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The 5 Most Unconventional Proposals from Anthony Weiner's Mayoral Platform

Elahe Izadi | 7:55 a.m.

From e-books to Question Time, Anthony Weiner has some outside-the-box ideas in his mayoral platform.

As Weiner Launches Mayoral Campaign, Poll Still Shows Him in 2nd Place

Steven Shepard | 2:00 a.m.

Disgraced former Rep. Anthony Weiner formally unveiled his campaign to become New York City's mayor late on Tuesday, and just a few hours later, a new Quinnipiac University poll shows Weiner remains in second place in September's Democratic primary following his six-week trial balloon. With Christi...

Why Ken Block's Candidacy Is Bad News For the R.I. GOP

Kevin Brennan | May 21, 2013

Ken Block, the founder of Rhode Island's Moderate Party, announced Tuesday that he'll make a second run for governor next year, further complicating Republicans' path to victory in the Ocean State. Some Republicans say Block's 2010 bid cost them a chance to win a three-way race, like they did in M...

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...

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...

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...

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.

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...

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...

Nebraska Senate Draft Movement Shows Heineman's Clout

Julie Sobel | May 15, 2013

It must feel good to be drafted to run for office. But it may feel less good to be drafted explicitly as a back-up plan. Former Nebraska GOP chair Mark Fahleson tweeted a link to a Facebook page "drafting" Ben Sasse to run for retiring Sen. Mike Johanns' seat -- but only if Gov. Dave Heineman passe...

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...

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.

How Goldman Sachs Can Help Save the Safety Net

Sophie Quinton | May 9, 2013

A novel idea would make private investors in charge of funding social services. Will it catch on?

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.

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.

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 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...

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.

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...

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...

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.

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...

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.

What You Need to Know About Obama Transportation Pick Anthony Foxx

Matt Vasilogambros | April 29, 2013

The White House made a smart political move choosing the young up-and-coming political star from North Carolina.

Corbett Badly Trails Democrats in New Poll

Kevin Brennan | April 29, 2013

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett faces long odds in his reelection bid, and it might not matter which Democrat emerges as his opponent. A Quinnipiac University poll released Monday shows the Republican trailing all three of the Democrats tested against him by at least nine points, and the Keystone...

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.

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.

Mark Pryor May Soon Have A Bloomberg Problem

Ron Fournier | April 23, 2013

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

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.

Affidavit: Bachmann Approved Indirect Payments to Iowa Politician

Shane Goldmacher | April 22, 2013

The problems for Rep. Michele Bachmann are piling up.

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...

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...

FitzGerald Will Announce Ohio Gubernatorial Run Next Week

Alex Brown | April 19, 2013

Ohio Democratic operatives confirmed Friday that Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald will announce his candidacy for governor next Wednesday, April 24, in Cleveland. He will also make stops in Columbus and other cities that day. One source said the announcement will come at midday Wednesday. Th...

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...

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.

Just Don’t Call Him Marco Rubio

Tim Alberta | April 18, 2013

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

‘Independent’ in Name Only

Shane Goldmacher and Scott Bland contributed | April 18, 2013

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

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...

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 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.

What You Need to Know About Boston Mayor Thomas Menino

Elahe Izadi | April 17, 2013

A popular five-term mayor, he faces the biggest crisis of his 20-year tenure.

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...

McAuliffe's $5-Million Quarter Gives Him Va. Cash Advantage

Dan Roem | April 16, 2013

The $5.1 million raised by former Democratic National Committee Chairman Terry McAuliffe in the first quarter for this fall's Virginia gubernatorial election dwarfed the $2.4 million of Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli, the Republican nominee, during the same time period. McAuliffe also reported $5...

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

Scott Bland | April 16, 2013

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

Boston Blasts Bring a Chill to Washington

Billy House | April 15, 2013

Tax day in Washington turned into a tension-filled reminder that there are far worse problems to deal with than the federal budget, immigration reform, or even gun control, as bombings at the Boston Marathon brought the horrors of terrorism front and center into the national consciousness.

Obama Vows Justice Against Those Responsible for Boston Attacks

George E. Condon Jr. | April 15, 2013

President stops short of labeling Boston Marathon bombings as terrorism.

Booker Reports Raising $1.9 Million in First Quarter

Kevin Brennan | April 15, 2013

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

In Rhode Island, A Battle for the Democratic Party's Future

Kevin Brennan | April 15, 2013

A budget-balancing Democrat could be the state's first female governor. But she's drawing opposition from unions, who prefer the Hispanic mayor of Providence.

The O'Malley Factor

Ronald Brownstein | April 11, 2013

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

Hutchinson Officially Begins Ark. Governor Campaign

Jordain Carney | April 10, 2013

Former Rep. Asa Hutchinson, R-Ark., announced Wednesday that he has raised more than $350,000 for his nascent gubernatorial campaign. "In January I publicly stated that I would be a candidate for Governor in 2014. Today, I make that candidacy official and will formally begin the campaign with activ...

Poll: Quinn's Primary Lead Shrinks After Hits From Both Sides

Steven Shepard | April 10, 2013

Besieged on both her left and her right, New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn's commanding lead in September's Democratic mayoral primary is showing signs of slippage, a new poll released on Wednesday suggests. The Quinnipiac University poll still shows Quinn leading her closest Democratic...

It's Debt-Ceiling Madness Again. Why You Should Stay Calm (Sort Of)

Catherine Hollander | April 10, 2013

Fighting over the debt ceiling? Been there, done that, got the T-shirt.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | April 5, 2013

North Korea, a poor jobs report and President Obama's budget take front stage this weekend on the Sunday shows. But that doesn't mean long term issues don't have prominent roles. Immigration and gun control still remain hot topics and will be a focus on the shows as well. Obama adviser Dan Pfeiffer...

