National Journal Topics | NationalJournal.com

Readers Find Comfort in Presidential Directive: 'Love That Boy'

Ron Fournier | November 30, 2012

A few years ago, my wife sampled an NBC drama called Parenthood and was transfixed by a character named Max Braverman, a smart, sweet, socially awkward teenager who both facinates and frustrates his anxioius parents. He reminded Lori of our son Tyler. My article on experiences with Tyler published today in National Journal magazine seems to have struck a similar chord with readers.

National Journal's Ron Fournier Talks Asperger's, Family, Presidential Lessons On Morning Joe -- VIDEO

Barrett Holmes Pitner | December 4, 2012

National Journal Editorial Director Ron Fournier stopped by Morning Joe on Tuesday to talk about his Dec. 1 cover story "First, Family," which details how he learned to embrace and come to terms with his son's Asperger's syndrome, partially through the guidance of George W. Bush and Bill Clinton.

The 10 Stories You Cared About Most in 2012

National Journal Staff | December 11, 2012

Here's a look at the stories you made popular on social media in 2012.

How Two Presidents Helped Me Deal With Love, Guilt, and Fatherhood

Ron Fournier | November 29, 2012

Guidance from Bill Clinton and George W. Bush taught the author to accept and understand his son’s Asperger’s syndrome. A personal essay.

Inside the Cover: Stopping Terrorism at the Source

National Journal Staff | May 3, 2013

In this week's National Journal cover story, Michael Hirsh looks at why the Obama administration's plan to use American Muslims as an early-detection system to spot radicals hasn't worked. In this video, go inside the story with the author himself.

Backbone, Consistency, and Standing Your Ground

Gwen Ifill | March 23, 2012

On Romney, Snowe, and the Trayvon Martin shooting.

Jay-Z Blasts His Republican Critics

Elahe Izadi | April 11, 2013

The rapper's new song addresses his controversial Cuba trip.

Pat Toomey’s Tilt Toward Middle Angers Conservative Base

Alex Roarty | April 23, 2013

The junior senator from Pennsylvania’s doomed effort to broker a gun-control compromise on background checks provoked anger among fellow Republicans, who called him an enemy of the Second Amendment and a traitor to the conservative cause.

Margaret Thatcher Dies at 87

Dashiell Bennett - The Atlantic Wire | April 8, 2013

Margaret Thatcher, the first and only woman to ever serve as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has died at the age of 87.

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?

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

Rebecca Kaplan | March 14, 2013

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

New Asperger's Rule: 'What Does This Mean for My Son?'

Ron Fournier | December 4, 2012

Timing is everything. Less than three years after my son was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome — and just three days after I published a magazine article about his condition — the American Psychiatric Association dropped Aspies from the psychiatrist’s “bible.”

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.

A Law For Aaron Swartz

Lawrence Lessig - The Atlantic | January 17, 2013

It won't bring him back. But the loss of the Internet activist has prompted a bill in Congress that would protect others from the same kind of prosecutorial abuse.

Richard Nixon: One of Us

John Aloysius Farrell | January 9, 2013

On this, the 100th birthday of Richard Nixon, the slogan from his first campaign for Congress is the salient fact: "One of us." His dreams were ours -- and so, in the end, were his sins.

Jill Biden's Speech: Full Text From the Democratic National Convention

National Journal Staff | September 6, 2012

The Democratic National Convention released a full transcript of Jill Biden's speech to the 2012 Democratic National Convention (as prepared for delivery). Read the full text.

Ann Romney's Convention Speech -- Excerpts

National Journal Staff | August 28, 2012

Below are exceprts from Ann Romney's speech tonight from the Republican National Convention in Tampa.

How a 17-Year-Old Changed the Politics of 'Stop and Frisk'

Conor Friedersdorf, The Atlantic | October 15, 2012

Before you listen to armed public employees detain and abuse a 17-year-old Harlem boy, calling him a "f------ mutt" and threatening to break his arm, here are some necessary bits of context.

Report: Previous Obama Directive Led to Little Change

Stephanie Czekalinski | June 28, 2012

4 diversity items for June 28: Christian group backs away from promoting gay "cure;" Chuck Norris accuses Obama of pushing "pro-gay" agenda on Boy Scouts and more.

