All DC Decoder
- If North Korea tests missile, might US shoot it down?
A North Korea missile test into the Sea of Japan now looks likely, say defense analysts, and the US Navy could 'probably intercept' it. But that may not be in the best interests of the US, some say.
- Why does Washington keep putting off entitlement reform?
Both the White House and Republicans agree that entitlement reform is necessary to rein in federal deficits, but nothing ever gets started. That could change in the weeks ahead.
- Support for legal marijuana may have reached tipping point, poll finds
For the first time, a majority of Americans – 52 percent – support legal marijuana, the Pew Research Center reports. In November, two states legalized marijuana for recreational use.
- Alabama joins flood of states restricting abortion. What's behind this?
The Alabama and Virginia legislatures just passed new measures, following stricter actions in North Dakota and Arkansas. To understand this latest wave, look to the tea party.
- Think you know the White House? Take our quiz.
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is one of the most famous addresses in the world, but how much do you really know about America's executive mansion and its presidential inhabitants?
- Why North Korea's US attack plans are nutty
US analysts play down threats from North Korea. Photos from Pyongyang that show the paths of possible missile attacks on the US appear to ignore the fact that North Korean missiles won't reach that far.
- Gun control: Can Obama use Colorado bully pulpit to accomplish anything?
President Obama is pushing gun control in Denver Wednesday and will do the same in Hartford, Conn., next Monday. It's not clear he can move the public to pressure Congress on gun legislation, but it's worth a try, some say.