All Politics
First LookTrump’s fundraising finesse strengthens party unityCash – more than high approval ratings and shared values – is a strong force keeping Republican Party members close to the president.
General Kelly offers Trump a semblance of order – if the president lets himAn early sign of Kelly’s clout came with the news Monday that Trump’s new White House communications director, Anthony Scaramucci, has been removed after a tumultuous 10 days in the role.
How some lawmakers see a way to work together on health careThe parties have plenty of reasons not to cooperate, including raw feelings and deep ideological differences. But several Democrats and Republicans, feeling the urgency of a partial collapse of Obamacare, have been quietly talking behind the scenes.
First LookHouse-approved budget funds border wall, increases military spendingThe budget plan, approved by the House on Thursday, would also increase government spending for veterans programs and military wages.
First LookGOP abandons health care reform for now, after 'skinny bill' defeated in SenateThree Republican senators – John McCain of Arizona, Susan Collins of Maine, and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska – voted 'no' to kill the bill, joining the Democrats, who unanimously voted in opposition.
Behind Trump’s transgender ban, a political calculusWhile Trump has satisfied some hard-line social conservatives with his outright ban on transgender service, he has also sparked pushback from many Republicans on Capitol Hill.
First Look Sessions tackles root of illegal immigration in El SalvadorAttorney General Jeff Sessions fulfills a promise to work on eradicating a violent street gang in Central America despite doubts over his future role within the Trump administration.
First LookGOP senators look to 'skinny repeal' of 'Obamacare'After the repeal measure was defeated in the Senate Wednesday, the GOP moved to a pared down version that would simply remove some of the most unpopular parts of the Affordable Care Act.
McCain to Senate: Focus less on winning, more on problem-solvingIt’s not the first time a senator has denounced one-sided lawmaking. But the GOP’s approach to health care, at least so far, points to an acute case of winning-itis.
First LookReplacing Obamacare with sweeping changes faces uphill climbIn a dramatic vote Tuesday, senators agreed to open debate on a modified health care bill. Later that evening, the Senate blocked the proposal – a signal that a new approach must be taken if any revised health care legislation is to pass.
A tipping point for Washington’s investigative culture?Congress has been investigating since George Washington’s day. But there’s something about the Russia probes – anywhere from three to nine, depending on how you count them – that seems different.
First LookAfter public rebuke from Trump, Sessions seeks to mend relationshipPresident Trump has spoken privately about the consequences of firing Attorney General Jeff Sessions after he recused himself from the Russia probe.
On Russia, Congress shows remarkable unityThe House is expected to pass a revised sanctions bill against Russia this week, following the Senate's 98-2 vote last month.
First LookDemocrats return to blue-collar roots with new populist agendaDemocratic leaders are trying to revitalize their base by making an appeal to working people, many of whom have become disenchanted with the party.
First LookWhite House press secretary Spicer resignsUnnamed officials linked Sean Spicer's resignation Friday with the appointment of Anthony Scaramucci as the new White House communications director.
First LookRepublican reality dawns: 'We're just in some quicksand right now'In recent weeks, the GOP has failed to deliver on its promises to overhaul 'Obamacare' and provide a budget plan. Some anticipate the possibility of a government shutdown in the fall if Congress proves unable to pass bills essential to government funding.
First LookTrump team to probe for conflicts of interest in Mueller aidesThe decision, announced by anonymous insiders, follows special counsel Robert Mueller’s incorporation of the Trump family’s business ties into the ongoing Russia investigation, a decision which President Trump warned would cross a line.
For homeless girls in Queens, Girl Scout Troop 6000 offers an anchorNew York officials announced that Troop 6000 would receive about $1 million over the next three years to expand by 500 girls – part of an effort to meet the needs of homeless children, who make up 40 percent of those living in the city's shelters.
Presidential persuasion: So far, the art eludes TrumpThe irony is that the image Trump has long sold – the dealmaker, the negotiator, and the guy who gets everybody in the room to ‘yes’ – might be somebody America could really use at the moment.
GOP challenge: Reforming widely accepted 'safety net' programsAs safety-net programs have expanded, there is more political pressure to keep those benefits – even as fiscal pressure is mounting to reduce the cost.
