National Journal Topics | NationalJournal.com

First Hurdle Cleared in Immigration, but Bigger Ones Remain

Fawn Johnson | 4:00 p.m.

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

Immigration Bill's Last Hurdle Tonight -- Gay Rights

Rebecca Kaplan | 12:10 p.m.

Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy will still not say whether he plans to put forward an amendment tonight that would extend the bill’s immigration provisions to gay couples.

Which Is More Corrupt: Afghanistan or America?

Michael Hirsh | 11:15 a.m.

Karzai cash payments highlight a growing friction as Afghans blame NATO for their poor reputation.

New Poll Shows Snyder and Schauer Tied in Michigan

Julie Sobel | 10:22 a.m.

A new poll released Tuesday shows a tight gubernatorial race in Michigan, and shows Democratic Rep. Gary Peters with the early edge in the Senate race. The EPIC-MRA poll tests GOP Gov. Rick Snyder against former Democratic Rep. Mark Schauer, who has indicated he's leaning toward a bid. The two are...

Coburn: ‘Legitimate’ Role for FEMA in Response to Oklahoma Tornadoes

Mark Micheli and Government Executive | 7:22 a.m.

Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., said Tuesday that “there’s a legitimate role” for the federal government in the response to the tornadoes near Oklahoma City that have devastated the town of Moore, where at least 24 people have died.

Peters Manager A Familiar Face

Alex Brown | May 21, 2013

Rep. Gary Peters has turned to a familiar face to manage his Senate campaign: Julie Petrick, the Democratic strategist who ran his first congressional race in 2008, will take over his statewide bid Tuesday. Petrick comes to the campaign from EMILY's List, where she worked in the political departmen...

Virginia Republicans Panicking Over Their Choice for Lieutenant Governor

Beth Reinhard | May 21, 2013

Archconservative pastor E.W. Jackson isn't the running mate Ken Cuccinelli had in mind.

Congress: The Next Generation

Sarah Mimms | May 20, 2013

Former lawmakers are helping their children in so many races this year that we might as well dub next Election Day “Take Your Kid to Congress Day.”

New Minn. GOP Chair Begins Rebuilding Effort

Alex Brown | May 20, 2013

After a dismal 2012, there's no "silver bullet" for the Minnesota GOP, says its new chair, Keith Downey. But a 2014 comeback, Downey believes, is still within reach if the weakened party can regain its footing in time to capitalize on a few big opportunities. That comeback won't come solely from be...

Schweitzer Elected Stillwater Chairman, Mum on Senate Run

Scott Bland | May 20, 2013

Stillwater Mining Company, the largest public corporation in Montana and one of the state's largest employers, announced Monday that former Democratic Gov. Brian Schweitzer was elected chairman of the company's board. He will help lead a search to replace the company's longtime CEO, Frank McAllister...

Play of the Day: Rounding Up a Tough Week for the White House

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 20, 2013

Fast forward to 4:20 to see why the IRS is on edge this time of the year.

Congress: The Next Generation

Sarah Mimms | May 20, 2013

Former lawmakers are helping their children in so many races this year that we might as well dub next Election Day Take Your Kid to Congress Day. Republican businessman Mike Collins announced Thursday that he'll run for Rep. Paul Broun's open seat in Georgia. Funny enough, his father, former Rep. M...

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

Alex Roarty | May 19, 2013

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

Explaining the Connection Between Obama's Health Care Law and the IRS

Michael Catalini | May 17, 2013

The agency will play a big role in implementing ObamaCare, a point Republicans are amplifying.

Dardenne Kicks Off Fundraising Tour

Sarah Mimms | May 17, 2013

Don't think it's a done deal that Sen. David Vitter will be Louisiana's next governor; he still has to get through Lieutenant Gov. Jay Dardenne. And Dardenne is making moves to show he's ready for a fight. Dardenne is crisscrossing the state raising money for a likely gubernatorial bid, according t...

Watch the First Campaign Ad to Invoke the Newtown Shootings

Alex Roarty | May 17, 2013

Locked in a close Massachusetts Senate race, Ed Markey goes negative against Gabriel Gomez.

How Republicans Will Try to Pin the IRS Scandal on Obama

Shane Goldmacher | May 17, 2013

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

Tea Party Victims Detail Intimidation, Claim Vindication

Michael Catalini | May 17, 2013

The tax collector's actions confirm the worst fears of conservatives.

Watergate: When Congress Worked

Matthew Cooper | May 16, 2013

The back-stabbing, press-leaking, hyper-partisan members of the committee investigating Nixon, which began hearings 40 years ago, still made history. Here’s how.