Ann Romney Pitches Husband in Personal Terms

Ben Terris | August 28, 2012

The best person to talk about Mitt Romney the man, is not Mitt Romney the man. It’s his wife Ann.

On the Outside and the Inside, Contradiction Abounds

John Aloysius Farrell | August 28, 2012

Duality was the governing concept on the first night of the Republican convention.

What Retirement? Former Defense Secretary Gates Joins Rice, Hadley Firm

Chris Frates | April 27, 2012

My colleague Kevin Baron reports: Bob Gates is back. Kind of. Robert Gates, former defense secretary and CIA director, is joining the consulting firm of former Bush administration teammates Condoleezza Rice and Stephen Hadley, to form RiceHadleyGates, according to the Associated Press. The firm...

Full Text: Ann Romney's Speech at the Republican National Convention

National Journal Staff | August 28, 2012

The Republican National Convention released a transcript of Ann Romney's remarks (as prepared for delivery). Read the full text.

Norquist Goes Gaga for Hip-Hop

National Journal Staff and Coral Davenport, Fawn Johnson, and Rebecca Kaplan contributed | August 29, 2012

The latest buzz from the Republican National Convention in Tampa.

Can Marco Rubio Live Up to the Hype?

Beth Reinhard and Scott Bland contributed | February 14, 2013

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

When the First Lady Talks, Do Women Listen?

Sophie Quinton | October 24, 2012

First lady Michelle Obama can charm talk-show hosts, deliver winning anecdotes about her husband’s socks, and bake a mean cookie. The mom–in-chief, as she calls herself, has broad appeal, but she’s particularly good at firing up the Democratic base. And as the candidates fight over female voters, Michelle Obama's popularity could be pivotal.

Inside the Campaign for Gay Marriage

Molly Ball, The Atlantic | December 11, 2012

On May 9, President Obama sat for an interview in the White House with the ABC News anchor Robin Roberts. Both of them knew what she'd been summoned there to discuss, and Roberts didn't waste any time. "So, Mr. President," she said, "are you still opposed to same-sex marriage?"

George Allen's Rebuilding Project

Shane Goldmacher | June 22, 2012

George Allen is trying to soften his image. This week, the former and would-be future Virginia senator unveiled his first television ads of the general election, two soft-focus spots featuring female testimonials of his character.

Joe Biden Clears Barack Obama's Low Bar in Debate with Paul Ryan

Ron Fournier | October 11, 2012

Voters were treated to a free-wheeling and substantial debate over the size of government, the limits of U.S. military power, and other issues defining the choice between Obama and Romney. In style and substance, Biden v. Ryan outshined Obama v. Romney.

Friday Feature: Willie Geist

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | August 3, 2012

Each Friday, The Hotline's Latest Edition includes a profile of a media figure. Today, our "Friday Feature" was MSNBC's Willie Geist. Geist hosts MSNBC's "Way too Early with Willie Geist" and co-hosts "Morning Joe." Geist also hosts Zeitgeist, the popular satirical video blog on msnbc.com. Geist joined MSNBC in 2005 as a senior producer of "The Situation with Tucker Carlson." During the show's development, producers decided Geist's newsroom banter with Carlson ought to be part of the show. Geist spent the last segment of "The Situation" (later called "Tucker") reporting and offering his unique spin on the day's news.

Hilary Rosen: ‘I Love Stay-At-Home Moms’

Jonathan Miller | April 12, 2012

A day after saying that Ann Romney “has actually never worked a day in her life,” and prompting a Twitter response from the candidate’s wife, democratic strategist Hilary Rosen defended her comments on Thursday.

Bill Raspberry, 1935-2012

Gwen Ifill | July 27, 2012

What I will always remember is how dedicated Bill was to the craft of telling untold stories.

Actor Jon Voight Campaigns for Romney

Sarah B. Boxer | January 28, 2012

PENSACOLA, Fla. -- Actor Jon Voight campaigned here Saturday on behalf of Mitt Romney, calling the ex-Massachusetts governor "a man of faith, honor, love, and truth. These are the first very important qualities a president must have."

McMahon Up On TV In Connecticut

Sean Sullivan | May 1, 2012

Republican Linda McMahon is hitting the airwaves in Connecticut with a 60-second biographical TV spot about overcoming obstacles and being a working mother. "When I was born, my family lived in low-income housing until my dad built the little house that I grew up in. We didn't have a lot of expe...

