National Journal Topics | NationalJournal.com

Good-Bye, MetroPCS: Only Verizon Now Opposes Net Neutrality

Brian Fung | May 17, 2013

Now Verizon is the only remaining petitioner in the case.

So, a Fed Chairman Is Speaking at Your Graduation

Catherine Hollander | May 17, 2013

"The future of the country is in jeopardy." It's what every college graduate wants to hear while sitting up on that stage, sweltering in the spring heat with friends and family watching.

Play of the Day: The Salad of Obama Scandals

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 17, 2013

Fast forward to 2:40 to see Stephen Colbert show how Eric Holder held up in a hearing against a representative who didn't exactly use his words correctly.

Marco Rubio Makes His Move For 2016

Beth Reinhard | May 17, 2013

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

Inside the Cover: Why You Won’t Own Your Road

May 16, 2013

In this week's National Journal cover story, a look at how private companies are stepping in to fill the gaps in public projects, like highways, ports — even space-flight facilities.

Why You Won’t Own Your Road

Fawn Johnson | May 16, 2013

Cash-strapped states such as Virginia are turning to the private sector to help finance large infrastructure projects.

Why You Should Feel Sorry for the IRS

Nancy Cook | May 16, 2013

Employees there don’t just collect taxes. They also implement America’s social policy and regulate different kinds of groups—without the money, training, or staff to do so.

How the Scandals Turned Obama Into a Dour Scold

George E. Condon Jr. | May 16, 2013

The Benghazi and IRS affairs have robbed the president of his trademark optimism.

$hydraulic fracturing$

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.

Former U.S. National Security Leaders Object to ‘More Restrictive’ Nuclear Trade Policies

Elaine M. Grossman | May 16, 2013

A half-dozen former U.S. national security leaders last month implored President Obama to avoid tightening restrictions on foreign nuclear cooperation in the interest of nonproliferation.

Play of the Day: Is Obama Nixonian?

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 16, 2013

On the anniversary of the Watergate hearings, late-night comedy examines the triumvirate of White House scandals.

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.

Feinstein: Rogers a 'Respected' Contender for FBI

Stacy Kaper | May 15, 2013

The Obama administration is considering House Intelligence Committee Chairman Mike Rogers, R-Mich., for the top job at the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Play of the Day: A Bad Week for the White House

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 15, 2013

Fast forward to 3:45 to see Stewart explain how Obama learns important information.

A Staggering Share of Americans Would Use Google Glass if They Could

Brian Fung | May 15, 2013

The much-derided piece of wearable technology has a ton of secret fans.

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...

Are Health Care Costs Healing Themselves?

Niraj Chokshi | May 15, 2013

A mysterious shift in health spending patterns could have major implications for the fiscal policy debate—if only experts could figure out what’s behind it.

Hillary Clinton Has the Most to Lose From Obama's Scandals

Josh Kraushaar | May 15, 2013

It's not just Benghazi. By tying herself closely to Obama, she'll have trouble distancing herself if scandal worsens.

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.

Republican Immigration Critic Gets Slapped Down

Fawn Johnson | May 14, 2013

The most potent illustration that Republicans have shifted their attitudes on immigration came Tuesday morning when all GOP members of the Senate Judiciary Committee rejected an amendment from Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., to severely limit the number of legal immigrants allowed into the country.

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.

Democrats in Triage Mode on White House Scandals

Shane Goldmacher | May 14, 2013

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

How Many House Committees Are Currently Probing the Obama Administration?

Chris Frates | May 14, 2013

A look at which House committees have inquiries into Obama Administration issues

National Journal Launches New E-Book: In Lew of Geithner

May 14, 2013

National Journal launched its debut e-book, In Lew of Geithner, in which Chief Correspondent Michael Hirsh wonders if ex-Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner's replacement, Jacob Lew, has the right stuff to rein in Wall Street. With this new long-form digital content, readers will be able to delve deeper into the uncertain future of our nation’s economy and financial oversight, going a step beyond what is typically available in most news outlets.

