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The Mighty Jeb Bush Comes Down to Earth

Beth Reinhard | March 6, 2013

Jeb Bush's waffling and word-mincing on immigration has stunned reformers, frustrated his friends, and left Democrats relishing the public-relations disaster.

Jeb Bush's Real Immigration Problem

Jill Lawrence | March 5, 2013

Quite the awkward re-launch for a man considered a serious student of policy and a top GOP hope for 2016.

Jeb Bush Delivers Straight Talk to Republicans

Beth Reinhard | March 15, 2013

The former Florida governor delivered a signature CPAC speech and one of the strongest doses of tough love in the GOP’s postelection recovery.

Veering Is Jeb Bush's Real Immigration Issue

Jill Lawrence | March 5, 2013

The former Florida governor says the politics have changed since he wrote Immigration Wars, but the real issue is that he couched his opposition to a path to citizenship as a matter of deeply held principle.

The Bad Timing Behind Jeb Bush's Immigration Flip-Flop

Beth Reinhard | March 5, 2013

The stunning reversal by one of the Republican Party’s leading champions of immigration reform and Hispanic outreach, at least in part, comes down to a colossal political miscalculation.

Jeb Bush's Poorly Timed Flip-Flop on Immigration

Beth Reinhard | March 5, 2013

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush’s new book was aimed at nudging a reluctant Republican Party toward reforms that would allow illegal immigrants to live and work without fear of deportation.

Jeb Bush Talks Education, But Politics Comes to Mind

Beth Reinhard | November 27, 2012

Jeb Bush showed off political skills and a mastery of policy at an education summit attended by 900 people. Scattered among the wonks were powerful political consultants and fundraisers, who will be waiting a long time for the answer they seek.

Jeb Bush Promoting Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Beth Reinhard | January 25, 2013

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, one of the most respected voices in the Republican Party and a potential presidential contender, rejects the “piecemeal” approach to immigration reform favored by some members of his party in a forthcoming book.

Jeb Bush: My Brother 'Kept Us Safe'

Naureen Khan | August 30, 2012

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush touched a third rail at the Republican National Convention in his speech on Thursday night—he paid tribute to his brother, George W. Bush.

Santorum, Rand Paul, Jeb Bush To Speak at Convention

Reid Wilson and Jonathan Miller contributed | August 7, 2012

Former Sen. Rick Santorum gave Mitt Romney a run for his money during the Republican primaries. In return, Santorum will get a major speaking role at the Republican National Convention, organizers will announce today.

Report: Jeb Bush Lobbied Romney to Pick Rubio

Alex Gangitano | July 26, 2012

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush recently urged Mitt Romney to choose Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., as his running mate, Bush told the Associated Press in an interview on Wednesday.

Full Text: Jeb Bush's Speech to the Republican National Convention

National Journal Staff | August 30, 2012

Welcome to Florida! Bienvenido a Florida!

Jeb Bush and Jeb Jr.: Bridges From Past to Future

Beth Reinhard | August 28, 2012

When former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush addresses the Republican convention on Thursday, he will represent a bridge between his party’s past and its future.

Transcript: Jeb Bush on NBC’s Meet the Press

August 26, 2012

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush says the changing demographics of the country could hurt the Republican Party’s electability in the coming years on NBC’s Meet the Press. Read the full transcript here

A Kinder, Gentler Jeb Bush

Beth Reinhard | June 13, 2012

Former Gov. Jeb Bush has been sounding downright squishy lately, decrying partisan backbiting and waxing poetic about compromise. He said his father, former President George H.W. Bush, and former President Ronald Reagan would have a "hard time'' fitting into today's Republican Party because they...

Jeb Bush: Demographic Shifts, Immigration Rhetoric Hurts GOP

Matt Vasilogambros | August 26, 2012

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush said on Sunday the Republican Party needs to pay attention to the changing demographics of the U.S., because such a shift could damage their election prospects in the future.

Jeb Bush Endorses Tommy Thompson

Sean Sullivan | May 7, 2012

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is backing Republican Tommy Thompson in the Wisconsin Senate race, giving him a jolt of conservative credibility as he faces a tough Republican primary.

Jeb Bush Endorses Romney

Matt Vasilogambros | March 21, 2012

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is endorsing Mitt Romney for the Republican presidential announcement, ABC News reported on Wednesday.

Jeb Bush Supports Path to Citizenship for Illegal Immigrants

Stephanie Czekalinski | June 11, 2012

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush said he supports both a path to citizenship or legal residency for the more than 11 million people living in the country illegally.

Jeb Bush Calls GOP 'Short-Sighted'

Lara Seligman | June 7, 2012

Jeb Bush, former Florida governor and brother of George W. Bush, is worried about the direction of the GOP.

Rubio Touts Jeb Bush for Veep

National Journal Staff | April 22, 2012

Florida GOP Sen. Marco Rubio, continuing to play down talk of his possible selection as Mitt Romney's running mate, on Sunday tried to shift the speculation to another Sunshine State Republican: former Gov. Jeb Bush.

Jeb Bush Distances Himself From GOP on Taxes

Rebecca Kaplan | June 1, 2012

Showing his willingness to break from his party, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush said on Friday he would accept $10 in spending cuts for every $1 in revenue increases and criticized activist Grover Norquist’s no-tax pledge that most GOP lawmakers have signed.

Norquist Describes Jeb Bush as a 'Yokel Off the Bus'

Alexandra Jaffe | June 13, 2012

Even as Republicans start to back away from Grover Norquist’s no-new-tax pledge, he has continued to defend it, asserting on Wednesday that critics are “lying” about the pledge.

Vice Presidential Pick? Don't Look At Jeb Bush

Alex Roarty | June 1, 2012

It's unlikely that anyone in the Capitol needs to be reminded why Jeb Bush isn't on anyone's list, long or short, to be Mitt Romney's running mate. Rep. Chris Van Hollen decided Friday to do it anyway. Bush was in D.C. testifying before a House Budget Committee - and its chairman, Wisconsin Rep....

Jeb Bush Backs Rubio for VP Nominee

Alexandra Jaffe | March 21, 2012

Mitt Romney isn't the only Republican former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush endorsed today.Speaking to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Bush said that Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., would be his pick for vice presidential nominee this fall.

Jeb Bush Says He Would 'Consider' Being Romney's Running Mate

National Journal Staff | April 20, 2012

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush said he would consider accepting an invitation to serve as the Republican vice presidential nominee, but doubts that he would be asked to be Mitt Romney’s running mate.

Jeb Bush: Reagan, George H.W. Bush Would Have 'Hard Time' In Modern GOP

Jonathan Miller | June 11, 2012

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush said on Monday that both his father, George H.W. Bush, and Ronald Reagan would have a “hard time” finding a place in today’s GOP, according to BuzzFeed.

Jeb Bush's Signal to Republicans: It's Time to End This Thing

Alex Roarty and Lindsey Boerma and Sarah Huisenga contributed | March 21, 2012

It’s the ninth inning of the Republican presidential primary, and Mitt Romney just brought his ace closer into the game. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush’s support of the GOP front-runner, one of the race’s most coveted endorsements, sends an unequivocal message to Republicans everywhere that--after a long, bitter primary fight--it’s time to make Romney the party’s presidential nominee.

QUICK TAKE: Jeb Bush's Plan for Winning Hispanic Voters

Sophie Quinton | January 26, 2012

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush laid out four pathways that could help turn Hispanic voters into Republican voters in a Washinton Post op-ed on Thursday.

Jeb Bush's Tough Decision, Plus: Gingrich's Push-Up Bra -- VIDEO

Theresa Poulson | March 26, 2012

On Jeb Bush's endorsement of Mitt Romney, Jay Leno says, "It was the hardest decision he's had to make since endorsing his brother George W."

Jeb Bush Jr. Endorses Huntsman for GOP Nomination

Michael Catalini | August 10, 2011

Jon Huntsman picked up a big-name endorsement on Wednesday: Jeb Bush Jr., son of the former Florida governor, nephew of George W. Bush, and grandson of George H.W. Bush, announced that he is backing Huntsman in the Republican primary.

QUICK TAKE: Jeb Bush Refrains From Endorsing GOP Candidate—Report

National Journal Staff | January 21, 2012

Jeb Bush is not endorsing anyone in the Republican presidential contest, according to news reports.

Jeb Bush Calls for Education Reform

Ben Terris | January 3, 2011

Could the best way out of an economic crisis be through education reform? Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is making that argument.

Should Jeb Bush Be Running for President in 2012?

Erik Hayden | February 7, 2011

Riffing on a National Review cover story touting the credentials of Jeb Bush, Rich Lowry explains why the brother of the ex-decider needs to run for office--specifically, in 2012. The reasons he lists (eight, in total) assess Jeb's timing ("2016 is too late"), competition (Jeb vs. a "beatable inc...

