WTVM - Political News

Obama assails GOP, promotes new jobs program

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 05:50:00 EDT

A combative President Barack Obama rolled out a long-term jobs program Monday that would exceed $50 billion to rebuild roads, railways and runways, and coupled it with a blunt campaign-season assault on Republicans for...

US expects to spend big in Afghanistan for years

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 05:30:00 EDT

The U.S. government's financial commitment to Afghanistan is likely to linger and reach into the billions long after it pulls combat troops from the country, newly disclosed spending estimates show.

No recession here: Election spending sets records

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 05:30:00 EDT

Turns out politics, for all its focus on the gloomy economy, is a recession-proof industry.

Speaker-in-waiting Boehner balances GOP factions

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 03:50:00 EDT

John Boehner could walk down most American streets without turning a head.

Tea party or establishment, GOP looks for gains

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 03:50:00 EDT

In the turbulent year of the tea party, Republican Rep. Mike Castle of Delaware set out to jangle no nerves as he ran for a Senate seat long held by Vice President Joseph Biden. It's the way Republican strategists...

CAPITAL CULTURE: All the presidents' best-sellers

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 03:50:00 EDT

Already in distinctive company as an American president, George W. Bush seeks to join an even more select group: president and top-selling author.

Obama getting fewer judges confirmed than Nixon

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 03:50:00 EDT

A determined Republican stall campaign in the Senate has sidetracked so many of the men and women nominated by President Barack Obama for judgeships that he has put fewer people on the bench than any president since Richard...

Sheer number, sour economy favor GOP in govs races

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 03:50:00 EDT

Never before have so many governorships been up for grabs - and with so much at stake.

Rep. Frank faces town hall foe in Mass. primary

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 03:50:00 EDT

Massachusetts Rep. Barney Frank's retort was an Internet sensation.

Picking right blood pressure medicine challenging

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 03:50:00 EDT

It's hard to predict which pills will best lower which patient's high blood pressure, but researchers are hunting ways to better personalize therapy - perhaps even using a blood test.

Obama seeks to shore up support for Wis. Democrats

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 03:30:00 EDT

President Barack Obama hopes to improve the fortunes of suddenly imperiled Wisconsin Democrats as he celebrates Labor Day with the state's union workers on Monday.

US officials: Mideast talks to resume in Jerusalem

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 03:30:00 EDT

Israeli and Palestinian leaders plan talks with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton in Jerusalem this month. The setting is a symbolic move to show the seriousness of peace negotiations.

Nevada candidate touts speedy fix to budget crisis

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 23:10:00 EDT

One Nevada gubernatorial hopeful sees a speedy fix to Nevada's budget crisis.

Official: Obama backing research tax credits

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 22:30:00 EDT

Seeking ways to spur economic growth ahead of the November elections, President Barack Obama will ask Congress to increase and permanently extend research and development tax credits for businesses, a White House official...

Alaska US Senate candidate cited in 3-car crash

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 22:10:00 EDT

The candidate who defeated U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski in Alaska's Republican primary has been cited for his role in a recent three-car collision in Fairbanks.

Rep. Frank faces town hall foe in Mass. primary

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 17:10:00 EDT

Massachusetts Rep. Barney Frank's retort was an Internet sensation.

Sen. Byrd's family denounces campaign attack ad

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 14:30:00 EDT

The family of the late Robert C. Byrd blasted the GOP nominee for his U.S. Senate seat Sunday after he used an image from Byrd's memorial service in a TV ad attacking the Democratic nominee.

Dems' prospects threatened by economic woes

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 10:10:00 EDT

Frustrated, discouraged and just plain mad, a lot of people who have lost jobs - or know someone who has - now want to see the names of Democrats on pink slips. And that's jeopardizing the party's chances in Ohio and...

AP Interview: Author leaving home next to Palins

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 09:30:00 EDT

Sarah Palin can take down the fence.

POLITICAL INSIDER: Christie, GOP back Castle

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 08:50:00 EDT

Republican Gov. Chris Christie, who rode voter anger to office in New Jersey last year, is endorsing Mike Castle's bid to win the GOP primary in Delaware and is joining a pack of party leaders trying to block a tea...

Ariz. governor says she was wrong about beheadings

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 03:30:00 EDT

A claim by Arizona's governor that rising violence along the U.S.-Mexico border has led to headless bodies turning up in the desert came back to haunt her during a stammering debate performance in which she failed to...

For US Muslims, a 9/11 anniversary like no other

Sun, 5 Sep 2010 23:09:00 EDT

American Muslims are boosting security at mosques, seeking help from leaders of other faiths and airing ads underscoring their loyalty to the United States - all ahead of a 9/11 anniversary they fear could bring more trouble...

Obama pledges to work for a thriving middle class

Sun, 5 Sep 2010 19:40:00 EDT

A strong economy needs bustling Main Streets and a thriving middle class, not just a healthy stock market, President Barack Obama said in paying tribute to the American worker.

