally found their unicorn in West Virginia: a wealthy, pro-coal, pro-business Democrat in the style of Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.V. Attorney Nick Preservati has spoken with the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee about running for the seat, in conversations that the committee found "encouraging," according to a source with knowledge of the discussions.

Have Democrats Found Another Manchin in West Virginia?

Sarah Mimms | March 20, 2013

Though for the last several weeks, Democratic hopes of retaining Sen. Jay Rockefeller's seat in 2014 have looked bleak, it seems party operatives may have finally found their unicorn in West Virginia: a wealthy, pro-coal, pro-business Democrat in the style of Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.V. Attorney Nick P...

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.

From Kennedy to Obama, A Look at Irish-Americans in U.S. Politics

Matt Vasilogambros | March 19, 2013

Berman Joins Covington; Ambassador Returns

Mike Magner | March 18, 2013

Four new members have been appointed to the National Historical Publications and Records Commission, which provides grants to projects that increase public access to historical records.

Jake Tapper's New CNN Show: 'We're Going to Take Risks'

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | March 18, 2013

CNN continues its revamp Monday with the premiere of "The Lead," airing at 4 p.m. The show, hosted by former ABC White House Correspondent Jake Tapper, will serve as the foothold for the network's evening programming. Tapper made his name challenging the White House at press briefings and on all of...

5 Staffers to Watch on the House and Senate Budget Committees

Stacy Kaper and Amy Harder | March 17, 2013

The House and Senate will be wrangling with their respective budgets this week. There’s little expectation that the two chambers’ products will be combined into a joint budget resolution, but they serve as the starting points for broader budget debates between Republicans and Democrats. Here’s a look at the two Budget committees’ top staffers who are critical to this process.

The Five Candidates Most Likely to Take On Mark Sanford

Sarah Mimms | March 17, 2013

Though the race for first place in Tuesday's special GOP primary in South Carolina's First District is a foregone conclusion, the battle to take on former Gov. Mark Sanford in an almost-guaranteed April 2 runoff is wide-open, according to several Republicans in the state. The list of candidates who...

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | March 15, 2013

This week's Sunday shows will focus on the rival budgets put forth by leaders from both parties. House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan, R-Wis., will be on Face the Nation, while House Speaker John Boehner will be doing a one-on-one interview with ABC's Martha Raddatz on This Week. The Sunday sh...

House Delegation Plans Journey to Rome for Installation of Pope Francis

Billy House | March 15, 2013

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi is going somewhere next week that Speaker John Boehner says he cannot because of congressional work: She will join Vice President Joe Biden to attend the installation of the new Pope in Rome.

Paul Ryan's CPAC Speech: Too Busy to Talk 2016

Rebecca Kaplan | March 15, 2013

Mitt Romney's running mate focuses on selling the GOP's budget, not his vision for the party.

Patty Murray’s Stature Is Tied to Her Budget’s Fate

Stacy Kaper | March 14, 2013

Succeeding in what Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., dubbed “mission impossible” could elevate Murray's status as a rising star in Democratic ranks.

Broun to Potential Ga. Challengers: Stay Where You Are

Sarah Mimms | March 14, 2013

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. -- Rep. Paul Broun, R-Ga., has a message for his colleagues in the Peach State's delegation who are considering challenging him for the Republican nomination for Sen. Saxby Chambliss' seat: Don't bother. "I hope everyone in the delegation gets ready to stay where they are becau...

Chickening Out on Medicare

Margot Sanger-Katz | March 14, 2013

They agree the entitlement is in deep trouble. So why didn't pols cut as much as they could have?

There's New Hope for a Grand Bargain

Nancy Cook | March 14, 2013

Amid the hot air in Washington comes the whiff of compromise.

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.

The Rightward March of the Republicans

Ronald Brownstein | March 14, 2013

Republicans in Congress were supposed to moderate their message. It's not happening.

Can a Pathetic Congress Really Pass Tax Reform?