Why Jeb Bush Won't Run for President in 2012

S.V. Dáte, The Atlantic | May 26, 2011

One thing all those pushing Jeb Bush to run for president this cycle can agree upon is that he's smart--smart about education, smart about cutting taxes, smart about hurricanes. Smart about everything, so it seems, except political history, particularly his own.

Huckabee: Obama 'Amateurish,' Jeb Bush 'Brilliant'

Cameron Joseph and Alex Roarty | December 13, 2010

Mike Huckabee, a once and potential future GOP presidential candidate, offered a scathing critique of President Obama in an interview with National Journal, saying that the president “self-destructed” during a press conference last week.

Huntsman Boasts of Endorsement from 28-Year-Old Jeb Bush Jr.

Elspeth Reeve | August 10, 2011

Speculation erupted Tuesday after Jon Huntsman's campaign sent out a mysterious alert that the candidate would make a "major announcement" Wednesday. Quickly reporters guessed it was an endorsement, and then wondered if it might be former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, a big deal that would he...

LEGAL AFFAIRS - How Jeb Bush Suddenly Became Bull Connor

March 18, 2000

It was perhaps the biggest mass protest in Florida's history, with 10,000 demonstrators converging on the Capitol in Tallahassee on March 7. Some placards called Florida Gov. Jeb Bush "Jeb Crow." Others said, "Pharaoh Bush, let my people go!" A speaker declared that the governor had taken "the first step towards resegregation."

GOP Insiders: Rubio for President in 2016?

Alex Roarty and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | November 8, 2012

Republican Political Insiders tout the senator from Florida as the strongest potential nominee in 2016. Democrats say Republicans would be smart to nominate Jeb Bush.

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

Beth Reinhard | December 26, 2012

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

Insiders: Look to Florida for Strongest 2016 GOP Candidate

Alex Roarty and Peter Bell | November 9, 2012

The strongest GOP presidential nominee in 2016 will come from Florida, according to the latest National Journal Political Insiders Poll. But Republicans and Democrats don't agree if that person is Sen. Marco Rubio or former Gov. Jeb Bush.

A Timeline of GOP Snubs of the Grover Norquist No-Tax-Raise Pledge

David Graham, The Atlantic | November 26, 2012

Grover Norquist demands that Republicans hold the line on taxes. He was winning, until the defections began.

Jeb to Keynote Convention Luncheon -- and More?

Beth Reinhard | July 25, 2012

One of the many uncomfortable decisions surrounding the speaking lineup at the Republican nominating convention is how to juggle Florida Gov. Rick Scott and former Gov. Jeb Bush. Bush is a strong, bilingual speaker beloved by the Republican faithful and frequently mentioned as a future presidential...

George W. Bush is the GOP's Missing Man

Alex Roarty | March 30, 2012

Mitt Romney has the endorsement of former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, former first lady Barbara Bush and, as of Thursday night, former President George H. W. Bush. Notice anyone missing?...

Rubio PAC Spends Big on Consultants, Not Candidates

Beth Reinhard and Scott Bland and Jim Tankersley contributed. | December 6, 2012

Of the more than $1.6 million that Sen. Marco Rubio's leadership PAC spent between July 2011 and mid-October, only $75,484 went to candidates, government records show. The biggest chunk, $478,060, went to consultants, including several who have advised Rubio for years.

Opinion: The Door Opens for Bipartisan Immigration Reform

Ali Noorani | November 9, 2012

A sizable majority of Americans across the political spectrum agree with Latinos that we need a new way forward on immigration. Conservative leaders and pundits can read the writing on the wall: Democrats and Republicans must come together to work on a bipartisan immigration process.

With Surrogates Like These, Who Needs Enemies? -- PICTURES

Matt Berman | June 12, 2012

New GOP Plan Subject To Weather

Alex Roarty | August 26, 2012

GOP, Eyeing Isaac, Issues New Convention Schedule The revised schedule is for a convention running from Tuesday to Thursday. Romney campaign adviser Russ Schriefer said officials are monitoring the weather closely and left the door open to more schedule changes. Schriefer said he didn't want to discuss "hypothetical" cancellations but “our concern has to be with the people in the path” of the storm. Under the revised schedule, Mitt Romney will be nominated Tuesday night and give his acceptance speech Thursday night. Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, originally slated to speak Monday night, will speak Wednesday night under the new schedule. Jeb Bush, the former Florida governor, will now deliver his remarks Thursday night before Romney’s speech. The lineup of primetime speakers for 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, when the networks will provide coverage, is unchanged.

Romney Hits the High Road During Sandy’s Aftermath

Sarah Huisenga and Rebecca Kaplan contributed | October 31, 2012

Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney refrained from attacking President Obama as he resumed campaigning in the wake of superstorm Sandy.

Convention Insiders Poll

James A. Barnes | August 29, 2012

If Romney doesn’t win the election, who do you think will be the front-runner for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination?

Poll: Presidential Race Tightens in Nevada

Matt Vasilogambros | October 11, 2012

The race in Nevada is effectively tied between President Obama and Mitt Romney, according to a new Suffolk University/KSNV poll released on Thursday.

Diversity Roundup: Treasury Dept. May Require Contractors with Diverse Hiring

Doris Nhan | August 27, 2012

Five items for Aug. 27: Minority hiring increasing at radio and television news companies; report finds schools with high-minority populations are receiving less funding and more.

Why Immigration Reform Now Sparks the GOP

Molly Ball, The Atlantic | November 14, 2012

The GOP establishment has long wanted to pass comprehensive immigration reform but been cowed by its activist base. The election gives them an opening.

Exit Polls: Obama Wins Hispanics in Florida by a Landslide

Beth Reinhard | November 9, 2012

Exit polls showing the powerful Cuban-American community in Florida favored President Obama – which would make him the first Democratic nominee in decades to penetrate that Republican Party stronghold -- suggest a seismic political shift in the nation’s largest swing state.

Hispanic Exit Polls Suggest Seismic Shift in Florida

Beth Reinhard | November 9, 2012

Exit polls showing the powerful Cuban-American community in Florida favored President Obama – which would make him the first Democratic nominee in decades to penetrate that Republican Party stronghold -- suggest a seismic political shift in the nation’s largest swing state.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | August 24, 2012

The Republican Convention kicks off next week, and the Sunday shows will focus on the GOP's big gathering.

Top 10 Republican Presidential Contenders for 2016

Sophie Quinton | November 6, 2012

If Republican challenger Mitt Romney doesn’t emerge triumphant on Election Day, the party will have a deep bench of contenders to draw from in 2016. Here is a list of the top 10 to watch.

Obama Accuses Romney of ‘Teacher Bashing'

Matt Vasilogambros | September 25, 2012

In the wake of the Chicago Teachers Union strike that ended last week, President Obama on Tuesday took issue with the way that Mitt Romney addressed the issue, saying he was "teacher-bashing."

Romney Raises $170 Million in September

Sarah Huisenga | October 15, 2012

As Mitt Romney's campaign announced on Monday that it raised a personal-best $170 million in September, his top donors are gathering at Manhattan’s Waldorf Astoria hotel for a three-day retreat at which they will attend strategy sessions, rub elbows with Republican luminaries and cheer on their candidate at a debate party featuring comedian Dennis Miller.

Cruz, Walker Announced as GOP Convention Speakers

Matt Vasilogambros | August 8, 2012

Five additional headline speakers were announced on Wednesday for the Republican National Convention, including Texas Republican Senate nominee Ted Cruz and Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Sarah Mimms | August 31, 2012

Even the Sunday shows that won't physically be in Charlotte will be there in spirit this weekend, as coverage turns to the Democratic Convention, which kicks off Tuesday.

Arizona, 5th House District

Gregg Sangillo | November 1, 2012

With Republican Rep. Jeff Flake running for the Senate, former Rep. Matt Salmon launched a successful bid to return to the House in Flake’s old Mesa-area district. In such solidly Republican territory, Salmon’s election was a foregone conclusion. The real fireworks came during the primary, when he toppled former state House Speaker Kirk Adams.

Convention Delay One More Hurdle for Romney

Alex Roarty and Beth Reinhard and Coral Davenport contributed. | August 25, 2012

The one-day delay of the Republican National Convention shrouds in uncertainty the most carefully scripted political event in the country, putting officials from Mitt Romney’s campaign in the awkward position of making last-minute adjustments to a schedule they spent months planning.

Sunday Shows: Is Romney a Bipartisan Leader?