Pulitzer-winning cartoonist Paul Conrad dies at 86

Sun, 5 Sep 2010 14:49:00 EDT

For more than half a century, Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist Paul Conrad poked fun at politicians, taking on presidents from Harry S. Truman to George W. Bush.

Report: Blackwater created shell companies

Sun, 5 Sep 2010 14:29:00 EDT

The security company Blackwater Worldwide formed a network of 30 shell companies and subsidiaries to try to get millions of dollars in government business after the company faced strong criticism for reckless conduct in...

Nevada GOP candidate faces copyright lawsuit

Sun, 5 Sep 2010 12:29:00 EDT

A company has sued Republican U.S. Senate candidate Sharron Angle, claiming she reprinted two Las Vegas Review-Journal articles on her campaign website without permission.

Senate candidate Marco Rubio's father dies at 83

Sun, 5 Sep 2010 09:50:00 EDT

The father of Republican Senate candidate Marco Rubio has died after a long illness. He was 83.

Rangel spends $111,000 on legal fees in 2 months

Sun, 5 Sep 2010 07:09:00 EDT

A federal campaign finance report shows embattled New York Rep. Charles Rangel has spent more than $111,000 on legal bills since July.

What now for Gulf? Fire complicates drill debate

Sat, 4 Sep 2010 19:29:00 EDT

What now for the Gulf?

AP Exclusive: Mariner opposed federal safety rule

Sat, 4 Sep 2010 19:09:00 EDT

The company whose Gulf of Mexico oil platform erupted in flames this week cited the industry's "excellent safety record" when it opposed a proposed federal rule last year that would require offshore oil and gas operators...

Gates sees progress in tour of Afghan war zone

Sat, 4 Sep 2010 19:09:00 EDT

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Friday he saw and heard evidence that the U.S. counterinsurgency strategy is taking hold in critical Kandahar province.

Fast-track Mideast peace talks face big obstacles

Sat, 4 Sep 2010 19:09:00 EDT

Israel and the Palestinians have set a goal of reaching a final peace settlement within one year, a highly ambitious aim given past failures and future obstacles.

Clinton: Time is now for Mideast peace

Sat, 4 Sep 2010 19:09:00 EDT

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton sought to inject urgency into Israeli-Palestinian peace talks Friday, warning the negotiations may be "the last chance for a very long time" to reach an agreement.

Colo. gubernatorial candidate refuses to back down

Sat, 4 Sep 2010 07:49:00 EDT

Dan Maes likes to brag about taking down the political machine in becoming Colorado's Republican gubernatorial nominee. The way he's going, it may be the only victory in a short-lived political career.

Obama planning new package of economic aid

Sat, 4 Sep 2010 04:29:00 EDT

Eager to jumpstart the economy ahead of crucial midterm elections, President Barack Obama said Friday he intends to unveil a new package of proposals, likely including tax cuts and targeted spending, to spark job growth.

Democrats spend early to knock out GOP challengers

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 23:49:00 EDT

Republican Jesse Kelly was still basking in the glow of his victory in an Arizona congressional primary when the Democratic congresswoman he's trying to unseat released a scathing TV ad branding him "a risk" who would...

More Dems buck plan to let taxes increase for rich

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 23:29:00 EDT

Congress seems increasingly reluctant to let taxes go up, even on wealthier Americans.

POLITICAL INSIDER: Pawlenty: DC like 'drug dealer'

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 20:49:00 EDT

Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty is likening the federal government to a drug dealer.

Obama to award posthumous Medal of Honor to PA man

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 18:09:00 EDT

President Barack Obama is awarding a posthumous Medal of Honor to an Air Force chief master sergeant who braved enemy fire to help three wounded comrades before suffering his own fatal wounds during combat in Laos in 1968.

Obama to campaign for Blumenthal in Conn.

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 18:09:00 EDT

President Barack Obama plans to attend a fundraiser later this month to help Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal's campaign for the U.S. Senate.

Former President Clinton campaigns for NY Democrat

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 17:29:00 EDT

Former President Bill Clinton slammed Republicans Friday for their stewardship of the economy during their years in power in Washington, and said the party's campaign message heading into the 2010 midterm elections is:...

White House condemns deadly attacks in Pakistan

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 16:49:00 EDT

The White House is condemning attacks in Pakistan that left dozens dead.

Obama, NATO secretary-general to meet next Tuesday

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 16:49:00 EDT

President Barack Obama plans to meet at the White House next week with NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen (AHN'-derz FOHG RAHS'-moo-sihn).

Arizona governor stumbles during debate

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 15:49:00 EDT

It will go down as one of the most painful openings to a political debate in recent memory.

Anti-abortion group targets Democrats in radio ads

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 15:29:00 EDT

An anti-abortion group plans to air radio ads in three congressional races calling for the defeat of Democratic incumbents, among the first ads to capitalize on a Supreme Court ruling this year that freed corporations to...

Police question scientist in Miami airport scare

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 15:29:00 EDT

A government official said Friday that a scientist has been detained in Miami after screeners found a metal canister in his luggage that looked like a pipe bomb.

