Topic: U.S. Democratic Party

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Where do things stand at Guantánamo? Six basic questions answered.

President Obama this week pledged to “reengage” with Congress to find a way to close the terror detention camp at the Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, naval base. The renewed focus comes as 100 of the 166 detainees are reported to be engaged in a hunger strike. Here is a brief look at where things stand now.
5 steps to bipartisan cuts in Medicare – and the deficit

Medicare is the single greatest contributor to long-term deficits. If Democrats and Republicans cooperate on waste-cutting ideas – many of which are backed by President Obama – both parties stand to gain. Here are five ways Congress should act.
Briefing
After the 'sequester,' now what?

$85 billion in across-the-board cuts to defense and social programs took effect March 1. The cuts must occur this fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30. Here's how things look.
Four reasons Republicans are embracing the 'sequester'

Republicans, it is clear, are conflicted on the "sequester." How did they come to embrace it? Here are four reasons.
If not 'sequester,' then what? Five ideas from left and right.

Few in Washington believe that "the sequester,” $85 billion in automatic spending cuts set to hit the federal budget as of March 1, is a good idea. But what's the alternative? Here are five proposals, from the right, the center, and the left, to replace the sequester. Which do you like?

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Obama's Labor Day rallying cry: 'Time to act' on healthcare

In a speech at an AFL-CIO picnic Monday, he signaled a harder line toward healthcare reform. But that might not be the full story.
Going into the fall, Obama has a plateful

In addition to healthcare, there are two wars, Iran, North Korea, and climate change, plus the economy.
Town-hall meetings: facing voter wrath on healthcare

Healthcare forums evoked anger, but there was constructive dialogue, too.
McDonnell's graduate thesis roils Virginia governor race

The controversy over Bob McDonnell's 1989 graduate thesis has put the GOP candidate on the defense. But Democratic voter fatigue may keep his rival from getting ahead.
Opinion: Can Sarah Palin be more than a political celebrity?

She must decide whether she wants to be a heavyweight public servant or a rock star.
Labor chief: Public option 'essential' for healthcare reform
Kennedy's Senate seat: How much money do contenders need?

Most of the potential Democratic candidates have more than $1 million available. But for those who officially enter the race, more fundraising may be necessary.
With speech, Obama aims to retake control of healthcare

The president will address Congress next Wednesday in prime time. He must win over lawmakers and the American people, who are growing skeptical of Obama's healthcare plan, polls suggest.
Schilling as senator? Don't count on it.
Japan's neighbors welcome new leadership

Chinese state media and South Korea’s president expressed hope at closer regional ties under Yukio Hatoyama’s DPJ party, which won elections by a landslide Sunday.
Without Kennedy, healthcare providers fear loss of benefactor

The senator gave crucial support not only to national legislation but also to hospitals, universities, and research centers in his home state.
How far will Democrats go to pass health reform?

They're talking about using the budget reconciliation process for some parts, but it could be risky. Part 2 of two.
Lift Every Voice

On its 100th anniversary, a history of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
Key Republicans bail on 'Obama-care'; Dems' options narrow

The Democrats are edging toward a go-it-alone approach to legislation. Part 1 of two.
Poll numbers has House Dems up against the ropes
Senator Kennedy eulogized by his sons and President Obama

“My father taught me even our most profound losses are survivable. He taught me nothing was impossible.”
In Tokyo, Gucci guides me home

After a reporter loses his bearings, two women use their inner shopper's-GPS to help him navigate by glittery store locales.
On foreign affairs, Kennedy challenged presidential power

His most important vote, he said, was against the Iraq War. But he also had major impact on human rights and other issues.
Are climate change deniers like creationists?
Impeachment in S.C.? State GOP may decide this weekend.

Gov. Mark Sanford's political future is expected to be the main talking point at a meeting of Republican legislative leaders in Myrtle Beach.
Can Senate pass health bill without Kennedy?

The absence of his dealmaking skills could make negotiations even harder, but some say his death will inspire Democrats to get the job done.
GOP downplays impact of Kennedy on healthcare vote
Kansas pol seeks one 'great white hope.' Experience necessary.
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.
What will happen to Kennedy's Senate seat?

Massachusetts legislators are deciding whether to change the law to allow the governor to appoint a temporary replacement.