In Changing Neighborhoods, Black Churches Face an Identity Crisis

Alessandra Ram, The Atlantic | October 12, 2012

Fifty years after "white flight," a new population shift is emptying the pews of African American congregations.

Undocumented Activists Follow LGBT Tactics

Rosa Ramirez | July 24, 2012

In recent years, a growing number of young immigration-reform activists, many of whom are also part of the LGBT community, have blended the “coming out” philosophy into the immigration movement and are talking openly about their status as undocumented immigrants to humanize the issue.

Full Text: Marco Rubio's Speech to the Republican National Convention

August 31, 2012

In 1980, I watched my first Republican convention with my grandfather.

Outfits, Parties, and Baldwins

National Journal Staff and Nancy Cook, Coral Davenport, Fawn Johnson, and Alex Roarty contributed | August 28, 2012

In the hours leading up to her speech on Tuesday, Ann Romney still didn’t know what to wear. Not that it’s an easy choice for a potential first lady, whose outfits receive the scrutiny of both the fashion press and the national political media.

Full Text: Mitt Romney's Republican National Convention Speech

National Journal Staff | August 30, 2012

Mr. Chairman, delegates. I accept your nomination for President of the United States of America.

Activist With 2 Moms Hits Hill for Gay Rights

Julia Edwards | May 30, 2012

An Iowa student whose address to lawmakers went viral inspired LGBT parents and their kids from 10 states to meet with more than 75 members of Congress and their staffs.

Two Moms, One Activist

Julia Edwards | May 29, 2012

As a teenager, Zach Wahls got tired of telling his friends that, no, his two moms really weren’t that “hot.” But after his 2011 address to the Iowa Legislature went viral on YouTube, the 20-year-old is delving into heavier topics as he lobbies on the Hill for gay rights.

Generational Warfare: The Case Against Parasitic Baby Boomers

Jim Tankersley | October 4, 2012

A reporter debates his 63-year-old father over whether baby boomers have broken a sacred bargain that every American generation will pass a better country on to its children than the one it inherited.

How Obama's Tech Team Helped Win the Election

Alexis Madrigal, The Atlantic | November 16, 2012

The Obama campaign's technologists were tense and tired. It was game day and everything was going wrong.

Voters No Longer Seeking Mr. Fix-It

Matthew Dowd | July 6, 2012

Analysts on the right will use the latest jobs report to criticize President Obama, and analysts on the left will say we're on the right path while criticizing Republicans for the Bush years and a lack of leadership in Congress. But maybe it all means something more about America.

Fear of a Black President

Ta-Nehisi Coates, The Atlantic | August 29, 2012

As a candidate, Barack Obama said that we needed to reckon with race and with America’s original sin, slavery. But as our first black president, he has avoided mention of race almost entirely. In having to be “twice as good” and “half as black,” Obama reveals the false promise and double standard of integration.

Davis Announces Retirement

Jessica Taylor | December 15, 2011

Rep. Geoff Davis, R-Ky., announced Thursday evening he would not seek reelection in 2012, becoming the first Republican this cycle to retire outright rather than seek higher office.

Ann Romney's Dual Roles: Character Witness and Political Messenger

Naureen Khan | March 11, 2012

If Republican voters were half as passionate about Mitt Romney as he seems to be about his wife of 40 years, he’d be feeling a lot more love. Romney set his heart on 16-year-old Ann Davies when he first spied her at a friend’s birthday party. Decades later, she’s the star of “A Love Story,” a video testimonial to her husband as a family man and a leader.

In 1950s Paint Creek, Perry Was Center of His Universe

Emily Ramshaw, The Texas Tribune | August 21, 2011

PAINT CREEK, Texas—Of all the stories Paint Creek natives tell about “Little Ricky” Perry, the mischief-making, over-achieving hometown boy turned Republican presidential contender, the favorite (and possibly apocryphal) tale involves a six-man high school football game in which Perry was knocked flat by an opponent. When the coach knelt over him to check for injuries, local lore has it, Perry said: “I’m okay, coach. But how are the fans taking it?”

The Obama Way: Assessing the President's Management Approach

Charles S. Clark, Government Executive | July 5, 2012

A president’s time is his “most precious resource,” in the words of Austan Goolsbee, who spent two years on the Council of Economic Advisers in the Obama White House. “The structure of how the government operates is not conducive to micromanaging by the president,” he says. Presi...