H-1B Visas to Have Their Day in Committee

Fawn Johnson | May 13, 2013

The tech community will have its first chance Tuesday to weigh in, carefully, on major immigration legislation being debated in the Senate. The influential lobbying force that has for years scrambled for access to highly skilled foreign workers must now carry out a rough balancing act: making sure lawmakers know that the bill, as written, does not work for it, but that it doesn’t want to kill the process, either.

How Much Big Insurance Paid a Small-Business Group to Fight a Premium Tax

Chris Frates | May 13, 2013

The nation’s leading health insurance industry group gave $850,000 to a top small-business trade association as part of a campaign to repeal a key provision of President Obama’s health care law, National Journal Daily has learned.

Obama's Struggles Hampering Democratic Recruitment

Alex Roarty | May 13, 2013

It's tough to persuade Democrats to run in a challenging political environment.

Benghazi, IRS Create Perfect Storm Threatening Obama's Credibility

Ron Fournier | May 13, 2013

What does it mean when a president's people can't get their stories straight?

100 Years After Death, 2 Civil War Veterans Are Finally Laid to Rest

Brian Resnick | May 13, 2013

It doesn't matter if your unclaimed remains collect dust in a funeral home for decades. If you're a veteran, the Missing in America Project will find you for a proper burial.

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.

New Fracking Rules Have Environmental Groups Worried

Coral Davenport | May 12, 2013

The energy industry is optimistic about new regulations for hydraulic fracturing expected to be issued as soon as Tuesday.

IRS Blunder Gives Republicans Ammunition in Effort to Defund the Agency

Nancy Cook | May 10, 2013

The Internal Revenue Service’s admission that it inappropriately targeted conservative political groups for special scrutiny during the 2012 presidential election only gives congressional Republicans more ammunition as they try to defund and weaken the agency.

One of the More Probable Ideas on ABC's 'Scandal': Politically Surviving a Sex Scandal

Elahe Izadi | May 10, 2013

When political realities are stranger than fictional television.

Play of the Day: Air Hockey Diplomacy

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 10, 2013

Fast forward to 2:00 to see how John Kerry and Vladimir Putin met to discuss important foreign policy.

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.

Will New Oil Reserves Tempt Americans Back Into Wastefulness?

Coral Davenport | May 9, 2013

Recently discovered reserves suggest fossil fuels will last longer than we thought. But the economy won’t grow if Americans don’t use that energy efficiently.

The Border Hawks Have Already Won

Fawn Johnson | May 9, 2013

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

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.

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.

Play of the Day: Notable Political Weight Loss

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 9, 2013

Fast forward to 3:20 to see how Christie’s weight loss compares to other famous politicians.

When Wearing the Wrong Shoes Can Get You Bounced in the Capitol

Ben Terris | May 9, 2013

Due to vague guidelines, security guards at the Capitol spend a lot of time making judgment calls on clothing.

The Political War Over Think Tanks

Elahe Izadi | May 9, 2013

The Heritage Foundation's fight with critics over its immigration report shows how politicized the battle over research has become.

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.

GRAPHIC: Where Skilled Help Is Wanted

Brian McGill and Fawn Johnson | May 8, 2013

Silicon Valley isn't the only place clamoring for H-1B visas.

Why Lindsey Graham Isn’t Afraid of a Conservative Challenger

Stacy Kaper | May 8, 2013

Two-term Sen. Lindsey Graham expects a primary challenge from the right, making his starring role in immigration reform a confounding political vulnerability for the South Carolina Republican.

Play of the Day: Golfing With Obama

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 8, 2013

Fast forward to 2:15 to see Fallon show off new ad slogans for the National Park Service.

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.

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.

Alliances Tested as Immigration Amendments Roll In

Rebecca Kaplan | May 7, 2013

Amendments to the Gang of Eight's bill were due by close of business Tuesday and already alliances are being tested among both members who support and those who oppose comprehensive immigration reform.