O'Donnell earns degree 21 years later

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 15:09:00 EDT

Twenty-one years after she began her undergraduate work, Republican Christine O'Donnell can accurately call herself a college graduate.

Obama to campaign for Sestak in Pa.

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 13:49:00 EDT

President Barack Obama is heading to Pennsylvania to help Democratic Rep. Joe Sestak's bid for the Senate.

Hopeful sign: More talks for Israel, Palestinians

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 11:49:00 EDT

In an early sign of promise, Israeli and Palestinian leaders pledged Thursday in a cordial first round of talks to keep meeting at regular intervals, aiming to nail down a framework for overcoming deep disputes and achieving...

Feds appeal order blocking stem cell research

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 10:29:00 EDT

The Obama administration on Tuesday asked a federal judge to lift a restraining order that it says could undercut federally funded embryonic stem cell research.

Wary of tea party, GOP attacks Senate candidate

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 10:29:00 EDT

Delaware Republicans call Senate hopeful Christine O'Donnell a liar who "could not be elected dog catcher" in a fierce attack that underscores GOP fears of the tea party-backed candidate knocking off top recruit Rep....

New postage stamp honors Mother Teresa

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 07:09:00 EDT

Mother Teresa is being recognized for her humanitarian work with the issuance of a new U.S. postage stamp.

Gates visits US forces in southern Afghanistan

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 04:49:00 EDT

As the last of 30,000 U.S. reinforcements arrive in Afghanistan, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates on Friday got a firsthand look at operations in the dangerous south where Afghan and international troops are ramping up...

Unions gearing up to support Dems in November

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 04:09:00 EDT

Union leaders said Wednesday they will mobilize millions of members in 26 states with a message about "economic patriotism" as they try to help Democrats hold onto their majority in the House and Senate.

Democrats fight to stay in office amid backlash

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 03:49:00 EDT

Rep. Chet Edwards, an imperiled Democrat deep in the heart of Republican territory, finds exiting American Legion Post No. 273 slow going. Supporters and well-wishers keep stopping him.

Marine general says Taliban drug trade faltering

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 03:09:00 EDT

The Taliban is confronting a serious "cash flow" problem after losing some half of its annual drug trade money to a farming blight and government eradication efforts, a Marine two-star general said Thursday.

Drilling agency imposes conflict-of-interest rules

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 22:49:00 EDT

Scandalized by federal regulators who had sex with oil company executives and negotiated with them for jobs, the agency that oversees offshore drilling is imposing a first-ever ethics policy that bars inspectors from dealing...

Time to get your flu shot, but just one this year

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 22:09:00 EDT

It's flu-shot season already, and for the first time health authorities are urging nearly everyone to get vaccinated. There is even a new high-dose version for people 65 or older.

US finds China unfairly helped aluminum industry

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 19:28:00 EDT

The Obama administration, under congressional pressure to take a tough stance on Chinese trade policies, determined Tuesday that Beijing unfairly subsidized $514 million in aluminum products last year.

Dems accuse Fox News of bolstering Ohio candidate

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 18:29:00 EDT

The Democratic Governors Association has filed an elections complaint in Ohio alleging Fox News Network illegally helped a Republican governor candidate solicit funds.

Fired aide to ex-Mo. gov runs for gov's dad's seat

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 18:09:00 EDT

It's been three years since Scott Eckersley was fired after asserting that his then-boss, former Gov. Matt Blunt, and others in Blunt's administration should not be deleting certain e-mails because they belonged to...

Report: Victims not told of some inmate furloughs

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 17:49:00 EDT

Federal prisons are failing to notify crime victims and witnesses when inmates are allowed to travel by themselves for medical treatment, the Justice Department inspector general said Thursday.

Farrakhan supports planned mosque near ground zero

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 17:49:00 EDT

Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan said Thursday an Islamic community center and mosque planned near ground zero should be built because Muslims were among those of many faiths who died in the Sept. 11 terrorist...

Scientists expect C-section rate to keep rising

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 17:29:00 EDT

More women will be giving birth by C-section for the foreseeable future, government scientists said Monday, releasing a study into the causes of a trend that troubles maternal health experts.

POLITICAL INSIDER: Clinton helps Ark. Democrat

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 17:09:00 EDT

Former President Bill Clinton is coming to the aid of endangered Democratic Sen. Blanche Lincoln.

Obama to hold news conference next week

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 16:29:00 EDT

President Barack Obama will hold a news conference at the White House on Sept. 10.

More Dems buck plan to let taxes increase for rich

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 15:50:00 EDT

Congress seems increasingly reluctant to let taxes go up, even on wealthier Americans.

Kia recalling Soul, Sorento autos for wiring fix

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 15:50:00 EDT

Kia Motors is recalling about 35,000 Soul and Sorento vehicles to fix wiring in the interior lighting panels that could lead to fires.

Feds: no link between Dry Max diapers and rashes

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 15:10:00 EDT

Government safety officials have not found a connection between a new kind of Pampers diapers and the severe skin reactions reported by some parents' groups.