On Day One, Sanford Discovers Challenges of Taking On a Female Candidate

Sarah Mimms | April 4, 2013

On just his first day as the Republican nominee for South Carolina's 1st Congressional District seat, former Gov. Mark Sanford is discovering the challenges of running against a female candidate, adding to the difficulties faced by a man in the process of resurrecting his political career after admi...

What Did We Do?

April 3, 2013

Quinn, Catsimatidis deal with fallout from corruption arrests.

Why Stephen Colbert’s Sister Could Beat Mark Sanford

Josh Kraushaar | April 3, 2013

Scandal-plagued candidates have a lousy track record at winning elections.

South Carolina Special Election Will Be High-Profile but Have Little National Significance

Alex Roarty | April 2, 2013

There's little reason to believe this off-year fight between Democrat Elizabeth Colbert Busch and Republican Mark Sanford will carry with it important political lessons.

Mark Sanford Wins S.C. Runoff, but Colbert Busch Still Blocks His Path to Redemption

Sarah Mimms | April 2, 2013

The former governor outraised Bostic more than 15-1 in the pre-runoff period and had represented the district in the 1990s.

Mike Ross Moves Closer To Launching Gubernatorial Bid in Arkansas

Jordain Carney | April 2, 2013

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

Behind the Bribery Indictment in New York City

Billy House | April 2, 2013

A leading New York lawmaker was arrested after being accused of trying to buy a spot on the mayoral ballot.

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

Fawn Johnson | April 2, 2013

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

Tennessee's Colossally Bad Plan to Change Its Primary System

Charlie Cook and Ashton Barry contributed | April 1, 2013

Most people hear bad ideas almost every day. But only occasionally do you hear a colossally ill-conceived idea, one that you really have to wonder about someone who dreamed it up.

Senate Democrats Are Betting on Family Dynasties to Win Red States

Beth Reinhard | March 31, 2013

Senators are hoping that voters will be looking for familiar faces over fresh ones in the 2014 midterms.

Curious Friends: How Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg Can Help Republicans

Elahe Izadi | March 29, 2013

By zeroing in on issues where bipartisanship is possible, Zuckerberg’s political efforts can soften the GOP’s edges.

Could Chuck Schumer Be Well-Set to Chair Senate Banking Committee?

Shane Goldmacher and Stacy Kaper | March 28, 2013

The departure of Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Johnson after 2014 could set off a future chain of musical chairmanships. One of the leading contenders for the influential post is the chamber’s No. 3-ranking Democrat, Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York. Could the "senator from Wall Street" become the "chairman from Wall Street?"

The Secret Republican Plan to Repeal 'Obamacare'

Chris Frates | March 27, 2013

Mitch McConnell knows how to unwind Obamacare. And he doesn't think it's too late to do it.

Democrats Recruiting Tipton Challengers

Scott Bland | March 27, 2013

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

Fla. Dems Pray for Crist's Resurrection

Jordain Carney | March 26, 2013

There are more than 4.7 million registered Democrats in Florida, but it looks more and more like only one is a viable -- and willing -- potential candidate to challenge vulnerable Gov. Rick Scott: former GOP Gov. Charlie Crist, who joined the Democratic Party in December. 2010 nominee Alex Sink and...

Clinton Backs Greuel in L.A. Mayor's Race

Courtney McBride | March 25, 2013

Los Angeles mayoral hopeful Wendy Greuel on Monday became the latest beneficiary of Bill Clinton's five-year thank-you tour, when the former president endorsed her over another Democrat in the upcoming runoff election. Greuel, the city's controller, served as a senior advisor at the Department of Ho...

A Republican Divide in Sharp Relief

Reid Wilson | March 21, 2013

There's a growing split between the party's elites, based in D.C. and New York, and the increasingly vocal grassroots.

Obamacare Is a Prescription for a Democratic Headache in 2014

Alex Roarty and Beth Reinhard | March 21, 2013

With key provisions of "Obamacare" set to take effect in 2014, both parties are assessing the potential political fallout from the seismic changes coming to our health care system.

The Man Who Could Turn Texas Blue: Rick Perry

Ronald Brownstein | March 21, 2013

By opposing Medicaid expansion, the governor could hurt the GOP in a must-win state.

Rick Perry: The Presidential Candidate Ahead of His Time

Michael Catalini | March 20, 2013

The Texas governor ran an awful campaign in 2012. But his platform is now belatedly being embraced by party leaders.

Will Martin O’Malley Be the Howard Dean of 2016?

Elahe Izadi | March 20, 2013

The Maryland governor's progressive legislative accomplishments would enable him to make a play from the left in 2016.

Closing in on Signature Threshold, Salahi Talks Politics, Policy And Journey

Dan Roem | March 18, 2013

Though Republican Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli and former Democratic National Committee Chairman Terry McAuliffe are the far-and-away frontrunners in this year's Virginia gubernatorial race, the other candidate in the race discussed his own campaign with Hotline On Call late last week: former Whi...

The Five Candidates Most Likely to Take On Mark Sanford

Sarah Mimms | March 17, 2013

Though the race for first place in Tuesday's special GOP primary in South Carolina's First District is a foregone conclusion, the battle to take on former Gov. Mark Sanford in an almost-guaranteed April 2 runoff is wide-open, according to several Republicans in the state. The list of candidates who...

