All DC Decoder
- If some Kenya attackers are American, is the US obliged to do something?
US officials are not confirming reports that 'two or three' Americans were among the Kenya mall attackers, but if it is true, it could have legal and security implications for the US.
- Why retirement of Lois Lerner doesn’t end IRS tea party scandal
The controversy over the IRS targeting of tea party groups for extra scrutiny has been a political boon to conservatives. Republicans in Congress said Lois Lerner's retirement 'does not mean the investigation is over.'
- Why Hillary Clinton needs to distance herself from Obama
While making it official she is thinking about running for president, Hillary Clinton has already begun the distancing process: She and Obama are friends, she says in an interview, but they have their differences.
- US gun massacres mount up, but no more gun control. Why?
The United States has seen a string of recent mass shootings, but support for stiffer gun control has dropped. NRA chief Wayne LaPierre – and most Americans, polls show – say the emphasis should be on the mental health system.
- Government shutdown: how the GOP descended into civil war The GOP wants to avoid a government shutdown on Oct. 1 by passing a temporary government funding bill that would not include any money for Mr. Obama's health-care reform law. Here is a comprehensive primer on how we got here and who's involved.
- Obamacare defunding: Will there be a filibuster?
Egged on by fellow conservatives in the House, Sen. Ted Cruz now says he's willing to lead a filibuster that would defend the 'defund Obamacare' effort.
- Government shutdown coming? Boehner raises stakes on defunding Obamacare.
The GOP-led House is now poised to pass a bill that would fund government operations but defund Obamacare. The president spoke Wednesday of a 'faction' of House Republicans risking a government shutdown.
- Touting Obamacare, US says millions could pay less than $100 a month
A report by HHS says 56 percent of uninsured could pay $100 or less (or nothing) for health coverage. Enrollment opens on Oct. 1, but public resistance to Obamacare is stronger than ever.
- How liberal 'triumphs' on Syria and Summers have weakened Obama
Liberals are feeling their oats after Obama's retreats on Syria policy and the expected Summers nomination. That could cost him as he negotiates with Republicans over government funding.
- Obama: Deficits falling at fastest rate since WWII. Is that true?
In a speech marking the fifth anniversary of the financial crisis, President Obama claims credit for cutting the deficit in half. But one reason it fell so fast is that it shot up so high in the first place.