Politics blogs
Politics stories from AP
Stem cells research covers a variety of areas and diseases.
Mar 06, 2009 06:39 PM
Some areas where researchers say stem cells of various types may one day prove of value, although all the research is in very early stages:
Ethanol producers want EPA to raise limits on amount of ethanol allowed in gasoline
Mar 06, 2009 05:26 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Ethanol producers asked the Environmental Protection Agency on Friday to boost the amount of ethanol that can be blended with gasoline, but automakers argued the increase could damage car engines and fuel lines.
Iraq withdrawal raises concerns that elite forces will lose aircraft, logistical support
Mar 06, 2009 02:21 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — As the U.S. readies the pullout of its major combat units from Iraq, officials are concerned that the Pentagon's Green Berets and other elite anti-terror warriors staying behind won't have the helicopters, equipment and other logistical support they need.
Peanut products recalled for possible salmonella contamination
Mar 06, 2009 02:10 PM
The following recalls have been announced because the products may be contaminated with salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, especially in young children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems:
Democratic official blasts Limbaugh for comment touching on Sen. Edward Kennedy's health
Mar 07, 2009 01:26 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — A Democratic official rebuked conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh on Friday for suggesting a health care proposal will be named in memory of Sen. Edward Kennedy, who is battling brain cancer. On his radio show, Limbaugh said President Barack Obama's proposed health care revisions will be championed by "the liberal lion Teddy Kennedy."
Court documents show CIA destroyed 12 harsh interrogation videotapes
Mar 07, 2009 01:23 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The CIA destroyed a dozen videotapes of harsh interrogations of terror suspects, according to documents filed Friday in a lawsuit over the government's treatment of detainees.
Obama defends stimulus, highlights money's use to save class of Ohio police recruits
Mar 07, 2009 01:15 AM
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — While aknowledging an "astounding" number of job losses in February, President Barack Obama told critics of his $787 billion economic recovery plan Friday that it is saving jobs and said, "I know we did the right thing." He suggested that critics talk to 25 police recruits in Ohio's capital city who owe their jobs to stimulus spending and "talk to the teachers who are still able to teach our children because we passed this plan."
Source: Obama to reverse Bush's restrictions on federal funding for cell research
Mar 07, 2009 01:10 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Reversing an eight-year-old limit on potentially life-saving science, President Barack Obama plans to lift restrictions Monday on taxpayer-funded research using embryonic stem cells.
SPIN METER: Democrats give their own stimulus opponents a pass while accusing GOP of hypocrisy
Mar 06, 2009 11:07 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Is it hypocritical for a lawmaker to oppose the stimulus plan, then steer constituents to its benefits?
White House announces regional health care forums
Mar 06, 2009 10:54 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Want to tell senior Obama officials what you think about health care? The White House is giving some Americans a chance to do just that.
Faced with unemployment report, administration vows to break cycle of job loss
Mar 06, 2009 10:49 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration says it will do what is necessary to "break the destructive cycle" of job loss and put Americans back to work.
Help for homeowners: Questions and answers about mortgage relief through bankruptcy
Mar 06, 2009 09:24 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — With foreclosures continuing at a rapid pace, the House has passed a measure to let debt-strapped homeowners seek reduced monthly mortgage payments by filing for bankruptcy. The legislation, passed Thursday, is not yet final and more changes may be made. Some questions and answers about the bill:
Clarification: Intel Official-Saudi Ties story
Mar 06, 2009 09:24 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — In a March 5 story, The Associated Press reported that congressional Republicans requested an investigation of Charles Freeman, new chairman of the National Intelligence Council, for his possible relationships to several foreign governments. The story should have specified that two Democrats were part of the request. They are Rep. Steve Israel of New York and Rep. Shelley Berkley of Nevada.
Head of bailout panel welcomes option of lowering mortgage payments for bankrupt homeowners
Mar 06, 2009 09:21 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The head of a panel overseeing bailout money is giving high marks to legislation that would let debt-strapped homeowners seek reduced mortgage payments by filing for bankruptcy.
Seizing on jump in unemployment, top House Republicans calls for spending freeze
Mar 06, 2009 09:13 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The top Republican in the House is seizing on the latest spike in unemployment to call for a freeze on government spending and to urge President Barack Obama to veto a $410 billion spending bill.
Top US military officer says Mexican border violence that has killed 1,000 this year a crisis
Mar 06, 2009 09:10 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Mexico could borrow from U.S. tactics in the fight against terrorism as it battles a crisis of drug-related violence along the U.S.-Mexico border, the top U.S. military officer said Friday.
Former NASA official accused of steering $9.6 million in agency funds to consulting client
Mar 06, 2009 08:49 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — A former top NASA official has been indicted on charges of steering $9.6 million in agency funds to a consulting client.
