National Journal Topics | NationalJournal.com

How Republicans Will Try to Pin the IRS Scandal on Obama

Shane Goldmacher | May 17, 2013

They plan to connect the dots between the agency's chief counsel and the White House.

Congress Demands to Know if Google Glass Will Violate Your Privacy

Brian Fung | May 17, 2013

Eight questions for CEO Larry Page

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.

Congressional Republicans Are Milking the Scandals for Everything

Alex Roarty | May 16, 2013

GOP members in both chambers finally feel like they have something to hang around the president’s neck.

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.

Holder Holds Up in House Judiciary Hearing, but More Attacks Coming

Billy House | May 15, 2013

The face-off between Attorney General Eric Holder and some Republican House members during Wednesday’s House Judiciary Committee hearing seemed more like the opening shots of a battle than any real showdown.

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.”

Eric Holder Offers Little Information, Much Ire for Republicans

Shane Goldmacher | May 15, 2013

It only took Attorney General Eric Holder a few moments to make clear he wanted no part of congressional Republicans’ plans to turn his Capitol Hill appearance into a serious grilling about the scandals of the day.

Bachmann Airing Ads On Minnesota TV

Scott Bland | May 15, 2013

Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn., has purchased TV advertising time for the next two weeks with a Minneapolis station, according to filings with the Federal Communications Commission. Beginning Thursday, Bachmann's campaign will air 31 30-second spots on KMSP, a local Fox affiliate, for $14,565 over...

Eric Holder Calls Rep. Darrell Issa 'Unacceptable and Shameful'

Shane Goldmacher | May 15, 2013

This much is clear: Attorney General Eric Holder and Rep. Darrell Issa don't like each other.

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.

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.

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.

House to Tackle Student-Loan Rates

Fawn Johnson | May 12, 2013

House Republicans are preparing to pass legislation that would remedy, once and for all, the looming problem of student-loan interest rates.

'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.

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.

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.

The Border Hawks Have Already Won

Fawn Johnson | May 9, 2013

The Senate immigration bill already addresses hard-liner concerns, which means they’ll have less reason to oppose the final product.

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.

GOP Leans on Lieberman in Boston Probe

Stacy Kaper | May 9, 2013

Putting the former independent senator in an attack-dog role gives Republicans political cover to keep pressing for answers on intelligence and law enforcement failures ahead of the Boston bombings.

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.

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.

Deputy Mission Chief Says He Was 'Stunned' by Rice's Early Depiction of Benghazi Attacks

Billy House | May 8, 2013

The top deputy to the U.S. ambassador killed during the attacks last September in Benghazi, Libya, said Wednesday he was “stunned” when U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice said on talk shows days later that the incident stemmed from “demonstrations” sparked by protests over an anti-Islamic video.

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.

Immigration Law May Be Tough on the Poor

Fawn Johnson | May 7, 2013

Don’t expect Congress to dive too deeply into the politically unforgiving topic of how the United States treats poor people as it begins debating immigration legislation. But that question is always lurking beneath the surface.

Obama to Host Dinner for Top House Democrats

Shane Goldmacher | May 7, 2013

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Barrow Won't Run for Senate As Dems Eye Backup

Sarah Mimms | May 7, 2013

Rep. John Barrow, D-Ga., will not run for retiring Sen. Saxby Chambliss's seat in 2014, he announced in a press release this afternoon. "I enjoy my work on behalf of the folks in the 12th District, and I look forward to continuing to serve them in the House of Representatives," Barrow said. Barrow...

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.

Steve King Won't Run for Senate, Leaving Iowa Republicans Empty-Handed

Alex Brown | May 4, 2013

Iowa Rep. Steve King won't be running for Senate, he announced in a tweet Friday night. The conservative firebrand had frozen the GOP field, as his entry into the race would have made him the favorite for the nomination. King, like Rep. Tom Latham before him, cited work in the House as reason not t...

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...

Stopping Terrorism at the Source

Michael Hirsh | May 2, 2013

Two years ago, the Obama administration launched a plan to use American Muslims as an early-detection system to spot radicals. So why hasn’t it worked?

Why Carbon Is So Hard to Regulate

Coral Davenport | May 2, 2013

It’s everywhere and touches everything. EPA can crack down, but only by stretching the law.

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.

Tea Party Hopes for a Peachy 2014 in Georgia

Shane Goldmacher | May 2, 2013

Three open House races and an open Senate seat make Georgia one of the nation’s best opportunities.