Weiner Polled for N.Y. Mayoral Bid

Steven Shepard | March 15, 2013

Disgraced former Rep. Anthony Weiner's dormant New York City mayoral campaign paid more than $100,000 to a San Francisco-based polling firm earlier this month, suggesting the once-prominent Democrat whose career was derailed by allegations he sent salacious texts and photographs to various women onl...

Mitt Romney's CPAC Speech Was As Lackluster As His Campaign

Beth Reinhard | March 15, 2013

But the former presidential nominee's speech was a reminder of his political mistakes during the 2012 presidential campaign.

The Elusive Truth Behind Murder of a Black, Gay Mayoral Candidate in Mississippi

Ben Terris | March 15, 2013

It’s tempting to think Marco McMillian was killed because of his race, his sexuality, or because he was running for mayor. The truth is more elusive.

In Mississippi, the Mysterious Murder of a Gay, Black Politician

Ben Terris | March 14, 2013

It’s tempting to think Marco McMillian was killed because of his race, his sexuality, or because he was running for mayor. The truth is more elusive.

Broun to Potential Ga. Challengers: Stay Where You Are

Sarah Mimms | March 14, 2013

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. -- Rep. Paul Broun, R-Ga., has a message for his colleagues in the Peach State's delegation who are considering challenging him for the Republican nomination for Sen. Saxby Chambliss' seat: Don't bother. "I hope everyone in the delegation gets ready to stay where they are becau...

The Rightward March of the Republicans

Ronald Brownstein | March 14, 2013

Republicans in Congress were supposed to moderate their message. It's not happening.

SEIU Endorses Markey in Another Setback for Lynch

Kevin Brennan | March 14, 2013

In the latest setback for Rep. Stephen Lynch's, D-Mass., Senate campaign, the Massachusetts Service Employees International Union on Thursday endorsed Lynch's Democratic primary opponent, Rep. Ed Markey. While Markey entered the race to replace Secretary of State John Kerry with the backing of nati...

At CPAC, Ken Cuccinelli Moves to the Center

Beth Reinhard | March 14, 2013

Virginia's Republican candidate for governor tacks to the middle in speech to conservative activists.

Cuccinelli Jabs McAuliffe in CPAC Speech

Dan Roem | March 14, 2013

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. -- Ken Cuccinelli, the Republican gubernatorial nominee in Virginia, addressed the Conservative Political Action Conference here Thursday morning, largely focusing on the criminal justice issues he's faced as the commonwealth's attorney general. But Cuccinelli still managed to g...

Why the GOP Won't Be Run Out of New England

Michael Catalini | March 14, 2013

At a time when the party is on the decline in the Northeast and in disarray in Maine, Sen. Susan Collins is well positioned to win a fourth term.

Would You Use a Google Reader Built by Digg?

Brian Fung | March 13, 2013

The trafficker in viral content aims to apply its knowledge of the social Web.

The Romneys, The Family That Just Can’t Quit Politics

Elahe Izadi | March 13, 2013

Mitt may be out of politics, but his family isn't.

Poll: Booker Crushes Dems in Potential N.J. Senate Primary

Kevin Brennan | March 13, 2013

Newark Mayor Cory Booker has said he won't officially announce whether he'll run for Senate in 2014 until after this year's gubernatorial race, but a new poll released Wednesday shows the mayor would begin the contest with a commanding lead over two potential Democratic primary opponents. Asked whi...

Lynch, Markey Both Hitting TV Tuesday in Mass. Senate Primary

Kevin Brennan and Scott Bland | March 11, 2013

Rep. Stephen Lynch's, D-Mass., Senate campaign will run its first television ads on Tuesday, going on air the same day Rep. Edward Markey, Lynch's rival for the Democratic nomination, will begin his own TV push. According to a Monday filing with the Federal Communications Commission, Lynch is spend...

FitzGerald Officially Exploring Ohio Gubernatorial Run

Alex Brown | March 11, 2013

After months of talk and speculation, one Ohio Democrat has taken the first step toward a challenge of Gov. John Kasich: Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald, who many consider the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination, announced Monday he is launching an exploratory committee to run for governor.

Frontrunner Quinn Declares N.Y. Mayoral Candidacy

Steven Shepard | March 10, 2013

The race for Gracie Mansion is on: New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, the early frontrunner, officially declared her candidacy for mayor early Sunday morning, releasing a slick, five-minute biographical video through her campaign's social media accounts.

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | March 8, 2013

Sen. Rand Paul's, R-Ky., 13-hour filibuster is sure to be a hot topic on the Sunday shows this weekend, though Paul himself does not currently appear in the lineup for any of the programs. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, meanwhile, will be on six Sunday shows, pulling off a bilingual "Full Ginsburg." He'll be on "Meet the Press," "Face the Nation," "Fox News Sunday," "This Week," "State of the Union" and Univision's "Al Punto." Bush will talk about his new book, as well as the challenges surrounding immigration and, of course, his potential presidential aspirations. Check out the full listings after the jump.

Carl Levin Not Running for Reelection

Alex Brown and Alex Roarty | March 7, 2013

Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., announced late on Thursday that he will not seek a seventh term in 2014, leaving Democrats with another open seat to defend next year. Levin called the decision "extremely difficult" and said he wanted to focus on his role as chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee "without the distraction of campaigning for re-election."

How Colleges Are Making Income Inequality Worse

Ronald Brownstein | March 7, 2013

Higher education is supposed to reduce class division, but it turns out it doesn't.

Four Things to Know About Penny Pritzker, a Billionaire and Obama's Commerce Secretary Pick

Matt Vasilogambros | March 6, 2013

President Obama nominated Chicago mogul and longtime friend Penny Pritzker for Commerce secretary. Here’s what you need to know about her.