Congressional Republicans Are Milking the Scandals for Everything

Alex Roarty | May 16, 2013

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

The GOP Energy Tent Is Slowly Getting Bigger

Coral Davenport | May 16, 2013

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

Poll: How Damaging Is the IRS Controversy to Obama?

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

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

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

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

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

Gabriel Gomez Launches His First General Election TV Ad in Mass. Special

Kevin Brennan and Scott Bland | May 16, 2013

Former Navy SEAL Gabriel Gomez on Friday will launch his first television ad of the general election, emphasizing his military background. "I had a calling from an early age to serve my family's adopted country," Gomez says in the spot after introducing himself in Spanish. The ad does not mention...

Local Democrats Breaking With Party To Endorse Chris Christie

Kevin Brennan | May 16, 2013

Trailing badly in the polls, New Jersey state Sen. Barbara Buono, the likely Democratic nominee for governor in the fall, is doing her best to link Gov. Chris Christie to the national GOP. “I didn’t think the Republicans could find anybody that was as out of touch with middle class values as, yo...

$hydraulic fracturing$

Proposed 'Fracking' Rules Anger Environmentalists, Annoy Industry

Coral Davenport | May 16, 2013

The Obama administration on Thursday unveiled a new proposal for its first major regulation of hydraulic fracturing on public lands, attempting to address at least a portion of the controversial drilling practice that’s unlocked vast new supplies of U.S. oil and gas but has also raised fears about its environmental impact, particularly on local water supplies.

How the White House Scandals Could Hurt Republicans, Too

Ronald Brownstein | May 16, 2013

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

Senate Committee Approves Gina McCarthy EPA Nomination Along Party Lines

Coral Davenport | May 16, 2013

Senate Republicans on Thursday eased their opposition to the nomination of Gina McCarthy, President Obama’s pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency—but her confirmation by the full Senate is not yet assured.

Why Republicans Think the IRS Scandal Is More Politically Potent Than Benghazi

Elahe Izadi | May 16, 2013

GOP strategists give advice on the best way to talk about the brewing scandals for political benefit.

Poll: McAuliffe Holds Slight Lead in Va. Gov. Race

Sarah Mimms | May 16, 2013

Former Democratic National Committee chairman Terry McAuliffe has taken a slight lead over Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli in Virginia's gubernatorial race, according to a new Quinnipiac University poll released on Thursday morning. McAuliffe leads Cuccinelli, 43 percent to 38 percent, with 17 perce...

Scandals Tailor-Made For GOP Base

Reid Wilson | May 16, 2013

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

You Want Angry? I'll Show You Angry, Obama Says on IRS Scandal

Beth Reinhard | May 15, 2013

Facing criticism from Republicans, the president reasserts his authority by pushing out the IRS's acting commissioner.

How Obama Could Start Fixing the IRS

Jill Lawrence | May 15, 2013

Step one, name a Republican—preferably a prominent one—to head the agency.

Eric Holder Offers Little Information, Much Ire for Republicans

Shane Goldmacher | May 15, 2013

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

Immigration Will Soon be the Biggest Population Driver—For the First Time Since 1850

Niraj Chokshi | May 15, 2013

Some time in the roughly next 15 to 25 years, immigration will become the primary driver of U.S. population growth, overtaking “natural” increases for the first time in nearly 200 years.

Bachmann Airing Ads On Minnesota TV

Scott Bland | May 15, 2013

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

Cory Booker Scores Contributions From Famous Athletes

Kevin Brennan | May 15, 2013

Cory Booker is quite popular in Hollywood. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported his week that guests at a recent Los Angeles fundraiser for the Newark Mayor included Steven Spielberg and Bruce Willis. He previously has received contributions from directors Ron Howard and Rob Reiner. But Booker's big-n...

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

Scott Bland | May 15, 2013

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

Weiner's Spending Dwindled in Past Two Months

Steven Shepard | May 15, 2013

Anthony Weiner is still mulling whether to mount a run for mayor of New York this fall, and the former Democratic congressman's latest campaign filings do not indicate any concrete movement in that direction that haven't previously been disclosed. The filings, which cover from March 12 through this...

Democrats See the IRS Scandal as the Most Toxic

Shane Goldmacher | May 14, 2013

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

As Washington Is Scandalized, The Tea Party Salivates

Beth Reinhard | May 14, 2013

The swirl of Washington scandal offers the movement a kind of “I-told-you-so” bragging rights.

Why Is It So Hard to Keep the IRS Out of Politics?

Garrett Epps - The Atlantic | May 14, 2013

Government officials need a refresher course in the First Amendment "anti-retaliation" principle.

Play of the Day: Targeting the Tea Party

May 14, 2013

The IRS scandal shows what government can do when its puts its mind to something.