A New Life For Chris Christie

Marc Ambinder | May 7, 2013

The political and psychological aftermath of weight-loss surgery -- the skinny from a journalist who's been there.

Why It's So Hard to Trust the Chain of Command in Military Sexual-Assault Cases

Ben Terris | May 7, 2013

A day after a high-profile arrest, a new Pentagon report shows sexual assaults have jumped by a third since 2010.

Who's More Conservative, Ted Cruz or Rand Paul?

Michael Catalini | May 7, 2013

They vote alike more often than not, but there are differences between the possible 2016 contenders.

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.

Heritage Foundation Warns of Steep Costs of Immigration Reform

Rebecca Kaplan | May 6, 2013

The Heritage Foundation released a study Monday saying that legalizing the current population of illegal immigrants could cost $6.3 trillion in entitlements and social programs in the long run. But the report came as no surprise, given that the conservative think tank issued a similar warning in 2007, and it’s unlikely to substantially change the fate of immigration reform in the Senate.

Life in Politics Can Be Comic

Cory Bennett | May 6, 2013

While tens of thousands of people make a living in politics, Darren Davis seems to have discovered a niche in political comics.

Play of the Day: North Korea Summer Camp

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | May 6, 2013

Fast forward to 2:20 to see Fallon compare North Korea to a restrictive adult summer camp.

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.

Marco Rubio: A Successful Salesman for Immigration Reform?

Rebecca Kaplan | May 5, 2013

Recess has been tough for Marco Rubio.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | May 3, 2013

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

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.

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 Is a ‘Red Line’ Worth?

James Kitfield | May 2, 2013

Syria is testing the idea that nations can’t cross the United States. What happens if other countries copy it?

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.

After the Obama Administration's Morning-After Pill Decision

Margot Sanger-Katz | May 2, 2013

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

Battle of the Religious Stars!

Matt Vasilogambros | May 2, 2013

Two of Washington's best-known houses of worship and George Washington's estate are competing–nicely!–for coveted building-preservation grants.

The New Urban Brand War: A Top-Level Domain for Every City on Earth

Henry Grabar - The Atlantic Cities | May 2, 2013

Craving a slice in Istanbul? Check out www.pizza.istanbul. Need a taxi in Tokyo? Try www.taxi.tokyo.

Immigration Will Be Hot Topic During President Obama's Trip to Mexico

George E. Condon Jr. | May 2, 2013

President heads south of the border on Thursday.

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.

Meet the Yahoo Caucus

Norm Ornstein | May 1, 2013

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

From Pandora to D.C.: 1 Man's Quest to Make Aliens Seem Real

Ben Terris | May 1, 2013

Reuben Langdon spent four years flying around on make-believe aliens as the lead stunt double on Avatar. Now, he’s in D.C. trying to convince the world that such an extraterrestrial being could exist.

Obama's FCC Pick Has Some Surprising Allies

Brian Fung | May 1, 2013

Obama's pick for FCC chair is more than what his résumé shows, unexpected allies say.

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.

You (Yes, You!) Can Now Pay to Promote Your Change.org Petitions

Brian Fung | May 1, 2013

"Crowd-promoted" petitions will give ordinary users even more of a voice -- so long as they've got the cash.

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

Ron Fournier | May 1, 2013

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

6 Revealing Quotes From Obama's Potential New FCC Nominee, Tom Wheeler

Brian Fung | April 30, 2013

The man who could be in line to head the Federal Communications Commission wrote prolifically about tech on his blog.

3 Stories That Will Make You Mad As Hell (But Will You Act?)

Ron Fournier | April 30, 2013

Actions of Obama, Weiner and McDonnell reflect why Americans are losing faith in leadership.

Play of the Day: Fixing the Sequester

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 30, 2013

Fast forward to 5:25 to see the name of the bill.

