2chambers - Breaking news and analysis from Capitol Hill.

Posted at 06:02 AM ET, 12/08/2011

Barack Obama: the ‘food-stamp president’?

By Glenn Kessler

FACT CHECKER | We examine Newt Gingrich’s claim that Obama is “the finest food stamp president in American history.”

By Glenn Kessler | 06:02 AM ET, 12/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Categories: 1 Pinocchio, Barack Obama, Newt Gingrich | Tags: 1 Pinocchio, GOP Candidates, Newt Gingrich, Barack Obama

Posted at 05:24 PM ET, 06/29/2011

Trade deals with Colombia, Panama and South Korea may hit speed bump in House

By Felicia Sonmez

Three key trade deals, with Colombia, Panama and South Korea, agreed to Tuesday by the White House and congressional negotiators may come up against a hurdle in the House.

By Felicia Sonmez | 05:24 PM ET, 06/29/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:16 PM ET, 06/29/2011

Boehner: Obama ‘sorely mistaken’ on debt limit

By Felicia Sonmez

House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) on Wednesday hit back at the president after Obama called on congressional Republicans to eliminate tax breaks for the wealthy as part of a deal on raising the country’s $14.3 trillion debt ceiling.

By Felicia Sonmez | 04:16 PM ET, 06/29/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:38 PM ET, 06/29/2011

Romney supports ‘cut, cap, balance’ pledge

By Felicia Sonmez

Mitt Romney said Wednesday that he supports a pledge calling for significant spending cuts and caps as well as a balanced-budget amendment.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:38 PM ET, 06/29/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:14 PM ET, 06/29/2011

Standard & Poor’s threatens ‘selective default’ if Congress misses debt-limit deadline

By Felicia Sonmez

The United States risks having its credit rating downgraded to “selective default” if it misses a debt payment by early August, the head of one of the leading credit-rating agencies warned Wednesday.

By Felicia Sonmez | 02:14 PM ET, 06/29/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:30 PM ET, 06/29/2011

Senate Republicans launch new effort on balanced budget amendment

By Rosalind S. Helderman and Felicia Sonmez

Senate Republicans launched an aggressive push Wednesday to amend the Constitution to require a balanced budget.

By Rosalind S. Helderman and Felicia Sonmez | 12:30 PM ET, 06/29/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:43 AM ET, 06/29/2011

13 Democratic senators unveil ‘It Gets Better’ video for gay youths

By Felicia Sonmez

Democratic senators release a video for the “It Gets Better” project highlighting Democrats’ efforts on gay rights issues.

By Felicia Sonmez | 11:43 AM ET, 06/29/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:50 PM ET, 06/28/2011

Senate panel backs Libya mission, but rejects Obama stance on congressional approval

By David A. Fahrenthold

A Senate committee approved a resolution that would formally authorize a limited military campaign in Libya, after rejecting President Obama’s argument he does not need congress’s approval.

By David A. Fahrenthold | 05:50 PM ET, 06/28/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:25 PM ET, 06/28/2011

Ethics group calls for FBI investigation into Rep. Laura Richardson

By Felicia Sonmez

An ethics watchdog group is calling for the FBI to conduct a criminal investigation into Rep. Laura Richardson (D-Calif.).

By Felicia Sonmez | 05:25 PM ET, 06/28/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:55 PM ET, 06/28/2011

Congressional negotiators strike deal on trade pacts with Colombia, Panama and South Korea

By Felicia Sonmez and Rosalind S. Helderman

By Felicia Sonmez and Rosalind S. Helderman | 01:55 PM ET, 06/28/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:24 PM ET, 06/28/2011

Senate confirms James Cole as deputy attorney general after year-long battle

By Felicia Sonmez

The Senate on Tuesday confirmed James Cole as U.S. deputy attorney general, bringing to a close a year-long battle between congressional Republicans and the White House.

