Ryan Says He's 'Cautiously Optimistic' On A Bipartisan Budget Deal
The House Budget Committee chairman says the president's budget, which includes cuts to entitlements, amounts to an "olive branch" to Republicans.
Politics & Government
Looking To Broaden Appeal, RNC Heads To Hollywood
Republicans are meeting in a Democratic stronghold this week to talk about retooling their message. So far, there are sharp divisions among RNC delegates about the future direction of the GOP.
Paul Ryan Talks About The President's 2014 Budget
The House of Representative Budget Committee chairman Paul Ryan says he sees hope for a bipartisan budget agreement for the first time since President Obama came to office.
Some States Hike Gas Tax; Va. Tries New Route To Fund Roads
Revenues from gas taxes often fall short of what's needed for repairs and construction of the nation's roads, so states are starting to take action. Some are considering an increase in the state gas tax while others are getting creative.
Michelle Obama Steps Into Gun Control Debate
The first lady gave a personal and emotional speech in her hometown, two months after attending the funeral of a Chicago teen who was shot and killed earlier this year. Michelle Obama is encouraging business leaders to donate millions of dollars for programs to help at-risk youth.
How The Latest Budget Could Affect You
President Obama unveiled his fifth annual budget proposal to Congress Wednesday, offering a mix of tax increases and spending cuts. The newest changes include cuts to Medicare and Social Security benefits. Across the country, some are only beginning to feel the affects of sequestration.
Congress Nears Agreements On Guns And Immigration
A bipartisan group of senators announced an agreement Wednesday on gun legislation. If passed by Congress, the agreement would require all buyers, even those at gun shows, to pass a check by a federally licensed dealer. The Senate's bipartisan Gang of Eight is also nearing a deal on immigration.
Some Public Defenders Warn: 'We Have Nothing Left To Cut'
Around the country, budget cuts are bringing some federal public defenders to the breaking point. "We can't not pay the rent, and ... everything else is personnel. We can't send a computer to court," says Washington, D.C., public defender A.J. Kramer.
Immigration Protesters Aim For Rally To Motivate Lawmakers
Thousands of demonstrators backing more generous immigration rules are expected at a big rally on Capitol Hill Wednesday. They're demanding swift action by Congress. But while preliminary agreement has been reached on a range of immigration issues, it could be weeks before a bill appears in the Senate.
Why Politicians Want Children To Be Seen And Heard
Right now, children are central to campaigns on gun control, immigration and same-sex marriage — demonstrating their effectiveness as political messengers. Politicians know that on almost any issue, kids can make an argument more compelling.