Matthew Cooper | March 14, 2013

Despite all odds, some members of Congress still believe. NJ chats with one.

Citing Budget Debate, Boehner Declines White House Invite to Attend Papal Investiture

Billy House | March 14, 2013

House Speaker John Boehner has decided not to accept an invitation from President Obama to join Vice President Joe Biden as part of a delegation to the papal investiture, citing Congress’s budget negotiations as a reason.

GOP Aide: Obama's 'Using Us As Props'

Chris Frates and Billy House and Tim Alberta and and Amy Harder contributed | March 13, 2013

President Obama continued his goodwill tour this week with stops at the Capitol to meet with House and Senate Republicans.

After Snag, Senate Moving on Bill to Avert Shutdown

Billy House | March 13, 2013

The Senate on Wednesday morning was opening its debate on a bill to keep government funded through Sept. 30, after Republicans dropped objections to proceeding.

Early Reviews of Obama’s Outreach Are Positive

Billy House and George E. Condon Jr. | March 12, 2013

Whether President Obama’s get-together on Tuesday with Senate Democrats and other planned Capitol Hill visits with Republicans and Democrats reflect a genuine determination to listen, engage, and promote compromise—or whether they are mere theater—the early reviews seem positive.

Obama's Liberal Goals Collide With 2014 Campaign Map

Beth Reinhard | March 12, 2013

A tough mid-term election could be an awkward time to test-drive an outside advocacy group closely linked to the president.

Lieberman and Kyl to Lead Project on America’s Global Role

Mike Magner | March 11, 2013

Juliane Sullivan, a onetime policy director for ex-House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, R-Texas, will become the new director of the Republican staff for the House Education and the Workforce Committee on Monday.

House GOP Confident on Paul Ryan’s Medicare Plan

Alex Roarty | March 11, 2013

The House Budget Committee chairman’s plan to balance the federal budget in 10 years would have been, until recently, cause for House Republicans to fret. But emboldened by last year’s elections, the House GOP believes it can adopt his new proposal and avoid backlash at the same time.

Vulnerable Senate Dems on Their Own on Budget Vote

Alex Roarty | March 11, 2013

The executive director of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee said Monday that he will not advise vulnerable incumbents how to vote on the Senate Democrats' upcoming budget proposal, saying the politically consequential decisions will be left to individual members. "They'll weigh the pros...

Electromagnetic Pulse Caucus Battles Skeptics in Push to Protect the Planet

Billy House | March 10, 2013

A small but growing cadre of House members is set to relaunch efforts to protect the nation against what they say is a very real threat: the unleashing of an electromagnetic pulse either by a solar storm or a nuclear-armed foe that could cripple much of the nation’s electrical infrastructure.

Dueling Budget Plans Help Define Both Parties

Nancy Cook | March 10, 2013

By the middle of this week, Americans will once again be plunged into the wildly different world views of Republicans and Democrats as the two parties release competing budget proposals within hours of one another.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | March 8, 2013

Sen. Rand Paul's, R-Ky., 13-hour filibuster is sure to be a hot topic on the Sunday shows this weekend, though Paul himself does not currently appear in the lineup for any of the programs. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, meanwhile, will be on six Sunday shows, pulling off a bilingual "Full Ginsburg." He'll be on "Meet the Press," "Face the Nation," "Fox News Sunday," "This Week," "State of the Union" and Univision's "Al Punto." Bush will talk about his new book, as well as the challenges surrounding immigration and, of course, his potential presidential aspirations. Check out the full listings after the jump.

Why the Senate Democrats' Budget Will Be Vague

Nancy Cook and Margot Sanger-Katz | March 7, 2013

The fewer specifics they offer, the less political ammunition there will be for the GOP to use against them.

How Republicans Can Win the Senate

Alex Roarty | March 7, 2013

Right-wing candidates can take the red states, but in 2014 that won't be enough.