By Felicia Sonmez | 01:24 PM ET, 06/28/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:12 PM ET, 06/28/2011

Obama adviser makes case to Senate panel for involvement in Libya

By David A. Fahrenthold

State Department lawyer got a chilly reception Tuesday when he argued that the Libyan operation should not count as “hostilities.”

By David A. Fahrenthold | 12:12 PM ET, 06/28/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:47 PM ET, 06/27/2011

Fiscal reform panel’s co-chairs call for $2 trillion debt-ceiling deal

By Felicia Sonmez

The leaders of the fiscal reform commission are calling for a deal to raise the country’s debt ceiling in exchange for $2 trillion in deficit savings.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:47 PM ET, 06/27/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:20 PM ET, 06/27/2011

The week ahead on the Hill: Obama meets with Reid, McConnell; Senate moves on Libya

By Felicia Sonmez

A detailed look at the week ahead on Capitol Hill.

By Felicia Sonmez | 01:20 PM ET, 06/27/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:04 AM ET, 06/27/2011

Ahead of Obama meeting on debt, McConnell says taxes should be off the table

By Felicia Sonmez

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell on Monday renewed his call for tax increases to be off the table, hours before he is set to huddle with President Obama on the debt.

By Felicia Sonmez | 11:04 AM ET, 06/27/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:51 AM ET, 06/27/2011

Report: Bachmann benefited from government funding

By Felicia Sonmez

As Rep. Michele Bachmann launches her White House 2012 bid Monday, a new report shows that she has benefited from the kind of government aid she criticizes.

By Felicia Sonmez | 09:51 AM ET, 06/27/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:13 PM ET, 06/24/2011

Is Congress confused on Libya?

By Felicia Sonmez

As of Friday, the House has held four votes on Libya – and at first glance, the message members are sending to the administration seems somewhat muddled.

By Felicia Sonmez | 04:13 PM ET, 06/24/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:28 PM ET, 06/24/2011

House rejects measure to cut funding for Libya mission

By David A. Fahrenthold

The House on Friday voted to reject a resolution that would have authorized the military operation in Libya, delivering a rebuke to President Obama.

By David A. Fahrenthold | 12:28 PM ET, 06/24/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:54 AM ET, 06/24/2011

Boehner: Tax hikes in a debt deal proposal ‘cannot pass’ House

By Felicia Sonmez

House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) on Friday reiterated his pledge to oppose any comprehensive deficit-reduction deal that increases taxes.

By Felicia Sonmez | 11:54 AM ET, 06/24/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:06 PM ET, 06/23/2011

At confirmation hearing for CIA post, Petraeus peppered with Afghan drawdown questions

By Felicia Sonmez

On track for confirmation as CIA director, Gen. David H. Petraeus was peppered with questions on Capitol Hill Thursday on the Afghanistan troop drawdown.

By Felicia Sonmez | 06:06 PM ET, 06/23/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:59 PM ET, 06/23/2011

Lawmakers, reporters to face off at third annual congressional women’s softball game

By Felicia Sonmez

Will the third time be the charm for the women of Congress? Or will the ladies of the congressional press corps go for a two-peat?

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:59 PM ET, 06/23/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:30 PM ET, 06/23/2011

Cantor pulls out of deficit-reduction talks, citing impasse over tax increases

By Felicia Sonmez

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.) on Thursday announced that he was pulling out of the debt-limit talks being led by Vice President Biden, citing an impasse over tax increases.

By Felicia Sonmez | 12:30 PM ET, 06/23/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:39 PM ET, 06/22/2011

Capitol Hill reaction to Obama’s Afghanistan address swift, varied

By Felicia Sonmez

President Obama on Wednesday night delivered his highly-anticipated address on the drawdown of U.S. forces in Afghanistan, and the reaction from members of Congress was swift and varied.

By Felicia Sonmez | 08:39 PM ET, 06/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:28 PM ET, 06/22/2011

Judicial Watch: Ethics office looks into allegations against Rep. Alcee Hastings

By Felicia Sonmez

The head of Judicial Watch says the congressional ethics office is looking into sexual harassment allegations against Rep. Alcee Hastings (D-Fla.).