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

Ben Terris | May 14, 2013

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

National Journal’s Hotline Gets an Upgrade and Redesign

May 14, 2013

National Journal has fully redesigned The Hotlinewith a brand new look, a user-friendly interface, and powerful political tracking tools. Subscribers will continue to enjoy The Hotline editors' irreverent and comprehensive look at political developments from across the country, presented alongside campaign news links from around the web, race-by-race polling data and demographic metrics in partnership with OhMyGov, a media monitoring and political analysis research firm.

South Dakota Dems Lose Top Recruits

Alex Brown | May 13, 2013

In less than a week's time, Democrats in South Dakota went from debating which of their top-tier candidates would run for retiring Sen. Tim Johnson's seat to wondering whether they'll be competitive at all. National Democrats long saw former Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin as their strongest possibl...

Will the Benghazi and IRS Probes Do More Damage to Obama or the GOP?

Jill Lawrence | May 13, 2013

Impeachment talk and multiple investigations recall the Clinton era that Obama promised to avoid.

In Massachusetts, Gomez Internal Poll Shows Close Race

Alex Roarty | May 12, 2013

Democratic Rep. Ed Markey holds only a narrow advantage against Republican Gabriel Gomez in the special election for Senate in Massachusetts, according to an internal poll from the GOP candidate’s campaign, the latest sign the blue state race will be more competitive than Democrats expected.

House to Tackle Student-Loan Rates

Fawn Johnson | May 12, 2013

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

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

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

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

5 Staffers to Watch Among House Freshmen

Amy Harder | May 12, 2013

Running an office of a freshman member of Congress is never easy, but certain lawmakers and their top aides have especially unique challenges. Meet the chiefs of staffs of five House members whose election to Congress is somehow notable or newsworthy.

Blacks and Hispanics More Optimistic About Economy Than Whites

Stephanie Czekalinski | May 12, 2013

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

Why the IRS Abruptly Apologized to the Tea Party

Connor Simpson - The Atlantic Wire | May 12, 2013

It came as a surprise when the Internal Revenue Service apologized, seemingly out of the blue, to a number of Tea Party groups for unfairly scrutinizing their tax exempt status on Friday. Now we know why the apology came when it did.

RNC Will Host GOP Pollsters Next Week

Steven Shepard | May 10, 2013

Fewer than two months since the Republican National Committee unveiled a series of five recommendations to address inaccurate poll numbers collected during the 2012 election cycle, the RNC is inviting the party's pollsters to their headquarters on Capitol Hill next week. The gathering, set for May...

Hillary Clinton's Allies Come to Her Rescue Over Benghazi

Michael Catalini | May 10, 2013

Paul Begala says Republican critics are wearing 'tin foil hats'. Ann Lewis blames the right-wing. Welcome to the 1990s.

Terry McAuliffe Struggles to Define Himself to Virginia Voters

Beth Reinhard | May 10, 2013

At a campaign stop, the Democrat talks about a business he started when he was 14, not his more recent ventures.

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

National Journal Staff | May 9, 2013

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

Some Republicans Don’t Believe Austerity Is Enough

Nancy Cook | May 9, 2013

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

The Coming GOP Civil War Over Climate Change

Coral Davenport | May 9, 2013

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

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

Alex Roarty | May 9, 2013

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

Why Mexico Will Always Play Second Fiddle

George E. Condon Jr. | May 9, 2013

Like all presidents, Barack Obama says he wants a better relationship with his neighbors to the south. Then events get in the way.

Why Obama Can Ignore the House of Representatives

Shane Goldmacher | May 9, 2013

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

Poll: Will the Senate Immigration Bill Get 70 Votes?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reid Wilson | May 9, 2013

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

Overhauling the Tax Code With 'Max and Dave'

Nancy Cook | May 9, 2013

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

Can Bipartisan Cooperation Save Us From Stalemate?

Ronald Brownstein | May 9, 2013

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

How We Register

Reid Wilson and Brian McGill | May 9, 2013

If you're between the ages of 18 and 24, chances are you registered to vote when you visited the Department of Motor Vehicles. If you're over the age of 65, you probably registered to vote at some other government office.Those are the findings of a new Census Bureau survey that asked Americans how t...

Heading Off the Coming Retirement Disaster

Sophie Quinton | May 9, 2013

Half of Californians are on track to retire in or near poverty. The state's new retirement plan model could change that.

Why Benghazi is a Blow to Obama and Clinton

Ron Fournier | May 9, 2013

Both parties are wrong about the scandal: It’s not Watergate and it’s not nothing.

Inside The American Crossroads And Koch Post-Mortems

Reid Wilson | May 9, 2013

Conservatives identify what went wrong in 2012 -- and how to fix their problems.

