It wasn't pretty, but California extracts a budget deal

A political logjam broke Thursday, with a GOP senator's vote to swallow some tax hikes in return for support for election reform.

Barack the Tourist

US troop buildup in Afghanistan could be a defining moment

Obama's order to send 17,000 more troops comes before US has set a clear strategy.

'Peanut proud' farm town struggles with tainted image

Blakely, Ga., was a quiet community until the salmonella scare hit home.

Obama's housing speech triggers applause in unusual places

To connect with ‘real people,’ Obama veers out of the Beltway

For the first two weeks of his presidency, he holed up in Washington. Now, he’s crisscrossing the US.

Turkey could furnish a safe way home as US departs Iraq

The Habur Gate – a dusty two-lane checkpoint – may be one of the best routes out.

Fight against poverty unites Christian left and right

Liberal and conservative groups bridge some differences in new collaborative efforts to fight the problem.

Need a college loan? Ask your friends online.

Websites are cropping up for peer lending, and at other sites, students can raise donations for college.

Obama's trip to Canada will highlight differences on Afghanistan

Window closing for a two-state solution in the Middle East

Some see a risky 'one-state solution' as the only remaining option in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Buffalo plane crash raises broader issues on icing

A safety alert in December cautioned against flying on autopilot in icy conditions.

Roland Burris clears everything up: Nothing to see here, move along

It's the presidential top 40! Guess who's first? And last?

Obama's Valentine dinner - IHOP? Denny's? Applebees?

Obama wins his economic stimulus package, but without the bipartisanship he sought

The Rod Blagojevich train wreck continues - now Burris contradicts himself

Stevie Wonder takes over the White House - Obamas don't mind

Barney Frank: Happy ending possible despite economic mess

California lawmakers wrangle over state budget billions

Requirement for two-thirds vote approval gives minority unusual power. The public is weighing in too.