The Real Budget Battle

Tim Alberta and Stacy Kaper | March 7, 2013

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

Paul's Filibuster Draws Divisions Within GOP

Stacy Kaper and Sara Sorcher | March 7, 2013

It might not be a sign of an overnight upheaval in the leadership of Republican defense orthodoxy, but Sen. Rand Paul’s long filibuster questioning drone use in the U.S. struck a civil libertarian nerve that is illuminating divisions within GOP ranks.

Carl Levin Not Running for Reelection

Alex Brown and Alex Roarty | March 7, 2013

Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., announced late on Thursday that he will not seek a seventh term in 2014, leaving Democrats with another open seat to defend next year. Levin called the decision "extremely difficult" and said he wanted to focus on his role as chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee "without the distraction of campaigning for re-election."

Behind Cantor's Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Alabama

Elahe Izadi | March 7, 2013

Laying a wreath during a moving ceremony at a Civil Rights Memorial where House Majority Leader Eric Cantor locked arms with Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer and held hands Rep. John Lewis -- that’s not a picturethat is common in highly partisan Washington.

Can Lunches and Dinners Break the Corrosive Fiscal-Cliff Cycle?

Jill Lawrence | March 7, 2013

The president's meals with Republicans are only gestures at a time when we have been waiting far too long for results. But they are a glimmer of hope.

Cantor Embarks on Annual Civil-Rights Pilgrimage

Elahe Izadi | March 6, 2013

Cantor is the highest-ranking Republican to go on trip, led by Rep. John Lewis.

Can a Senate Seat Remain All in the Family?

Alex Brown and Elahe Izadi | March 5, 2013

Sen. Tim Johnson, D-S.D., could be retiring, leaving the door open for his son to run.

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.

Disgraced Ex-Congressman Attacks John Boehner in New Book

George E. Condon Jr. | March 5, 2013

Imprisoned for his role in the Abramoff scandal, former Rep. Bob Ney of Ohio has some scores to settle.

Berger Mulling N.C. Senate Race

Jordain Carney and Naureen Khan | March 4, 2013

As the GOP eyes pathways to a Senate majority in 2014, Phil Berger, the president pro tem of the North Carolina state Senate, says he's been mulling a campaign against Sen. Kay Hagan, who is among a handful of vulnerable Southern Democrats up for reelection. "I've been approached by a number of fol...

The Sequester is Here. Now What?

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | March 4, 2013

Fast forward to 3:40 to see Fallon go blow-by-blow on the conflict.

How Long Can Boehner Contain the Rebellion?

Tim Alberta | March 3, 2013

Conservatives will give him a chance for now, but their patience is almost out.

How the House Holds the Senate GOP Hostage

Alex Roarty | March 3, 2013

Upper-chamber Republicans prefer a more circumspect approach, but they are increasingly defined by their hard-line House counterparts.

Why House Conservatives Cheered the Sequester

Tim Alberta | March 3, 2013

There probably weren't any champagne bottles uncorked in the Capitol on Friday, but there's no question that House conservatives saw the arrival of automatic spending cuts known as the sequester as cause for celebration.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | March 1, 2013

With President Obama and congressional Republicans unable reach a deal to avoid budget sequestration, both parties will send representatives to the Sunday Shows to discuss the impact of the cuts and cast blame. Speaker John Boehner will give the House GOP's perspective on Meet the Press, while Dire...

Who Birthed the Sequester?

Billy House | March 1, 2013

To hear Republicans tell it, the White House all but single-handedly spawned the sequester. But Democrats say there is a lot more to the story.

Washington in 3 Words: Dumb, Arbitrary, and Inexcusable

Ron Fournier | March 1, 2013

U.S. leaders fail to lead on sequestration, but finger-pointing thrives.

Republicans Considering Senate Bids Split on VAWA Vote

Steven Shepard and Sarah Mimms and Alex Brown | February 28, 2013

The House voted Thursday to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act by a more-than-two-to-one margin, but a number of House Republicans mulling Senate contests in 2014 joined the majority of their caucus in opposing the bill. Most House Republicans in red states voted against the measure, includ...

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