Garcetti, Greuel Advance to L.A. Mayor Runoff

Courtney McBride | March 6, 2013

Voters in Los Angeles on Tuesday selected City Councilor Eric Garcetti and City Controller Wendy Greuel, both Democrats, to advance to a May 21 mayoral runoff. In an eight-way open primary, Garcetti secured 33 percent of the vote, while Greuel totaled 29 percent. Attorney and radio broadcaster Kev...

Can a Senate Seat Remain All in the Family?

Alex Brown and Elahe Izadi | March 5, 2013

Sen. Tim Johnson, D-S.D., could be retiring, leaving the door open for his son to run.

The Obama Administration's Super-Expensive, Legally Dubious Medicaid Plan

Margot Sanger-Katz | March 5, 2013

Arkansas is a test case for a new privatization plan that could win support from GOP politicians in other states.

Detroit: A Sad Tale of 2 Cities and 2 Americas

Ron Fournier | March 5, 2013

My hometown is about to experience its umpteenth transition in a generations-long struggle against mighty odds.

Can Texas Turn Blue? 'The GOP in Texas is Spoiled.'

Sophie Quinton | March 4, 2013

San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro talks about the economic turnaround in his city--and the emerging political changes in Texas.

Poll: Garcetti, Greuel Tenuous Frontrunners in L.A. Mayor's Race

Steven Shepard | March 4, 2013

City Councilman Eric Garcetti and Controller Wendy Greuel are running neck-and-neck in Tuesday's Los Angeles mayoral primary, according to a new USC Sol Price School of Public Policy/Los Angeles Times poll released on Sunday, but a healthy share of likely voters remain undecided in the top-two prima...

Can Climate-Change Denier Ken Cuccinelli Win a Swing State?

Coral Davenport | March 3, 2013

In storm-battered Virginia, the Republican candidate for governor still doubts the science.

Five Staff Positions to Watch: Chiefs of Staff for Freshman Senators

Amy Harder and Stacy Kaper | March 3, 2013

Meet the chiefs of staff for five of the Senate's newest members.

L.A. Mayor's Race Likely Headed to May Runoff

Courtney McBride | March 2, 2013

On Tuesday, Los Angelenos will go to the polls to pick a successor for term-limited Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, but the race is likely to go to a runoff on May 21 featuring the top two finishers. The officially-nonpartisan race includes both City Hall veterans and political neophytes, featuring five...

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | March 1, 2013

With President Obama and congressional Republicans unable reach a deal to avoid budget sequestration, both parties will send representatives to the Sunday Shows to discuss the impact of the cuts and cast blame. Speaker John Boehner will give the House GOP's perspective on Meet the Press, while Dire...

Pittsburgh Mayor Won't Seek Reelection

Steven Shepard | March 1, 2013

Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced Friday we won't seek reelection this year, setting up a competitive Democratic primary to replace him this May. "I'm dropping my bid for reelection," Ravenstahl said at a press conference at Pittsburgh City-County Building. Ravenstahl, a Democrat, denied...

Branstad-Backed Push for Reynolds Falls Flat With Iowa GOP Grassroots

Alex Brown and Alex Roarty | March 1, 2013

The rush to anoint Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds as the Iowa GOP's best alternative to Rep. Steve King -- should he not run for Senate -- drew pushback Thursday from the state's grassroots Republicans. Their message: Don't count on us backing Reynolds if King opts out. After Rep. Tom Latham's announcement...

Does Ben Bernanke Care Too Much About Jobs?

Caren Bohan and Catherine Hollander | February 28, 2013

Critics say the Fed chair has tried so hard to get Americans back to work that he may cause another financial crisis.

Tea Party Victory: Latham Won't Run for Senate in Iowa

Alex Brown and Alex Roarty | February 27, 2013

Rep. Tom Latham, R-Iowa, has decided not to run for the Senate seat being vacated by retiring Democratic Sen. Tom Harkin, he told supporters in an email on Wednesday. With Latham out, Rep. Steve King, R-Iowa, becomes the center of attention in a race that has become a flashpoint in the fight over th...

Why Republicans Are Worried About the Party's Civil War in Virginia

Michael Catalini | February 27, 2013

Nationally, Republicans are engaged in a battle to recast their image, worried that the party faces long-term problems unless they retool their message to appeal to a wider swath of voters. But in Virginia, the party’s worst fears about the future are being realized, with this year’s governor’s race looking as if it may divide the Republican Party in two.

Bloomberg Rocks, NRA Rolled in Chicago

Ron Fournier | February 27, 2013

Results of Chicago Democratic primary carry significant national implications for the New York mayor and gun debate.

Poll Shows Quinn on Verge of Avoiding Runoff in N.Y. Mayor's Race

Steven Shepard | February 27, 2013

A new poll released Wednesday confirms that New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn is nearing the critical 40-percent mark in this September's Democratic mayoral primary, the threshold for avoiding a runoff with the second-place finisher. The Quinnipiac University poll shows Quinn with 37 pe...

The Real Reason Why Chris Christie Wasn't Invited to CPAC

Elahe Izadi | February 26, 2013

ACU Chairman Al Cardenas criticizes New Jersey's Republican governor for supporting Sandy aid bill, Medicaid expansion.

McAuliffe, Bolling Trading Calls in Run-Up to Bolling's Decision

Dan Roem | February 26, 2013

ARLINGTON, Va. -- As Virginia Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling approaches his own March 14th deadline for making a decision about whether to enter the 2013 gubernatorial race as an independent, former Democratic National Committee Chairman Terry McAuliffe is doing everything he can to stay on Bolling's good si...