Senate Democrats Starting On The Defensive

Michael Catalini | May 8, 2013

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

The Diminishing Returns of Big-Data Campaigning

Brian Fung | May 8, 2013

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

Terry McAuliffe's Woman Problem

Jill Lawrence | May 8, 2013

If McAuliffe can't change his image as a Mad Men-era spouse, he will have to hope people go for policy over personality. Just like they did in South Carolina.

Mark Sanford's Sex Scandal Survival Guide

Beth Reinhard | May 7, 2013

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

With a Special Election Win, Mark Sanford Completes His Comeback

Alex Roarty | May 7, 2013

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

Immigration Law May Be Tough on the Poor

Fawn Johnson | May 7, 2013

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

Why South Carolina’s Election Could Matter More to Democrats

Alex Roarty | May 7, 2013

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

Mitt Romney Was Right: Russia Is Our Biggest Geopolitical Foe

Michael Hirsh | May 7, 2013

Obama meets with South Korea’s president, but it’s Kerry’s sit-down with Putin that matters.

Play of the Day: A Look at 2016

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 7, 2013

Fast forward to 3:10 to see Fallon compare the two on important issues.

Weighty Politics: Why Haven't We Seen Heavier Presidents?

Elahe Izadi | May 7, 2013

Chris Christie said his weight-loss surgery was for personal reasons, not politics. But overweight politicians haven't made it to the White House for a long time.

Why Conservatives Are Divided on Immigration Reform

Michael Catalini | May 7, 2013

You could be excused for thinking it’s the world vs. Jim DeMint and the Heritage Foundation when it comes to immigration reform.

What if the Internet Sales Tax Doesn't Make it Through Congress?

Brian Fung | May 6, 2013

Legislation allowing states to collect sales taxes on purchases made over the Internet—approved by the Senate in a 69-27 vote Monday evening—faces an uncertain future in the House.

Ohio Tea Party Groups Considering GOP Insurrection

Alex Brown | May 6, 2013

The Ohio tea party's fracturing of the state GOP could be a serious worry, we noted last Friday, if the harsh rhetoric is followed by real action. Today, a report in the Columbus Dispatch shows just how bad things have gotten in the Buckeye State. Tea party groups, writes Joe Hallett, are consideri...

The Most Bogus Argument Against New Gun Laws

Jill Lawrence | May 6, 2013

As Congress prepares for a possible round two on guns, it's time to retire a talking point that misses the point.

What To Watch For in Tonight's South Carolina District 1 Special Election

Josh Kraushaar and Joey Carolino | May 5, 2013

On Tuesday, voters in South Carolina’s 1st District will be heading to the polls in a special election to fill the vacant seat once held by now-Sen. Tim Scott. The race, between former GOP Gov. Mark Sanford and Elizabeth Colbert Busch, best known as comedian Stephen Colbert’s sister, is neck-and-neck. The Cook Political Report rates the race as a toss-up. Here’s what to watch for.

Will Millennials Become Generation X-treme?

Ron Fournier | May 5, 2013

Harvard study suggests leaders must act urgently to prevent polarization and apathy among young Americans.

What People Close to Obama Think About the Keystone XL Pipeline

Amy Harder | May 5, 2013

To environmentalists throughout the country, denying the Keystone XL oil pipeline would be the most important sign President Obama is committed to combating global warming.

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

Alex Brown | May 4, 2013

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

Tea Party Groups Clash With Kasich in Ohio

Alex Brown | May 3, 2013

Ask an Ohio Democrat about Gov. John Kasich and you'll likely hear him described as a partisan bully who caters to the extreme wing of his party with legislation that punishes the middle class. Ask a member of the Tea Party and you'll probably hear a different story. Kasich, say some conservative ac...

In Massachusetts, Kids Poll the Darndest Things

Steven Shepard | May 3, 2013

The first post-primary poll in next month's Massachusetts Senate special election was released Thursday, but while the survey carried the name of a prominent Boston university, it wasn't conducted by the school or its faculty. The automated poll was conducted by a newly-reinstated student group on c...

Play of the Day: Obama in Mexico

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 3, 2013

President Barack Obama’s trip to Mexico this week had Jay Leno ruminating on two of his favorite political topics: Obama’s lack of skill in economics and the immigration issue. The president is traveling to Mexico to talk about the North American economy and immigration with Mexican leadership, which promoted the Tonight Show host to say that Obama “actually has to leave the country” to tout any economic successes. Leno also compared talking immigration in Mexico to touting same-sex marriage in San Francisco.

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.

How Colorado's Forthcoming Election Law Incentivizes The GOP

Reid Wilson | May 3, 2013

The Colorado state Senate on Thursday passed legislation requiring the state to conduct its elections entirely by absentee ballot. The party-line vote, and Gov. John Hickenlooper's likely signature, means Colorado will become the third state, alongside Washington and Oregon, to hold elections entirely by mail.