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

Christopher Snow Hopkins | April 29, 2013

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

Dennis Miller and Bill O'Reilly Counterprogram the White House Correspondents Dinner

Jill Lawrence | April 29, 2013

Red and Blue America coexist inside the Beltway during a joke- and insult-filled weekend.

If These Brain Scanners Don't Raise Your Red Privacy Flags, Nothing Will

Brian Fung | April 29, 2013

We're still a ways from being able to read people's thoughts. But how we write our privacy laws today will determine what that future looks like.

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.

A Playbook for Undoing the Sequester

Nancy Cook | April 28, 2013

When Congress voted last week to give the FAA more flexibility with its cuts, it set off a race among other special interests to push for exemptions.

Landrieu Primed to Lead Energy Panel – If She Wins Reelection

Amy Harder | April 28, 2013

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

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

Esther Zuckerman - The Atlantic Wire | April 27, 2013

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

Play of the Day: Let’s Party Like It’s 2006!

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 26, 2013

Fast forward to 4:35 to see how Bush could rehabilitate his image even more.

Joblessness? Deficits? Wars? Let's Party!

Ron Fournier | April 26, 2013

Washington never looks more out of touch than it will this weekend, when movie stars, music moguls, media mavens and their advertisers join President Obama at the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

Special Interests Shadow Immigration Reform

Beth Reinhard | April 26, 2013

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

Doing Nothing in Syria Is Riskier Than Getting Involved

James Kitfield | April 26, 2013

One allied ambassador: "If you continue to hesitate, the costs will be much higher when you finally act."

'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.

Stability and Security: Relics of the Past?

Amy Sullivan | April 25, 2013

Like so many other autoworkers, Nicole Current had a stable job and a $70,000-a-year lifestyle. Then everything changed.

Now Middle-Class Parents, Not Just Their Kids, Can Get a Degree

Sophie Quinton | April 25, 2013

Two San Antonio newlyweds think they’ll need higher education to assure their success. Their new status gives them a chance to afford it.

The Middle Class Is Coming Out of Its Coma

April 25, 2013

National Journal introduces its index of middle-class well-being—using 17 measurements from household debt to social trust.

How Online Education Saves Everyone Money

Sophie Quinton | April 25, 2013

Online learning isn’t just another path into the middle class. It’s also a way for the government to spend more wisely.

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.

Get Ready for Political Pursuit!

Sarah Mimms | April 25, 2013

We at the Hotline are preparing to head over to the Newseum for our fifth annual Political Pursuit trivia night. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., fifteen of the District's top political minds will battle it out for glory, bragging rights and the highly coveted Genius Trophy. The teams are: Members Only: Rep...

Play of the Day: Looking Back at Bush, Looking Forward to Mars

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 25, 2013

Fast forward to 4:35 to see how the Rover photo might help Earth if there is intelligent life on Mars.

All 5 Living Presidents Together at the George W. Bush Library

David A. Graham - The Atlantic | April 25, 2013

For a few hours Thursday, Dallas is the center of American presidential power.

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.

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.

Immigration-Reform Opponents Lack Strategy

Rebecca Kaplan | April 24, 2013

In the week since the “Gang of Eight” released its 844-page immigration bill, there have been three days of hearings featuring 26 witnesses. The compressed time frame has left opponents of the bill little time to read it, let alone formulate a strategy to alter the measure to their liking or kill it entirely.

Why We Need to Move Ahead on IP

Ajit Pai | April 24, 2013

When it comes to communications technology, federal regulations shouldn’t discourage innovation. They have to keep up with the times.

Is There Such Thing as Too Much Evidence?

Brian Resnick | April 24, 2013

Assembling the case against Dzhokhar Tsarnaev won't be as simple as it appears from the news.

Reversing the Brain Drain to Save a Home Town

Sophie Quinton | April 24, 2013

After the largest employer in southwest Ohio laid off thousands, two young friends got to work.

Play of the Day: The Sequester Hits Air Travel

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 24, 2013

Fast forward to 5:00 to see how the sequester will affect a certain type of pilot.