August 26, 2012

On today’s Sunday shows, Mitt Romney’s supporters touted him as a bipartisan leader, using his controversial Massachusetts health care plan as an example; former Republican National Committee chairman Michael Steele dismissed criticism over the party’s decision to hold a convention in hurricane-prone Florida; and Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., said that Rep. Todd Akin of Missouri might not be welcomed by his Senate GOP colleagues if he wins his race.Supporters Tout Romney as a Bipartisan LeaderMitt Romney and his allies flooded the talk shows on Sunday to preview the campaign’s convention themes and broaden its appeal to a national audience. While they stuck to their guns on their main narrative — the failure of the Obama administration to create jobs and improve the economy — they also placed renewed emphasis on Romney as a bipartisan leader capable of working with both Republicans and Democrats.Romney Says He’s ‘Proud’ of Mass. Health Care LawMitt Romney said he was “proud” of the health care plan he signed into law as governor of Massachusetts, and cited it as evidence that he would protect women’s health as president.Steele Dismisses Blame for Convention DelayFormer Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele is dismissing critics who blame him for the party’s decision to host a convention in hurricane-prone Florida. “We set this in motion two years ago,” he said. “Like we could forecast the weather?”McCain Says Akin May Not Be Welcomed in the SenateRepublicans did damage control on Sunday’s talk shows after Rep. Todd Akin’s “legitimate rape” comments last week, with some dismissing the Missourian's place in the Republican Party moving forward. Sen. John McCain went so far as to say that Akin, if elected, may not be welcomed by his Senate colleagues.Priebus: Tuesday’s Convention Is ‘100 Percent’Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus said on Sunday that he is “100 percent” sure the convention will run on Tuesday, after Monday's events were canceled due to a tropical storm approaching the Gulf of Mexico and, possibly, Tampa.Rubio Calls Romney a ‘Role Model’In what may have been a preview of his upcoming speech on Thursday introducing Mitt Romney at the Republican convention, Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida called the candidate a “role model” in an appearance on CBS’s Face the Nation.Hutchison: GOP Does Not Have a Woman ProblemTexas Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison said the Republican Party does not have a problem with women, despite Akin’s comments and recent polling that suggests otherwise.McDonnell Says Pro-Life Platform Is No ThreatRepublican convention chairman Gov. Bob McDonnell of Virginia dismissed concerns that the antiabortion plank in his party’s platform could lead to laws preventing women who became pregnant as a result of rape or incest from seeking abortions.Priebus Downplays Romney’s Birth-Certificate JokeRNC Chairman Reince Priebus laughed off criticism of Mitt Romney’s joke making a veiled reference to the furor over President Obama’s birth certificate, calling for more levity in politics.Jeb Bush: Demographic Shifts, Immigration Rhetoric Hurt GOPWith recent polling suggesting that Latino and female voters favor Democrats over Republicans, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush said the party needs to reevaluate its rhetoric on immigration and look to solutions with universal appeal.'Fareed Zakaria GPS' Returns to CNNFareed Zakaria GPS returned to CNN’s lineup on Sunday after being on hiatus for several weeks while the network investigated a plagiarism incident involving the show’s host.See all NJ’s Sunday show coverage | Get more NJ newsletters

McCain Says Akin May Not be Welcomed in Senate

Matt Vasilogambros | August 26, 2012

Republicans played damage control on Sunday's talk shows after Rep. Todd Akin’s “legitimate rape” comments last week, with some dismissing his place in the Republican Party moving forward.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | August 17, 2012

With the Republican National Convention just over a week away, the presidential campaigns will be front and center on the Sunday shows.

Christie Blasts Washington-Style Obstructionism

Rebecca Kaplan | July 9, 2012

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie joined former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush in calling for more bipartisanship in Washington.

Chicago Teachers Strike Highlights 'Societal Problem'

Fawn Johnson | September 18, 2012

There is a bright spot to the Chicago Teachers Union strike that stretched into a second week, , which kept the city’s kids at home and its public-school teachers picketing the streets: People are actually talking about education.

The Florida Voters Who Can't Forgive Obama

Molly Ball, The Atlantic | October 29, 2012

President Obama spent the last two years trying to get back the voters who carried him to victory in Florida in 2008, then turned against him in 2010. It is the central argument of his reelection campaign: Sure, we've had our differences, and things are not perfect, but it's OK to come back. The central question of 2012 is whether people are buying it.

GOP Challenge: How to Transcend Aging White Base

Beth Reinhard | November 8, 2012

The nation’s demographics are dominating the GOP’s soul-searching and its second-guessing.

Ryan Courts Cuban-Americans in Miami

Rebecca Kaplan | September 24, 2012

MIAMI – Seeking to bolster the Republican ticket with Latino voters, vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan pledged Saturday to be “tough on Castro, tough on Chavez,” referring to Cuban and Venezuelan dictators Fidel Castro and Hugo Chavez.

Forget About Election Fatigue—Campaign 2016 Starts Now

Alex Roarty and Naureen Khan | November 8, 2012

Republicans are without an heir apparent for 2016. That is a disoriented position for a party that has traditionally anointed a previous primary challenger, the next-in-line candidate, to become its standard-bearer four years later.

Hotline Sort: Rubio Rising

Sean Sullivan | March 22, 2012

Welcome back to Hotline Sort. Jeb Bush says Romney should pick Rubio, Sherrod Brown gets some LCV help, Denny Rehberg keeps his distance from the new Ryan budget plan and Kirsten Gillibrand wants Hillary Clinton to run in 2016. Here's today's rundown:

Ryan Courts Cuban-Americans in Miami

Rebecca Kaplan | September 22, 2012

Campaigning in Miami, vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan promises that a Romney-Ryan administration will be “tough on Castro.”

Priebus: Tuesday at the Convention is '100 Percent'

Matt Vasilogambros | August 26, 2012

Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus said on Sunday he is “100 percent” sure the convention will run on Tuesday, after being delayed from an impending tropical storm.

Bratina Kermes to Ketchum

Andrew Joseph | December 7, 2011

Jill Bratina Kermes, who worked for Ketchum's litigation communications practice in the 1990s, is rejoining the public relations firm as senior vice president for corporate affairs. Bratina Kermes was most recently vice president of brand and corporate communications at Volkswagen of America, a...

GOP Convention Lineup Will Stay Mostly the Same, Tuesday-Thursday

Alex Roarty and Jim O'Sullivan | August 26, 2012

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Republican officials unveiled their revised schedule on Sunday evening, revealing an unchanged prime-time lineup for Tuesday through Thursday night and the seemingly seamless addition of Monday’s speakers to the rest of the schedule.

Dem Senate Candidates Winning Money Race: Does it Matter?

Sean Sullivan | July 12, 2012

Senate Democratic candidates have announced some very impressive second quarter fundraising hauls this week. But the financial strength of Republican-aligned outside groups threatens to level the playing field for under-funded GOP candidates running underwhelming campaigns.

Like GOP, Dems Likely to Offer Little on Education

Fawn Johnson | September 2, 2012

Just about anyone you talk to believes that education should be a more important campaign issue than it is. Republicans and Democrats agree that the country’s economic future depends on the next generation of children being fully prepared for college and for sophisticated, challenging careers. Few dispute that the global rankings of 15-year-olds in the United States (below average in math, average in reading) fall well short of what the nation will need to compete internationally.

George W. Bush Backs Romney

Matt Vasilogambros | May 15, 2012

Mitt Romney now has the backing of former President George W. Bush, reports ABC News.