Herseth Sandlin Would Follow a Well-Trodden Path From Congress to K St. and Back

Alex Brown and Dan Roem | May 3, 2013

If former Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin runs in South Dakota's open-seat Senate race, she'll no doubt have to fend off attacks about her time at a Washington lobbying firm. Following her 2010 reelection defeat, the Democrat joined Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Matz PC, before returning to South Dakota...

What it Really Means to 'Close the GOP Tech Gap'

Brian Fung | May 3, 2013

Two obstacles the Republican National Committee must overcome that it didn't anticipate in its election post-mortem

Abortion Rights Activists Looking to Hillary Clinton As 2016 Champion

Elahe Izadi and Beth Reinhard | May 3, 2013

Abortion rights activists fuming over President Obama’s opposition to making emergency contraception accessible to women of all ages could have an ally campaigning for the Oval Office in 2016: Hillary Clinton.

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

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

A majority of Insiders say prospects are poor.

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

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

Neither party’s Insiders expect much of an effect.

Tea Party Hopes for a Peachy 2014 in Georgia

Shane Goldmacher | May 2, 2013

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

Why No One’s Winning in Washington

Ronald Brownstein | May 2, 2013

Republicans needed to move to the center. The Democrats needed to fix the economy. Oh well.

Play of the Day: Joe Biden's Plane

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 2, 2013

Fast forward to 4:25 to see the reaction after Vice President Joe Biden got home after Air Force Two broke down in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Obama's Legacy: A Health Care Law That Hurts His Party

Josh Kraushaar | May 2, 2013

Like the Iraq war tarnished the Republican brand, ObamaCare could be a long-term political millstone for Democrats.

The Democratic Comeback To Voter ID

Reid Wilson | May 2, 2013

In Colorado, Democrats looking to liberalize voting laws to their advantage.

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

Beth Reinhard | May 2, 2013

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

Why Isn't Boehner a Target in Congressional Elections?

Billy House | May 1, 2013

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

Average Unwed Mom? See Her Characteristics

Jody Brannon | May 1, 2013

The demographics of unmarried women who have children are changing.

The Group Behind the Draft Palin Movement

Scott Bland | May 1, 2013

The Tea Party Leadership Fund wants Sarah Palin to run for Senate in Alaska. And if it raises a little money for itself in the meantime? Well, that would be just fine. There haven't been hints that the former Alaska governor will be running for office anytime soon. The Los Angeles Times took all of...

Holcomb Considering Ga. Senate, Gubernatorial Bids

Sarah Mimms | May 1, 2013

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

Prepare for a Special Election in the Craziest-Shaped Congressional District in the Country

Josh Kraushaar | May 1, 2013

If Rep. Melvin Watt winds up going to the Federal Housing Finance Agency, he'll be leaving behind an incredibly gerrymandered district in North Carolina.

Play of the Day: The Politics of Defense Contracting

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 1, 2013

Fast forward to 5:25 to see how Colbert thinks the government can repurpose the tanks.

African-Americans, the Last Democratic Holdouts on Gay Marriage?

Elahe Izadi | May 1, 2013

Just as President Obama has offered high-profile support and Jason Collins came out as gay, black public opinion is also changing.

Why Gabriel Gomez (Probably) Isn't Scott Brown

Kevin Brennan | May 1, 2013

The general election matchup in the race to fill Secretary of State John Kerry's old Senate seat is set, and everyone wants to know: Is Republican Gabriel Gomez the next Scott Brown? The short answer: Probably not. The winner of Tuesday night's Republican primary has a compelling backstory, and Rep...

Rahall Won't Run For Senate

Sarah Mimms | April 30, 2013

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

N.J.'s Christie Poised to Launch First T.V. Ad

Sarah Mimms and Kevin Brennan | April 30, 2013

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie will launch the first television ad of his reelection campaign on Wednesday, initially backed by nearly $1.5 million, according to a Republican source tracking ad buys. The ad is a 60-second spot; the initial buy runs from Wednesday through May 12. The ad will air on...

The 'Obamacare' Rollout's 'Glitches and Bumps' Won't Doom Health Reform

Margot Sanger-Katz | April 30, 2013

Medicare Part D had them, too.

How Democrats Stopped Worrying and Learned to Love the Super PAC

Ben Terris | April 30, 2013

A day with House Majority PAC shows why unlimited spending is the norm, on both sides of the aisle.

Virginia Governor's Race Overshadowed By Scandal

Michael Catalini | April 30, 2013

Ken Cuccinelli and Terry McAuliffe's ties to controversial companies have become fodder for attacks.

