Topic: Washington

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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.

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Garden siteseeing in the US

Garden blogs well worth a visit
U.S., Russia revert to cold-war rhetoric over missile-defense plan

Russia says that the proposed US defense shield in Poland and the Czech Republic, an initial agreement for which was inked this week, is targeting Russia, not rogue states.
Top task for Air Force: rebuild credibility

New leaders must better secure nuclear weapons after snafus led to firing of their predecessors.
The minister who leads Democrats to faith

Leah Daughtry, CEO of her party's upcoming convention, emphasizes 'public holiness.'
The minister who leads Democrats to faith

Leah Daughtry, CEO of her party's upcoming convention, emphasizes 'public holiness.'
Top task for Air Force: rebuild credibility

New leaders must better secure nuclear weapons after snafus led to firing of their predecessors.
Al Jazeera English looks at news through a different lens

The 20-month-old channel expands its global audience but barely penetrates US market.
New botanical gardens give the flavor of Maine

One of the newest botanical gardens in the US has a rare waterfront location.
Saudi king set to lead rare interfaith talks in Spain

The three-day conference of religious leaders will start July 16 in Madrid.
World
USA
One in, one out
Congress frets as its ratings plummet

Poll: Only 12 percent of Americans have much confidence in the legislative branch, a record low.
As Afghanistan boils, McCain keeps focus on Iraq

For voters, a resurgent Taliban may challenge McCain's view that Iraq is the center of the war on terror.
Opinion: Terrorists in Bangladesh?

Another Musharraf could emerge if the US doesn't act.
Now, ‘green’ report cards for U.S. colleges

New rating systems help students choose environmentally friendly colleges.
On emissions, G-8 looks past Bush

Its support for halving emissions by 2050 is seen as useful for future negotiations.
Colombia's Uribe soars after freeing hostages

The president's approval rating skyrocketed to 90 percent after the military freed 15 high-profile hostages from a jungle rebel camp.
Fiorina: McCain to focus on job creation

Economic advisor Carly Fiorina leaves her options open as potential running mate.
As Afghanistan boils, McCain keeps focus on Iraq

For voters, a resurgent Taliban may challenge McCain's view that Iraq is the center of the war on terror.
'Arc d'Atlanta' ... or a new bit of kitsch?

Some find the city's new classically designed monument beautiful; others say it reflects a cultural inferiority complex.
With E-Verify, too many errors to expand its use?

Database aims to make it easy for employers to check worker immigration status. Critics say the accuracy rate is too low.
As G-8 meets, free trade under fire

Recent economic woes are raising new doubts about the benefits of globalization.
Books: A Memoir

Larry McMurtry's life and times as a bookseller.
McCain visits a skeptical Latin America

Presidential hopeful John McCain visited Colombia on Tuesday and wraps up his three-day trip Thursday in Mexico.