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.

Holcomb Considering Ga. Senate, Gubernatorial Bids

Sarah Mimms | May 1, 2013

Georgia state Rep. Scott Holcomb says he is considering running for his state's open Senate seat in 2014, even as the Peach State's Democratic Party brass tries to narrow down the field to a single candidate. "It's fair to say that I'm thinking about it, and that's largely a function of many people...

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.'

House Homeland Security Committee Plans Hearing on Boston Attack for Next Week

Stacy Kaper | April 30, 2013

The House Homeland Security Committee plans to hold the first congressional hearing next week examining the Boston Marathon terrorist attack and what it says about the state of the nation’s post-Sept. 11 security infrastructure.

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.

Bloss-Baum Pushes for Artists' Rights in Her New Public-Affairs Firm

Christopher Snow Hopkins | April 29, 2013

As lawmakers mulled legislation to safeguard the rights of performing artists in 2010, two musicians sat in the office of then-Rep. Charlie Gonzalez, D-Texas, hopeful that he would support the bill.

With Amash and Rogers Mulling Senate Race, a Look at GOP's Potential House Hopefuls

Alex Brown | April 29, 2013

While Rep. Gary Peters seems to have a clear path to the Democratic nomination, we still don't whether the GOP's Senate nominee in Michigan will be Rep. Justin Amash, Rep. Mike Rogers or someone else entirely. That doesn't mean it's too early to look at the possible House candidates should Rogers or...

Gary Peters To Announce Senate Bid

Reid Wilson | April 29, 2013

Rep. Gary Peters will announce this week that he's running to replace retiring Sen. Carl Levin, sources tell The Hotline, giving Democrats another top recruit in a state critical to their hopes of keeping the Senate next year.

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.

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.

Harkin: 'Religious Right' Scaring Off GOP Candidates

Tim Alberta | April 26, 2013

Retiring Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, on Thursday shared a "theory" as to why Republicans aren't lining up to run for his soon-to-be open Senate seat. They are intimidated, Harkin said -- and not by the Democratic opposition. "The religious right and the tea party people in Iowa have so cowed the moder...

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.

Democrats Land Buzzy Recruit in Another Obama-GOP House District

Scott Bland | April 26, 2013

House Democrats have landed a recruit to run against Rep. Jeff Denham, R-Calif., in the Central Valley's 10th Congressional District. Farmer and beekeeper Michael Eggman announced Tuesday that he will seek the seat, which was one of 17 in the country to split its votes between a Republican congressm...

'Press Pass' Wins Political Pursuit

Sarah Mimms and Dan Roem | April 25, 2013

After five rounds of intense trivia, jokes and a few beer breaks, the Press Pass team claimed victory at our Fifth Annual Political Pursuit event. Roll Call's Shira Toeplitz, Washington Post's Chris Cillizza, New York Times' Carl Hulse, Washington Post's Paul Kane and Cook Political Report's Amy Wa...

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.

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.

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...

Options Complicate N.H. GOP's Ballot Calculus

Kevin Brennan | April 24, 2013

New Hampshire Republicans are engaged in a game of musical chairs: A host of familiar names are being linked to the 2014 gubernatorial, Senate and 1st District congressional races. Several of these potential candidates are considering running for more than one of these offices, and the decisions mad...

The Poorly Attended Hearing on One of the Economy's Toughest Problems

Niraj Chokshi | April 24, 2013

It stands to reason that lawmakers who often decry the high jobless rate would want to be seen publicly trying to tackle the problem, right? Well, apparently not.

Whitaker Prepares For Senate Bid While Awaiting King's Decision

Alex Brown | April 24, 2013

Iowa Republicans may not have a Senate candidate yet, but former U.S. Attorney Matt Whitaker is readying to fill the void if Rep. Steve King takes a pass on the race. "It's smart to take steps to move forward no matter what [King's] decision is," Whitaker said. "At some point in time the race needs...

Mich. GOP Establishment Hopes for Rogers, Frets Over Amash

Alex Brown | April 24, 2013

Longtime Michigan Republican operatives are open about their desire to see Rep. Mike Rogers run in the state's open-seat Senate race, but they're worried Rep. Justin Amash -- who possesses little regard for the GOP establishment -- won't let the possibility of a damaging primary derail his ambition...