Mich. GOP Establishment Hopes for Rogers, Frets Over Amash

Alex Brown | April 24, 2013

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

How Republicans Can Win Over Their Party on Immigration

Fawn Johnson | April 23, 2013

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

How Will Texas Explosion Impact Chemical Security Laws?

Douglas P. Guarino | April 23, 2013

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

The White House Is Right: Tsarnaev Should Be Tried As a Civilian

James Oliphant | April 23, 2013

The only surviving suspect in the Boston Marathon bomb case will be represented by counsel and arraigned, just like any other criminal defendant.

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.

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.

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

Rebecca Kaplan | April 22, 2013

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

4 Things To Know About Boston Bombings Prosecutor Carmen Ortiz

Matt Vasilogambros | April 22, 2013

Once a rising political star, the U.S. Attorney heading the Boston Marathon case could use the spotlight to regain her luster.

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.

Immigration Debate May Grow More Complicated

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

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

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | April 20, 2013

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

'Soft Targets' Remain Vulnerable to Terrorist Attacks

Matt Vasilogambros | April 19, 2013

While authorities continue to focus on finding one of the suspects sought in the deadly Boston bombings, attention will soon turn to how to prevent another terrorist attack on an event with limited security.

Boston Bombing Case Upends Assumptions About Racial Profiling

Elahe Izadi | April 19, 2013

It was photographs and police work, not racial-profiling by the public, that led to the bombing suspects.

Pete Williams' Reporting Philosophy, And Why He's Getting Boston Right

Brian Resnick | April 19, 2013

In a recent interview, the longtime NBC justice correspondent summed up his reporting approach: "The essence of journalism is the process of selection."

Is it Illegal to Impersonate the Boston Marathon Bombing Suspects (or Anyone Else) on Twitter?

Catherine Hollander | April 19, 2013

After video of the Boston Marathon bombing suspects were released, journalists and citizen-sleuths turned to social media to find their digital footprint. They were greeted with a wealth of information. Not all of it was true.

After Boston Marathon Bombings, What Next For Immigration Reform?

Fawn Johnson | April 19, 2013

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

Play of the Day: A Very Politicized Look at Guns

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 19, 2013

Fast forward to 3:00 to see why Stewart's new magazine project.

The 'Obamacare' Rollout Will Be a Bureaucratic Nightmare

Margot Sanger-Katz | April 18, 2013

When the last major government insurance plan launched in 2006, it was a disaster. The president’s health law will be even worse.

The Silver Lining in the Gun-Control Defeat

Fawn Johnson | April 18, 2013

Advocates believe that, even though background checks failed in the Senate debate, public sentiment will eventually vindicate them.

Just Don’t Call Him Marco Rubio

Tim Alberta | April 18, 2013

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

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.

How Gabrielle Giffords and Michael Bloomberg Can Succeed on Guns

Michael Hirsh | April 18, 2013

Small, determined interests win out over large, diffuse ones. But their task is not impossible.

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.

What Books Do Gitmo Detainees Read?

Matt Vasilogambros | April 18, 2013

What do a suspected terrorist and a 10-year-old child have in common? They might be reading the Harry Potter books.

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.

Karen Lightfoot, Minority Communications Director

Coral Davenport | April 17, 2013

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

Neil Fried, Majority Chief Counsel, Communications and Technology Subcommittee

Brian Fung | April 17, 2013

Neil Fried came to Washington without a shred of telecom experience. Now, he’s counted as one of the top tech-policy experts in government—so much so that he was considered for chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, according to industry analysts.

Gary Andres, Majority Staff Director

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

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

Michelle Ash, Minority Chief Consumer Protection Counsel

Catherine Hollander and Brian Fung | April 17, 2013

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

Mike Bloomquist, Majority General Counsel

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

Lobbying may earn more money, but Mike Bloomquist is drawn to other things Capitol Hill has to offer. And as general counsel to the Energy and Commerce Committee—which has jurisdiction over everything from health and energy policy to amusement-park safety—there’s a lot.