Senate upset erases Alaska seniority

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 15:09:00 EDT

The defeat of Republican U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski by an upstart fiscal conservative in Alaska's GOP primary could mark a significant shift for a state that has so long relied on federal pork to survive. The outcome was...

Clinton opens Mideast peace talks in Washington

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 14:43:00 EDT

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is formally opening the first direct peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians in nearly two years, imploring the two sides to make compromises to forge an agreement.

White House defends Obama's 'mainstream' religion

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 14:10:00 EDT

White House spokesman Robert Gibbs says President Barack Obama is a "committed, mainstream Christian" - contrary to the claims of Fox News Channel host Glenn Beck.

Palestinian leader urges Israel to end settlements

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 14:09:00 EDT

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is calling on Israel to end Jewish settlements in the West Bank and other areas that the Palestinians want to be part off their own state.

Peace envoy announces second round of peace talks

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 13:49:00 EDT

President Barack Obama's special envoy for Mideast peace says the leaders of Israel and the Palestinians concluded a productive first round of peace negotiations.

Israeli says both sides must compromise for peace

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 12:50:00 EDT

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is calling for Israelis as well as the Palestinians to make compromises in the pursuit of an enduring peace.

Obama: GOP should let small business bill through

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 12:49:00 EDT

President Barack Obama exhorted Congress on Monday to make passage of a long-languishing small business aid package its first order of business when it returns next month from its summer break.

Is the tea party becoming the new Grand Old Party?

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 12:10:00 EDT

Is the tea party the new Republican Party? The grass-roots network of fed-up conservative-libertarian voters displayed its power in its biggest triumph of the election year: the toppling of Sen. Lisa Murkowski in...

Economy tops 1st Boxer, Fiorina Senate debate

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 11:58:00 EDT

Sen. Barbara Boxer and Republican challenger Carly Fiorina exchanged feisty jabs on taxes, the economy and their records in Congress and corporate America during the first debate in their Senate race.

Israelis, Palestinians resume direct peace talks

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 10:50:00 EDT

Seeking to broker a Mideast peace agreement that has eluded U.S. presidents for decades, the Obama administration is overseeing the first direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians in nearly two years.

Poll: Ariz. voters favor immigration enforcement

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 10:49:00 EDT

A poll released Wednesday found that an overwhelming majority of Arizona voters support the types of provisions that are at the heart of a national debate involving the state's immigration law.

Leader of Pakistan Taliban charged in CIA bombing

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 10:09:00 EDT

U.S. officials launched a broad legal offensive against Pakistan's Taliban on Wednesday, placing the group on its international terrorism blacklist and charging its leader with planning last year's suicide bombing in...

Jordan's king: Terrorists want to derail talks

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 07:40:00 EDT

Jordan's King Abdullah II suggests that failure of new peace talks between Isarel and the Palestinians would be a victory for terrorists seeking to derail the process.

Number of illegal immigrants in US now declining

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 07:27:00 EDT

The number of illegal immigrants living in the U.S. has dropped for the first time in two decades - decreasing by 8 percent since 2007, a new study finds. The reasons range from the sour economy to Mexican violence and...

Biden: Time to turn attention from Iraq to economy

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 03:29:00 EDT

Vice President Joe Biden said Wednesday he's confident the various factions in Iraq will form a workable coalition and bring stability to the country, now that the U.S. combat role there has ended.

Lawmaker says mistakes used to distort her image

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 03:29:00 EDT

Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, the Texas Democrat who broke scholarship eligibility rules set by a black lawmakers group by awarding about $31,000 to her relatives and an aide's children, said Wednesday she didn't...

GI's mental health questioned in WikiLeaks case

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 02:09:00 EDT

An Army private is undergoing medical tests to determine his mental state in a case alleging he leaked classified material to WikiLeaks, his lawyer said Wednesday.

EMS air safety eyed after Arkansas accident

Thu, 2 Sep 2010 00:09:00 EDT

An accident this week in Arkansas has boosted to 21 the number of people who have been killed this year in medical helicopter and plane crashes, renewing concerns about the safety of such operations.

Felon ex-pol with wild hair makes ballot in Ohio

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 23:49:00 EDT

Outspoken former Democratic congressman Jim Traficant, who served time in federal prison for corruption, has fought his way back onto the Nov. 2 ballot to again run for a U.S. House seat - this time as an independent.

Latest distraction for CO candidate: Kansas resume

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 23:09:00 EDT

Colorado gubernatorial hopeful Dan Maes' murky past in law enforcement in neighboring Kansas has become the latest distraction in his gaffe-ridden campaign.

Losing Fla. Senate candidate sues papers for libel

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 20:29:00 EDT

Failed Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Jeff Greene is suing two Florida newspapers for libel over articles Greene claims cost him votes.

BP spent $93M on advertising after Gulf spill

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 20:10:00 EDT

Oil giant BP says it has spent more than $5 million a week on advertising since the Gulf Coast oil spill - more than three times the amount it spent on ads during the same period last year.