How Republicans Can Win Over Their Party on Immigration

Fawn Johnson | April 23, 2013

It’s a combination of charm and fear tactics. Republican defenders of an immigration overhaul are talking up their ability to write into law a tough enforcement strategy.

Conservatives Come Out for Renewable-Energy Projects

Amy Harder | April 23, 2013

Defying conventional wisdom in the era of Solyndra, conservatives in Washington are coming out to back renewable energy.

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.

NRCC Recruiting Freshman State Legislator to Challenge Nick Rahall

Sarah Mimms | April 23, 2013

Rep. Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., one of Republicans' top targets in 2014, may soon get his first challenger: The National Republican Congressional Committee is in the process of recruiting state Sen. Bill Cole to run for the seat. The NRCC sent staffers to West Virginia last week to meet with Cole, accord...

How Will Texas Explosion Impact Chemical Security Laws?

Douglas P. Guarino | April 23, 2013

Industry officials 'appalled' by those who say the incident suggests a need for tougher chemical security laws.

Democrats Argue Over Who's Tougher on National Security After Boston Bombings

Beth Reinhard | April 23, 2013

National security was a contentious topic at Monday night's Democratic debate.

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.

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.

Affidavit: Bachmann Approved Indirect Payments to Iowa Politician

Shane Goldmacher | April 22, 2013

The problems for Rep. Michele Bachmann are piling up.

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.

Poll: Markey Leads Lynch By 10 Points As Campaigns Set to Resume

Kevin Brennan | April 21, 2013

With a little more than a week left before the special election primary in Massachusetts, Rep. Edward Markey holds a 10-point lead in the Democratic primary over Rep. Stephen Lynch, according to a Western New England University Polling Institute survey unveiled late Saturday by the Republican of Spr...

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.

Baca's Comeback Bid: Aguilar Not 'Viable'

Scott Bland | April 19, 2013

Former Democratic Rep. Joe Baca fired back at congressional rival Pete Aguilar Wednesday, saying in an interview that he only got into the race for California's 31st Congressional District because local community leaders came to him in search of a viable candidate. Baca also distanced himself from p...

King on Possible Senate Run: 'I Can See a Path to Victory'

Steven Shepard | April 19, 2013

Rep. Steve King, R-Iowa, is still considering running for Senate, telling National Journal that he sees "a path to victory" in polling conducted on his behalf, but his "gut hasn't quite lined up yet." In an interview with NJ's Fawn Johnson, published in the new issue of National Journal, King says...

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.

No, Oncologists Are Not Going Broke

Margot Sanger-Katz | April 18, 2013

Cancer doctors say the sequester forces them to turn away dying patients. Nonsense.

Just Don’t Call Him Marco Rubio

Tim Alberta | April 18, 2013

Raul Labrador will be even more important to immigration reform than the Latino Republican in the Senate.

‘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.

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...

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.

Energy and Commerce's Jurisdiction: Anything that Moves, Burns, or is Sold

Peter Bell | April 17, 2013

That is how National Journal once described the jurisdiction of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. House rules offer one definition of the committee’s turf, but a practical, bottom-up view of the committee’s territory is visible in the word cloud below. It shows the terms most common to the titles of the almost 350 hearings held by the House Energy and Commerce Committee and its subcommittees in the 111th and 112th Congresses. The larger the word, the more frequently it appeared in those hearing titles.

Clay Alspach, Chief Majority Health Counsel

Margot Sanger-Katz | April 17, 2013

When two veteran committee health staffers departed this year, Chairman Fred Upton, R-Mich., picked one of his own to promote. Clay Alspach, 35, has worked for the committee, or its members, for much of his professional life.

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.

Michelle Ash, Minority Chief Consumer Protection Counsel

Catherine Hollander and Brian Fung | April 17, 2013

A Pittsburgh native, Michelle Ash, 45, had originally planned to go into law. But after a year at a local law firm, she decided on the world of policy instead.

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.

Phil Barnett, Minority Staff Director, Full Committee

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

It’s no surprise that Democratic Staff Director Phil Barnett counts climate change among his very top issues. His boss, Energy and Commerce ranking member Henry Waxman, D-Calif., does, too.

Greg Dotson, Minority Staff Director, Energy and Environment Subcommittee

April 17, 2013

After wrapping up a three-week sea-kayaking trip in Mexico in 1996, Greg Dotson got a call about working for Rep. Henry Waxman, D-Calif. He flew to Washington, bought a suit when he landed, and soon had a job.