Cyber Center director resigns amid turf battles as White House prepares review
Mar 06, 2009 08:09 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The head of the nation's cybersecurity center has resigned amid persistent turf battles and confusion over the control and protection of the country's vast computer networks and systems.
Stymied by $410B spending bill, Congress passes measure to avoid government shutdown
Mar 06, 2009 07:32 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — With a $410 billion catchall spending bill stalled in the Senate and a midnight deadline looming, Congress rushed through stopgap legislation Friday to keep the government running for another five days.
Clinton says previous administration was negligent in addressing global climate change
Mar 06, 2009 07:22 AM
BRUSSELS (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is telling Europeans that the Bush administration neglected the problem of global climate change.
Obamas take break from busy Friday to attend parent-teacher conference for daughter Sasha
Mar 06, 2009 07:07 PM
BETHESDA, Md. (AP) — He may be the president, but he's still a dad.
Obama auto task force meets at White House to discuss GM, Chrysler
Mar 06, 2009 06:55 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House said Friday it was trying to determine "how to be the best partner" for the struggling auto industry as a task force met Friday to review the status of General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC.
Clinton says closer ties with Russia will not undermine support for Europe
Mar 06, 2009 06:31 AM
BRUSSELS (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is assuring Europeans that the Obama administration's push for closer ties to Russia will not undermine U.S. support for Europe.
High court, granting Obama request, dismisses terror suspect's challenge to military detention
Mar 06, 2009 05:52 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court bowed out Friday of deciding whether the president has the power to imprison people in the U.S. indefinitely without a trial — avoiding a showdown the Obama administration did not want.
Guest lineup for the Sunday TV news shows
Mar 06, 2009 05:45 PM
Guest lineup for the Sunday TV news shows:
Upbeat Clinton predicts arms deal with Russia by year-end, sees 'fresh start' for relations
Mar 06, 2009 05:45 PM
GENEVA (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, declaring a fresh start for relations with Russia, predicted Friday that the two nations would complete a new arms reduction treaty by year-end and find common ground on other major issues as well.
Policy changes catch ride on omnibus spending bill
Mar 06, 2009 04:28 AM
Highlights of policy provisions contained in a $410 billion omnibus spending bill:
With the economic crisis deepening, how long before Americans start demanding results?
Mar 06, 2009 04:28 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — It's one dose of bad news after another — a slumping stock market, rising unemployment and billions of taxpayer dollars used to rescue ailing banks.
DC quest for voting rights stymied over gun rights issue
Mar 06, 2009 04:23 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The nation's capital city faces a dilemma: To obtain long-denied voting rights in Congress, the District of Columbia may have to accept looser gun laws that city officials say will make the streets more dangerous.
Former Capitol Hill aide indicted in Abramoff lobbying scandal for free trip to World Series
Mar 06, 2009 04:17 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — A former congressional staffer was indicted Friday on corruption charges for taking a free trip to the 2003 World Series.
Obama trapped between liberals, conservatives on gov't health care for middle America
Mar 06, 2009 03:37 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Giving Americans the option of buying medical coverage through the government — an idea put forth by President Barack Obama — is a potential deal breaker for some Republicans and insurance companies whose support would ease the way for a health care overhaul.
House Roll Call: How they voted on a bankruptcy home loan bill
Mar 05, 2009 07:19 PM
The 234-191 roll call Thursday by which the House passed a plan to give debt-strapped homeowners a chance to lower their mortgage payments through bankruptcy courts.
Judge criticizes cases questioning Obama's citizenship as waste of the court's time
Mar 05, 2009 06:23 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Thursday threw out a lawsuit questioning President Barack Obama's citizenship, lambasting the case as a waste of the court's time and suggesting the plaintiff's attorney may have to compensate the president's lawyer.
Panetta: No CIA employees to be punished as a result of Senate review of harsh interrogations
Mar 05, 2009 05:42 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — CIA Director Leon Panetta says agency employees who took part in harsh interrogations of terrorism suspects are not in danger of being punished.
For Obama, outreach to Republicans can be as simple as handing them the microphone
Mar 05, 2009 05:19 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — In President Barack Obama's world, bipartisanship sometimes is as simple as sharing a microphone.
Obama jokes about health care fight more 'Thelma and Louise' than Harry and Louise
Mar 05, 2009 05:01 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — How critical is it to overhaul the health care system? Think of saving "Thelma and Louise."
Obama indicates he's open to compromise on overhauling health care system
Mar 05, 2009 04:36 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is signaling that he's open to compromise on overhauling the nation's health care system.
Army reports 18 more suicides last month after spike of 24 in January; training under way
Mar 05, 2009 02:06 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — After an alarming spike in soldier suicides in January, the Army said Thursday there were another 18 suspected suicides last month.