New York imam: Mosque fight about Muslim role

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 20:10:00 EDT

The imam leading plans for an Islamic center near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks in New York said the fight is over more than "a piece of real estate" and could shape the future of Muslim relations in America.

Mubarak calls on Israel to seize moment for peace

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 19:50:00 EDT

President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt is calling on Israel to freeze settlement activity in the Palestinian territories and seize the moment for peace.

Israeli PM criticizes new Palestinian violence

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 19:49:00 EDT

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (neh-ten-YAH'-hoo) is applauding President Barack Obama's condemnation of Tuesday's killing by a Palestinian gunman of four Israelis traveling near the West Bank city of...

Obama says 'status quo is unsustainable' for Middle East and the world

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 17:51:00 EDT

Obama says 'status quo is unsustainable' for Middle East and the world.

Obama: US cannot impose Middle East peace solution

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 17:51:00 EDT

Obama: US cannot impose Middle East peace solution.

Obama: Abbas and Netanyahu are 'two leaders who I believe want peace'

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 17:51:00 EDT

Obama: Abbas and Netanyahu are 'two leaders who I believe want peace'

Obama: Mideast peace negotiations should solve all final issues, lead to Palestinian state

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 17:51:00 EDT

Obama: Mideast peace negotiations should solve all final issues, lead to Palestinian state.

Obama says now is 'a moment of opportunity that must be seized' for Middle East peace

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 17:51:00 EDT

Obama says now is 'a moment of opportunity that must be seized' for Middle East peace.

Number of illegal immigrants in US now declining

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 16:29:00 EDT

The number of illegal immigrants living in the U.S. has dropped for the first time in two decades - decreasing by 8 percent as the sour economy dried up jobs and increased enforcement made it harder to sneak across the...

Obama: Killing of Israelis 'senseless slaughter'

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 16:29:00 EDT

President Barack Obama says the killing of four Israelis in the West Bank was a "senseless slaughter" that won't stop the U.S. from seeking peace in the Middle East.

GOP to pump $2.5 million to help Rubio in Florida

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 15:50:00 EDT

The Republican Party is supplying $2.5 million in advertising support to Marco Rubio's Senate campaign in Florida, a sizable commitment to a candidate the party once tried to push out of the contest.

Gates says history will judge worth of Iraq war

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 14:49:00 EDT

Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Wednesday that history will judge whether the war in Iraq was worth it.

US adds Pakistani Taliban to terrorism blacklist

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 14:29:00 EDT

The Obama administration on Wednesday added the Pakistani Taliban to its international terrorism blacklist, targeting the group blamed for the failed car bombing in New York's Times Square and its leaders with financial...

Obama: US combat in Iraq over, 'time to turn page'

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 13:29:00 EDT

Claiming no victory, President Barack Obama formally ended the U.S. combat role in Iraq after seven long years of bloodshed, declaring firmly Tuesday night: "It's time to turn the page." Now, he said, the nation's...

Sen. Murkowski's defeat marks major tea party win

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 13:09:00 EDT

Backed by the Tea Party Express and Sarah Palin, a little-known conservative lawyer from Alaska became the latest newcomer to the national political stage to take down an incumbent in 2010.

FACT CHECK: Is Iraq combat really over for US?

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 12:49:00 EDT

Despite President Barack Obama's declaration Tuesday of an end to the combat mission in Iraq, combat almost certainly lies ahead.

Obama opens long-shot talks on Mideast peace

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 12:29:00 EDT

President Barack Obama is opening a new round of Mideast peacemaking, bringing Israeli and Palestinian leaders together Wednesday for talks aimed at forging agreement within one year on a two-state solution: a sovereign...

Murkowski was 'capable, energetic' for Alaska

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 12:29:00 EDT

U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski's stunning defeat in the Alaska primary ends a 30-year family legacy of holding that seat, an era that spanned a majority of Alaska's statehood.

Federal agents descend on egg farms for 2nd time

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 12:29:00 EDT

Wright County Egg and Hillandale Farms, the two Iowa farms at the center of a salmonella outbreak and massive egg recall, have been visited by federal agents again.

Gates arrives in Iraq as combat mission ends

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 12:20:00 EDT

Defense Secretary Robert Gates has arrived in Iraq to meet with U.S. troops as they formally close down their combat mission.

White House sets dance series, Jamison tribute

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 09:09:00 EDT

First lady Michelle Obama has announced that several of the world's best-known dance companies will perform in the White House East Room next week for the Obama administration's first event celebrating dance.

Analysis: Has Iraq war really ended for Obama, US?

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 08:15:00 EDT

President Barack Obama kept a promise but took a risk in boldly declaring an end to 7½ years of war in Iraq and asserting that America had turned the page on the costly, divisive conflict.

Obama declares end to US combat mission in Iraq

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 07:35:00 EDT

President Barack Obama is declaring Operation Iraqi Freedom to be over with the end of the U.S. combat mission, and says it's now time "to turn the page" to give the Iraqi people full responsibility for their own...

Pawlenty health order as much about 2012 as Minn.

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 07:29:00 EDT

Take note, Mitt Romney.