GOP Speakers Include Condi, Cruz, and Santorum

August 8, 2012

In National Journal’s Republican National Convention Update this week, the lineup of speakers is starting to fill in, including some major names within the party; convention organizers are having a tough time managing it all; and lobbyists may find schmoozing at the conventions a challenge in the age of austerity. GOP Speakers Include Condi, Cruz, and Santorum [National Journal, 8/8/12] Ted Cruz, the Republican Senate nominee in Texas, and Scott Walker, the governor of Wisconsin, are two of the latest speakers to be added to the lineup at the Republican convention. Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Sen. John McCain, former Sen. Rick Santorum, Florida Gov. Rick Scott, South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, Sen. Rand Paul, and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush are also speaking. See a gallery of the full list so far. Convention Challenge: VIP Speakers Who Send the Wrong Message [National Journal, 8/7/12] Those charged with devising the lineup for a party’s nominating convention have egos to stroke, aesthetics to consider, and dramas to avoid. What to do with North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue and Florida Gov. Rick Scott, two of the least popular governors in the country, is just one of the problems. Ron Paul Supporters, GOP Continue to Bicker [U.S. News & World Report, 7/30/12] One of the names missing from the speaking roster is Rep. Ron Paul, the boisterous presidential candidate whose anti-Fed rants became legend on the trail. His intense followers are now fighting with the RNC. Convention Austerity: Partying Like It’s 2012 [National Journal, 8/8/12] In an era of crunched budgets and economic gloom, party planning and schmoozing have gotten trickier for Washington organizations seeking a presence at the conventions in Tampa and Charlotte. Conventions Lose Appeal for D.C. Lobbyists [Roll Call, 8/6/12] The sluggish economy, new restrictions on contributions, and anti-corporate sentiment—not to mention fewer members of Congress attending—has zapped the fun from the conventions for some political players. Convention Says Fundraising on Track [Associated Press, 7/31/12] Republican convention organizers say they are on track to meet their fundraising goals, but have not released specifics.Willie Nelson Signs on for RNC Concert [Politico, 7/31/12] Country music legend Willie nelson is headlining a concert hosted by Got Your 6, a nonpartisan group aimed at helping military veterans, during the Republican National Convention on Aug. 29. A week later, rapper Flo Rida will perform at the Democratic convention to benefit the same organization. RNC Music Scene Will Be Exclusive [Tampa Bay Times, 8/5/12] The Republican convention will draw big-name music acts like Kid Rock and Journey. But most events are invitation-only shows for celebrities, corporate sponsors and VIPs—and they are not cheap. Jimmy Carter To Speak by Video at Democratic Convention [USA Today, 8/7/12] Former President Carter won't be attending the Democratic convention, but he'll address the gathering by videotape. He promises to offer “unique insights.” Other speakers include former President Clinton and Julian Castro, the 37-year-old mayor of San Antonio, Texas, who is a rising star in Democratic politics. Read more convention news | Download NJ’s conventions app

Republicans Work to Build Support in Younger Generation

Erin Mershon | August 29, 2012

Josh Romney knows that the Republican Party has struggled to attract the youth vote. But in his estimation, that disenchantment is more of a misunderstanding than an intellectual disagreement.

On Education, GOP Distances Itself From Tea Party

Fawn Johnson | August 29, 2012

The Republican National Committee’s platform on education contains a lot of tea party buzzwords: abstinence, English-first, homeschooling, vouchers, local control. But the document also shows signs that the GOP is willing to embrace some type of benchmarking (that is, regulation) for public schools. The platform talks about “accountability,” “higher expectations for all students,” and options for students in failing schools. It’s a far cry from eliminating the Education Department.

Guest Workers Are No Longer Taboo

Fawn Johnson | August 30, 2012

The official Republican platform calls for a guest-worker program, a position that now has the support of staunch Arizona conservatives like Gov. Jan Brewer and Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio.

Guest Workers Are No Longer Taboo

Fawn Johnson | August 29, 2012

It’s official. Republicans are now allowed to embrace the concept of foreign workers in the United States. The official Republican platform calls for a guest-worker program. Mitt Romney wants to staple a green card to foreign college students’ diplomas.

Ryan a Risky Choice For Romney

National Journal Staff | August 7, 2012

Among the handful of people Mitt Romney could choose as a running mate, there is one candidate who genuinely would be a high-risk pick, and he’s getting traction down the home stretch: House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan.

Sunday Shows: Who Broke the Economy?

April 22, 2012

On today’s Sunday shows, investigations into the Secret Service and General Services Administration scandals dominated the talk. In addition, the campaigns traded barbs on the economy; Obama advisor David Axelrod accused Republicans of perpetrating a “reign of terror” on Capitol Hill; and Florida Senator Marco Rubio touted Jeb Bush as Mitt Romney’s running mate. The Great 2012 Debate: Who Broke the Economy? Mitt Romney’s core attack on President Obama is that he’s made a bad economic situation worse. Obama’s main response is that Romney wants to go back to the policies that made the economy bad in the first place. In other words, as National Journal’s Jim Tankersley writes, we’ll get to Morning in America, just as soon as we’re done sorting out whom to blame for nightfall. Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels Offers Romney Advice on Rhetoric Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels, who endorsed Romney last Wednesday and was quoted as critical of Romney's rhetoric days later, expanded on those remarks on Sunday, explaining that Romney's principles are right—he just needs to express them better. Axelrod: Republican Perpetrate ‘Reign of Terror’ on Capitol Hill Republicans have engaged in a “reign of terror” on Capitol Hill, forcing their members into lockstep opposition to Obama – even Republicans who “know better” – Obama senior political adviser David Axelrod said on Sunday. Rubio Touts Jeb Bush for Veep Florida GOP Sen. Marco Rubio, continuing to play down talk of his possible selection as Romney's running mate, on Sunday tried to shift the speculation to another Sunshine State Republican: former Gov. Jeb Bush. Lieberman: White House Should Investigate its Own Staff on Colombia Trip In the midst of an investigation into alleged misconduct by Secret Service agents and U.S. military members in Colombia, Sen. Joe Lieberman, I-Conn., said the White House should launch its own internal investigation into its advance staff on that same trip. Lieberman Says Obama Should be Held Accountable for GSA Spending The chairman of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs on Sunday called for an investigation into the General Services Administration’s operations in all 10 regions and said that while President Obama isn’t responsible for the GSA’s wasteful spending, he should be held accountable. Lawmakers: Secret Service Director Should Keep His Job A pair of Republicans who head congressional oversight committees said on Sunday that Secret Service Director Mark Sullivan should keep his job, praising his handling of the Colombian prostitution scandal that has rattled the agency. Lawmakers Say There's Danger in Harming the Secret Service's Reputation Top lawmakers on congressional committees tasked with government oversight agree that while the Obama administration is handling the Secret Service scandal well, one of the greatest dangers remains the potential harm to the agency's reputation. Former Secret Service Director Calls Colombia Incident an ‘Aberration’ Former Secret Service Director Ralph Basham dismissed concerns that the alleged misconduct by Secret Service agents in Colombia is indicative of a wider cultural issue in the agency, calling the incident an “aberration.” Female Lawmakers Call for More Women in the Secret Service With the investigation into the Secret Service incident is underway, it’s unclear what could’ve been done to prevent it. But two female lawmakers from both sides of the aisle agree: perhaps more women in the agency would help. Collins: Obama Responsible for GSA Waste Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, weighed in on Sunday on the two scandals that have rocked the White House recently, absolving Obama of responsibility for the Secret Service misconduct but not for the overspending of the General Services Administration. Rubio on Romney’s Veep Selection: ‘Let His Process Play Itself Out’ Rubio, whose name has long been mentioned as a potential GOP vice presidential choice, said on Sunday that Mitt Romney has a selection process in place and that republicans should “let his process play itself out.” See all NJ’s Sunday show coverage | Get more NJ newsletters

Poll: Obama, Romney in Dead Heat in Florida

National Journal Staff | May 9, 2012

President Obama and likely opponent Mitt Romney are in a dead heat in a new Florida poll, with Obama edging Romney 46 percent to 45 percent.

Hotline Sort: One Day to Game Day in Indiana

Sean Sullivan | May 7, 2012

Welcome back to Hotline Sort. President Obama kicks off his campaign with a forward-looking message, Vice President Biden makes some unexpected comments on same-sex marriage, Richard Lugar makes a last minute plea for support wherever he can get it and Scott Brown finds himself alongside New York i...

Hotline Sort: Massachusetts Ad Blitz

Sean Sullivan | June 11, 2012

Welcome back to Hotline Sort. Commerce Secretary John Bryson is accused of hit-and-run accidents in California. Scott Brown and Elizabeth Warren are up with new ads in Massachusetts, Democrats make a new $4 million push for Hispanic voters, and Tim Pawlenty's stock is rising in the veepstakes . Here's today's rundown:

Ex-Rep. Artur Davis Embraces GOP, Possible Run for Office

Shane Goldmacher | May 30, 2012

The slow but steady metamorphosis of Artur Davis from Democrat to Republican is now complete.

How Latino Voters Have Shaped the Story of the 2012 Elections

Beth Reinhard | November 2, 2012

Regardless of next week's outcome, the Hispanic vote will be one of the most important markers of the parties’ futures, pointing the way to newly competitive battlegrounds in traditionally Republican states across the country.

George P. Bush: A Political Dynasty's Young Hope

Molly Ball, The Atlantic | July 11, 2012

His great-grandfather was a senator, his grandfather and uncle presidents, his father governor of Florida. Now a new George Bush is contemplating going into the family business.

The Story of the Hispanic Vote Is the Story of the 2012 Campaign

Beth Reinhard | November 1, 2012

There’s more to the Hispanic vote in Florida than Cuban-Americans in the Miami area. Puerto Ricans around Orlando can’t be ignored.

Convention Daybook: Mitt Romney's Big Night — Brought to you by CIT

August 30, 2012

Welcome to National Journal’s Convention Daybook, which provides a floor schedule and a list of major events at the Republican National Convention each day.