John Gibson Mullan, Chief Majority Counsel, Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade

Catherine Hollander | April 17, 2013

John Gibson Mullan’s broad experience serves him well as chief counsel for Republicans on the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, which has jurisdiction so far-ranging it covers everything from sports to time zones.

Roger Sherman, Minority Chief Counsel

Catherine Hollander | April 17, 2013

Roger Sherman started working for Rep. Henry Waxman, D-Calif., as his defense and foreign-affairs staffer back in 1990—one week before the first Gulf War started.

Karen Nelson, Deputy Minority Staff Director on Health, Full Committee

Margot Sanger-Katz | April 17, 2013

For more than 30 years, Karen Nelson has been the Democrats’ go-to health aide on Rep. Henry Waxman’s staff.

Renewable-Fuels Standard Gets Bipartisan Attention

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

For the first time since President Obama won the White House in 2008, House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, R-Mich., and ranking member Henry Waxman, D-Calif., are working together on a controversial energy policy: the renewable-fuels standard.

U.S. and E.U. Will Gnaw on Trade Agreement

Catherine Hollander | April 17, 2013

Late last month, the White House notified Congress that it planned to begin negotiating a comprehensive trade and investment agreement with the European Union. Talks on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership are expected to begin in June—and that’s when the House Energy and Commerce Committee will step up its involvement.

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.

Companies Fight to Influence Auction Rules

Brian Fung | April 17, 2013

On spectrum issues, wireless carriers and cable companies account for the most active lobbying. The top three are AT&T, Verizon, and Comcast, followed by trade groups such as the National Cable and Telecommunications Association.

Keystone XL Pipeline Channels Partisan Attacks

Coral Davenport | April 17, 2013

Congressional Republicans see the Keystone XL pipeline as the perfect lightning rod through which to channel attacks on President Obama’s energy policy.

How Much Natural Gas Should the U.S. Export?

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

The Energy and Commerce Committee’s leaders and aides are unsure how to tackle one of the biggest debates in the energy space right now: natural-gas exports.

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.

How Can Congress Help Manufacturers?

Catherine Hollander | April 17, 2013

The House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade kicked off 2013 with a focus on its middle name. It’s fitting. After all, Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., who chairs the committee, changed the subcommittee name when he took over in 2011 to include an explicit reference to manufacturing.

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.

Observers Say King's Fundraising Points Away From Senate Run

Alex Brown | April 17, 2013

If Rep. Steve King, R-Iowa, is a soon-to-be Senate candidate, he isn't fundraising like one, and his latest Federal Election Commission reports have contributed to a growing buzz that the outspoken conservative will take a pass on his state's open-seat Senate race. To some political observers, the...

Ricin Letter Adds To Anxiety on the Hill

Billy House and Stacy Kaper | April 16, 2013

Amid an already edgy state of alert in Washington following Monday’s bombings at the Boston Marathon, law enforcement officials confirmed on Tuesday that they were also investigating whether an envelope containing the poison ricin was intended to harm Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss.

Time Running Short for Congress to Keep Student-Loan Rates From Doubling

Cory Bennett | April 16, 2013

Student-loan reform has emerged as one of the few bipartisan bridges in a budget battle marked by stark divides. But there is little agreement on solutions.

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.

Who's Playing Politics With the Boston Bombing?

Ron Fournier | April 16, 2013

A few ill-advised Democrats and Republicans edge toward the inexcusable.

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...

Democratic Attacks Already Flying in Closely-Watched Calif. House Primary

Scott Bland | April 16, 2013

Voters and donors, not to mention candidates, are just starting to recover from the nationwide intensity of the 2012 election. But a Democratic recruit in an important California congressional race is already hammering away at a fellow Democratic primary opponent. It's one of the first direct 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.

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...

Mass. Senate Candidates Put Campaigns on Hold After Marathon Explosions

Kevin Brennan | April 15, 2013

In the wake of the explosions at the Boston Marathon on Monday, the candidates running in the state's Senate special election put their campaigns on hold and offered their condolences for the victims and their families. Democratic Rep. Edward Markey, the frontrunner in the race, announced the...

Senate Fundraising Roundup: The House Is Home?

Sarah Mimms | April 15, 2013

With Monday's Federal Election Commission reporting deadline looming, we are getting an early glimpse at which potential Senate candidates in the House are already laying the groundwork for 2014 bids for the upper chamber -- and which are not just yet. Here, a look at the latter: Arkansas: Rep. Tom...