What the Candidates Wished They Were Doing Saturday Night

George E. Condon Jr. | January 7, 2012

The Republican candidates for president aren’t all sure what season it is and at least one of them would rather curl up with a good economics book than watch sports. But they all can think of better ways to spend a Saturday night than participating in their 14th debate.

Presidential Campaign Trail Detours Through Mississippi, Alabama for GOP Primaries

Beth Reinhard | March 13, 2012

In this year's drawn-out Republican presidential race, Mississippi and Alabama will hold unusually prominent -- and possibly portentous -- primaries on Tuesday.

Full Text: Paul Ryan's Speech at the Republican National Convention

National Journal Staff | August 29, 2012

The Republican National Convention released a transcript of Paul Ryan's remarks (as prepared for delivery). Read the full text.

The Women of the John Edwards Trial

Jen Doll, The Atlantic Wire | April 27, 2012

John Edwards's trial over alleged campaign finance law violations continues, and there are the expected twists and turns with which to keep us both horrified and entertained. But let's take a step back. What does this trial, and its lead-up, say about women? Let's look, first, at the women involved.

Campaign Managers Have Discovered Something: The T-Shirt

Elspeth Reeve | August 18, 2011

The best way to win people over with your political views is with an ironic T-shirt, right? What better way to capture the vitality, the energy, the idealism of young voters than by turning a fleeting Internet meme into something wearable and selling it for a $30 donation? Political campaigns have pushed their rapid-response effort into T-shirt making, with the Democratic National Committee and Mitt Romney trading barbs in the 100 percent cotton format.

Rick Perry Loves Stealing Other People's Limelight

Elspeth Reeve | September 13, 2011

When Rick Perry announced he was running for president the very same day Michele Bachmann won the Ames straw poll in Iowa -- and then proceeded to chat up Republicans in her hometown of Waterloo -- some saw it as a genius move. Others saw it as a dick move. But it looks like Perry has a record of...

NJ’s Most Influential Women

National Journal Staff | July 12, 2012

From legislators and Cabinet members to lobbyists and business executives, National Journal profiles the 25 top female power brokers in Washington in a special report.

Meet the Media's Favorite Departing White House Aide

Elspeth Reeve | June 17, 2011

Six youngish White House aides will leave the Obama administration for Harvard Law School this fall, where they'll grace Cambridge with "a rare skill set" and "a golden Rolodex," Politico's Amie Parnes reports. They join two more Obama alums there as five others pursue other graduate degrees. The ai...

The Ultimate Survivor

Lara Seligman | November 14, 2011

Sixty-seven years ago, a beaten, exhausted, and starving boy was forced on a death march through the snowy countryside of occupied Poland. Since then, Elie Wiesel has come a long way: His remarkable accomplishments have earned him a Nobel Peace Prize, a spot on The New York Times best-seller list, commendations from former Presidents Carter and Clinton, and a special tribute from Oprah Winfrey.

Gingrich Calls Obama Comments on Trayvon Martin Shooting ‘Disgraceful’

Matthew Shelley and Sarah Huisenga, Rebecca Kaplan, and Lindsey Boerma contributed. | March 23, 2012

Republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich says President Obama should not have spoken about 17-year-old Trayvon Martin’s race.

Barbour Blasts Obama; Mum on WH Bid

Beth Reinhard | February 12, 2011

On the closing day of the nation's largest gathering of conservative activists, Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour didn't mince words. While the two-term Republican didn't tip his hand as to whether he'll run for president in his Saturday morning talk, he offered pointed criticisms of the current White...

Struggling Huntsman Now the Funnest Candidate to Make Fun Of

Elspeth Reeve | September 9, 2011

In May, before he actually got into the 2012 race, Jon Huntsman said he wouldn't fuel his campaign with his own considerable fortune: "If we were to get in the race -- no self-financing. Unless you can raise it legitimately, you're not going to win," Huntsman explained. T...

Obama Kicks Off Pressure Campaign in Scranton

George E. Condon Jr. | November 30, 2011

In going to Scranton and the Wyoming Valley on Wednesday, President Obama has chosen a politically pivotal part of an electorally essential state to make the case that the next two weeks are crucial both to the economy and his presidency.