By Felicia Sonmez | 05:28 PM ET, 06/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:15 PM ET, 06/22/2011

House Republicans consider bill to revoke funds for Libyan operations

By David A. Fahrenthold

House GOP members said that Libya-related resolutions offered by party leaders did not offer a strong enough rebuke of President Obama.

By David A. Fahrenthold | 05:15 PM ET, 06/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:37 PM ET, 06/22/2011

Harry Reid connects stimulus money and 2011 job growth in Post live Q&A

By Washington Post editors

When asked about unused stimulus money in a Post live Q&A, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said funds from the economic recovery act had created jobs in 2011.

By Washington Post editors | 04:37 PM ET, 06/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:24 PM ET, 06/22/2011

Is the Republican Party taking an isolationist turn?

By Felicia Sonmez

Is the Republican Party – which has in recent years been home to more hawks than doves -- actually taking a turn toward isolationism?

By Felicia Sonmez | 04:24 PM ET, 06/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:28 PM ET, 06/22/2011

Is the Republican Party really taking an isolationist turn?

By Felicia Sonmez

Is the Republican Party, in recent years been home to more hawks than doves, turning against international engagement? Not exactly.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:28 PM ET, 06/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:42 AM ET, 06/22/2011

Boehner says he’ll support Obama on Afghanistan if military officials weighed in

By Felicia Sonmez

House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) expressed support for Obama’s draw-down of troops– if it is based on the recommendations of military and diplomatic officials on the ground.

By Felicia Sonmez | 11:42 AM ET, 06/22/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:00 PM ET, 06/21/2011

House to consider two Libya resolutions this week

By Felicia Sonmez

The House this week will consider two resolutions on the U.S. mission in Libya, as both parties continue to be roiled by disagreement among members over U.S. participation in the NATO-led effort.

By Felicia Sonmez | 09:00 PM ET, 06/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:29 PM ET, 06/21/2011

Harry Reid to chat about jobs and more: Post questions now

By Washington Post editors

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) will be online on Wednesday at 2 p.m. ET to answer reader questions about ongoing Democratic efforts on job creation and more.

By Washington Post editors | 05:29 PM ET, 06/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:10 PM ET, 06/21/2011

Senate unanimously confirms Leon Panetta to serve as defense secretary

By Felicia Sonmez

Senate’s unanimous confirmation comes amid sweeping changes to Obama’s national security team.

By Felicia Sonmez | 05:10 PM ET, 06/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:45 PM ET, 06/21/2011

Reid: I’d back Huntsman over Romney for president

By Felicia Sonmez

Hours after formally announcing his presidential bid, former ambassador to China Jon Huntsman (R) won an endorsement from an unexpected source: Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.).

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:45 PM ET, 06/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:20 PM ET, 06/21/2011

Kerry, McCain to introduce bipartisan resolution on Libya

By Felicia Sonmez

Two of the Senate’s leading voices on foreign policy announced Tuesday that they plan to introduce a resolution authorizing the limited use of military force in Libya.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:20 PM ET, 06/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:51 PM ET, 06/21/2011

As ‘crunch time’ approaches, Cantor rejects vote on short-term debt limit

By Felicia Sonmez

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor said Tuesday that calling a vote on whether to raise the debt ceiling for a few months would run counter to Republicans’ goal of making big changes to the government’s spending habits.

By Felicia Sonmez | 02:51 PM ET, 06/21/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:51 PM ET, 06/20/2011

Conservatives warn House Republicans not to defund Libyan mission

By Felicia Sonmez

A group of 37 former administration officials, academics and foreign policy figures on Monday sent a letter to House Republicans urging them not to defund the U.S. military mission in Libya.

