All articles from Peter Grier

Why did Obama speak out on Trayvon Martin now?

While downplaying the prospect of a federal civil rights case against George Zimmerman, President Obama offered his own views on the impact of racial disparities on young black men and their families. 'There's a lot of pain,' he said.
Decoder Wire Why Liz Cheney may be riding for a fall in Wyoming Senate race (+video)

True, Liz Cheney will be able to raise scads of money, given her connections, to vie against incumbent Sen. Mike Enzi in Wyoming's GOP primary. But does money for ads matter in a state without a major media market? Skeptics cite other reasons, as well, that she could lose.
How well do you know the world of spying? Take our CIA and NSA quiz.

The history of US espionage can be as fascinating and mysterious as any spy novel. Think you’re a regular John Le Carré when it comes to this stuff? See if D.C. Decoder can stump you.
Decoder Wire Liz Cheney run for Wyoming Senate seat: Is she a lock to win? (+video)

Liz Cheney, daughter of the former vice president, is launching a Senate candidacy. But Michael Enzi, a Republican, already occupies the seat she wants.
Federal probe of George Zimmerman not over, says Justice's Eric Holder

In his first statement since George Zimmerman was acquitted, Attorney General Eric Holder said Monday the Justice Department probe into Trayvon Martin's death will continue, 'consistent with the facts and the law.'
Decoder Wire Will George Zimmerman now face federal charges? (+video)

The Justice Department is reviewing the evidence to see if there is a basis for civil rights charges against George Zimmerman. Such a case would have to prove that Zimmerman shot and killed Trayvon Martin primarily due to race.
Edward Snowden: Is it illegal for US to block his asylum claim?

NSA leaker Edward Snowden has made it clear that he believes he is being pursued for political offenses. But the US government considers him a common lawbreaker and not a human rights case.
Decoder Wire Do media treat Michelle Obama like the new Jackie Kennedy?

Not since Jackie's Camelot days in the Kennedy administration has a first lady so captured public attention and respectful coverage by much of the press. Unlike Jackie, Michelle Obama has got social media.
Decoder Wire A national park on the moon? Fire up the minivan!

Two lawmakers have proposed an Apollo Lunar Landing Sites National Historical Park to preserve Apollo artifacts. Which raises the questions of how do we get there, and will there be T-shirts?
Decoder Wire Is US public rallying around Edward Snowden? (+video)

A new poll shows 'a massive shift in attitudes' on whether government antiterrorism efforts infringe too much on civil liberties, but pollsters caution that Americans' views are 'complicated.'
FBI nominee James Comey: Did he ace confirmation hearing?

James Comey, a Republican who served under George W. Bush, told the senators he considered waterboarding torture. The FBI nominee sailed through his confirmation hearing with bipartisan support.
Decoder Wire Michelle Obama hosts Kids' State Dinner: Better than the real thing?

Winners of the first lady's healthy lunch recipe contest attended a Kids' State Dinner at the White House on Tuesday. It was a lot like a real state dinner, except it was lunchtime and Michelle Obama let everyone eat with their fingers.
How much do you know about America's first ladies? Take our quiz!

US first ladies, among the most famous and admired women in the world, serve as role models on everything from fashion to political issues and the role of women in society. How much do you know about them?
Decoder Wire Will Rick Perry announce 2016 White House bid?

Rick Perry's announcement Monday in San Antonio may settle whether he'll run for a fourth term as governor – or open the door to a presidential bid in 2016. But as his 'oops' moment in 2012 signals, he's not predictable.
Andy Murray wins Wimbledon: greatest British sports victory?

Scottish tennis star Andy Murray beat Novak Djokovic of Serbia in straight sets to win the Wimbledon men’s singles championship Sunday. It was the first Wimbledon victory for a British player in 77 years.
Does Canada train blast show danger of oil transport in US?

The derailment of a train loaded with crude oil in Quebec resulted in devastating explosions and fire. The accident raises questions about the safety of shipping oil through Maine to New Brunswick’s coastal refineries.
Decoder Wire July 4 trivia: Who sewed the star-spangled banner that inspired the song?

This July 4, the Maryland Historical Society is kicking off an effort to sew a reproduction of the star-spangled banner using materials as close as possible to those used by the original seamstress.
Obamacare 101: Why major part of health law is delayed, and who's affected (+video)

A key provision of Obama's health law, aka Obamacare, will be pushed back a year, the administration said Wednesday. The delay buys more time for businesses with at least 51 workers to show they are providing health insurance. What happens in the meantime?
Decoder Wire Chris Christie bromance with Barack Obama: Is it breaking up?

Chris Christie, governor of New Jersey, no longer urgently needs federal superstorm Sandy dollars. So, with GOP presidential primaries ahead, he's buffing up his bona fides as a Republican, including attacks on ex-buddy Obama.
Decoder Wire Why is Sarah Palin saying she might leave the GOP? (+video)

Sarah Palin is no fan of immigration reform – at least, not since supporting it as a member of John McCain's presidential ticket in 2008. But the chances of her actually quitting the party over it? Remote.