Perry Rivals Express Sympathy

Sarah B. Boxer and Sarah Huisenga contributed. | November 10, 2011

Mitt Romney and Herman Cain tell reporters they feel sympathy for Rick Perry after his debate flub.

N2K Presidential Race: Lipstick on a Pigskin

National Journal Staff | February 24, 2012

Mitt Romney's weaknesses coalesced on Friday in a very public—and large—setting.

A Field of Springs

Jamie Tarabay | February 23, 2012

The late Anthony Shadid’s quest to rebuild his great-grandfather’s home in Lebanon speaks to our hearts and our dreams.

With His Rolodex, Broder Remembered For Age of Reporting

Ronald Brownstein | April 5, 2011

Tuesday’s Washington memorial service for David Broder carried an unmistakable fin de siècle feel. It wasn’t just the location (a National Press Club no longer at the center of the city’s journalistic life) or the graying tint of the audience, or even the lovingly preserved manual Royal typewriter on display (along with Broder’s Rolodex, notebooks and a folded flag) beside the podium.

Near-Miss in New Hampshire

Rebecca Kaplan and Sarah B. Boxer | October 28, 2011

Two leading GOP contenders held duelling events Friday night in Manchester, N.H.

Transcript: Barack Obama and Mitt Romney's First Presidential Debate

National Journal Staff | October 4, 2012

The complete transcript of the first 2012 presidential debate, as provided by the White House press office.

Running Back

Shane Goldmacher | June 21, 2012

As he crisscrosses Virginia running for a Senate seat, Allen is trying to get his mojo back, betting on the fact that if there is one thing America loves better than tearing down its heroes, it’s building them back up again.

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.

After the Party in One of the World's Richest Cities

Yochi J. Dreazen | January 10, 2012

There were once great things planned for Saadiyat Island, a sandy atoll located just off the coast of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the oil-rich nation of the United Arab Emirates.

Hate Washington? Join the Club

Gwen Ifill | December 15, 2011

Welcome to my hometown. There are few places in the world that people hate so much, yet expend such extraordinary effort trying to get to.

The Race to Read Sarah Palin's Email: A Live Blog

Elspeth Reeve | June 10, 2011

This afternoon 24,199 printed pages of Sarah Palin's emails during her time as governor of Alaska are being released. The product of a Freedom of Information Act request, the documents will be released to media organizations at 9 a.m. Juneau time.

Buddy Roemer's Overshadowed N.H. Retail Experiment

Tyler Bridges, The Atlantic | December 20, 2011

MANCHESTER, N.H. -- The campaign phones were silent.

Newt Gingrich Still Can't Win a General Election

Linda Killian, The Atlantic | January 23, 2012

In the wake of his 12-point victory in the GOP South Carolina primary, Newt Gingrich has pierced Mitt Romney's mantle of inevitability, but it's still a long way to the nomination and many senior Republicans are warning that a Gingrich candidacy would mean disaster for the party in November.

Hillary Rodham Clinton For President: "Mothers Day"

May 13, 2008

Producer: Clinton Media Team

Quotes From Obama's Press Conference

National Journal staff | October 6, 2011

We're providing up-to-the-minute quotes from President Obama's press conference.

A Washington Observer for Nine Decades

Naureen Khan | April 27, 2012

Mary Zurhorst Gray, 93, has had a remarkably rich professional life in and around Washington, as an advertising copy writer, a journalist, an author, an editor, a speechwriter for the Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon administrations, a single mother, and an unabashed political hack.

Jersey Boy: Gov. Chris Christie in Demand on Campaign Trail

Cameron Joseph | October 24, 2010

The pudgy kid triumphs: New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is crisscrossing the country to help GOP gubernatorial candidates in Democratic-leaning states.

Remembering and Reimagining August 28, 1963

Gwen Ifill | August 25, 2011

Over the years, King's “Dream” speech has become one of the most selectively remembered addresses in history. But it’s worth a read.

Bachmann Holds Her Own and Then Some

Beth Reinhard and Alex Roarty contributed in Washington | August 11, 2011

Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn., came under some heavy fire at the Iowa presidential debate -- but never flinched.

'Just Read, Read, Read'

Sara Jerome | July 24, 2009

Charlie Lavender of Arkansas believes that education can open doors.

In Focus: Crisis in Yemen

Alan Taylor, The Atlantic | June 3, 2011

A set of photos from the recent uprisings in Yemen.