Elizabeth Colbert Busch to Mark Sanford: 'You Didn't Tell the Truth'

Beth Reinhard | April 29, 2013

Democrat Elizabeth Colbert Busch was no pushover in her first-ever political debate, leaving Republican Mark Sanford’s personal baggage to weigh him down just eight days before the May 7 special election.

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

Alex Brown | April 29, 2013

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

Mitch McConnell Wants to Be the Republican Party's Chief Tech Innovator

Shane Goldmacher | April 29, 2013

The 71-year-old GOP leader's campaign sees closing the data gap with the Democrats as a key to reelection.

Gary Peters To Announce Senate Bid

Reid Wilson | April 29, 2013

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

Play of the Day: The New $100 Bill

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 29, 2013

Fast forward to 3:55 to see Jimmy Fallon show audiences how the White House is using Vine.

Ed Markey Will Face Gabriel Gomez in Massachusetts Senate Race

Alex Roarty | April 29, 2013

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

Black Voters Are Key to a Colbert Busch Win in South Carolina

Beth Reinhard | April 28, 2013

The Democrat is airing a radio ad accusing Mark Sanford of voter suppression.

Landrieu Primed to Lead Energy Panel – If She Wins Reelection

Amy Harder | April 28, 2013

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

Harkin: 'Religious Right' Scaring Off GOP Candidates

Tim Alberta | April 26, 2013

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

Colbert Busch Outraises Sanford Nearly Two-to-One

Sarah Mimms | April 26, 2013

Democrat Elizabeth Colbert Busch raised nearly twice as much money as did former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford over the last two months, ahead of the May 7 special election for the Palmetto State's 1st District seat, according to documents filed with the Federal Election Commission late on Thursd...

Explaining the GOP Split Over Repealing Obamacare

Michael Catalini | April 26, 2013

Cantor's approach blew up this week. Conservatives who want repeal might have the upper hand politically -- over Democrats, too.

How Achievable Are the Immigration Plan's Border-Security Goals?

Niraj Chokshi and Joey Carolino | April 26, 2013

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Democrats Land Buzzy Recruit in Another Obama-GOP House District

Scott Bland | April 26, 2013

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

Toomey Records Highest Approval Rating Yet After Sponsoring Gun Amendment

Steven Shepard | April 26, 2013

Though the background-check amendment co-sponsored by Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., failed last week to earn enough votes to be adopted, Toomey's standing among Pennsylvania voters is now at the highest point of his two-plus-year term, according to a new Quinnipiac University poll released on Friday. Too...

Special Interests Shadow Immigration Reform

Beth Reinhard | April 26, 2013

Supporters are fending off charges that the legislation caters to the K Street crowd.

'Press Pass' Wins Political Pursuit

Sarah Mimms and Dan Roem | April 25, 2013

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

The American Dream, Downsized

Amy Sullivan and Sophie Quinton contributed | April 25, 2013

The middle class now worries more about holding on for dear life than about climbing the ladder to riches.

Millennials Are the Unluckiest Generation

Derek Thompson | April 25, 2013

Entering the workforce during a recession puts young people behind from the start.

Five Cool Innovations to Lift Workers Into the Middle Class

Sophie Quinton | April 25, 2013

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

In the Aftermath of Gun-Bill Loss in Senate, Liberals Put Incumbent Democrats on Notice

Alex Roarty | April 25, 2013

After last week’s failed gun-control vote in the Senate, in which a handful of moderate Democrats defected from their party, a coalition of progressive groups is warning those at-risk incumbents to start avoiding votes that make them look too conservative.

DCCC Memo Cites Advantages Over House GOP

Scott Bland | April 25, 2013

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is getting unprecedented fundraising help from its members -- especially freshmen -- in its early efforts in the 2014 election cylce. On Thursday, DCCC chairman Steve Israel took a moment to update his caucus on the campaign committee's progress. In a...

The 1 Chart That Could Sever Obama's Coalition

Ronald Brownstein | April 25, 2013

Continuing economic dissatisfaction could dissolve the powerful electoral coalition that powered both of President Obama's victories.

What If Oil Lasts Forever?

Charles C. Mann - The Atlantic | April 25, 2013

New technology and a little-known energy source suggest that fossil fuels may not be finite. This would be a miracle—and a nightmare.

5 Ways the Boston Bombings Altered the Political Debate

Michael Catalini | April 25, 2013

From immigration to drones, the attacks had an impact on the presidential agenda.

Is Brian Schatz Already Winning Hawaii's Invisible Primary?

Scott Bland | April 25, 2013

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

The Week That Kicked Off The Battle For The Senate

Reid Wilson | April 25, 2013

Republicans in position to take back the upper chamber, if they can avoid self-destructive tendencies.