Karen Christian, Majority Chief Counsel, Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

Karen Christian, chief counsel for the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, is best known for her lead role in the Solyndra investigation, which dominated much of the GOP agenda on the committee during the last Congress.

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

Catherine Hollander | April 17, 2013

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

Roger Sherman, Minority Chief Counsel

Catherine Hollander | April 17, 2013

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

Manufacturers Focus on Reforming Tax Code and Reducing Barriers to Trade

Catherine Hollander | April 17, 2013

Manufacturers are, naturally, the biggest stakeholders in the committee’s discussion of improving the manufacturing sector.

Companies Battle, With Gas Prices at Stake

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

The lobbying fight over how much natural gas the United States should export has picked up considerably this year.

Manufacturers, Ag Interests Will Lobby for Trade Deal

Catherine Hollander | April 17, 2013

The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership won’t be focused on already-low tariffs between the U.S. and European Union. It will be focused on so-called “behind the border” measures, like regulation—and that means there will be plenty of stakeholders with strong opinions.

Companies Fight to Influence Auction Rules

Brian Fung | April 17, 2013

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

Keystone Pits Oil Companies Against Environmentalists

Coral Davenport | April 17, 2013

It’s likely that more corporations, coalitions, and advocacy groups have lobbied, rallied, and written letters about the Keystone XL oil pipeline than about any other pipeline ever built in the United States.

Long List of Lobbies Oppose Renewable-Fuels Standard

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

It’s hard to rival the diversity and sheer number of groups and companies with a vested interest in the renewable-fuels standard, from food and livestock businesses to those in the environmental and energy sectors.

How Can Congress Help Manufacturers?

Catherine Hollander | April 17, 2013

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

Utilities, Enviros Tracking New Rules

Coral Davenport | April 17, 2013

The Environmental Protection Agency has embarked on a historic undertaking: writing a sweeping set of regulations aimed at slowing global warming by dramatically cutting pollution from the nation’s fleet of coal-fired power plants.

5 Things Immigration, Gay Marriage, and Gun Control Have That Climate Change Doesn't

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

The amount of change happening in Washington is impressive, but this kind of sea change can’t happen right now with energy and climate policy. Here's why.

The 50 Insiders Who Know Fred Upton Best

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

Meet the 50 people inside the beltway closest to Upton. The list includes two former and one current Cabinet official, a handful of mostly telecommunications lobbyists, several current and former senior staffers, a Fox journalist and a smattering of other people from many walks of the Washington political life.

A Polarized Congress Tests Fred Upton’s Instincts

Amy Harder | April 17, 2013

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

How the Government Searches for the Boston Marathon Bomber

James Kitfield | April 17, 2013

The post-9/11 record strongly suggests that the U.S. authorities will indeed get their man.

Despite WMD Fears, Terrorists Are Focused on Conventional Attacks

Rachel Oswald | April 17, 2013

WASHINGTON – The United States has spent billions of dollars to prevent terrorists from obtaining a weapon of mass destruction even as this week’s bombings in Boston further show that a nuclear weapon or lethal bioagent is not necessary for causing significant harm.

House Majority PAC Slams Sanford Over Ethics Violations in New Ad

Sarah Mimms | April 17, 2013

House Majority PAC released a blistering attack ad on Wednesday, going after former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford for going on a "taxpayer-fueled spending spree" during his time in office. The ad focuses on the $74,000 fine Sanford paid in 2010 to settle an ethics case against him for using st...

What You Need to Know About Reddit, the FBI and the Boston Marathon Suspects

Catherine Hollander | April 17, 2013

Note: This post has been updated to reflect developments in the case.

Mark Sanford Attacks Elizabeth Colbert Busch in First General Election Ad

Sarah Mimms | April 17, 2013

Former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford is out with his first television ad since becoming the GOP nominee in the special election in South Carolina's 1st District, going after Democrat Elizabeth Colbert Busch for her ties to unions. {{ BIZOBJ (video: 4280) }} "Elizabeth Colbert Busch says she kno...