House panel recommends 3 for further investigation

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 04:29:00 EDT

House investigators have recommended that three lawmakers be further investigated to determine whether political contributions were improperly linked to votes on the huge financial overhaul bill.

Obama says reviving economy the most urgent task

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 03:29:00 EDT

President Barack Obama says his central responsibility as president is to restore the nation's fragile economy and to help put the millions of people who lost jobs back to work.

In address, Obama pays tribute to George W. Bush

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 03:29:00 EDT

President Barack Obama is acknowledging that he and former President George W. Bush disagreed about the Iraq war from the beginning. But in his nationally televised address on the Iraq war, he pays tribute to Bush by calling...

Oval Office makeover has comfy, more modern feel

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 00:29:00 EDT

Congressional opponents, stubborn diplomats or wary heads of state, beware: The new Oval Office sofas look so comfy, you just might be lulled into a few reckless compromises.

Obama urges Iraqis to form inclusive government

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:49:00 EDT

President Barack Obama is calling on Iraq's leaders to act quickly to form an inclusive government.

Palin returns to Iowa for GOP's biggest fundraiser

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 22:09:00 EDT

Potential 2012 presidential candidate Sarah Palin will headline the Iowa Republican Party's biggest annual fundraiser, party officials announced Tuesday in the state that launches the presidential nominating process.

Obama remarks on Iraq as provided by White House

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 20:49:00 EDT

By The Associated Press Remarks by President Barack Obama on the end of combat operations in Iraq, as provided by the White House.

AP source: Unlikely that 2 men plotting terror

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 20:09:00 EDT

The FBI probe of two men arrested in Amsterdam after suspicious items turned up in one of the men's luggage is finding they were probably not on a test run for a future terror attack, a U.S. official said Tuesday,...

Black Caucus Foundation orders scholarship audit

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 20:09:00 EDT

An internal audit of the scholarship program of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation was under way Tuesday, sparked by the admission by Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson that she had steered scholarships to her relatives and...

Deja vu: 5 ex-governors in comeback bids

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 19:49:00 EDT

In an election year of the angry electorate, former governors in five states are hoping that a deja vu appeal sells better than the anti-establishment pitch.

US condemns killing of Israelis before peace talks

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 19:09:00 EDT

The United States is condemning in the "strongest possible terms" the killing of four Israelis traveling in the West Bank by the militant Hamas (hah-MAHS') movement on the eve of new peace talks between the Israelis and...

Black Caucus Foundation to probe its scholarships

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 19:09:00 EDT

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation will investigate its scholarship program following the admission by a House member that she wrongly steered scholarships to her relatives and the children of a staff member, the...

Some states suing feds also claim health subsidies

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:49:00 EDT

More than half a dozen states suing to overturn President Barack Obama's health care law are also claiming its subsidies for covering retired state government employees, according to a list released Tuesday by the...

Vt. primary recount a love fest

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:09:00 EDT

This isn't Florida in 2000, with chads hanging and people threatening to riot outside. No, call it a kinder, gentler recount.

DC Mayor faces stiff challenge in re-election bid

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:29:00 EDT

The man who runs Washington is in danger of losing his job in a hotly contested election, but the post that's up for grabs isn't president. It's mayor.

Govt investigating steering in Hyundai Sonata

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:09:00 EDT

The government has opened an investigation into possible steering problems in the 2011 Hyundai Sonata.

Medicare expands coverage to help smokers quit

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:49:00 EDT

They've lived with the health warnings about smoking for much of their lives and doubtless seen the ill effects on friends, relatives and even themselves, yet about 4.5 million older people in the U.S. keep on lighting...

On day Iraq combat mission ends, Obama phones Bush

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:50:00 EDT

As he prepares to herald the end of the U.S. combat mission in Iraq, President Barack Obama has spoken by phone to former President George W. Bush.

Clemens, in court, tells judge: 'Not guilty'

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:49:00 EDT

Roger Clemens put his right hand on the lectern, leaned down toward the microphone and made what might be the most important pitch of his life: "Not guilty, your honor."

Vt. primary results are official, but recount set

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:49:00 EDT

The results of last week's Vermont primary have been certified by the secretary of state, but that doesn't mean the election's over.

US investigates potential terrorist test run

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:49:00 EDT

U.S. law enforcement officials say investigators are looking into whether two men arrested in Amsterdam were conducting a dry run for a potential terrorist attack.

WH: Men held in Netherlands not on watch lists

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:49:00 EDT

White House spokesman Robert Gibbs says the two men being held in the Netherlands because of suspicious items in their luggage were not on any terror watch lists.

Gibbs: Combat troop pullout should be permanent

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:53:00 EDT

Presidential spokesman Robert Gibbs says he cannot foresee a circumstance in which the United States would have to send combat troops back to Iraq.

AP-GfK Poll: Most attuned voters tilt toward GOP

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:49:00 EDT

Americans with the strongest opinions about the country's most divisive issues are largely unhappy with how President Barack Obama is handling them, an ominous sign for Democrats hoping to retain control of Congress in...