Teddy Turner's New T.V. Ad Evokes Sanford's Apology

Sarah Mimms | February 26, 2013

Republican Teddy Turner is out with another ad in the special election for South Carolina's First District seat, which may conjure for voters some uncomfortable memories of one of his opponents, former Gov. Mark Sanford.

Bob McDonnell's Political Lesson for President Obama

Josh Kraushaar | February 25, 2013

Supporters of President Obama’s insistence on additional revenue as the only way to avoid the sequester should take a close look across the Potomac River for an alternative way of getting things done.

Toned-Down Walker Predicts Less 'Intense' Reelection Campaign

Alex Brown | February 25, 2013

The GOP's rebound from a tough 2012 election cycle will come from the ranks of its governors, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker said Sunday in an interview with Hotline On Call. "In the next [presidential] election, Republicans would be wise, whomever it is, to nominate a governor," said Walker, who was...

Bob McDonnell and Martin O'Malley Are Becoming Fast Frenemies

Beth Reinhard | February 25, 2013

Two potential 2016 presidential candidates are forming a mutually beneficial alliance.

It's Not Just the Penn State Scandal That's Hurting Pennsylvania's Governor

Michael Catalini | February 25, 2013

With few allies on either side of the aisle, Tom Corbett is one of the most vulnerable Republicans up for reelection.

How Obama and Boehner Can Learn Lessons From 'Governor Ultrasound'

Ron Fournier | February 25, 2013

How acute is the shortage of comity, compromise, and true leadership in Washington? Bad enough that the closest example of political courage is a Virginia conservative whom Democrats dubbed "Governor Ultrasound."

Obama Administration Reaches Out to Local Governments to Spread Its Climate Message

Coral Davenport | February 24, 2013

President Obama used his Inaugural Address and State of the Union speech to issue the boldest, clearest call to action on climate change ever voiced by a sitting U.S. president—but don’t expect him to barnstorm across the country with that message.

Gun Issue Propels Kelly to Frontrunner Status in Ill. House Primary

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | February 23, 2013

Former Democratic state Rep. Robin Kelly is an unlikely frontrunner in the special election in Illinois' Second Congressional District. Kelly's opponents a couple months ago included a former member of the House, Debbie Halvorson, Halvorson's former chief of staff and state Sen. Toi Hutchinson,...

Previewing the Sunday Shows

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | February 22, 2013

With one week before budget sequestration takes effect, the nation's governors are converging on D.C. for the winter meetings of the National Governors Association, and several of them will be on the Sunday shows. Meet the Press will have Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and Massachusetts Gov. Deval Pat...

Meet the Gun-Loving, Straight-Talking, 2016 Democratic Presidential Dark Horse

Elahe Izadi | February 22, 2013

Former Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer sounds interested in running for president, and would be a dark horse candidate to watch.

Cuccinelli Sides Against McDonnell Again on Transportation

Dan Roem | February 22, 2013

For the second time this month, Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli bucked Gov. Bob McDonnell by opposing a transportation proposed backed by the outgoing GOP governor, whom Cuccinelli, a fellow Republican, hopes to succeed in this fall's general election. Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling, a R...

On the Move

Christopher Snow Hopkins and Mike Magner | February 21, 2013

Angela Rye launches a new lobby shop, Impact Strategies. Domingo Herraiz is Motorola's new VP of North American government affairs. Campaign insider Tharon Johnson joins McKenna Long & Aldridge.

Florida Governor's Embrace of Medicaid Money Undercuts GOP Attacks on 'Obamacare'

Beth Reinhard and Margot Sanger-Katz | February 21, 2013

Republicans who seemed united against "Obamacare" just two years ago suddenly find some prominent party leaders taking a different tack.

Rep. Allyson Schwartz’s Potential Bid for Governor Could Cost House Democrats

Shane Goldmacher | February 20, 2013

As the Pennsylvania Democrat lays groundwork for a state race in 2014, she could leave the DCCC—where she serves as the party’s finance chair—in a pinch.

Rick Scott Agrees to Medicaid Expansion, Despite Criticism of Health Care Law

Jordain Carney | February 20, 2013

Florida Gov. Rick Scott, a long-time critic of Pres. Obama’s health care law, announced on Wednesday evening that the state would support a three-year Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act. "I was a strong advocate for better ways to run health care,” Scott said during a press confer...

Rick Scott's Medicaid Decision is a Big Win for the White House

Margot Sanger-Katz | February 20, 2013

Florida Gov. Rick Scott’s decision to expand his state’s Medicaid program is a huge political and practical win for the Obama White House.

How Republicans Are Looking to Close the Digital Divide Against Democrats

Elahe Izadi | February 20, 2013

In conversations with leading Republican digital strategists, there’s an acknowledgment that the path to closing the tech gap will be difficult.

Sanford Invokes 'God of Second Chances' in First Ad

Sarah Mimms | February 18, 2013

Former Gov. Mark Sanford released his first ad of the special election race for South Carolina's First District on Monday, highlighting his record of fiscal conservatism during his tenure as governor, while also addressing the scandal that nearly brought it to an end.

Nebraska Governor Early Frontrunner to Succeed Retiring Senator Mike Johanns

Alex Roarty | February 18, 2013

Nebraska GOP Sen. Mike Johanns announced Monday that he won’t seek re-election, declaring that he was retiring from politics after a decades-long career in public office.

The First Political Battleground Over Gun Control Is Between Democrats

Naureen Khan | February 16, 2013

As President Obama made his pitch for gun-control legislation Friday in his hometown of Chicago, the death toll in the Windy City continued its ceaseless climb. Chicago had the ignominious distinction of surpassing 500 homicides in 2012, and is on pace to exceed that number in 2013, with at least 50 committed so far in the first two months of the year. On Friday night, four people were shot -- one fatally -- within a 90-minute period in the city.

