Topic: Washington and Lee University

Can Boston bombing suspect get a fair trial if public thinks he confessed?

For much of the public, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev has already admitted guilt, whether or not his reported confession is admissible in court. A look at the challenges posed by pretrial publicity.

What would a Korean war cost? Gauging the economic turmoil.

If a real shooting war came to the Koreas, the economic disruption would be global, though Asian nations likely would pay a higher price than the US. Some economists fear significant long-term changes to international trade.

Opinion: Why a liberal arts education is the best job preparation

If ever there was a time to emphasize a classic liberal arts education – more than distributing information or training for specific jobs – this is it. Students today can easily find information. The challenge is making sense of the whole, finding connections, dealing with complexity.

Gas prices are falling: why that might not really help Obama

Gas prices have dropped steadily in recent weeks, and the issue is barely registering with voters. While that eases some pressures on Obama, it doesn't necessarily translate into more votes.

With meager jobs growth, 'time running out' for Obama (+video)

The 2012 presidential election may hang on voters' perceptions about the economy, and Friday's report that just 115,000 jobs were created in April won't do much to help Obama. What's the outlook for the months ahead?

GDP report puts Obama in economic 'gray zone.' Will Republicans profit?

GDP increased at a 2.2 percent annual rate in the first quarter, Commerce Department said Friday. That's below economists' expectations. The news gives Republicans ammunition against Obama.

Note to Mega Millions lottery winner: Beware! (+video)

Sure, the jackpot for the Mega Millions lottery is an all-time high of $640 million – and ticket sales on Friday are through the roof. But winning brings its own complications. Read on.

Why has New York's gay marriage bill been stalled for days?

Republicans in the Senate say they are concerned about protections for religious groups that don't want to perform a gay marriage, but more-political calculations could also be playing a role.

Opinion: Painful truth of debt crisis: We must raise taxes, even on the middle class

For 75 years, the federal government has used tax benefits and other indirect assistance to underwrite a giant middle-class welfare state. Now it’s time for Americans to admit the truth. If we want all the 'stuff' the federal government provides for us, we’re going to have to pay for it.

After Fox News, next on Obama hit list: Chamber of Commerce?

Reports suggest that President Obama is embarking on a strategy of undermining some of the most influential conservative voices in Washington, including Fox News and the Chamber of Commerce.

Does 'cash for clunkers' work?

Book returned after 145 years

Catholic groups fear abortion rights bill

But it's unclear if the Freedom of Choice Act imperils a doctor's right not to perform the procedure.

Gay marriage: a new bind for church groups

Religiously affiliated schools, hospitals, and others may be the next flash point.