All Politics
Monitor BreakfastFalling off 'fiscal cliff' is 'insane' but likely, say Simpson and BowlesDebt-fighting duo Erskine Bowles and Alan Simpson, who led Obama's bipartisan debt-reduction panel, speaking at a Monitor breakfast Wednesday warn partisans in Congress against going over the fiscal cliff in a bid to gain a political advantage.
Amid GOP rage against Susan Rice, how Hillary Clinton has remained unscathedUnlike Ambassador Rice, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has not come under fire for Benghazi – a reflection of strong relationships she built in the Senate, and the broad popularity she currently enjoys.
Monitor BreakfastUS plunge off 'fiscal cliff' is likely, say debt gurus Simpson and BowlesFormer chairs of Obama's debt commission, Alan Simpson (R) and Erskine Bowles (D), said at the Monitor breakfast Wednesday they see just a one-third likelihood that the White House and congressional Republicans will reach a deal by year's end to avert the fiscal cliff.
Mitt Romney to lunch with President Obama in White House. Why?The White House announced Wednesday that Mitt Romney will drop by for lunch Thursday. It helps President Obama look gracious and bipartisan while helping Romney rebuild his status.
What 'fiscal cliff' fixes does US public really want?Data within recent polls shed some light on why it’s so hard for the two parties to agree on solutions to the 'fiscal cliff' problem now facing Uncle Sam.
FocusObamacare countdown: States all over the map on insurance marketsStates have until Dec. 14 to decide whether they will implement their own insurance exchanges under 'Obamacare' or have the federal government do it. Many governors have already refused to set up exchanges.
- FocusObamacare countdown: How will reform affect the economy?
The health-care law could strain household budgets, but drastic impacts on the US economy over the coming decade are unlikely, experts say.
FocusObamacare countdown: What is slated to happen over next year?The health-care reform law, aka Obamacare, is poised to enter a crucial 12 months that includes setting up state exchanges, levying taxes on the wealthy, and preparing for the individual mandate.
'Fiscal cliff': Obama, Republicans revert to campaign modePresident Obama met with small-business owners Tuesday, meets with middle-class Americans and business leaders Wednesday. Republicans, too, are orchestrating meetings, as both sides vie to win public's support for their approach to resolving the fiscal cliff crisis.
'Fiscal cliff': Can a liberal senator sell entitlement reform to Democrats?Sen. Dick Durbin, in a speech Tuesday, said progressives cannot stay on the sidelines of the 'fiscal cliff' debate and must be ready to make changes to treasured programs like Medicare.
What might Democrats give up in 'fiscal cliff' talks?OK, Republicans have ceded ground on tax revenues. Now, under Obama's 'balanced' approach to averting the fiscal cliff, Democrats presumably would consent to spending cuts on entitlement programs or Obamacare. But what Dems would accept may not be what GOP has in mind.
Chris Christie's star is shining bright. How long can it last?Polls show Gov. Chris Christie – who is seeking reelection – with sky-high approval ratings, thanks to his handling of hurricane Sandy. Whether that lasts long enough for a presidential bid remains to be seen.
New Jersey Mayor Cory Booker will try living on food stampsCory Booker has committed to living on the equivalent of food stamps for at least a week to spur a discussion on the role government plays in providing food for the poor.
Fiscal cliff: White House steps up pressure on GOP to reach a dealWhite House economists warn that unless Congress extends expiring middle-class tax cuts 'without delay,' consumer confidence will take a hit at a critical holiday season for retailers.
Susan Rice: why GOP opposition to her is no longer white-hotKey GOP voices including Sens. John McCain and Lindsey Graham have tempered their rhetoric about Ambassador Susan Rice, who could be nominated as a possible secretary of State.
Norquist pledge: Are GOP tax rebels start of a trend or just talk?Norquist pledge, which calls for lawmakers to oppose new taxes, has another defector: Republican Sen. Bob Corker. But key players in 'fiscal cliff' negotiations have yet to join ranks of such GOP rebels.
John McCain and abortion: Did he hint at GOP shift?Sen. John McCain said Sunday that his only role in the abortion debate is to 'state his opinion,' and 'leave the issue alone.' Some GOP strategists say a softening of the tone on social issues is necessary after the disappointments of the recent election.
Cover StoryFive reasons America won't fall off the 'fiscal cliff'The political and economic ramifications are too big for Washington to let the large tax increases and spending cuts take effect. But this doesn't necessarily mean lawmakers will craft a decisive solution to the nation's fiscal woes.
Saxby Chambliss: One more Republican breaks ranks over anti-tax pledgeRepublicans are grappling with growing rifts in their ranks over a no-new-tax pledge that has been rock solid for more than 20 years. That quiet debate within the GOP could determine how Congress deals with its looming 'fiscal cliff.'
Could a tea partyer replace Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.?Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. of Illinois resigned this week, and the Chicago press is already abuzz about who will fill the seat. One Democrat has said the seat could flip parties, though that seems unlikely.