George H.W. Bush to Formally Endorse Romney

Jonathan Miller | March 28, 2012

Former President George H.W. Bush will formally endorse Mitt Romney for president Thursday, according to CBS News.

The High Stakes for Republicans in New Hampshire

Jill Lawrence | January 9, 2012

The suspense is killing us. Seriously. Sure, Mitt Romney is a near-certain bet to win the New Hampshire primary Tuesday. But the size of his margin will be an important measure of his survival skills in the face a bombardment that promises to continue into South Carolina, the next battleground. The...

Romney Needs the Little Guy, Not Another Big Fish

Beth Reinhard | March 22, 2012

Former Gov. Jeb Bush's endorsement of Mitt Romney on Tuesday, which sent the message that it's time for Republicans to rally behind their likely nominee, also raised a question: Who's next?Speculation immediately centered on South Carolina Sen. Jim DeMint, one of the most popular leaders in the cons...

Convention Daybook: Plenty of Events Despite the Weather - Brought to you by CIT

August 27, 2012

Welcome to National Journal’s Convention Daybook, which provides a floor schedule and a list of major events at the Republican National Convention each day.

Can the Romney Campaign Be Saved?

James Fallows, The Atlantic | September 25, 2012

Through this election season, we've heard from Samuel Popkin, a political scientist and the author of a recent book on how presidents position themselves for election and reelection runs.

House Majority Whip McCarthy Will Back Romney

Lara Seligman and Matt Vasilogambros contributed | March 26, 2012

House Majority Whip Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., will endorse Mitt Romney for the GOP presidential nomination on Monday, the Romney campaign announced.

Charlie Crist's Speech: Full Text From the Democratic National Convention

National Journal Staff | September 6, 2012

The Democratic National Convention released a full transcript of Former Republican Governor of Florida Charlie Crist's speech to the 2012 Democratic National Convention (as prepared for delivery). Read the full text below:

Introducing National Journal Insiders

August 26, 2012

Republican Convention Insiders: Kevin Abbott, Geduldig Adam, Chad Airhart, Tim Albrecht, Ray Allen, Dan Allen, Stan Anderson, Gary Andres, Peter Angerhofer, Saulius (Saul) Anuzis, Charlie Arlinghaus, Rich Ashooh, Whit Ayres, Brett Bader, Mitch Bainwol, Brian Baker, Brian Ballard, Gary Bauer, Slater Bayliss, David Beckwith, Geller Benjamin, Paul Bennecke, Clark Benson, Brian Bieron, Charlie Black, Brad Blais, Kirk Blalock, Carmine Boal, John Boehner, Jeff Boeyink, Ron Bonjean, Grant Bosse, Michael Bousselot, Sally Bradshaw, Kevin Brady, Jeff Buley, Jamie Burnett, Jeb Bush Jr., Luke Byars, Bertica Cabrera, Nick Calio, Al Cardenas, Danny Carroll, Alex Castellanos, James Centers, Amelia Chasse, Ron Christie, Jim Cicconi, Alan Cobb, Tom Cole, Jonathan Collegio, Len Collins, Paul Collins, Rob Collins, Cesar Conda, Bradford E. Cook, Jake Corman, Scott Cottington, Lynne Cottrell, Peter Cownie, Jay Cranford, Greg Crist, Diane Crookham-Johnson, Fergus Cullen, Renee Dabbs, Tom Davis, Mike Dennehy, Mikel Derby, Jose Diaz, Nelson Diaz, Janel Domenico, Brett Doster, Ken Duberstein, Charlie Dudley, Brian Dumas, John Dunagan, Ed Dupont, Debi Durham, Sara Fagen, Frank Fahrenkopf, John Feehery, Tom Feeney, Don Fierce, Brenna Findley, Mindy Finn, Jay Flanders, Ken Flechler, Jim Foley, Christian Fong, Carl Forti, Jose Fuentes, Dave Funk, Bruce A. Gates, Randall Gerard, Ginsberg Girard-diCarlo, Adam Goodman, Bill Greener, Adam Gregg, Sandy Greiner, Jonathan Grella, Tim Griffin, Lanny Griffith, Janet Mullins Grissom, Doug Gross, Steve Grubbs, Chris Hagenow, Matt Hagerty, Jesse Harris, Todd Harris, Steve Hart, Erin Hass, Christopher Healy, Hanz C. Heinrichs, Rich Heffley, Erik Helland, Ralph Hellmann, Chris Henick, Darrell Henry, Ann Herberger, Mark Hillman, Matt Hinch, Doug Hoelscher, Terry Holt, Jennifer Horn, Mark Hudson, Tim Huelskamp, Caleb Hunter, Patrick Hynes, David Iannelli, Ed Ingle, Todd Inman, Jim Innocenzi, David Jamison, Eric Johansen, Christina Johnson, David Johnson, Clark Judge, Periklis Karoutas, David Keating, Matthew Keelen, Martin Kent, David Kensinger, Jake Ketzner, Rich Killion, Gary Kirke, Bob Kjellander, Walt Klein, Matt Knoedler, Ed Kutler, Chris LaCivita, Jim Lake, Gary Lambert, Steven Law, Ladonna Y. Lee, Frederick Leonhardt, Corey Lewandowski, Steve Lombardo, Carlos M. Lopez-Cantera, Jim MacEachern, Kevin Madden, Joel Maiola, Gary Maloney, David Marin, Kerry Marsh, Alberto E. Martinez, Mary Matalin, Dan Mattoon, Brian McCormack, Don McDowell, Shannon McGinley, Christopher McGowan, Will McKinley, Frank McNulty, Mark McKinnon, Kyle McSlarrow, Kathy Mears, Ken Mehlman, Jim Merrill, Dan Meyer, Betsy Miller, Lisa Camooso Miller, Paul Mitchell, Tim Morrison, Mike Murphy, Phil Musser, Ana Navarro, Ron Nehring, Terry Nelson, Neil Newhouse, David Norcross, Steve Northrup, Kevin O’Neill, Ziad Ojakli, Jack Oliver, Todd Olsen, Roy Palmer, Connie Partoyan, Billy Piper, Van B. Poole, Ed. J Pozzuoli, Christopher Rants, Tom Rath, Scott Reed, David Rehr, Marc Reichelderfer, Todd Reid, Dave Rexrode, Tom Reynolds, Jim Rimes, Steve Roberts, Craig Robinson, Monica Rodriguez, Jason Roe, David Roederer, Richard Rogers, Marc A. Ross, Sarah Rumpf, Nick Ryan, John Ryder, Gates Sam, Dan Schnur, Renee Schulte, Rich Schwarm, Brent Seaborn, Rick Shelby, Andrew Shore, Kevin Shuvalov, Pete Silva, Don Sipple, Ken Spain, Fred Steeper, Bob Stevenson, Suzan Stewart, Ted Stopulos, Terry Sullivan, Cameron Sutton, David Tamasi, Eric Tanenblatt, John Tate, Richard Temple, Jo Thoburn, Heath Thompson, Cory Tilley, Jay Timmons, Warren Tompkins, Ted Van Der Meid, Dirk van Dongen, Jan van Lohuizen, Stewart Verdery, Dick Wadhams, Joe Wall, Ed Wallace, John Weaver, Peter Week, Lezlee Westine, Susan Wiles, Shari Williams, Dave Winston, Ginny Wolfe, Eric Woolson, Will Wrobleski, Fred Wszolek, Brian Yablonski, Grant Young, Matthew Zablud

Romney Wins the Endorsement Primary in a Landslide

Beth Reinhard | December 19, 2011

If there was any lingering questions over whether the Republican establishment was worried about the possibility of President Newt Gingrich, they have been answered in recent days with an avalanche of endorsements for Mitt Romney. From South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley to former Sen. Bob Dole to a bun...

Tighter Budgets Mean Much Smaller Parties

Naureen Khan | September 2, 2012

With the Democratic convention about to get under way, many organizations are on what one caterer calls a “Bud Lite” budget.“You know, I thought it was going to be busier ... that there would be big events every night,” said Something Classic President Jill Marcus, whose company has a contract to feed 15,000 journalists at the Democrats’ media welcome party. Organizations “are being very modest in their entertaining and smart with their money,” she said. “They’re feeding their guests, but certainly not wining and dining them.”

Convention Nightcap: Ryan Long on Style, Shorter on Facts

August 29, 2012

Welcome to Nightcap, where National Journal’s correspondents take you inside today’s convention—and what’s happening after hours.

Hispanic Vote Beckons 2012 Candidates

Beth Reinhard | November 17, 2011

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and former U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez will cohair a Hispanic Leadership Network conference on Jan. 26-27 in Miami, right before the Jan. 31 presidential primary.The conference is billed as the "ideal platform for future presidential candidates, elected offi...