11 Things We Learned About Rand Paul at Breakfast

Shane Goldmacher | April 17, 2013

Sen. Rand Paul, the Kentucky Republican and potential GOP candidate for president, chatted with reporters over scrambled eggs and sausage at a breakfast event hosted by the Christian Science Monitor on Wednesday. Here is what we learned.

Play of the Day: What Republicans Can Learn From BuzzFeed

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 17, 2013

Fast forward to 3:10 to see how Buzzfeed can draw inspiration from the NRCC.

Crowdfunding Everything From Solar Panels to Veronica Mars

Sophie Quinton | April 17, 2013

A growing number of online companies help connect entrepreneurs and borrowers with investors and donors.

Poll: Weiner Would Start Mayoral Race in Second Place

Steven Shepard | April 16, 2013

Disgraced former Rep. Anthony Weiner is asking for "a second chance," and a new poll released late Tuesday night shows Weiner in second place among New York City Democratic voters in this September's primary. The poll, conducted for WNBC-TV by the Poughkeepsie-based Marist College Institute for Pub...

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

Cory Bennett | April 16, 2013

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

Plenty of Clues, Few Leads on Motive of Boston Marathon Bomber

James Kitfield | April 16, 2013

The bombings could be the work of al-Qaida affiliates, domestic right-wing extremists, or lone-wolf terrorists inspired by an indeterminate ideology.

Play of the Day: Tax Day

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 16, 2013

Fast forward to 3:10 to see exactly the programs your tax dollars are funding.

‘Chained CPI’ Could Hit Middle-Class Retirees Hardest

Nancy Cook | April 15, 2013

Which programs are exempt from chained CPI? And do proposed protections go far enough to protect low-income people?

Peters Raises $371K As He Considers Senate Bid

Alex Brown | April 15, 2013

Rep. Gary Peters, D-Mich., started his 2013 fundraising by taking in $371,000 during the first quarter, a respectable sum for the potential Senate candidate but less than the $434,000 he raised in the first quarter of 2011. As Peters jostles for Democratic support with party power player Debbie Din...

Why Evangelicals Back Obama on Immigration (and Why They Should Agree on Guns and Climate Change, Too)

Ron Fournier | April 15, 2013

Pragmatic mega-church leaders are savvy about demographic shifts.

Why a Messed Up Immigration Bill Could Still Pass

Fawn Johnson | April 14, 2013

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

Ralph Nader’s Newest Crusade: Raising the Minimum Wage

Mike Magner | April 12, 2013

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

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | April 12, 2013

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

Why Dr. Kermit Gosnell's Trial Should Be a Major News Story

Conor Friedersdorf - The Atlantic | April 12, 2013

The dead babies. The exploited women. The racism. The numerous governmental failures. It just is insanely newsworthy.

Play of the Day: Lassoing an Asteroid

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 12, 2013

Fast forward to 2:35 to see why Colbert loves the lasso plan.

Inside the Cover: How Washington Ruined Governors

National Journal Staff | April 11, 2013

In this week's National Journal cover story, Ronald Brownstein and Stephanie Czekalinski discuss the growth of partisanship in the states. In this video, go behind the story with Ronald Brownstein himself.

The O'Malley Factor

Ronald Brownstein | April 11, 2013

Can Gov. Martin O'Malley ride his Maryland success to the White House?

What Drones Can Do for You

Sara Sorcher | April 11, 2013

Prescription drugs, fast-food delivery, disaster relief—unmanned aerial vehicles can be handy in all sorts of ways.

It's Easy to Fix Social Security

Nancy Cook | April 11, 2013

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

Why Those Wellness Programs Don't Work

Margot Sanger-Katz | April 11, 2013

Obama's workplace health incentive was supposed to save money and make you fit. Instead it penalizes the poor.