Obama Says McCain Part Of 'Old Boys' Network

September 16, 2008

ELKO, Nev. -- Barack Obama used his third campaign trip to this city in northern Nevada, a red state he is hoping to steal from Republicans in November, to link his rival to the very "Old Boys' Network" he has promised to fight.

LEGAL AFFAIRS - Elian: An Excess Of Certitude And IdeologyOn All Sides

May 6, 2000

Am I the only person in Washington who is not sure-absolutely, unequivocally sure-of the answers to all the big questions raised by the Elian Gonzalez drama? The only one who isn't certain that the boy should go back to Cuba with his father-or that this would deliver him into slavery? The only one who has trouble deciding whether the predawn paramilitary raid that snatched Elian from the Miami home of his great-uncle Lazaro on April 22 was a triumph for the rule of law or a police-state abomination?

Caged Interns and Parking Lot Views: Freshmen Pick Their Offices

Ben Terris | November 19, 2010

As the incoming class prepares to move in, they find that not all congressional offices are created equal.

Rubio’s Clinton Strategy

Reid Wilson | April 27, 2011

There is an inherent danger in entering the Senate as a well-known commodity. Winning election as an already-established brand, and then acting like it, is a good way to earn the ire of senior colleagues in an august chamber more used to junior members spending years learning the ropes. History is littered with eager young senators who shoot too high too soon, and who spend years repairing their reputations.

Potion for Tea Party Love: Play Hard to Get

Lindsey Boerma | October 13, 2010

Forget glad-handing and kissing babies. If last weekend's convention in Virginia is any indication, the tea party prefers politicians who play hard to get.

Remembering Russert

June 15, 2008

The special edition of "Meet the Press" was dedicated to the life of Tim Russert. Hosted by Tom Brokaw, the panel of Russert's friends and colleagues included Dem strategist James Carville, GOP strategist Mary Matalin, MSNBC's Mike Barnicle, "Meet the Press" EP Betsy Fischer, Presidential historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, PBS' Gwen Ifill and ex-NBC corr./CA First Lady Maria Shriver.

The Victims of the Tucson Tragedy

Lindsey Boerma | January 10, 2011

Randomly caught in a political massacre by a troubled 22-year-old gunman Saturday, six victims who died at a Tucson, Ariz., “Congress on Your Corner” event had been brought together for one thing: to meet Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.

Two Noble Young Men

Stuart Taylor Jr. | August 7, 2009

Stone and Holt Weeks died in a July 23 traffic accident on Interstate 81 in Virginia. They were two remarkable young men.

Obama Seeks To Channel Voter Anger

Felicia Sonmez | January 28, 2010

It went practically unnoticed amid the flurry of coverage of the Massachusetts Senate.

Transcript of President Obama's Interview on the Tonight Show With Jay Leno

National Journal staff | October 25, 2011

Below is a transcript of President Obama's interview on Tuesday's Tonight Show With Jay Leno as provided by NBC.

After the West Wing

Naureen Khan | November 18, 2010

Catching up with Dee Dee Myers.

Poll Track: Views on Policy and Politics

Gwen Glazer | September 9, 2006

Bush's Boy Genius

PICTURES: Japan Earthquake, Two Weeks Later

Alan Taylor, The Atlantic | March 25, 2011

...

Has George W. Bush Become a More Sympathetic Character?

John Hudson | November 9, 2010

Here's what pundits are saying about Bush's reemergence in the spotlight:

Oral History Of Iraq & Afghanistan: Angel McCollum

Sydney J. Freedberg Jr. | September 17, 2010

Angel Stanley was working on her nursing degree when she fell in love at first sight with a young Army lieutenant named Matthew McCollum.

Stepchildren Of Justice

Carl M Cannon | February 17, 2006

Jessica Bailey, like all other sixth-graders in her Nevada school district, heard the spiel from a local police officer on resisting peer pressure to do drugs. But Jessica knows as much as any cop about the human cost of addiction -- and about the profound implications of getting caught in the criminal-justice system.

TEXT: Obama's Speech on Immigration From El Paso, Texas

May 10, 2011

The president's remarks as prepared:

Pundits & Editorials

August 25, 2008

• "People" in Denver "complain that the polls are too close for comfort, forgetting that there is rarely anything comfortable about a presidential contest," Eugene Robinson argues. "When was the last time a non-incumbent Democrat cruised to the White House?"