Gates: All is not well as combat role ends

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:29:00 EDT

All is not well in Iraq as the United States formally closes down its combat mission there, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Tuesday, warning that political paralysis and continued sectarian violence cloud that...

CIA chief spices up spy shop's image on reality TV

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:18:00 EDT

Around a long table in a windowless room, the CIA officials awaited the decision from their director, Leon Panetta.

Analysis: US hopes for Iraq collided with reality

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:49:00 EDT

Shortly after U.S. troops captured Baghdad in April 2003, the U.S. military's top officer made a prediction about the future of Saddam Hussein's elite Republican Guard.

CAPITAL CULTURE: Obamas dish on daughters' doings

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:49:00 EDT

Twelve-year-old Malia Obama wears braces, toots a flute and is after her father to save the tigers. Younger sister Sasha, who is 9, shoots hoops like her basketball-loving dad and dances hip-hop.

Rodents, other contamination found at 2 egg farms

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:09:00 EDT

Food and Drug Administration investigators have found rodents, seeping manure and even maggots at the Iowa egg farms believed to be responsible for as many as 1,500 cases of salmonella poisoning.

Obama visits injured troops at Walter Reed

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 07:29:00 EDT

President Barack Obama met privately Monday with more than two dozen wounded U.S. soldiers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

How the poll on election issues was conducted

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:29:00 EDT

By The Associated Press The Associated Press-GfK Poll on election issues was conducted by GfK Roper Public Affairs & Corporate Communications from Aug. 11-16, 2010. It is based on landline and cell...

Obama's goal: End Iraq war, then win Mideast peace

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:29:00 EDT

Firmly and finally ending the U.S. combat mission in Iraq, President Barack Obama will have but a moment before trying to hasten peace nearby between Israelis and Palestinians. Left unclear is whether winding down the war...

AK Senate hopeful Miller seeks probe of observer

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:09:00 EDT

U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski says Republican rival Joe Miller may be creating doubt in the minds of Alaskans about the integrity of the voting process by ratcheting up the hyperbole about possible election fraud.

NYC House race boils down to Wall Street visions

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:09:00 EDT

It's an audacious gamble, even with anti-establishment fever running high: a former hedge fund lawyer trying to unseat a nine-term congresswoman popular in her district.

Roger Clemens pleads not guilty to charge of lying

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:09:00 EDT

Seven-time Cy Young winner Roger Clemens pleaded not guilty Monday to charges of lying to Congress about whether he used steroids or human growth hormone.

Obama expands sanctions against North Korea

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:09:00 EDT

The Obama administration on Monday widened the scope of U.S. financial penalties against North Korea, escalating pressure on the Pyongyang regime to give up its nuclear weapons.

Updated car stickers to include environmental info

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:09:00 EDT

Will your new car get an A in fuel efficiency? A government proposal may add letter grades to showroom window stickers on new cars and trucks to reflect a vehicle's overall fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions.

Tea Party Express vows involvement in Delaware

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 22:29:00 EDT

One week after helping engineer a surprise in Alaska, the Tea Party Express announced a six-figure commitment Monday to back Christine O'Donnell and her challenge to Delaware Rep. Mike Castle for the state's...

AK Senate hopeful seeks probe of election observer

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 22:09:00 EDT

U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski said Monday her Republican rival Joe Miller may be creating doubt in the minds of Alaskans about the integrity of the voting process by ratcheting up the hyperbole about possible election fraud.

Ex-congressman in Ohio has signatures to run again

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 21:09:00 EDT

An elections board in Ohio says a former congressman who served time in federal prison has enough valid signatures to run again for a U.S. House seat.

Obama won't say 'Mission Accomplished' in speech

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 20:29:00 EDT

The White House says there are two words President Barack Obama will not say Tuesday night in his speech about the end of the U.S. combat role in Iraq: "Mission accomplished."

House Democratic campaign arm goes negative

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 20:09:00 EDT

Democrats' House campaign committee is starting its first advertising blitz of the fall election cycle Tuesday with a TV spot hammering Wisconsin GOP candidate Sean Duffy, one of several Republicans who are threatening...

Arizona Senate candidate Glassman replaces manager

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:49:00 EDT

John McCain's Democratic challenger is replacing his campaign manager.

DOJ's elite Public Integrity unit gets new leader

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:49:00 EDT

The Justice Department's Public Integrity Section has a storied 34-year history of pursuing corruption in government and safeguarding the public trust.

Obama commits to revival of Gulf Coast

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:29:00 EDT

Five years after Hurricane Katrina's wrath, President Barack Obama sought to reassure disaster-weary Gulf Coast residents Sunday that he would not abandon their cause.

W.Va. gov. wins Democratic primary for US Senate

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:29:00 EDT

Popular Gov. Joe Manchin won the Democratic nomination Saturday and will face GOP primary winner and wealthy businessman John Raese in the race to fill the Senate seat vacated by the late Robert C. Byrd.