Former chairmen of Iraq Study Group support Obama plan, advise narrow focus in Afghanistan
Mar 05, 2009 01:49 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Foreign policy gurus Lee Hamilton and James A. Baker III said Thursday they support President Barack Obama's 19-month timetable in Iraq and, if asked, would advise Obama to limit the nation's goals in Afghanistan.
CNN medical correspondent wants to focus on medical career and family
Mar 06, 2009 01:47 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — CNN medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta won't be the next surgeon general, the Obama administration confirmed Thursday.
FACT CHECK: GOP claim of Obama 'tax hikes' not all taxes, but consumers will feel pinch
Mar 05, 2009 01:42 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama says he would lower taxes on 95 percent of Americans now and raise them on the rich in 2011. Republicans say he will increase taxes for all and in the midst of a recession to boot.
At Clinton's first NATO meeting, foreign ministers agree to restore normal ties with Moscow
Mar 05, 2009 01:36 PM
BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) — NATO agreed after an intense internal debate Thursday to restore normal relations with Russia seven months after it froze ties in response to Moscow's invasion of Georgia.
Clinton proposes high-level international conference on deteriorating war in Afghanistan
Mar 05, 2009 12:51 PM
BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton proposed on Thursday a high-level international conference on Afghanistan to be sponsored by the United Nations and attended by a wide range of countries including Pakistan and possibly Iran.
As White House convenes health summit, senators lay out strategy for writing reform bill
Mar 05, 2009 12:31 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — As President Barack Obama convenes a health care summit at the White House, leaders of a Senate committee have announced plans to shape his goals into a bill and pass it before the end of July.
Former Bush aides agree to testify before House Judiciary Committee on prosecutor firings
Mar 05, 2009 11:33 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Armed with an agreement by top Bush administration aides to testify under oath, congressional Democrats may finally learn the answer to a 2-year-old question: What role did George W. Bush's White House play in politically motivated firings of U.S. attorneys?
House's No. 2 Democrat lays out ambitious timetable for Obama budget, health care
Mar 05, 2009 10:40 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The No. 2 Democrat in the House laid out an ambitious timetable for President Barack Obama's agenda, with action on the budget later this month and a vote on health care by August.
IRS will end private debt collection program started by Bush administration, opposed by union
Mar 05, 2009 10:18 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Internal Revenue Service is eliminating a program that uses private debt collectors to go after tax delinquents, the agency announced Thursday evening.
Supreme Court victory spells vindication _ and a $6.7 million payday _ for amputee musician
Mar 05, 2009 10:04 AM
MARSHFIELD, Vt. (AP) — A Vermont musician who lost her arm after a botched drug injection says the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to uphold a $6.7 million verdict against the pharmaceutical company that made the drug is a victory for consumers.
Pitt patter changes business as usual on Capitol Hill as the star meets lawmakers, wows aides
Mar 05, 2009 09:04 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — First of all, no, Brad Pitt is not short. Yes, he's handsome enough to stand out in any crowd. And, sorry, Angie wasn't with him.
Attorney releases first photo in 5 years of accused enemy combatant held at Navy brig in SC
Mar 05, 2009 07:35 PM
CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — An attorney for alleged al-Qaida sleeper agent Ali al-Marri has released a photo of the accused enemy combatant, the first since he was incarcerated in a South Carolina Navy brig in 2003.
Energy chief tells senators Yucca Mountain in Nevada no longer an option for nuclear waste
Mar 05, 2009 07:24 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — For two decades, a ridge of volcanic rock 90 miles northwest of Las Vegas known as Yucca Mountain has been the sole focus of government plans to store highly radioactive nuclear waste.
Intel officials say attack on cricket team in Pakistan offers caution for US sporting events
Mar 05, 2009 06:57 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The attack on a cricket team in Pakistan this week prompted intelligence officials to caution local authorities Thursday to be on the lookout for possible similar assaults at U.S. sporting events.
First lady Michelle Obama serves mushroom risotto to homeless at soup kitchen near White House
Mar 05, 2009 06:50 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — "Do you want some risotto?"
Senate clears way for Obama to reverse Bush rules on polar bear protection
Mar 05, 2009 06:49 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate has cleared the way for the Obama administration to reverse a rule saying that greenhouse gases cannot be restricted in an effort to protect polar bears from global warming.
Senate leader's proposal would allow feds to establish 'green' power lines if states don't act
Mar 05, 2009 06:46 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate's top Democrat on Thursday proposed new federal authority to build special power lines that carry renewable energy — like solar and wind power — from remote places.
Obama to visit Britain, France, Germany and Czech Republic
Mar 05, 2009 06:16 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama are planning to visit Britain, France, Germany and the Czech Republic in their first trip to Europe since the president took office.
Energy chief tells senators Yucca Mountain no longer an option for nuclear waste.