Pundits & Editorials

June 2, 2008

• "This race has been a lot of things at different times -- exciting, infuriating, tiresome, fun. One thing it's not, though, is a particularly good way to pick a presidential candidate," Sioux Falls Argus Leader opinions editor Nestor Ramos argues.

Campaign News

May 26, 2008

• As John McCain and Barack Obama "intensify their battle for the White House, they are competing for the mantle of reform, with each claiming that he has done the most to shield his campaign from the taint of lobbyists," the Los Angeles Times reports. "But the strategists behind those efforts are senior aides with a more-than-passing resemblance to -- what else? -- lobbyists."

Thursday . . . 4/24/2008 . . . 9 am

April 23, 2008

Planning the dream wedding?

Families At War

Sydney J. Freedberg Jr. | October 10, 2008

With violence down in Iraq, the war is a distant rumble for many Americans. Not so for military personnel.

Congressional Insiders Poll

Richard E. Cohen and Peter Bell | October 9, 2009

Insiders discuss whether Congress should pass another stimulus package if unemployment continues to rise, and whether a public option will be included if health care legislation clears Congress this year.

TEXT: Obama Invokes Teddy Roosevelt to Push for Payroll Tax Cut

National Journal staff | December 6, 2011

President Obama's remarks from his Osawatomie, Kan., speech, as prepared for delivery.

When The Troops Come Home

Sydney J. Freedberg Jr. | September 17, 2010

The total number of troops deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq has finally started to come down. But the strain on military families does not end when the warriors return. Problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder can make reintegration as difficult as separation.

Hillary Siding With The Enemy?

April 14, 2008

Prominent lefty bloggers are criticizing Hillary Clinton for "reinforcing right-wing charges" against Barack Obama. Josh Marshall writes that Clinton's recent conduct "makes me want to cry," while Arianna Huffington complains, "John McCain should go on vacation, Hillary Clinton is doing his job for him." Clinton's decision to denounce Obama's remarks about small-town Pennsylvanians as "elitist and out of touch" marks the second time in the past month that she has attacked Obama with GOP-sounding rhetoric (the first time was when she declared that Obama, unlike herself and McCain, had yet to cross the "Commander-in-Chief threshold"). In both instances, the netroots sharply criticized Clinton's conduct, which they perceived as harmful to the likely Dem nominee (i.e., Obama).

How Would McCain Govern?

Kirk Victor | October 24, 2008

While many politicians race away from risks, the former fighter pilot thrives on taking a bold stance. He seems to relish pushing the envelope and doing the unexpected, even if it means making snap decisions that appear, at times, to be impulsive.

Voices of 9/11

Carl M. Cannon and Alexis Simendinger | August 31, 2002

To most people, the story of September 11, 2001, is this: In New York City, 2,800 lives lost, one-seventh of the casualties from among firefighters and police officers. But in Arlington, Va., and Washington, D.C., the day's dramas of life and death, duty and valor, improvisation and courage, and the unsettling fear of the unknown, were the same.

The D.C. Digerati

Will Englund | December 4, 2009

A new survey of Washington professionals by National Journal Group shows how everyone (or nearly everyone) is scrambling to keep on top of the proliferating tools of information.

This Morning

April 15, 2008

"Today" led with Pope Benedict XVI's visit. "Early Show" led with the pope's visit. "GMA" led with the pope's visit and hosted British PM Gordon Brown.

Transcript of President Obama's Jobs Bill Press Conference

National Journal staff | October 6, 2011

{{ BIZOBJ (video: 2688) }} THE PRESIDENT: Good morning, everybody. I will take your questions in a second. But first, I just want to say a few words about the economy. Next week, the Senate will vote on the American Jobs Act. And I think by now I’ve made my views pretty well known. Some of...

Hillary Clinton: Chinese System Is Doomed, Leaders on a 'Fool's Errand'

Jeffrey Goldberg, The Atlantic | May 10, 2011

An interview with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on America's response to the Arab Spring, the viability of China's one-party system, and more.

"There Will Be Grilling"

May 21, 2008

John McCain "is set to meet with at least three potential" at his ranch this weekend in Sedona, AZ, "suggesting that he is stepping up his search" for a VP. FL Gov. Charlie Crist (R), LA Gov. Bobby Jindal (R) and Mitt Romney (R) "have all accepted invitations." McCain's camp "described this as a social weekend that would include 10 couples, and -- as has been its policy -- declined to discuss any aspect" of the VP search.

