Topic: Washington, DC

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Playing the IRS card: Six presidents who used the IRS to bash political foes

Since the advent of the federal income tax about a century ago, several presidents – or their zealous underlings – have directed the IRS to use its formidable police powers to harass or punish enemies, political rivals, and administration critics. Here are six infamous episodes.
Briefing
IRS 101: Seven questions about the tea party scandal

The Internal Revenue Service is under the microscope now, as revelations have emerged that the agency wrongly targeted conservative groups seeking nonprofit status. Here’s an accounting of what has happened, along with the ramifications.
3 priorities for Pakistan's new government

After 14 years, Nawaz Sharif is back at the helm in Pakistan. The nuclear-armed country faces a welter of problems, from terrorism to tensions with Afghanistan, India, and the United States. To move Pakistan forward, Mr. Sharif must focus on three priorities.
Briefing
Chechnya: How a remote Russian republic became linked with terrorism

The main suspects in the Boston Marathon bombing are two brothers from Chechnya, a Russian republic that has been the scene of cyclical revolts and brutal crackdowns for the past 200 years.
4 ways US can boost cyber security

The US needs a proactive cyber foreign policy that goes beyond naming and shaming. Here are four steps the US can take to bolster its diplomatic efforts to address cybersecurity threats.

All Content

Obama decries healthcare 'myths' as Republicans push back

In his radio address, he takes on “death panels” and other “outrageous” charges. In rebuttal, Rep. Tom Price slams “Democrats’ government-run health plan."
Oregon's 'death with dignity' law enters healthcare debate

Supporters say end-of-life care, including counseling and hospice, have made the state a model. Opponents look at Oregon and see "medical rationing" and "death panels."
Lockerbie bomber's release is a Scottish decision

The affair offered an opportunity for Scottish nationalists to assert their nation's independence.
Is there a connection between healthcare reform and gun rights?

Yes, if there’s a centralized medical database. It’s one reason some people are showing up armed at town hall meetings.
Journalist Robert Novak’s farewell is religious, not political
'Tea party' organizers wade into the healthcare debate
Gibbs to press: Let the Obamas enjoy their Vineyard vacation
Ridge's book raises pressure to reform color-coded 'threat alerts'

Homeland security task force is reexamining the post-9/11 system. What does 'yellow' mean, anyway?
US closes parts of Arctic to commercial fishing

Melting ice caps are exposing more of the Arctic Ocean than ever before. The US moves to halt fishing in the newly ice-free zones even before a fishing industry blossoms there.
Facebook faces (another) challenge over users' privacy

Five Facebook users this week sued the social networking giant, alleging it improperly used their private information or intellectual property.
What I didn't like about "Julie and Julia"
Obama's staff beats the boss to the door for vacation
Tom Ridge kisses and tells on Bush's 'terror levels'
Opinion: Democracy in Afghanistan is wishful thinking

In a feudal society that long picked leaders according to religion and tradition, the winner of today's election may be seen as illegitimate – simply because he is elected.
Baghdad bombings: A Sunni backlash?

At least 86 people were killed in the worst bombing since February 2008, presenting a serious challenge to the Shiite-led government.
Britney Spears gets to vote? Tales of fraud mar Afghan election.

Reports of widespread irregularities are pouring in as Western officials scramble to lower expectations ahead of Thursday's presidential vote.
New polls find Americans in a sour mood
Obama, Mubarak seek fresh start to strained US-Egypt ties

The two met at the White House Tuesday. Obama sees Egypt as potentially a helpful player in moving the Middle East peace process forward.
Helping after Taiwan typhoon, US avoids confronting China

Officials say Washington did not notify Beijing before quietly dispatching an amphibious ship and aircraft to provide humanitarian aid.
Opinion: The 'genocide' in Darfur isn't what it seems

Activist hype, though well-intentioned may have misdirected funds that could have saved lives.
The Monitor's View: Taking the Mideast peace plunge

The Obama administration hopes all parties will jump into the peace process together. Egypt's Mubarak and other Arab leaders must leap, too.
A tougher stance on tax havens

Wednesday's US-Swiss deal is the latest step in an international crackdown on tax evaders.
Energy and climate rallies – real or astroturf?

Energy rallies organized by coal and oil industry.
Mubarak meets Obama to patch up US-Egypt relationship

The Egyptian president hopes Obama will back away from Bush's push for reform, which caused a rift between the two nations.
Josh Penry: Hoping Colorado is ready for generational change

A candidate for governor, he cites need for 'competent governance' and a return to 'basics' of low taxes and targeted spending.