Dems' bright spots in foreboding election year

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:09:00 EDT

John Carney of Delaware is a rarity in a campaign season of foreboding for Democrats, a practicing politician with a strong chance of winning a Republican-held seat in Congress.

Obama says he isn't worried about Muslim rumors

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:09:00 EDT

President Barack Obama said Sunday he isn't worried about a recent poll showing that nearly one-fifth of Americans believe he is a Muslim. "The facts are the facts," said Obama, who is a Christian. In an interview...

Beck: Help us restore traditional American values

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:49:00 EDT

Conservative commentator Glenn Beck and tea party champion Sarah Palin appealed Saturday to a vast, predominantly white crowd on the National Mall to help restore traditional American values and honor Martin Luther...

Beck rally signals election trouble for Dems

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:29:00 EDT

If Democrats had doubts about the voter unrest that threatens to rob them of their majority in Congress, they needed only look from the Capitol this weekend to the opposite end of the National Mall.

First family ends Martha's Vineyard vacation

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:09:00 EDT

President Barack Obama has wrapped up his vacation on Martha's Vineyard and is heading for New Orleans to mark the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

Admin. official: FDA to inspect large egg farms

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:09:00 EDT

The Food and Drug Administration is planning to inspect all of the country's largest egg farms before the end of next year following the massive recall of tainted eggs linked to a salmonella outbreak that has sickened as...

Palin: Reject calls to 'fundamentally' change US

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 07:29:00 EDT

Sarah Palin says the way to honor Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy is to honor those men and women in the military who protect the United States.

DC's 'truth, honor' rally tests Glenn Beck's power

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 06:29:00 EDT

Glenn Beck, the man behind Saturday's rally at the site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous "I Have a Dream" speech, has built an empire around his own voice that grew exponentially with his move to Fox News Channel...

Lincoln turns re-election bid into earmark defense

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 03:29:00 EDT

Ignoring Republican complaints about wasteful federal spending, Democratic Sen. Blanche Lincoln is reminding voters - in dollars - of what's she's done for Arkansas during nearly 16 years in Washington.

Obama: Iraq war is ending, Baghdad to chart future

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 03:29:00 EDT

President Barack Obama said the withdrawal of U.S. combat troops from Iraq means "the war is ending" and Baghdad is in position "to chart its own course."

Beck draws on Obama stump speech from 2008 race

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 19:09:00 EDT

Glenn Beck is borrowing some lines from President Barack Obama.

Tea party activists rally on Capitol Hill

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 14:49:00 EDT

Tea party activists say they plan to hold politicians accountable in the coming elections for too much government spending and too little attention paid to the Constitution.

For Obamas, a (mostly) uninterrupted vacation

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 10:08:00 EDT

President Barack Obama wrapped up a 10-day vacation Saturday that was blissfully free of the news emergencies that have interrupted some of his past getaways.

W.Va. governor wins Dem primary for US Senate

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 08:09:00 EDT

Shooting leaves Columbus teenager dead

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 10:48:00 EDT

Columbus Police tell News Leader 9 that a Friday night shooting has left one teenager dead.

Hostage situation at Fort Stewart ends peacefully

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 11:29:00 EDT

Authorities at Fort Stewart are investigating a hostage situation that occurred Monday morning.

Marion County inmates captured after bold escape

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 18:27:00 EDT

MARION COUNTY, GA (WTVM) - Two Marion County inmates have been captured after officials say they got out of the front door of the county jail. For one of the men, this is his second failed attempt at freedom in the past several weeks.

Auburn woman dies following two-car wreck in E. Alabama

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 10:31:00 EDT

LEE COUNTY, AL - A female passenger that was involved in a two-vehicle accident on Saturday has died from her injuries.

Man killed in downtown Columbus

Fri, 3 Sep 2010 17:16:00 EDT

The search is on in Columbus for two suspects believed to be connected to a fatal shooting in the Downtown area. Investigators have launched the city's 7th murder investigation of the year.

Man beaten and robbed in the street

Sun, 5 Sep 2010 20:23:00 EDT

Columbus police are looking for the person who they say beat and robbed a man downtown.

Man indicted after wife eaten by maggots

Trina Edwards — Sat, 4 Sep 2010 08:23:00 EDT

A Madisonville man has been indicted after investigators say his wife was eaten by maggots as she lay in her bed dying.

Report: Van der Sloot concedes extorting Holloways

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 12:28:00 EDT

The Dutchman charged with killing a 21-year-old Peruvian woman and suspected in the disappearance of U.S. teenager Natalee Holloway has acknowledged extorting money from Holloway's parents and says he did it to get back...

Public invited to high-tech scavenger hunt

Mon, 6 Sep 2010 10:37:00 EDT

COLUMBUS, GA — Columbus State University's Department of History and Geography invites all ages from the community to join CSU students, faculty and staff for a high-tech scavenger hunt using Global Positioning Systems (GPS).

LaGrange woman shot, suspect behind bars

Sun, 5 Sep 2010 20:30:00 EDT

Police say a woman was shot Saturday night in the leg on McGregor Street in LaGrange, Georgia.