Mar 05, 2009 06:04 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Energy Secretary Steven Chu said Thursday the proposed Yucca Mountain site in Nevada no longer is an option for storing highly radioactive nuclear waste, brushing aside criticism from several Republican lawmakers.
SPIN METER: Republicans and Democrats play the blame game for nation's economic woes
Mar 05, 2009 05:28 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Sen. John McCain deployed heavy sarcasm. Fellow Republican Marsha Blackburn trotted out a chart. A group of conservative House Republicans mocked: "'Deficit we inherited?' ... Spare us the false outrage." The war between Republicans and Democrats to frame the blame for the economy erupted in earnest this week.
Obama extends US sanctions against Zimbabwe's president, others for 1 year
Mar 05, 2009 05:24 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama has extended for another year U.S. sanctions that target Zimbabwe's president and others linked to him, saying some people are continuing to undermine the country's democratic processes.
Ted Kennedy returns to Washington for White House health care summit
Mar 05, 2009 04:51 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Sen. Edward M. Kennedy received a royal welcome of sorts when he appeared Thursday at a health care summit hosted by President Barack Obama.
Clinton calls for release of Iranian-American journalist detained more than month in Iran
Mar 05, 2009 04:33 PM
BRUSSELS (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on Thursday called for Iran to release an Iranian-American journalist who Iranian authorities say has been detained about a month for allegedly working without press credentials.
As EPA considers state controls on cars' greenhouse gases, it is pressed for national standard
Mar 05, 2009 04:27 PM
ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — The head of California's air pollution agency urged federal regulators on Thursday to reverse a Bush-era decision that blocks the state from setting its own limits on greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles.
Obama says health care summit underscores need for immediate reform
Mar 05, 2009 04:21 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama says the clear consensus from the White House health care summit is an immediate need for reform.
2 UK men charged in KBR scheme to bribe Nigerian officials
Mar 05, 2009 04:06 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. authorities charged two British men Thursday with helping a former Halliburton Co. subsidiary steer massive bribes to Nigerian officials to win construction contracts.
Obama may face trade showdown with Mexico if Congress ends funding for trucking program
Mar 05, 2009 03:53 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress may force President Barack Obama into a showdown with Mexico over free trade.
Piracy attacks have fallen off as international coalition steps up patrols, prevention
Mar 05, 2009 03:37 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Two months into an international anti-piracy campaign off the Somalia coast, the number of attacks against cargo ships is down sharply, senior military and diplomatic officials said Thursday.
Census Bureau said to be behind schedule, computer glitches may affect 2010 count
Mar 05, 2009 03:14 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — With the 2010 census fast approaching, computer glitches, operational missteps and ballooning costs could overwhelm the government's ability to conduct the once-a-decade count of the nation's population, congressional investigators said Thursday.
House panel passes legislation that would require FDA to regulate tobacco products
Mar 05, 2009
WASHINGTON (AP) — A House committee has approved legislation that would place cigarettes under government regulation for the first time.
White House backs Bush proposal to allow some tax-free imports from Afghanistan, Pakistan
Mar 04, 2009 06:36 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration is backing a proposal initiated under President George W. Bush that would allow poor tribal regions in Pakistan and Afghanistan to sell clothing and goods they make to U.S. buyers tax-free.
Correction: Supreme Court decision on refugees
Mar 04, 2009 04:43 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — In a March 3 story about a Supreme Court decision on refugees seeking asylum, The Associated Press reported erroneously the name of the government board that rejected a refugee's appeal. It is the Board of Immigration Appeals, not the Bureau of Immigration Affairs.
Kerry says Syrian president told him he wants to resume talks with Israel
Mar 04, 2009 04:42 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Sen. John Kerry says Syrian President Basher Assad told him last month in Damascus that Syria is prepared to resume peace negotiations with Israel and would offer peace in exchange for territory captured from the Arabs in the 1967 Mideast War.
Wartime troops brain injuries could be up to 360,000, put more focus on civilian injuries
Mar 04, 2009 02:57 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The number of U.S. troops who have suffered wartime brain injuries may be as high as 360,000 and could cast more attention on such injuries among civilians, Defense Department doctors said Wednesday.
US urges restraint after international court issues arrest warrant for Sudanese president
Mar 04, 2009 02:35 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration called Wednesday for all parties to the Darfur conflict to exercise restraint after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on war crimes charges.
Clinton speaks up for Palestinians leader Abbas, and for more aid to a recovering Gaza
Mar 05, 2009 01:36 AM
RAMALLAH, West Bank (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton promised personal involvement in stalled Mideast peace efforts Wednesday and expressed concern about the supply of humanitarian aid to a recovering Gaza.
Energy secretary says he's determined to make his home as energy-efficient as possible.