This Morning

April 28, 2008

"Today" led with the VA tornadoes. "Early Show" led with the VA tornadoes. "GMA" led with the VA tornadoes and hosted Newt Gingrich.

LEGAL AFFAIRS - Good Pardons, Bad Laws, and Bush's Unique Opportunity

February 17, 2001

The uproar over ex-President Clinton's abuse of his pardon power in some cases has overshadowed his salutary use of it in others-in particular, his commutations of the savagely severe prison terms of more than 20 nonviolent, nondangerous bit players in drug deals. These clemencies were long overdue palliatives to the cruel and irrational sentencing laws that sailed through a drug-crazed Congress in the 1980s. But Clinton freed only a fortunate few of the tens of thousands of nonviolent prisoners-mostly black and Hispanic-currently serving mandatory minimum prison terms of five, 10, and 20 years for relatively minor drug crimes. Thousands more will disappear into the gulag every year.

Mass Appeal

December 22, 2010

Coakley/Brown Race Kicked Off A Quotable Year In Politics

You Say You Want A Happy Ending?

May 8, 2008

Hillary Clinton campained in WV, OR and SD on 5/8 even as pundits and Dems asked, "How will the Democratic nomination battle end?" The Washington Post's Balz writes that the party "is beginning to coalesce around Barack Obama," but many are also concerned about the final outcome: "Will it end happily or unhappily? Will the loser go graciously or bitterly? Will the Democrats end up united or divided?"

Why We Fight

Carl M Cannon | June 30, 2006

When I lay down I thought and said

That Last Primary Was Just Practice

April 23, 2008

"The day after" losing PA, Barack Obama "set high expectations for himself" in the 5/6 primaries in IN and NC. At "his first full-blown news conference in 12 days" in New Albany, Obama "predicted victory" in IN, "despite an electorate that closely mirrors states where he has recently suffered sizable losses" (McCormick, Chicago Tribune, 4/23). Obama: "The way we're going to close the deal is by winning ... People are a little more familiar with me here in Indiana" (Schneider, Indianapolis Star, 4/24).

Top News

September 4, 2008

• "Emphasizing his faith and service to his country, John McCain accepted the Republican nomination for president Thursday night with 'humility and confidence,' assuring a packed crowd at the Xcel Energy Center that he, not Democratic rival Barack Obama, has the experience necessary to lead the nation in a time of war," National Journal reports.

AIPAC It In

June 1, 2008

John McCain started the week by courting AIPAC, and "wielding the key differences between his Middle East policy" and Barack Obama's.

Can EMILY's List Get Its Mojo Back?

Bara Vaida and Jennifer Skalka | June 27, 2008

It's been a rough couple of years for EMILY's List. The group, which promotes the election of Democratic women, had a dismal track record in the 2006 general election and saw Hillary Rodham Clinton lose in this year's presidential primary. Is time passing the group by?

The Last Super Tuesday?

May 5, 2008

Keeping in line with what the polls suggest, most liberal bloggers believe Hillary Clinton will win IN and Barack Obama will win NC. However, there's little consensus of opinion regarding the candidates' respective margins of victory. While some bloggers are noting that Clinton has consistently won among late deciders (which could potentially give her a double-digit victory in IN), other bloggers are pointing out that Obama appears to have some momentum in the state.

Ground Zero Day: The Voices of 9/11

National Journal staff | May 4, 2011

First-person accounts of Americans and their experiences on September 11, 2001. These interviews originally appeared in the August 31, 2002 edition of National Journal.

Voices of 9/11

National Journal staff | May 3, 2011

First-person accounts of Americans and their experiences on September 11, 2001. These interviews originally appeared in the August 31, 2002 edition of National Journal.

Cover Story - The Rehnquist Court

Stuart Taylor Jr | May 21, 2005

Justice William Brennan Jr. was in an animated mood, even for him. It was May 27, 1987, toward the end of the Supreme Court's first term since Justice William Rehnquist's 1986 promotion to chief justice. The Senate vote had been 65-33, amid bitter attacks -- even charges of perjury -- from liberal groups.

NJ Topics Love That Boy

Follow National Journal