Round Two for Gun Control May Take a ‘Next Newtown’

Shane Goldmacher | April 24, 2013

A week after gun legislation suffered a stinging defeat in the Senate, an uncomfortable realization has settled over the Capitol that it will likely take another mass shooting or similar tragedy to reignite momentum for gun control.

Whitaker Prepares For Senate Bid While Awaiting King's Decision

Alex Brown | April 24, 2013

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

The 8 Senators Who Hold Immigration Reform in the Balance

Michael Catalini | April 24, 2013

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

Brian Schweitzer, the Great Progressive Hope?

Elahe Izadi | April 24, 2013

Montana's former Democratic governor is liberal on health care, but more conservative on guns.

Mich. GOP Establishment Hopes for Rogers, Frets Over Amash

Alex Brown | April 24, 2013

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

Democrats Need Working-Class Heroes to Keep Control of Senate

Josh Kraushaar | April 24, 2013

For Republicans, the Senate won't be won in the deep South. They'll need to pick off blue-collar Democratic states like Iowa, Minnesota and Michigan.

Poll: Buono Still Not Gaining Traction in N.J.

Steven Shepard | April 24, 2013

New Jersey state Sen. Barbara Buono is finding out that it's difficult to close a 30-plus-point gap in the polls when roughly four out of five voters don't know anything about you. A new Quinnipiac University poll released early Wednesday shows Buono, the almost-certain Democratic nominee in this y...

What Will Max Baucus Do With His New Political Freedom?

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

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

Was the Ball Dropped in the Tsarnaev Questioning?

Major Garrett | April 23, 2013

To paraphrase Boston Red Sox slugger David Ortiz: This is our @#$&%! Constitution.

How Republicans Can Win Over Their Party on Immigration

Fawn Johnson | April 23, 2013

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

Mark Pryor May Soon Have A Bloomberg Problem

Ron Fournier | April 23, 2013

Mayors Against Illegal Guns mulls months-long campaign against Democratic senator.

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.

NRCC Recruiting Freshman State Legislator to Challenge Nick Rahall

Sarah Mimms | April 23, 2013

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

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

Beth Reinhard | April 23, 2013

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

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

Alex Roarty and Elahe Izadi contributed | April 23, 2013

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

Get Ready To Be Taxed on Internet Purchases

Nancy Cook | April 22, 2013

The Senate is scheduled to debate the Internet sales-tax legislation this week. The bill is expected to pass.

Bob Corker Charts Leadership Course

Stacy Kaper | April 22, 2013

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

Two Southern Democrats, Two Different Votes on Guns

Elahe Izadi | April 22, 2013

How gun votes will affect Sens. Mark Pryor and Mary Landrieu in 2014.

Can Talk Radio, Again, Derail Immigration Reform? Probably Not.

Brian Resnick | April 22, 2013

What happens when 46 conservative hosts broadcast from one D.C. hotel.

The Hot Mic Rule

Reid Wilson | April 22, 2013

One might think that after President Obama and Mitt Romney got caught on a hot mic, politicians would learn an important lesson about politics: In an age of smart phones, there's no such thing as an off-the-record speech. Five years later, Obama is still taking flack for surreptitiously recorded co...

DSCC Outraises NRSC Again in March

Kevin Brennan | April 22, 2013

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee outraised its counterpart, the National Republican Senatorial Committee, for the the third consecutive month, bringing in more than $5.2 million in March, according to figures provided by the committee. The NRSC raised almost $3.2 million for the month....

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.

VoteVets Adds to TV Onslaught Against Mark Sanford

Sarah Mimms | April 22, 2013

VoteVets Action Fund released a new television spot targeting former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford on Monday, adding to the Democratic onslaught against the Republican nominee, just two weeks before the special election in the state's 1st Congressional District. While recent ads by other Democ...

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

Steven Shepard | April 21, 2013

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

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

Kevin Brennan | April 21, 2013

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

Second Boston Bombing Suspect Alive and in Custody

Alexander Abad-Santos and Dashiell Bennett and Philip Bump and and Sara Morrison | April 19, 2013

A chaotic 24-hour manhunt for the Boston Marathon bombing suspects has ended with one of the men, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, dead, and his brother and accomplice, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, captured alive. This is a breaking story and we'll keep updating throughout the night, and you can also see all of our related stories at The Atlantic Wire's Boston Marathon hub.

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

James Kitfield | April 19, 2013

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

Boston Suspects Demonstrate the Thin Line Between Amateurism and Terrorism

Michael Hirsh | April 19, 2013

U.S. Muslims fear a backlash. ‘It can’t get worse than this,’ says one community organizer.