Mar 04, 2009 01:28 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Energy Secretary Steven Chu doesn't leave his fervor for energy conservation at the office.
Gov't housing plan aims to help 9 million borrowers, but those 'under water' won't qualify
Mar 05, 2009 01:27 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration's housing plan is intended to help 9 million struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure, but it leaves out tens of thousands of borrowers in the most battered housing markets who won't qualify because their homes have lost too much value.
Key Democrats oppose Obama budget plan to limit itemized tax deductions for high earners
Mar 05, 2009 01:23 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama's proposal to limit itemized tax deductions for high earners is running into opposition from key Democrats in Congress who worry that charities and the housing market would be hurt. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus questioned Wednesday whether the proposal was viable, a day after his House counterpart also expressed reservations.
US urged to enact greenhouse gas limits and take lead in Copenhagen climate talks
Mar 04, 2009 12:03 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — For the United States to play a leadership role crafting a global warming treaty, negotiators say Congress and the Obama administration must enact limits this year to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.
Supreme Court skeptical about making buyer's phone purchase of drugs a felony
Mar 04, 2009 11:54 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is questioning the government's contention that it can charge a drug buyer who uses a cell phone with a felony instead of a misdemeanor just because a phone was used.
British Prime Minister Brown announces Kennedy has been awarded honorary knighthood
Mar 04, 2009 11:38 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has told Congress that Sen. Edward M. Kennedy has been awarded honorary knighthood.
British Prime Minister Brown calls anew for Iran to suspend its nuclear program
Mar 04, 2009 11:37 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — British Prime Minister Gordon Brown is calling again on Iran to suspend its nuclear program.
Clinton blasts Iran for posing missile threat, promoting terrorism and seeking to intimidate
Mar 04, 2009 11:02 PM
BRUSSELS (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton swiped hard at Iran on Wednesday, accusing its hardline leaders of fomenting divisions in the Arab world, promoting terrorism, posing threats to Israel and Europe, and seeking to "intimidate as far as they think their voice can reach."
Obama nominates adviser Julius Genachowski to presidential campaign as FCC chairman
Mar 04, 2009 10:38 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama on Tuesday named Julius Genachowski, a friend from Harvard Law School, as his nominee to chair the Federal Communications Commission.
Treasury secretary tells Congress tax increases necessary to limit future deficits
Mar 04, 2009 10:33 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama's Treasury secretary is defending proposed tax increases on the wealthy, saying they are necessary to limit future budget deficits.
Education secretary says DC kids should keep their private-school vouchers
Mar 04, 2009 10:08 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Education Secretary Arne Duncan said Wednesday that poor children getting vouchers to attend private schools in the District of Columbia should be allowed to stay there, putting the Obama administration at odds with Democrats trying to end the program.
Obama choice to head HHS faces questions about increased state aid to social services group
Mar 04, 2009 10:07 PM
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, President Barack Obama's choice to head the Health and Human Services Department, is facing questions about increased state payments to a social services group whose board includes the chairman of the state Democratic Party.
Local officers give differing views on immigraton program
Mar 04, 2009 09:27 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The federal government will rewrite its agreements with local and state law agencies that enforce immigration laws to provide greater guidance and control, an Immigrations and Customs Enforcement official told a House panel Wednesday .
Obamas host congressional leaders at White House for dinner, charm offensive
Mar 04, 2009 09:09 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama said he wants Democrats and Republicans to realize they share many interests, an appeal for cooperation as congressional leaders sat down together to dine Wednesday evening at the White House.
White House says Obama and Congress working together is best way to reduce wasteful spending
Mar 04, 2009 07:57 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama thinks the best way to reduce wasteful spending is for lawmakers in both parties to work with him to do it, White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said Wednesday.
Obama, first lady surprise daughters with swing set, newly installed outside Oval Office
Mar 04, 2009 07:25 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — First daughters Malia and Sasha Obama got a big surprise after school Wednesday: a brand-new swing set.
Safety hearings lead to concerns about widespread cell phone use by train crews
Mar 04, 2009 07:20 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The numerous safety violations that contributed to a deadly train crash in California last year have some federal officials asking whether the crash was an isolated incident or part of a more widespread problem, particularly with cell phone use by crew members.
Democrats push ahead with 'truth commission' to investigate Bush counterterrorism policies
Mar 04, 2009 07:11 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Democrats on Wednesday suggested Republicans should join their call for a nonpartisan "truth commission" to probe whether the Bush administration abused its power, or face partisan congressional investigations.
Obama launches overhaul of 'broken' federal contracting, blasting Bush-era growth of spending
Mar 04, 2009 06:04 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Blasting Bush-era government contracting, President Barack Obama on Wednesday ordered an overhaul designed to halt the delays, waste and blatant fraud that exasperate the public and politicians alike.