Booker Reports Raising $1.9 Million in First Quarter

Kevin Brennan | April 15, 2013

Newark, N.J., Mayor Cory Booker hasn't officially launched his Senate campaign, but the Democrat posted an impressive first quarter fundraising haul, reeling in $1.9 million over the first three months of 2013. Booker finished March with more than $1.6 million in his federal fundraising account, acc...

5 Roadblocks to Immigration Reform

Michael Catalini | April 15, 2013

Even with bipartisan support in the Senate, immigration reform could stumble on its way through Congress.

Braley Has $1 Million On Hand, As Republicans Seek A Senate Candidate

Alex Brown | April 15, 2013

Just more than two months into his Senate campaign, Rep. Bruce Braley, D-Iowa, has a million-dollar head start as Republicans seek to find his opponent. Braley raised $1.07 million in the first quarter of 2013, $856,875 of which came from his nascent Senate committee. The remainder was raised by hi...

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.

Why a Messed Up Immigration Bill Could Still Pass

Fawn Johnson | April 14, 2013

Only one thing really matters in the immigration bill that a bipartisan group of eight senators will unveil this week—11 million immigrants living in the United States without papers who fear deportation every day. Give them a break, and the rest will sort itself out.

Ralph Nader’s Newest Crusade: Raising the Minimum Wage

Mike Magner | April 12, 2013

Consumer advocate Ralph Nader has a new crusade for 2013—raising the federal minimum wage from $7.25 an hour, where it has stagnated since President Obama took office in 2009.

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.

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.

Senate Fundraising Roundup: Clinton Boosts Pryor, Schatz Starts Strong, and Franken Burns on Both Ends

Scott Bland and Sarah Mimms and Kevin Brennan | April 11, 2013

With the Federal Election Commission's April 15 first-quarter reporting deadline coming up quickly, a number of senators chose to release fundraising numbers a little early on Thursday. The first fundraising report of a new election cycle is the least important, but there are still some interesting...

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.

Changing Sides on Medicare and Social Security Is a Time-Honored Tactic

Jill Lawrence | April 11, 2013

That's especially true for Republicans, and for Greg Walden in particular.

Congressman Gives a 'Shout-Out' to Cyndi Lauper From House Floor

Elahe Izadi | April 11, 2013

Rep. Steve Cohen of Tennessee follows up his deleted Lauper tweet with a floor speech.

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.

The House Member Who Can Change the Internet

Brian Fung | April 11, 2013

Often overlooked on tech issues, Rep. Bob Goodlatte has a quiet approach that masks his power.

Progressives Fight Obama on Entitlements with Eye on 2014

Rebecca Kaplan | April 10, 2013

For progressive Democrats in Congress, a fight with President Obama over the inclusion of cuts to Social Security in his budget proposal may be just a warm-up for the real looming battle: the 2014 midterms.

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.

Is the GOP Preparing to Attack Dems on Social Security?

Alex Roarty | April 10, 2013

Are Republicans preparing to cudgel Democrats with, of all things, Social Security? That was the explicit impression left by Greg Walden, chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, during a Wednesday interview on CNN. The Oregon congressman said President Obama's budget – which...

The 8 Most Revealing Passages of Possible Mayoral Candidate Anthony Weiner's New York Times Magazine Profile

Steven Shepard | April 10, 2013

Former Rep. Anthony Weiner, D-N.Y., confirmed to the New York Times Magazine in a story published early Wednesday that he is considering running for mayor of New York this fall. The 8,000-word piece, written by Jonathan Van Meter, a contributing editor at Vogue and New York magazine, focuses mostly...

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.

Mike Ross To Launch Arkansas Gubernatorial Campaign Next Week

Jordain Carney | April 9, 2013

Former Arkansas Rep. Mike Ross will announce on April 17 that he's running for governor, according to an email sent out Tuesday by a local Democratic chapter within the state. Ross will fly to different cities throughout Arkansas on the day of his announcement, said Democratic insider Gary Grimes,...

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.

What's Next for Immigration Reform

Rebecca Kaplan | April 7, 2013

With Congress back in session, House and Senate working groups will be putting finishing touches on their immigration plans. But there are many issues still outstanding.

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.

Has Obama Done Enough for Black Americans?