What We Learned: Back to School

Hotline Staff | May 27, 2012

Happy Memorial Day weekend. Here's what we at The Hotline learned this week.

Storm Threatening Tampa Puts GOP Climate Position in Spotlight

Coral Davenport | August 24, 2012

Politically, Tampa, Fla., was a perfect choice to host the Republican National Convention -- the city sits at the heart of a swing district in a crucial 2012 battleground state. Practically, it may have been less so -- as organizers worry that it remains right in the path of Hurricane Isaac.

Demographically, Neither Party Can Assume Majority Coalition After 2012

Ronald Brownstein | November 2, 2012

In the long run, the most powerful demographic trends will continue to benefit Democrats, at least at the presidential level. But that advantage will be offset if Democrats can't sustain more support from whites.

Conservative Leader Cardenas Backs Romney

Sarah B. Boxer | March 26, 2012

SAN DIEGO, Calif. - Another conservative leader, American Conservative Union head Al Cardenas, endorsed Republican Mitt Romney for president on Monday.

Neither Party Can Assume It Has a Long-Term Majority Coalition

Ronald Brownstein and Stephanie Czekalinski contributed | November 1, 2012

In the long run, the most powerful demographic trends will continue to benefit Democrats, at least at the presidential level. But that advantage will be offset if Democrats can’t sustain more support from whites.

Twitterverse Reacts to Rubio, Obama Speeches at NALEO

Next America Staff | June 22, 2012

The National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials enjoyed near back-to-back speeches on immigration and other Latino issues today by Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., and later, President Obama.

Veep Question of the Day: Who’s Being Vetted?

Rebecca Kaplan | June 19, 2012

Mitt Romney said Tuesday that contrary to published reports, Marco Rubio is being vetted for the No. 2 spot on the Republican ticket this fall. The move shed a rare ray of light on what so far has been a completely hidden process -- but there are still ways to interpret what's happening behind the scenes.

Convention Austerity: Partying Like It's 2012

Naureen Khan | August 8, 2012

In an era of crunched budgets and with Republicans in particular broadcasting a message of economic gloom, party planning and the all-important schmoozing it facilitates have gotten trickier for the droves of Washington organizations that want a presence at the end-of-summer conventions in Tampa and Charlotte.

Santorum: Romney 'Trying to Walk a Line' on Immigration

Alexandra Jaffe | June 17, 2012

Rick Santorum on Sunday gave a lukewarm defense of Mitt Romney's response to the White House policy shift on immigration, asserting that Romney was trying to "walk a line" on immigration. The former GOP presidential candidate said Romney had addressed the substance rather than the process of the decision -- though the latter, said Santorum, is the more "outrageous."

N2K Presidential Race: Etched in Stone?

National Journal Staff | March 21, 2012

That a freshly nominated candidate -- as Mitt Romney evermore likely will be after Tampa -- would tack to the center, as an adviser today perhaps inartfully suggested he would, is a hardly a novel political strategy for the general election.Just ask the anti-NAFTA forces disappointed when then-Sen. Barack Obama softened his rhetoric on the trade deal as his nomination became inevitable. Romney’s post-primary strategy, a chunk of which was evident during his victory speech on Tuesday night, will bend to the middle and away from the hard right that’s never been too thrilled with him. And his image as an economic fixer will appeal to some moderates frustrated with Obama. Today's endorsement from former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush was aimed at hastening that strategy's full implementation.The danger for Romney is that the ideological malleability conservatives have targeted is also a liability among moderates, who like pragmatic flexibility but don’t like career-minded opportunism. If Romney can present them with the former while shrouding the latter, his Etch-A-Sketch could show a picture of success.-- Jim O’Sullivan@JOSullivanNatJo

N2K Presidential Race: Believing in a Place Called Dissension

National Journal Staff | June 11, 2012

The 2008 Democratic primary could have healed the party's divide between the Clintonites and the Obamans. It didn't.

Convention Insiders Poll

James A. Barnes and Peter Bell | August 23, 2012

In the future, how many days do you think political conventions should last? Democrats (104 votes) Four: 10% Three: 49% Two: 27% One: 8% Zero: 7% Four “I don’t think it is too much to ask the American people to tune in for a couple nights every four years to help determine their futu...

N2K Presidential Race: Walker's Win Is Obama's Loss

National Journal Staff | June 6, 2012

President Obama wasn’t on the ballot in Wisconsin, but Gov. Scott Walker’s decisive victory in Tuesday’s gubernatorial recall is a stinging blow to his reelection prospects.

Medicare Dominates Ryan Trip to Florida

Beth Reinhard | August 17, 2012

Miami retiree Richard Malcy thinks Medicare works just fine, thank-you very much.

N2K Presidential Race: Jobs Report May Perk Ears for GOP Message

National Journal Staff | June 1, 2012

Just when it looked like the presidential race was dissolving into a back-and-forth over Ann Romney’s passion for dressage and President Obama’s college dope-smoking, Friday’s jobs report should swing the two camps’ attention back to the economy.

Newt's Been Lutheran, Baptist, and Catholic. Is that flip flopping?

Matthew Cooper | December 9, 2011

Awhile back I raised the prospect of a Romney-Christie ticket which would be unique in American life, a Mormon-Catholic ticket. It'd be sui generis because of Romney's Mormon faith and rare because of its absence of a Protestant. (There have been a number of unaffiliated Christians presidents w...

N2K Presidential Race: Bush is Back

National Journal Staff | April 22, 2012

During much of the Republican presidential primary campaign, Mitt Romney and most other candidates went out of their way not to mention George W. Bush. But the 43rd president is nevertheless back in the news.Now that Romney appears to have cleared the field, President Obama's re-election team has ma...

Romney Defends George W. Bush … Sort Of

Sarah Huisenga | May 16, 2012

The presumptive GOP nominee says it’s unfair for President Obama to criticize the unpopular former president, but he declines to mention former George W. Bush by name at a campaign event.

Republicans Want Romney to Close the Deal

Naureen Khan and Beth Reinhard | March 21, 2012

Hoisting his newest trophies — a landslide win in Illinois and an endorsement from former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush — Mitt Romney came to suburban Baltimore on Wednesday for a victory lap aimed at bringing the marathon Republican primary to a close.

Barbour: Romney’s 'Moderately Conservative' Views Will Help in the Fall

Sarah B. Boxer | March 23, 2012

GOP stalwart Haley Barbour acknowledges that the presidential front-runner is not conservative enough for much of the base, but he says that Romney will be “very in tune with the American people” come the fall.

Toomey: Republicans Can Trust Romney to Govern as a Conservative

Alex Roarty | March 23, 2012

Sen. Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, who has said he won't endorse anyone in the Republican presidential race, on Friday praised front-runner Mitt Romney as a true conservative whom Republicans can trust as their nominee.

Gingrich, Romney Trade Barbs on Morning Shows

Catherine Hollander | January 30, 2012

GOP presidential hopefuls Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney traded barbs in separate appearances on Monday morning news programs, a day ahead of the Florida primary.

Congressional Insiders Poll

Ben Terris and Shane Goldmacher and Peter Bell | May 10, 2012

Insiders weigh in on whether Romney should select a governor, a member of Congress, or a former officeholder. And they identify his best pick among congressional candidates.

Obama Jokes About the Bushes

March 4, 2011

President Obama on Friday thanked Jeb Bush, the former Republican governor of Florida, for being willing to join a Democratic president to boost education reform. In doing so during a presidential visit to Miami, Obama also noted that Bush’s brother has done well.

Convention Insiders Poll

James A. Barnes | August 27, 2012

A majority of National Journal Insiders say a party's chance of winning can hinge on a successful convention.

Convention Insiders Poll

James A. Barnes | August 26, 2012

The majority of National Journal Insiders believe that it is worth holding a convention in Florida despite the risk of having it disrupted by a hurricane.

Romney’s Veepstakes: Searching for Mr. (or Ms.) Right

Gwen Ifill | July 26, 2012

Opinion: Gwen Ifill offers an alphabetical guide through the trial balloons, wild speculation, and received conventional wisdom of Romney's possilble running mates.

Insiders Swoon Over Rubio for VP Nomination

Taylor West and Peter Bell | October 13, 2011

The Republican presidential nomination may still be up in the air, but political insiders in both parties are pretty sure they know who should be the second name on the GOP ticket. Two-thirds of the strategists surveyed in this week's National Journal Political Insiders Poll named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio as the strongest choice for the GOP vice presidential nomination.

N2K Presidential Race: Bubba on bin Laden

National Journal Staff | April 27, 2012

One of the startling elements of the Obama campaign’s new video is its chosen star, William Jefferson Clinton, who makes the fairly unassailable case that President Obama acquitted himself well in dispatching Osama bin Laden. It’s notable, given the magnitude of the feat, that the campaign felt it needed an outside voucher.