American Indian farmers to outline loss claims in discrimination case against USDA
Mar 04, 2009 06:00 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — American Indian farmers alleged Wednesday they lost some $500 million as a result of loan discrimination at the Agriculture Department over the past three decades.
Obama to nominate Florida emergency director Craig Fugate to head FEMA
Mar 04, 2009 05:57 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama on Wednesday tapped Florida emergency manager Craig Fugate to head the Federal Emergency Management Agency, turning to a Republican appointee who has steered the Southern state through numerous hurricanes since 2001.
Britain's Brown says 'economic hurricane' has swept the world, warns against US protectionism
Mar 04, 2009 05:56 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — British Prime Minister Gordon Brown on Wednesday called on Americans to look up from their own tumbling financial markets to see a world gripped by an "economic hurricane" that could be turned around with U.S. help.
Senator's questioning about photos of Harvard protesters prompts Pfizer statement of regret
Mar 04, 2009 05:41 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — A Republican senator's pointed questions about why a Pfizer Inc. employee was photographing a Harvard medical student protest drew a statement of regret Wednesday from the drug company.
Clinton criticizes Iran for its nuclear ambitions and efforts to intimidate Arab nations
Mar 04, 2009 03:46 PM
RAMALLAH, West Bank (AP) — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is criticizing Iran for promoting terrorism and trying to intimidate its neighbors and others in the Middle East.
INSIDE WASHINGTON: FDA founders as scarce resources, lack of clout thwart mission
Mar 04, 2009 03:44 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Every few months, the Food and Drug Administration goes into fire-brigade mode, rushing to get control over another safety crisis.
Biden plans trip to Brussels for NATO meeting on Afghanistan, Pakistan
Mar 03, 2009 04:19 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Vice President Joe Biden plans to visit NATO headquarters next week.
Former Oregon Sen. Gordon Smith to work at Washington law firm
Mar 03, 2009 03:55 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Former Oregon Sen. Gordon Smith is returning to Washington, where he will work for one of its leading law firms.
US imposes sanctions on 11 firms linked to suspect Iranian bank
Mar 03, 2009 02:36 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration imposed sanctions Tuesday on 11 companies tied to an Iranian bank that the United States and others say is helping to fund Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
Memo shows how Bush administration argued the president has total power over rendition policy
Mar 03, 2009 01:09 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — A Bush-era legal memo gives new detail on how the administration tiptoed around laws and treaties to justify presidential power to transfer prisoners captured in the war on terror to countries where they might be tortured.
Geithner: Proposals to come to limit tax avoidance by US companies doing business overseas
Mar 03, 2009 01:00 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama's Treasury secretary says the administration will unveil a series of rules and measures in the coming months to limit the ability of international companies to avoid U.S. taxes.
Obama says US-British relationship is important to him and to American people
Mar 03, 2009 12:55 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama says the U.S. relationship with Great Britain isn't important only to him. He says it's important to the American people, too.
Treasury secretary says Obama inherited 'worst fiscal situation in American history'
Mar 03, 2009 12:53 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama's Treasury secretary says the administration has inherited "the worst fiscal situation in American history."
Time running out for taxpayers to pick up $1.3 billion in unclaimed tax refunds from 2005
Mar 03, 2009 12:06 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Time is running out for more than a million taxpayers to file for $1.3 billion in unclaimed tax refunds from 2005.
Quigley wins Democratic nomination in special primary to replace Emanuel in Congress
Mar 03, 2009 11:35 PM
CHICAGO (AP) — Cook County Commissioner Mike Quigley has bested a field of 11 other Democrats in a special primary election to fill the seat of former U.S. Rep. Rahm Emanuel, who left Congress to be President Barack Obama's chief of staff.
Top Republican on House Budget panel rips Obama $3.6T budget proposal
Mar 03, 2009 11:20 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Barack Obama's budget plan is coming under fire on Capitol Hill from a senior Republican, who is calling it the biggest expansion of government since the New Deal.
Obama budget chief Orszag defends administration's $3.6T budget plan before lawmakes on Hill
Mar 03, 2009 11:17 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Barack Obama's budget chief is on Capitol Hill defending the president's $3.6 trillion budget for next year as an honest accounting of the government's bleak fiscal woes.
THE INFLUENCE GAME: Lobbyists who aided families of Pan Am bombing victims earn $2 million fee
Mar 03, 2009 11:13 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Two decades after a bomb blew Pan Am Flight 103 from the skies over Lockerbie, Scotland, the victims' families have finally received the full compensation Libya promised. And a lobbying firm that helped them collect is getting its share: A tidy $2 million.
Obama: Highway construction program will create or save 150,000 jobs by end of 2010
Mar 03, 2009 11:02 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama said Tuesday that $28 billion from his economic recovery program that is being spent on road-building nationwide will save or create 150,000 jobs by the end of next year.