By Felicia Sonmez | 05:51 PM ET, 06/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:12 PM ET, 06/20/2011

Weiner to officially resign Tuesday

By Felicia Sonmez

Anthony Weiner may have announced his resignation last week, but he’s technically not a former member of Congress – yet.

By Felicia Sonmez | 04:12 PM ET, 06/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:52 PM ET, 06/20/2011

Democrats react to Supreme Court ruling on Wal-Mart

By Felicia Sonmez

Democratic lawmakers on Capitol Hill and others reacted Monday to the news that the Supreme Court had blocked a sex-discrimination lawsuit against Wal-Mart involving as many as 1.6 million women, a ruling that could have repercussions for others seeking to mount sweeping class-action lawsuits against large companies.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:52 PM ET, 06/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:27 AM ET, 06/20/2011

The week ahead on the Hill: Senate votes on Panetta, Petraeus testifies, and the Biden group steps up the pace (again)

By Felicia Sonmez

On the schedule for this week: The Senate votes on Panetta, Petraeus testifies and the Biden group steps up the pace (again).

By Felicia Sonmez | 06:27 AM ET, 06/20/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:42 PM ET, 06/19/2011

McConnell: Short-term raising of debt ceiling possible if comprehensive deal isn’t reached

By Felicia Sonmez

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said Sunday that if a deal isn’t reached this summer, Congress could pass a temporary measure.

By Felicia Sonmez | 01:42 PM ET, 06/19/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:40 PM ET, 06/17/2011

Boehner: Obama has not sufficiently answered questions on Libya

By Felicia Sonmez

House Speaker John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) on Friday evening delivered his strongest criticism yet of President Obama’s decision three months ago to intervene militarily in Libya, saying in a statement that the White House has not sufficiently answered lawmakers’ questions about the mission and that the House may take action as soon as next week aimed at halting the U.S. involvement.

By Felicia Sonmez | 09:40 PM ET, 06/17/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:51 PM ET, 06/17/2011

Reid: Deficit-reduction talks should continue through recess

By Felicia Sonmez

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) on Friday said that he believes the bipartisan, bicameral deficit-reduction talks being led by the White House should continue through both chambers’ planned recesses this summer.

By Felicia Sonmez | 07:51 PM ET, 06/17/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:44 PM ET, 06/17/2011

The Friday five: What to look out for this weekend

By Felicia Sonmez

Here’s what to keep your eye on this weekend.

By Felicia Sonmez | 05:44 PM ET, 06/17/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:16 PM ET, 06/17/2011

Kucinich to offer amendment that would defund U.S. operations in Libya

By Felicia Sonmez

Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio) plans to introduce a measure next week that would defund the U.S. military involvement in Libya.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:16 PM ET, 06/17/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:35 PM ET, 06/17/2011

In debt-ceiling debate, a surprisingly civil tone emerges

By Felicia Sonmez

The highest-stakes political battle to date in the 112th Congress has been largely absent the partisan rancor, name-calling and – for lack of a better term -- blamesmanship that typically mark most spending fights in Washington.

By Felicia Sonmez | 01:35 PM ET, 06/17/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:10 AM ET, 06/17/2011

Tex. congressman explains large credit card debt

By David A. Fahrenthold

Freshman Rep. Blake Farenthold issued a statement Thursday explaining a large amount of credit card debt that was listed on his official financial disclosure report.

By David A. Fahrenthold | 11:10 AM ET, 06/17/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:47 AM ET, 06/17/2011

Lawmakers call on Obama to re-sign Patriot Act, question previous autopen signature

By Felicia Sonmez

Twenty-one Republican House members are calling on President Obama to re-sign a measure extending key provisions of the Patriot Act, which was already signed with an autopen.

By Felicia Sonmez | 10:47 AM ET, 06/17/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:32 PM ET, 06/16/2011

Biden on deficit-reduction talks: ‘We’re not going to cut any deal that can’t be sold’

By Felicia Sonmez

Congressional leaders and the White House are working toward a comprehensive deficit-reduction plan that will be able to secure significant support among members of both parties, Vice President Biden said Thursday evening after his eighth round of talks with bipartisan members of Congress.