August News Blahs Mean Jon Huntsman Is Exciting

Elspeth Reeve | August 9, 2011

At 3:02 p.m. Tuesday, the Jon Huntsman campaign sent reporters an email announcing that he'd make a major announcement Wednesday. It is the job of all public relations people to make everything sound bigger and more awesome than it actually is, but because it was late afternoon in August--famous...

Romney’s Veepstakes: Searching for Mr. (or Ms.) Right

Gwen Ifill | July 20, 2012

I am about to break a promise I made to you. I said this would be a safe space, one that would not turn itself over to rank speculation about the vice presidential sweepstakes.

N2K Presidential Race: The GOP's Persistent Fault Line

National Journal Staff | April 17, 2012

It is perhaps the essential tension in the Republican Party: the survival instinct of all politicians to negotiate a primary and lasso the base for the general, versus the senior architects’ long-term planning for the health of the party.

The Cornerstone

Beth Reinhard | August 23, 2012

The Florida county that is home to this year's Republican National Convention voted for George W. Bush twice and then flipped to Obama. Winning here might hold the key to the entire 2012 election.

Romney Finally Gets His Title: Presumptive Republican Nominee

Alex Roarty | April 10, 2012

Mitt Romney, bruised black and blue during a grueling three-month primary gauntlet, finally has a clear path to the Republican presidential nomination and a free pass to focus entirely on President Obama.

Poll: Santorum Leads As Some Republicans Pine For 'White Knight' Christie

Steven Shepard | February 22, 2012

Rick Santorum holds a nine-point lead over Mitt Romney among Republican voters, according to a new Quinnipiac University poll released early Wednesday that also shows that, if none of the candidates currently running wins enough delegates to earn the nomination, Republicans prefer New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie over other GOP non-candidates Sarah Palin, Jeb Bush and Mitch Daniels.

Romney Predicts Wisconsin Victory

Sarah Huisenga | March 31, 2012

Republican presidential front-runner Mitt Romney said Saturday he’s confident he’ll win the important Wisconsin primary on Tuesday, and the same day, won the endorsement of the state’s biggest newspaper.

Gingrich Says Three Rivals Agree: Time to Focus on Obama

Matthew Shelley and Rebecca Kaplan contributed | March 30, 2012

Newt Gingrich, confirming he met with Mitt Romney last week in New Orleans, said on Friday that he and his rivals in the Republican presidential contest are talking about ways to make sure the eventual nominee can beat President Obama.

Paul Ryan Not Running For President

Alex Roarty | August 22, 2011

The speculation can end: Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., issued a statement Monday saying he is not running for president.

Allen West, Senate Candidate?

Julie Sobel and Steven Shepard | August 12, 2011

Tea party star Rep. Allen West, R-Fla., would not completely rule out a Senate run during an interview with West Palm Beach-based WPTV-TV, saying "the door is cracked very slightly" on launching a bid to challenge Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla.

Hotline Sort: Artur Davis, From Obama To Bush

Josh Kraushaar | January 24, 2012

Welcome back to Hotline Sort. In today's edition: Brown and Warren agree to a cease-fire of sorts, Romney releases his taxes, Gingrich gets a little help from his friends, and is the former Speaker a Clinton clone? All that, and more in today's political rundown:

Romney Loses Key Florida Backer to Barbour

Beth Reinhard | March 20, 2011

A veteran Florida GOP strategist with close ties to former Gov. Jeb Bush is defecting from Mitt Romney's camp to join Haley Barbour's as-yet-unofficial presidential campaign.

Perry Emerges as Main Challenger to Romney, GOP Operatives Say

James A. Barnes and Peter Bell | August 4, 2011

Republican political operatives continue to see former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney as the frontrunner for their party's 2012 presidential nomination, but Texas Gov. Rick Perry has become his primary challenger according the this week's National Journal Political Insiders Poll.

Romney Goes All-Out Against ‘Obamacare’ On Anniversary of Health Law

Sarah B. Boxer | March 23, 2012

METAIRIE, La. – Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney marked the two-year anniversary of the Affordable Care Act with attacks Friday against the controversial national law that was modeled largely on the pioneering law he signed in Massachusetts.

Haridopolos: I Won't Be Backing Hasner

Sean Sullivan | July 28, 2011

If there was any doubt that there was no love lost between Florida state Senate President Mike Haridopolos and former state House Majority Leader Adam Hasner during the U.S. Senate race earlier this year, Haridopolos has cleared it up by indicating where his loyalties (don't) lie, now that he has dropped out of the contest.

N2K Presidential Race: Who's Really Got the Power?

June 24, 2012

To hear one side argue the case, Barack Obama is the most powerful president in the nation’s history, using his office to advance the Democratic agenda through executive orders and unilateral action. To hear the other side, Obama is hobbled by conservatives in Congress intent on blocking his agenda at every turn.

Facebook Forms PAC to Support Political Candidates

Josh Smith | September 26, 2011

Facebook said on Monday that it has filed paperwork to create a political action committee designed to support candidates who promote economic innovation.

Bush and Wise Talk Digital Education

Althea Fung | December 1, 2010

A pair of former governors from either side of the aisle, Jeb Bush of Florida and Bob Wise of West Virginia, are in Washington this week for a conference to outline how digital education can be integrated in the current education system for improved quality.

Defying Gravity

Beth Reinhard and Major Garrett and Jim Tankersley | September 27, 2012

The president small but seemingly durable lead in national polls and an even larger one in key swing states is rooted in voters’ lowered expectations for the economy and the federal government.

Analysis: Not Courting Minorities May Doom GOP

Reid Wilson | May 10, 2012

Demographics are destiny. This much, in American politics, is true. But we rarely appreciate the pace of the racial and ethnic change happening throughout the country. To step back and see the broader, long-term picture is to recognize that, while we’re an evenly divided country now, we may be close to a tipping point after which the entire landscape will change.

Red Alert

Reid Wilson | May 9, 2012

Demographics are destiny. This much, in American politics, is true. But we rarely appreciate the pace of the racial and ethnic change happening throughout the country. To step back and see the broader, long-term picture is to recognize that, while we’re an evenly divided country now, we may be close to a tipping point after which the entire landscape will change.

N2K Presidential Race: Obama's Triangulation Friday

National Journal Staff | June 15, 2012

Never doubt that a small group of well-thought-out, heavily poll-tested policy shifts can change an election.

Tomorrow’s Workforce

Fawn Johnson | August 23, 2012

How would President Obama and Mitt Romney help the United States adapt to the competitive global economy and the fast-evolving employment market?

Convention Insiders Poll

James A. Barnes and Peter Bell | August 23, 2012

Insiders weigh in on the negative tone of the 2012 presidential campaign and the relative importance of appealing to swing voters versus a party's base.

Stocking the Cabinet: Who Might Serve in a Romney Administration?

Jim O'Sullivan | October 19, 2012

When he was a governor, Mitt Romney prided himself on bringing the best and the brightest into his administration. As president, he would be under pressure to tend to Republican Party interests in stocking the government with loyalists. A look at who might make the cut.

GOP Insiders Say It's Romney, but...

James A. Barnes and Peter Bell | June 2, 2011

Republican operatives continue to believe that former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney is the candidate most likely to capture the party's 2012 presidential nomination, but at the same time many either lack enthusiasm for his candidacy or doubt he can win the general election according the results of the this week's National Journal Political Insiders Poll.

Daniels, Bush Promoting Ryan Presidential Campaign

Tim Alberta | August 17, 2011

Despite passing on a presidential bid of his own, Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels still wants to play a role in the race -- by promoting the potential candidacy of Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis.

Why Did Romney Go So Far Right on Immigration?

Elspeth Reeve, The Atlantic Wire | January 26, 2012

Latinos of both parties are surprised at how far Mitt Romney moved to the right on immigration during the primary campaign.

Perry’s Latest Birtherism

Rebecca Kaplan | October 25, 2011

Rick Perry once again refused to say whether he believes President Obama was born in the United States

Insiders Agree Dems Will Nominate Clinton in 2016

Michael Catalini and Naureen Khan and Peter Bell | March 23, 2013

National Journal's Political Insiders panel overwhelmingly thinks Democrats will nominate former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton as the party's presidential candidate in 2016, but both Democratic and Republican insiders fail to achieve consensus on whom the GOP will nominate for the contest. A pl...

Perry's Not the Only GOP Star to Support Tuition Breaks for Illegal Immigrants' Kids

Beth Reinhard | September 27, 2011

With Republican presidential candidate Rick Perry under attack for supporting tuition breaks for children of illegal immigrants, former Gov. Jeb Bush on Tuesday offered some solidarity by calling a similar proposal in Florida “fair policy."

