Topic: Ross Baker

Obama: Christmas Day attack was a 'systemic failure'

President Obama dramatically changed the tone of his administration's response to the Chirstmas Day attack on Northwest Flight 253, saying Tuesday that information about the alleged bomber 'was not effectively distributed.'

Why has Congress set a Christmas deadline for healthcare reform?

If the debacle of August's healthcare reform town halls told Democrats anything, it was this: Don't send your legislators back to their districts without a bill to defend.

Healthcare holdouts: Joe Lieberman won't budge on public option

Sen. Joe Lieberman, an Independent who caucuses with Democrats, has been a key vote on important bills. He's been unwavering so far in his opposition to including any kind of public option in the healthcare reform bill.

When bills go to conference committee, what happens?

The usual rules don’t apply in conference committee, where House and Senate bills – including upcoming health reform legislation – go to be reconciled.

US House of Representatives votes to approve healthcare reform

The House voted 220 to 215 in favor of healthcare reform. But Saturday night’s vote also signals tough negotiations ahead in the next phases of the legislation.

Democrats may go it alone on healthcare, but must close ranks

Forget Republicans. Democrats need to bring together their own centrists concerned about cost as well as liberals who still want a public option.

How House has handled other Joe Wilson-like moments

House Democrats consider a resolution of disapproval for 'You lie!' outburst.

What can House do to Joe Wilson for 'you lie' outburst?

Democrats want to punish Wilson for a breach of congressional decorum. Their options range from verbal censure to expulsion.

Long Senate record made Kennedy a giant in his own right

For decades, most major pieces of social legislation – from healthcare to immigration to education – bore the imprint of Sen. Edward 'Ted' Kennedy, who died late Tuesday.

Is Obama making a convincing case for the Afghan war?

The president must do a better job of telling Americans why the effort is central to preventing another 9/11, experts say.

Obama steps up attack on healthcare status quo

He's trying to appeal to Americans who are satisfied with their health plans, but many remain skeptical that the administration's plan would help them.

Franken as 60th Senate Democrat: How big a prize?

It's better for Democrats than 59. But a Senate supermajority didn't much help the last president to have one: Jimmy Carter.

Immigration emerges as an issue for Obama

It's still 'economy first,' but advocacy groups and lawmakers are positioning themselves to take on this political hot button.

Fast-track on the budget – does that mean Republicans would get steamrolled?

Is it time for Burris to go?

Calls grow for him to resign as a perjury probe proceeds.

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

House passes stimulus bill; now for the great Senate debate

Obama invites GOP ideas for the largest spending bill in US history.

Election '08 is causing a 'brain drain' on Capitol Hill

But many exiting lawmakers also bring years of experience to the Obama administration.

Auto bailout: Congress gets closer to a decision

Lawmakers say bankruptcy for Detroit's Big Three is 'not a viable option.'

Democrats reshuffle Hill leadership

Some long-time committee heads are replaced in order to advance Obama’s agenda.

Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac wielded big clout in Washington

The mortgage giants used everything from lobbying to charity to maintain their special status.