Capitol Visitors Center Reopened; Police on Lookout for Massachusetts Car

Billy House | April 19, 2013

Law enforcement authorities in Washington Friday morning confirmed there has been an alert put out for the area – including Capitol Hill -- for a 1999 Gray Honda CRV with Massachusetts license plates.

Inside the Cover: Who Wants To Run For Congress?

National Journal Staff | April 19, 2013

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

Baca's Comeback Bid: Aguilar Not 'Viable'

Scott Bland | April 19, 2013

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

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

Steven Shepard | April 19, 2013

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

DCCC Outraises NRCC in March

Scott Bland | April 19, 2013

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee outraised its Republican counterpart for a third straight month to start 2013, according to reports. Roll Call reported Thursday that the National Republican Congressional Committee raised $8.1 million in March, trailing the $10.2 million the DCCC gath...

Another NYC Mayoral Poll Shows Weiner in Second Place

Steven Shepard | April 19, 2013

A second poll this week confirms that disgraced former Rep. Anthony Weiner, D-N.Y., would start this September's Democratic primary for New York City mayor in second place, but Weiner would begin the race with higher negatives than his potential opponents. The new Quinnipiac University poll shows C...

Poll: Portman's Approval Rating Slips After Marriage Stance

Alex Brown | April 19, 2013

Sen. Rob Portman's, R-Ohio, approval ratings have dropped marginally since he announced he supported same-sex marriage last month, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released Friday. The poll shows Portman with 40 percent approval, while 31 percent of voters take a negative view of his job pe...

1 Boston Marathon Bombing Suspect Is Dead, 1 On the Loose in Watertown

Dashiell Bennett and Philip Bump - The Atlantic Wire | April 19, 2013

Following a chaotic night of mayhem and a police shootout, one of the two suspects in the Boston Marathon bombings was shot and killed by police. The second suspect is on the loose and police are actively searching the area of Watertown, Mass.

Why Would Anyone Want to Run for Congress?

Shane Goldmacher | April 18, 2013

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

Why John McCain Is Barack Obama’s New Best Friend

Jill Lawrence | April 18, 2013

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

‘Independent’ in Name Only

Shane Goldmacher and Scott Bland contributed | April 18, 2013

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saved From Boston's Bombs by a Text Message

Christopher Snow Hopkins | April 18, 2013

Veteran Capitol Hill staffer Amy Smith starts a new job on Friday, feeling lucky to be alive after narrowly escaping Monday's devastation near the finish line of the Boston Marathon.

House Fundraising Winners and Losers

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

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

The Way to Combat Terrorism

Ronald Brownstein | April 18, 2013

America can persevere by embracing diversity.

The Boston Bombings Could Help a State Get Beyond Its Liberal Stereotype

Jill Lawrence | April 18, 2013

Massachusetts really did invent America, so stop making fun of it.

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

Ronald Brownstein and Stephanie Czekalinski contributed | April 18, 2013

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

Reid Appoints Besieged Regulator to Nuclear-Weapons Panel

Amy Harder | April 18, 2013

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

DCCC Piles On in South Carolina

Sarah Mimms | April 18, 2013

Just one day after the National Republican Congressional Committee pulled its support for former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford's special election campaign, its Democratic counterpart is going up on the air in the First District. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee will launch the n...

In Boston, Obama Finds His Voice and the Nation's: 'We Will Run Again'

Matthew Cooper | April 18, 2013

Standing ovations greet Obama at interfaith service where he vows: "We will run again."

How Mark Sanford's Campaign Unraveled in the Past 48 Hours

Elahe Izadi | April 18, 2013

The former South Carolina governor's messy divorce is leading to his political downfall yet again.

The Scene From '300' the DCCC Uses to Rally Democratic Recruits

Shane Goldmacher | April 18, 2013

Forget polls and talking points. Steve Israel likes to show top Democratic recruits a scene from the movie 300 to get them riled up about running for Congress.

Play of the Day: Obama the Travel Planner

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 18, 2013

Fast forward to 3:00 to see why Obama isn’t concerned with the ricin letter sent to him.

How Obama Misread the Politics of Gun Control

Josh Kraushaar | April 18, 2013

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

Poll: Kasich Leads Dems FitzGerald, Cordray

Alex Brown | April 18, 2013

While Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald solidifies his frontrunner status for the Democratic nomination, he trails Gov. John Kasich in a potential general election matchup, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released Thursday. Kasich owns a 46-percent-to-37-percent edge over FitzGerald...

A Polarized Committee Reflects a Gridlocked Congress

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

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

Waiting for a Clash on Climate Change

Coral Davenport | April 17, 2013

In 2011, congressional Republicans put a bull’s-eye on the Environmental Protection Agency.

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