Former Maine Gov. Discusses 'Baldacci 2.0'

Dan Roem | February 15, 2013

Former Maine Gov. John Baldacci is saying everything that a would-be gubernatorial candidate would say prior to formally announcing a run for office. There's just one catch to him running: He's pushing the state's two Democratic U.S. Reps., Chellie Pingree and Michael Michaud, to seek the party nomi...

Can Marco Rubio Live Up to the Hype?

Beth Reinhard and Scott Bland contributed | February 14, 2013

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

Why Japan Can't Quit Nuclear Power

Olga Belogolova | February 14, 2013

Since the Fukushima meltdown, the country has tried to reduce its reliance on nuclear reactors. But with nearly a third of its energy needs powered by the atom, change is difficult.

Poll: Quinn Leading Primary, General for NYC Mayor

Steven Shepard | February 14, 2013

A new NY1-Marist poll released late Thursday shows City Council Speaker Christine Quinn with a nearly three-to-one lead in the Democratic primary to be New York City's next mayor, and a 46-point lead against the leading Republican candidate, former Metropolitan Transportation Authority chairman Joe...

Pallone Continues to Express Interest in Senate Race

Elahe Izadi | February 14, 2013

Sen. Frank Lautenberg is retiring, but that doesn’t mean Newark Mayor Cory Booker is getting a free ride to the Democratic Senate nomination in New Jersey. Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J., told National Journal Thursday that he’s still exploring a run for the Senate.

Lautenberg Announces Retirement

Kevin Brennan and Elahe Izadi | February 14, 2013

Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J., announced Thursday that he won't seek reelection in 2014, potentially paving the way for Newark Mayor Cory Booker to succeed him.

Why Will Ferrell and Salma Hayek Are Getting Into Politics

Elahe Izadi | February 14, 2013

Los Angeles celebrities endorse Eric Garcetti's mayoral campaign.

Report: Suozzi, Once a Rising N.Y. Dem Star, Attempts Comeback

Steven Shepard | February 13, 2013

Tom Suozzi, once a rising star of the New York State Democratic Party, will launch a campaign for Nassau County executive, the Long Island newspaper Newsday reported Wednesday, just four years after being unseated from that post by Republican Ed Mangano. The Newsday report: In 2009, Suozzi lost...

Alex Sink Weighs Another Fla. Gov Run Against Rick Scott

Jordain Carney | February 12, 2013

Former Florida CFO Alex Sink hasn't decided whether to run for governor again in 2014. The 2010 Democratic nominee said Tuesday that she hasn't "ruled it out completely," adding that she will finalize her plans by the summer. Sink called a potential run "a big undertaking" and "a very personal deci...

LG Mark Darr Won't Run for Governor in Arkansas, Endorses Hutchinson

Jordain Carney | February 12, 2013

Arkansas Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Darr ended speculation about his own 2014 gubernatorial ambitions Tuesday by endorsing former GOP Rep. Asa Hutchinson. "I have fielded many questions over the past few months from friends and supporters concerning the 2014 gubernatorial race," Darr said in a statem...

Marco Rubio's State of the Union Rebuttal May Be a Tall Order

George E. Condon Jr. | February 12, 2013

Given the sorry history of partisan rebuttals of presidential remarks, he just might want to reconsider.

Mo. GOPers Pick Jason Smith for Open House Seat

Sarah Mimms | February 9, 2013

Missouri state House Speaker Pro Tem Jason Smith has been tapped as the Republican nominee in the special election to replace former Rep. Jo Ann Emerson, R-Mo., and the district's Republican lean makes it likely he will win the June 4 special election. On Saturday, Smith was nominated following a u...

Former N.H. House Speaker Mulling Kuster Challenge

Kevin Brennan | February 8, 2013

New Hampshire GOP state Rep. Bill O'Brien is considering challenging Democratic Rep. Ann McLane Kuster in 2014. "I'm concerned for the country, I really am," O'Brien said in a phone interview Friday. "I think we need another fiscally responsible voice down in Washington." O'Brien served as the spe...

Why Governors Could Teach Washington a Lesson

Michael Catalini | February 8, 2013

Despite the inactivity in the nation’s capital, states are taking the lead in passing consequential legislation that could end up impacting the debate in Washington.

Why the GOP's Resistance to Medicaid Expansion Is Eroding

Ronald Brownstein | February 7, 2013

Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer wants her state to join the expansion, key to Obama's health care reform. Will other Republican governors follow suit?

Debbie Halvorson Says Michael Bloomberg Trying to Buy Ill. Special Election

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | February 7, 2013

Former Rep. Debbie Halvorson, D-Ill. has an unusual perspective on New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg's independent expenditure campaign against her in Illinois's 2nd Congressional Disrict. Bloomberg's Independence USA super PAC is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars advertising against Hal...

Stephen Colbert Talks Up His Sister's S.C. House Campaign

Sarah Mimms | February 7, 2013

Comedian Stephen Colbert broke his silence about his sister's congressional campaign last night, acknowledging on his show that his sister, Elizabeth Colbert Busch, is seeking the Democratic nomination in the First District of their home state of South Carolina. "As a broadcast journalist, I'm obli...

Will the Massachusetts Republicans Please Stand Up?

Elahe Izadi | February 6, 2013

Without Scott Brown, there aren't many GOP candidates left.