George E. Condon Jr. and Jim O’Sullivan | April 4, 2013

For many, this is still a land of unequal opportunity. A history-making president may not be enough.

When Corporations Are Hacked, Who Should Know?

Brian Fung | April 4, 2013

Companies hurt themselves—but help the rest of us—when they disclose cyberattacks.

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.

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.

No Shortage of Headlines for House Intelligence Chair

Sara Sorcher | April 4, 2013

The Michigan Republican must toe a fine line between his role as a representative and communicator for the public and his advisory role on sensitive national-security issues.

Fleming Won't Join Cassidy In La. Senate Run

Sarah Mimms | April 4, 2013

Rep. John Fleming, R-La., will not run for the Senate in 2014, he said in a statement today, citing fellow Republican Rep. Bill Cassidy's official entry into the race Wednesday and the necessity of party unity ahead of what is expected to be a tough battle against incumbent Democratic Sen. Mary Land...

One Congressman, Rand Paul, the GOP, and What Ails American Politics

Ron Fournier | April 4, 2013

Rep. Scott Rigell stayed true to conservatism but was punished for his moderation and common sense.

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.

Mike Ross Moves Closer To Launching Gubernatorial Bid in Arkansas

Jordain Carney | April 2, 2013

Former Democratic Rep. Mike Ross might be moving closer toward jumping into the Arkansas governor's race. A spokesperson for Southwest Power Pool confirmed Tuesday that Ross had resigned from his job with the organization to pursue an opportunity in public service. Ross' departure was originally re...

Bill Cassidy Will Challenge Mary Landrieu

Sarah Mimms | April 2, 2013

Republican Rep. Bill Cassidy will announce in a web video Wednesday that he plans to challenge Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La., in 2014, according to a source close to his campaign. Cassidy becomes the first Republican to enter the contest against Landrieu, who is near the top of her party's list of vuln...

Once Again, the NRA Is Winning the Gun-Control Debate

Fawn Johnson | April 2, 2013

At dueling press conferences, gun-rights supporters sound confident.

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.

Citing Health Reasons, Potential DCCC Recruit Drops Out of Latham Race

Alex Brown | April 1, 2013

Businessman Mike Sherzan, an early Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee recruit, halted his campaign Monday in Iowa's 3rd congressional district, citing "personal health issues." Sherzan had been mounting a campaign against GOP Rep. Tom Latham, telling Hotline On Call in February that "it's...

Bill Cassidy to Report $500K Haul Ahead of Possible Landrieu Challenge

Sarah Mimms | April 1, 2013

Rep. Bill Cassidy, R-La., will report raising more than $500,000 in the first quarter of 2013, as he continues to mull a bid against Democratic Sen. Mary Landrieu next year, according to a release from his campaign. Spokesperson John Cummins declined to release a specific number, citing additional r...

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.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Steven Shepard | March 29, 2013

The Easter Sunday lineups at the weekend public-affairs programs will add a dash of religion to the usual political fare. One political highlight: Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., will talk about immigration and guns on CNN's "State of the Union." Univision's "Al Punto" will feature President Obama in a pre-recorded interview, also addressing his immigration-reform efforts. Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York, will appear on two of the Sunday shows, while Washington's archbishop, Cardinal Donald Wuerl, will visit with "Fox News Sunday."

If Steve King Runs for the Senate, His Opponents Will Have a Lot to Work With

Ben Terris | March 29, 2013

The staunch Iowa conservative isn't afraid to speak his mind.

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.

House Democrats See Potential Gains in 2014 Without Obama on the Ticket

Alex Roarty | March 28, 2013

DCCC officials say they have found a silver lining amid much pessimism about the 2014 midterm elections.

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?"

Matheson, Amash Split From Parties Most Often

Scott Bland | March 28, 2013

The Democrat and Republican have voted against their parties more often than any other House members in the 113th Congress.

Ethanol Debate Has Glimpse of Bipartisanship

Amy Harder | March 27, 2013

The top Republican and Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee are finally on the same page about a controversial energy policy after reading from two completely different playbooks the last four years.

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.

Democrats Recruiting Tipton Challengers

Scott Bland | March 27, 2013

At least two Democrats are considering running against Rep. Scott Tipton, R-Colo., next year: state Sen. Gail Schwartz and Lt. Gov. Joe Garcia. Multiple state Democrats confirmed Schwartz and Garcia are being recruited to run in the state's 3rd Congressional District. Schwartz, a two-term senator a...

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