Obama's Mixed Message on Austerity

Michael Hirsh | April 11, 2013

His Treasury secretary lectures Europe on the perils of thriftiness while his own budget agenda is driven by cuts.

House GOP Shrugs Off Senate Progress on Guns

Tim Alberta | April 11, 2013

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

3 Strong Pro-Gun Arguments to Watch

Fawn Johnson | April 11, 2013

Republicans are raising complex questions about mental health, federal enforcement, and gun-purchase records that deserve the thorough and intense debate they are about to receive.

Obama's Budget Garners Anger From All Sides

Nancy Cook | April 11, 2013

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

Report: Democratic Activists Admitted Recording McConnell Meeting

Alex Roarty | April 11, 2013

Members of the liberal group Progress Kentucky told a local Democratic official that they secretly recorded a private conversation between Mitch McConnell and his campaign aides, according to a published report from a local public radio station, a bombshell revelation that, if true, might lead to cr...

How Does a Former Professional-Fighter-Turned Congressman Prep for the Gun-Control Scuffle?

Ben Terris | April 11, 2013

Rep. Markwayne Mullin says don't judge a gun by its stock.

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

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 11, 2013

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

Tough Gun Votes Could End Careers on Capitol Hill

Jill Lawrence | April 11, 2013

TARP, taxes, Obamacare, and guns have been blamed for scores of defeats in the last 20 years.

Progressives Fight Obama on Entitlements with Eye on 2014

Rebecca Kaplan | April 10, 2013

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

Background Checks Take Center Stage in Gun Debate

Fawn Johnson | April 10, 2013

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

Is the GOP Preparing to Attack Dems on Social Security?

Alex Roarty | April 10, 2013

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

The Hottest Book Drop in Town: Behind the Scenes at Today's Budget Release

Brian Resnick | April 10, 2013

Here's one intern right of passage: Collect 90-lbs of fiscal outlines for the bosses.

Play of the Day: The Looming Threat of Kim Jong Un

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 10, 2013

Fast forward to 4:20 to see Ferguson show why Kim shouldn't be strapped for money.

There's No False Equivalency on Guns

Ron Fournier | April 10, 2013

On guns, the NRA and the GOP are factually wrong more often, more likely to demagogue, and are further from the mainstream than Obama.

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

Steven Shepard | April 10, 2013

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

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

Nancy Cook | April 10, 2013

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

Is Obama’s Budget Gamble Thawing the GOP?

Stacy Kaper | April 9, 2013

President Obama’s decision to include in his budget proposal cuts to Social Security and Medicare—two entitlement programs central to the Democratic base—has set off a fierce debate in Washington about whether the White House strategy will prove to be shrewd or a giant mistake.

GOP Filibuster of Gun Bill Begins to Fizzle

Shane Goldmacher and Fawn Johnson and Beth Reinhard contributed to this report. | April 9, 2013

The planned GOP filibuster of gun-control legislation was losing steam on Tuesday, as more than half a dozen GOP lawmakers abandoned their conservative colleagues’ effort to block consideration of the bill.

Play of the Day: Obama’s Budget and Biden’s Salary

Ross Gianfortune and Government Executive | April 9, 2013

Fast forward to 2:30 to see Fallon’s impression of Biden trying to calculate his voluntary salary cut.

Rand Paul's Play to Win Over Black Voters at Howard University

Elahe Izadi | April 8, 2013

How the libertarian-minded senator is received will indicate how well GOP is making inroads with minorities.

GOP Health Experts Agree: Don't Count on 'Obamacare' to Fail

Jill Lawrence | April 8, 2013

Is the Obama administration totally bungling implementation of its signature universal health care law? The White House gets some surprising backup from top health officials from two GOP administrations.

New Era for Energy Department Expected Under a Secretary Moniz

Coral Davenport | April 8, 2013

With stimulus funding for clean energy at an end, climate-change policy dead in Congress, and harsh budget cuts looming over all agencies thanks to the sequestration, the days of President Obama’s vision of the Energy Department as a green juggernaut have probably come to an end.

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