Romney: Wall Street Protests ‘Class Warfare’

Sarah B. Boxer | October 4, 2011

THE VILLAGES, Fla. – Republican presidential frontrunner Mitt Romney on Tuesday compared the current anti-Wall Street protests to “class warfare.”

Marco Rubio Makes His Move For 2016

Beth Reinhard | May 17, 2013

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

N2K South Carolina: Gingrich Stabs at Romney's Electability

January 21, 2012

Gingrich Stabs at Romney's Electability Next for Mitt Romney, after he lost Saturday’s primary to Newt Gingrich: ensuring that the caricature of him as an unfeeling, out-of-touch rich man doesn’t breach the electability armor he has worn for months. Already, there were signs that perhaps Romney...

The Hard Road Ahead for Rick Santorum

Alex Roarty | April 3, 2012

Rick Santorum is about to face the longest three weeks of his political career. The Republican primary’s underdog may have finally watched his presidential hopes evaporate Tuesday night, swept away in a trio of contests that were won by all-but-inevitable nominee Mitt Romney. Santorum now has to wait until the end of the month before the next primaries, in a quintet of states on April 24, including his home state of Pennsylvania -- an interminable 21-day delay before he could potentially reclaim momentum.

Romney Assuming Tone of GOP Nominee

Sarah Huisenga and Sarah B. Boxer contributed | March 30, 2012

After a string of high-profile endorsements, the Republican front-runner campaigned in Wisconsin with the tone a candidate with the nomination all but secured.

Someone, Please, Think Of The Puppies

April 23, 2008

During a speech to FL business people this week, ex-FL Gov. Jeb Bush (R) "said he isn't thinking of running for national office," and "isn't interested" in being John McCain's running mate. Bush: "I don't have any burning ambitions." Meanwhile, Bush "took a swipe" at FL's alligators, telling the audience how he "repeatedly vetoed spending state money to market alligator meat." Bush: "Alligators proliferate in Florida. They eat small dogs. We don't need to market them, we need to kill them" (AP, 4/24).

Labor Pains

Beth Reinhard | March 29, 2012

The primary calendar is forcing Mitt Romney into a heated debate over labor rights just when he should be moving to the center.

Backbone, Consistency, and Standing Your Ground

Gwen Ifill | March 23, 2012

On Romney, Snowe, and the Trayvon Martin shooting.

The Cornerstone

Beth Reinhard | June 22, 2012

One county in Florida has called every single presidential election since 1960 except one—and there’s no reason to think that voters there won’t do it again this year.

N2K Presidential Race: Gillespie Might Check Recent History

National Journal Staff | April 30, 2012

Assuming credibility on the issue that both parties lack, Republicans are looking to shame President Obama for politicizing the death of Osama bin Laden. If they can accomplish that, they will have mitigated what Obama has fashioned into a centerpiece of his reelection pitch.

Hotline Spotlight: A Tipping Point

February 18, 2011

President Obama, in his budget, deferred the tough decisions on entitlements to Republicans. And the GOP is betting that the electorate will reward them for making the painful calls. -- This week, the GOP showed its hand. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) gave a well-received speech about the ur...

Poll: Nelson Under 50 Against GOPers

Sean Sullivan | February 15, 2011

Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) can't top 50 percent against several potential Republican opponents, according to a new Mason-Dixon poll released Tuesday morning; the latest sign he may be vulnerable to a Republican challenger in 2012. According to the results of the poll, which was commissioned by Ron...

What We Learned: Packers Versus Politics

Hotline Staff | September 3, 2011

We hope you're having an enjoyable and relaxing Labor Day weekend. Here's what we at The Hotline learned this week:

Jeb: GOP 'Incredibly Stupid' If It Ignores Hispanics

Beth Reinhard | January 14, 2011

MIAMI, Fla. - Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (R) warned Friday that it would be "incredibly stupid' for the Republican Party to overlook Hispanic voters, who make up the fastest growing part of the electorate. Exit polls show Hispanic voters favored Democrats by a 2-to-1 margin in the 2010 election....

Rick Perry and Stephen Colbert Have Something in Common

John Hudson | August 15, 2011

Mark this down as an only-in-American-politics moment: today, Texas Governor Rick Perry filed his statement of candidacy papers with the Federal Election Commission signed by his treasurer, Salvatore Purpura. But Perry is not Purpura's only employer: he is also the treasurer of Stephen Colbert&#...

Convention Daybook: The Action Kicks Off - Brought to you by CIT

August 28, 2012

Welcome to National Journal’s Convention Daybook, which provides a floor schedule and a list of major events at the Republican National Convention each day.

Mad as Hell

Beth Reinhard | January 26, 2012

The final weekend on the campaign trail before Tuesday’s primary will determine whether Florida blows up Mitt Romney’s once-inevitable path to the Republican presidential nomination or greases the skids.

Conventional Wisdom

Jill Lawrence and Alex Roarty | February 16, 2012

Heartburn is too mild a word for what would happen inside Republican circles if Mitt Romney sustains major political damage in his onetime home state on Feb. 28. Why? No alternatives make sense.

A Quarter-Century of the Best

Reid Wilson | August 30, 2012

The Hotline has now been around for 25 years. Here's a look back at the best campaigns, the most important campaign innovations, and the most consequential gaffes of the last quarter-century.

Perry: President Is an American Citizen

Rebecca Kaplan | October 26, 2011

Texas Gov. Rick Perry says he was joking earlier this week when he raised doubts about President Obama’s citizenship.

N2K Presidential Race: Santorum Sues for Piece of Health Care Argument

National Journal Staff | March 26, 2012

Rick Santorum took to the steps of the Supreme Court today to argue against President Obama's health care law. But his real target isn't the president but the Republican front-runner.

Discussing Immigration, Rubio Shows His Star Power

Beth Reinhard | January 27, 2012

It took Marco Rubio just 26 minutes to do on Friday what none of the leading Republican presidential candidates have accomplished during months and months on the campaign trail.

Pining for Another

Jill Lawrence | January 26, 2012

Is the Republican presidential field really as weak as its critics make it out to be? History suggests there’s something to the complaints.

Romney Heads to Florida Fiery and No Longer Inevitable

Josh Kraushaar | January 21, 2012

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- Mitt Romney started the week expecting to rack up his third consecutive Republican primary win in this state. Instead he belatedly lost Iowa and suffered a stinging setback here at the hands of Newt Gingrich. He heads to Florida a far from inevitable presidential nominee.

Congressional Insiders Poll

Taylor West and Peter Bell | March 1, 2012

Is the GOP presidential field weaker than normal? And what bills will get to Obama's desk? Congressional Insiders weigh in.

Why Can't the GOP Race Settle Down?

Molly Ball, The Atlantic | February 28, 2012

The race for the Republican presidential nomination was supposed to be over by now. And yet, somehow, it isn't. If anything, as Michigan and Arizona weigh in with their primaries on Tuesday, things seem more up in the air than ever.

George W. Bush's Reluctant Re-Emergence on the Political Scene

Tom DeFrank | April 22, 2013

The ex-president is preparing to dedicate his library this week, but these days he's more interested in painting, golfing, and enjoying a life away from politics.

The Wish List: Taking a Hard Look at Republicans Not in the Presidential Scrum

Alex Roarty | May 25, 2011

Be careful what you wish for: The Republican stars who aren't in the presidential race bring their own baggage.

Tomorrow’s Workforce

Fawn Johnson | May 31, 2012

How would President Obama and Mitt Romney help the United States adapt to the competitive global economy and the fast-evolving employment market?

With Gingrich Threatening, Romney Investing Early in Florida

Beth Reinhard | December 22, 2011

Eight days after a super PAC supporting Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney unleashed a $3.1 million media blitz in Iowa, the group launched attack ads in Florida costing one-tenth that amount. But the ads are arguably just as significant in beating back rival candidate Newt Gingrich’s surge.

The GOP 2012 Fantasy League

Elspeth Reeve | May 24, 2011

The 2012 Republican primary campaign has gotten off to a late and not-great start. Tim Pawlenty, Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney, and Jon Huntsman make up pundits' top tier, though not necessarily voters'. Pundits like Fred Malek say the GOP field is set, but many Republicans can't help but fantasizing t...

Previewing The Sunday Shows

Amanda Munoz-Temple | November 12, 2010

The deficit commission recommendations to cut the deficit and the upcoming debate on whether to extend the Bush tax cuts in the lame-duck session of Congress will dominate the weekend shows. "This Week" will feature Senate Budget Committee Chair Kent Conrad (D-N.D.) while "Face the Nation" hosts Sen...

What We Learned: The Clubbing Scene

Hotline Staff | July 30, 2011

What we at The Hotline learned this week:

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