Westmoreland, Reed Opt Out of Ga. Senate Race

Sarah Mimms | February 4, 2013

The seemingly ever-widening field of potential candidates for the open Senate seat in Georgia narrowed by two on Monday, with Republican Rep. Lynn Westmoreland, and Atlanta Democratic Mayor Kasim Reed both opting out of the race. Westmoreland, who had been considering a run to succeed retiring GOP...

Louisiana, the Super Bowl of Politics

Michael Catalini | February 4, 2013

New Orleans was the center of the football world Sunday night, hosting its first Super Bowl since Hurricane Katrina devastated the city. But it also provided a platform for a series of ambitious Louisiana politicians — Gov. Bobby Jindal and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu — to showcase their governing aptitude in preparation for bigger campaigns ahead.

Poll Shows Gentler Drop for Cuomo After Signing Gun Laws

Steven Shepard | February 4, 2013

Less than a week after a Quinnipiac University poll showed a significant drop in support for New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo after the Democrat's successful push to pass new laws restricting gun ownership, a new Siena College poll suggests that any changes in how Empire State voters feel about their gove...

Hotline's Last Call!

February 1, 2013

Pres. Obama tells religious nonprofits they don't have to cover contraception; Sec/State Hillary Clinton officially resigns; ex-Sen. Scott Brown (R) says he won't run in MA SEN special; and NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg (I) may have rethink his position on guns ... as we bid farewell to The Hotline's Last Call!

Brown Won't Run in Mass. Senate Special

Kevin Brennan and Alex Roarty | February 1, 2013

Former Sen. Scott Brown, R-Mass., won't run in the special election to replace Sen. John Kerry. Brown's decision, conveyed in a statement emailed to reporters on Friday, represents a potentially crippling blow to national Republicans' hopes of flipping the seat. "I have received a lot of encouragem...

How Ed Koch Remade Liberalism

Matthew Cooper | February 1, 2013

The late New York mayor wasn't just a character, but a transformational figure.

The Passive-Aggressive Zen Tweets of Cory Booker

Elahe Izadi | February 1, 2013

Cory Booker is awfully passive-aggressive in his responses to Frank Lautenberg's attacks.

Everyone Agrees That Yerington, Nevada, Needs a New Copper Mine. So Why Has Congress Made It So Hard to Get One?

Ben Terris | February 1, 2013

Lyon County has highest unemployment rate in the state, but the federal government stands in the way of creating new jobs.

Michigan Dems Still Seeking Snyder Challenger

Alex Brown | January 30, 2013

Michigan Democrats are confident they can knock off Gov. Rick Snyder in 2014. But they just lost their star player, and no one appears eager to come off the bench. Democrats have attacked Snyder relentlessly in recent months, convinced that his signing of right-to-work legislation late last year ma...

Poll: Cuomo Approval Plummets After Gun-Law Push

Steven Shepard | January 30, 2013

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's approval rating slid under 60 percent in the wake of changes to the state's gun laws, a new poll released Wednesday shows, but Empire State voters still approve of the Democrat's job performance by a more-than-2-to-1 margin. A new Quinnipiac University poll shows Cuomo'...

Taming the Tea Party on Immigration

Fawn Johnson | January 30, 2013

Tea party conservatives are not going to throw themselves on their swords over immigration. The ruby-red conservatives want to wait and see.

Bloomberg Super PAC Airing TV Ad Against Halvorson

Alex Brown | January 29, 2013

Amid fears in some circles that former Rep. Debbie Halvorson, D-Ill., could emerge from a crowded primary field as the Democratic nominee to replace former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. in a special election this spring, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg's Independence USA PAC is out with a new ad highlighting her "A" rating from the National Rifle Association. "Debbie Halvorson -- when it comes to preventing gun violence, she gets an F," says the ad's voiceover.

Meet Barbara Buono, the Democrat Likely to Face Chris Christie

Dan Roem | January 29, 2013

What do you do when you're the frontrunner for your party's nomination but you're trailing in the general election by 41 points? If you're Democratic New Jersey state Sen. Barbara Buono running against GOP Gov. Chris Christie, you acknowledge your current standing but hope for the best. "If the election was held today, we know what the result would be," said Buono during a phone interview last week. "I fully expect my name recognition to grow."

How Rubio Reformed His Immigration Thinking

Beth Reinhard | January 29, 2013

Arizona Sen. John McCain partnered with liberal Democrat Ted Kennedy in 2005 to offer illegal immigrants a pathway to citizenship, then allied with border security hardliners during a tough 2010 Republican primary. "Complete the danged fence," McCain cracked in a widely publicized television spot.

Poll: Corbett Vulnerable in Reelection Campaign

Kevin Brennan | January 29, 2013

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett enters his reelection campaign in a precarious position, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released Tuesday. A majority of Pennsylvania voters don't think the Republican has earned another term, the poll shows. Fifty-one percent of respondents said Corbett does...

How Marco Rubio Evolved on Immigration Reform

Beth Reinhard | January 29, 2013

Marco Rubio's positions on immigration reform have evolved since running for the Senate.

Why No Democrat Wants to Run Against Chris Christie in New Jersey

Elahe Izadi | January 29, 2013

In heavily-Democratic New Jersey, party leaders can't find anyone willing to take on Gov. Chris Christie.

Sweeney Latest N.J. Democrat to Pass on Christie Challenge

Kevin Brennan | January 28, 2013

Scratch another name off the list of potential Democratic opponents for New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie: State Senate President Steve Sweeney has decided to seek reelection rather than mount a bid for governor, according to PolitickerNJ. Sweeney's decision leaves State Sen. Barabara Buono as the onl...