EU countries step up opposition to Muslim attempts to divert UN racism conference
Mar 03, 2009 10:38 AM
GENEVA (AP) — European Union countries Tuesday stepped up their opposition to Muslim attempts to shield Islam from criticism and attack Israel through a U.N. conference on racism.
Supreme Court rules for government in challenge over rules for national forests
Mar 03, 2009 10:30 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court has made it harder to challenge federal regulations governing timber sales and other policies in national forests.
Kansas GOP Sen. Sam Brownback bucks anti-abortion opposition to support Sebelius for HHS
Mar 03, 2009 09:08 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Kansas' senior senator is bucking anti-abortion opposition to support fellow Kansan Kathleen Sebelius for health and human services secretary.
SPIN METER: Tracking bailout cash nearly impossible, except when banks need a PR boost
Mar 03, 2009 08:59 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Ask a bailed-out bank about its Las Vegas retreat, its corporate jet or its evening in Beverly Hills and you'll probably get a response like this: Oh that? That wasn't taxpayer money.
Circus CEO testifies in federal court that elephants are struck, but not hurt by bull hooks
Mar 03, 2009 08:31 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The head of the company that owns the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus acknowledged in federal court Tuesday that all his elephant handlers strike the animals with metal-tipped prods, but he said it's necessary to keep the huge animals under control and doesn't harm them.
Obama: Wall Street 'gyrations' won't shape his policies; stocks becoming a 'good buy'
Mar 03, 2009 06:41 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — As Wall Street tumbles, President Barack Obama offered up some investing advice on Tuesday, telling a wary nation that stocks are becoming a "a potentially good deal" for those willing to think long term. The White House later cautioned people not to read too much into the statement.
Memos show Bush officials believed president's power during wartime had few constraints
Mar 03, 2009 06:18 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — In the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks, the Bush administration determined that certain constitutional rights would not apply as the U.S. stepped up its response to terrorism, according to documents released to the public for the first time.
Obama to greet Boy Scouts in Oval Office meeting, accept annual report
Mar 03, 2009 06:06 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama plans to meet with Boy Scouts in the Oval Office.
Obama to mark Interior Department's 160th birthday with a visit
Mar 03, 2009 06:06 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is marking the Interior Department's 160th birthday.
House committee to take a look at military programs targeting mental health
Mar 03, 2009 05:59 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — A House subcommittee on Tuesday will take a look at military programs targeting mental health.
Obama puts Bush rule on hold; restores reviews of projects' harm to endangered species
Mar 03, 2009 05:49 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama urged agency heads Tuesday to ignore a Bush administration regulation limiting scientific reviews of projects that might harm endangered wildlife and plants.
White House says Obama consulting defense advisers on repealing military ban on gays
Mar 03, 2009 05:45 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House says President Barack Obama has begun consulting his top defense advisers on how to lift a ban on gays serving openly in the military.
Michelle Obama urges support for military families during visit to women's memorial
Mar 03, 2009 05:39 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — First lady Michelle Obama on Tuesday observed women's history month by touring a memorial for women in the military. She said the country must do all it can to support not just the servicemember on active duty, but their families, too.
Madeleine Pickens defends planned sanctuary to protect wild horses at risk of slaughter
Mar 03, 2009 05:30 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The wife of oil tycoon T. Boone Pickens says her proposal for a wild horse sanctuary in the West would be good for the country and save the government close to a billion dollars over the next decade.
Democrats facing many other big issues have little appetite for battles over gun rights
Mar 03, 2009 05:21 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The National Rifle Association warned in a campaign ad that if Barack Obama were elected president he would try to take away hunters' guns and ammo. But with pro-gun Democrats a powerful force in Congress, it's already pretty clear there will be no messing with Americans' right to bear arms.
High court hears fierce debate in W.Va. dispute over when judges should step aside from a case
Mar 03, 2009 04:20 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Concerned about dwindling confidence in the impartiality of judges, the Supreme Court leaned Tuesday toward forcing elected judges to step aside from cases that would raise an appearance of bias if they took part.
Supreme Court says guard forced to persecute inmates can still be considered for asylum in US
Mar 03, 2009 04:14 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court refused on Tuesday to ban refugees who are forced to persecute others from being granted asylum in the United States, sending back to immigration officials the case of an Eritrean guard who prevented prisoners from getting fresh air and made them stand in the hot sun.
Obama says reducing Iran's nuclear threat shrinks needs for missile defense plan
Mar 03, 2009 03:32 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama said Tuesday he has told Russia that reducing Iran's pursuit of a nuclear weapon would in turn lessen the need for a U.S.-planned missile defense system in Eastern Europe that Moscow has opposed. But Obama said he sought no "quid pro quo" with Moscow.