Biden Headlines Fundraiser for Landrieu

Sarah Mimms | January 27, 2013

Vice President Joe Biden headlined a fundraiser for Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La., one of this cycle's most vulnerable Democratic incumbents, in New Orleans on Saturday. Biden said he is confident Landrieu will win reelection, according to a pool report. "I am confident that Mary and I are going to con...

Mia Love Wants the GOP to 'End Slavery from the Federal Government'

Michael Catalini | January 27, 2013

Mia Love, the Republican mayor of Sarasota Springs, Utah, wowed conservatives in Tampa at the Republican National Convention this summer. After a failed fall campaign that resulted in losing a congressional race to Democratic Rep. Jim Matheson, she's again making an appeal to conservatives.

Worried GOP? Paul Ryan Has a Plan

Rebecca Kaplan and Michael Catalini | January 26, 2013

Paul Ryan urges party unity in speech at National Review Institute summit.

Sarah Palin Leaving Fox News

Christopher Peleo-Lazar | January 25, 2013

The Sarah Palin experiment at Fox News is officially over after three years. A Fox News spokesperson confirmed on Friday that the network has parted ways with the 2008 vice presidential nominee. Palin's contract was due to expire this month, and it isn't clear what's next for the former Alaska gover...

Codey Passes on N.J. Gov. Race, Thinning Dem Field

Kevin Brennan | January 25, 2013

New Jersey state Sen. Richard Codey announced Friday that he won't run for governor, leaving Democrats without a top-tier candidate to run against the popular Republican incumbent, Chris Christie. "After talking with my family, friends and other advisors and weighing the impact of a campaign on my...

Chambliss Retiring From the Senate

Sarah Mimms | January 25, 2013

Sen. Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., will retire at the end of 2014, setting off a Republican scramble to fill his seat, according to sources familiar with his decision.

One Tough-Talking Nerd: Bobby Jindal Brands Himself as Republican Reformer

Beth Reinhard | January 25, 2013

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal is hoping that a fast-talking, brainy policy wonk can be elected president.

A 12-Step Program for the Republican Party

Tim Alberta and Jim O'Sullivan | January 24, 2013

The GOP has finally admitted it has a problem winning over voters. Here’s a 12-step program to get the party back on track.

The Waxman-Berman Machine Finally Shuts Down

Shane Goldmacher | January 24, 2013

For more than two decades in Southern California, if you wanted to run for office, you had to deal with the team of Howard Berman and Henry Waxman. That era is officially over with Berman’s loss last fall.

Robert Wexler, Going It Alone

Beth Reinhard | January 24, 2013

Former Rep. Robert Wexler, D-Fla., talks about advising President Obama in 2008, the fate of the House, and life as a freelance peacemaker.

Hickenlooper Winning Bipartisan Praise

Scott Bland | January 24, 2013

Actual bipartisanship? One of Colorado's leading Republicans won't criticize Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper.

New Jersey Senator Bashes Cory Booker's Performance as Mayor

Elahe Izadi | January 24, 2013

Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J., says Newark is a "city in desperate need of attention."

Chris Christie Wins Over Mark Zuckerberg

Elahe Izadi | January 24, 2013

The Republican governor of a blue state is getting support from liberals.

Cordray Appointment Narrows Ohio Governor Field

Alex Brown | January 24, 2013

The field of potential Democratic challengers to Gov. John Kasich narrowed by one today, with news that President Obama is renominating Richard Cordray as director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. With Cordray out of the race, Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald told the Columbus Dis...

Bill Clinton To Campaign With Pryor

Josh Kraushaar | January 23, 2013

Bill Clinton is making an early campaign appearance for Sen. Mark Pryor, D-Ark., one of the most vulnerable Democrats up for re-election in 2014. He will be attending a March 16 fundraiser, which will double as a campaign kickoff event, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports. The early start unders...

Democrats Grumbling About Obama Lobbying Shop

Beth Reinhard | January 23, 2013

Even as Democrats relish President Obama’ second inauguration, some party leaders are worried about whether the campaign’s decision to form its own advocacy group will hamstring future generations of Democratic candidates.

Red-State Democrats' Reelection Playbook

Michael Catalini | January 23, 2013

President Obama won't have to go before voters again, but a handful of Democratic senators from conservative states will, and the president's agenda, newly stamped with a liberal imprimatur at the inauguration, could prove tricky for them to navigate.

Lautenberg's Smackdown Against Booker

Elahe Izadi | January 22, 2013

Senator compares Newark mayor to one of his disobedient children.

Pennsylvania Dems Search For Right Candidate To Challenge Vulnerable Corbett

Courtney McBride | January 21, 2013

Midway through his first term, Pennsylvania Republican Gov. Tom Corbett appears vulnerable, and Democrats are hoping to make him the first one-term chief executive since the state's governors became eligible for second terms in 1970. While numerous Democrats reportedly are considering bids,...

Democrats Looking Past Charlie Crist for 2014

Beth Reinhard | January 19, 2013

Some in party are seeking to draft Manny Diaz as alternative for gubernatorial bid.

Murray Passes on Run for Mass. Governor

Kevin Brennan | January 18, 2013

Massachusetts Democratic Lt. Gov. Tim Murray said Friday he won't run for governor in 2014, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. "I've decided that I am not going to run for governor," Murray told the Worcester Telegram & Gazette. "It really comes down to a family decision, and t...

Source: Darr Will Mount Senate Bid in Arkansas

Josh Kraushaar | January 18, 2013

Arkansas lieutenant governor Mark Darr is planning to jump in the state's Senate race against Democratic Sen. Mark Pryor, according to a GOP source familiar with his plans, giving the Republicans their first challenger against one of the party's top 2014 targets. Darr intends to officially enter th...

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