Rep. John Murtha estimates it would take 600,000 troops to get Afghanistan under control
Mar 03, 2009 03:09 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Rep. John Murtha said Tuesday the situation in Afghanistan is so challenging that he estimated it would take 600,000 troops to fully squelch violence in the country.
Former senator who oversees bailout funds joins board of firm affiliated with TARP bank
Mar 03, 2009 03:08 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Former Sen. John Sununu, a member of the government watchdog panel that oversees the financial sector rescue fund, is joining the board of managers of a firm affiliated with a bank that has received $3 billion from the fund.
List of firms who reported lobbying fees last year of $1 million or more and their clients
Mar 03, 2009 03:06 AM
A list of lobbying contracts filed with Congress for 2008 that were worth at least $1 million, as compiled by the nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics.
French minister says NATO committed in Afghanistan and should stay as long as necessary
Mar 02, 2009 07:12 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — French Defense Minister Herve Morin said Monday that the NATO alliance should remain militarily engaged in Afghanistan as long as necessary but should make clear that the commitment is not unlimited.
Embattled Burris remains coy on 2010 run for Senate, but election Web site is up and running
Mar 02, 2009 06:09 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Sen. Roland Burris isn't saying whether he'll run for a full term in the Senate next year, but he has laid the groundwork on the Internet.
Swiss justice minister meets with US officials on UBS, expresses frustration
Mar 02, 2009 05:59 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Switzerland's justice minister expressed frustration Monday after meeting with U.S. officials about allegations that Switzerland's biggest bank helped Americans evade taxes,
Pat Toomey says he's weighing another primary challenge to Pa. Sen. Arlen Specter
Mar 02, 2009 05:02 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Pat Toomey nearly beat Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter in Pennsylvania's 2004 Republican primary. Now, Toomey, president of the anti-tax Club for Growth, says he's weighing another run against Specter.
McCain criticizes Obama over spending earmarks, calls it broken campaign promise
Mar 02, 2009 03:27 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Sen. John McCain has unleashed a withering attack on President Barack Obama's decision to sign a spending bill packed with thousands of pet projects sought by lawmakers.
EPA to start testing for toxic air pollution at sample of schools in cities, near industry
Mar 02, 2009 03:08 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Environmental Protection Agency will soon begin testing the air around schools for toxic contaminants.
White House says government's latest aid to AIG is critical, won't rule out future help
Mar 02, 2009 02:50 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House says the administration's latest aid to American International Group is critical as the insurer restructures. And, a spokesman isn't ruling out future help for the insurance giant.
Supreme Court to hear arguments over proposed settlement between freelancers, publishers
Mar 02, 2009 12:50 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court will consider reviving the $18 million settlement of a dispute involving payment to freelance writers for use of their work online.
Biographical information on Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius
Mar 02, 2009 12:32 PM
NAME — Kathleen Sebelius.
White House taps former Clinton official for to head health reform office
Mar 02, 2009 12:10 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — A former Clinton administration official is being tapped to head the White House's office of health reform.
Trade nominee Ron Kirk becomes 4th Obama pick with tax problems, owing $10,000 in back taxes
Mar 02, 2009 11:56 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Another Obama administration nominee has tax troubles. This time, it's Ron Kirk, the president's choice to be U.S. trade representative. Kirk owes an estimated $10,000 in back taxes from earlier in the decade and has agreed to pay them, the Senate Finance Committee said Monday.
Republican chairman apologizes for remarks, calls Limbaugh 'conservative leader'
Mar 02, 2009 11:31 PM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Two days after calling Rush Limbaugh a mere "entertainer" with an "incendiary" talk show, Republican National Committee chairman Michael Steele apologized and acknowledged the radio commentator as a "national conservative leader."
'Host in chief' Obama honors Stevie Wonder, entertains govs, woos lawmakers and serves cookies
Mar 02, 2009 11:10 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House is the place to be on Wednesdays.
Supreme Court turns down Agent Orange appeals from Vietnamese, US veterans
Mar 02, 2009 10:54 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court has turned down American and Vietnamese victims of Agent Orange who wanted to pursue lawsuits against companies that made the toxic chemical defoliant used in the Vietnam War.
Analysis: Like presidents before him, Obama sees economic crisis as way to press bold agenda
Mar 02, 2009 10:12 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Like other presidents saddled with a crisis, Barack Obama is embracing the worst economic conditions in a generation as an opportunity to advance an audacious agenda that, if successful, could reshape the country for decades to come.
Jobless workers eligible for health care safety net benefit in stimulus find they must wait
Mar 02, 2009 09:15 AM
WASHINGTON (AP) — Cassandra J. Kelsey has tried to cut back on all her expenses since losing her job in January. But suffering from degenerative arthritis, she can't do without health care.