By Felicia Sonmez | 08:32 PM ET, 06/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:55 PM ET, 06/16/2011

On Capitol Hill, relief, regret at Weiner resignation

By Felicia Sonmez

The overwhelming reaction, among lawmakers from both parties: Weiner’s decision was the right one, long overdue.

By Felicia Sonmez | 04:55 PM ET, 06/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:59 AM ET, 06/16/2011

Pelosi: No comment on Weiner

By Felicia Sonmez

At a news conference Thursday, the House minority leader made it clear she was not interested in making any comment on Rep. Anthony Weiner’s plan to resign.

By Felicia Sonmez | 11:59 AM ET, 06/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:00 AM ET, 06/16/2011

Boehner: Obama’s Libya report ‘doesn’t pass the straight-face test’

By Felicia Sonmez

House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) criticized the Obama administration’s 32-page report on U.S. operations in Libya and called on the president to submit further details to Congress.

By Felicia Sonmez | 11:00 AM ET, 06/16/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:41 PM ET, 06/15/2011

Members of Congress respond to Obama on Libya

By Felicia Sonmez

As of Wednesday evening, most lawmakers had yet to formally respond to the Obama administration’s 32-page report to Congress defending the president’s decision to commit U.S. troops to the conflict in Libya. Below are responses from the handful of lawmakers who have responded to the report; we’ll update this post as more responses come in.

By Felicia Sonmez | 09:41 PM ET, 06/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:26 PM ET, 06/15/2011

Top Senate Republican suggests eliminating energy tax breaks to reduce debt

By Felicia Sonmez and Lori Montgomery

One day after a majority of Republicans voted to do away with ethanol subsidies, the Senate’s No. 3 Republican said Wednesday that he is working on legislation that could eliminate a variety of energy tax subsidies and dedicate the proceeds to debt reduction.

By Felicia Sonmez and Lori Montgomery | 06:26 PM ET, 06/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:56 PM ET, 06/15/2011

Twenty-seven senators call for shift in Afghanistan strategy

By Felicia Sonmez

More than two-dozen senators on Wednesday sent a letter to President Obama urging him to hasten the drawdown of U.S. troops in Afghanistan.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:56 PM ET, 06/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:04 PM ET, 06/15/2011

Second round of Biden talks wraps up as Democrats continue pressing for revenue increases

By Felicia Sonmez

Congressional leaders wrapped up their second deficit-reduction meeting this week as Senate Democrats seized on a vote to repeal ethanol subsidies as a sign of progress with the GOP

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:04 PM ET, 06/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:31 PM ET, 06/15/2011

Rep. Tim Walberg got cash from group focused on debt

By David S. Fallis

By David S. Fallis | 02:31 PM ET, 06/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:45 PM ET, 06/15/2011

Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart stocks his legal defense fund

By Kimberly Kindy

By Kimberly Kindy | 01:45 PM ET, 06/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:42 PM ET, 06/15/2011

Kucinich, other House members file lawsuit against Obama on Libya military mission

By Felicia Sonmez

Ten House members led by Rep. Dennis Kucinich are filing a complaint in federal court against President Obama for taking military action in Libya without congressional approval.

By Felicia Sonmez | 12:42 PM ET, 06/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:36 PM ET, 06/15/2011

Nancy and Paul Pelosi have a plethora of real-estate and high-tech holdings

By Paul Kane

Pelosis holdings spread across property investments in northern California and a litany of Fortune 500 companies, particularly regionally-based high-tech companies such as Yahoo! and EBay.

By Paul Kane | 12:36 PM ET, 06/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:31 AM ET, 06/15/2011

House Democrats: Republicans trying to ‘censor’ mailings critical of GOP Medicare plan

By Felicia Sonmez

Some House Democrats are accusing Republicans of trying to censor mailers to their constituents because they criticize the GOP plan to overhaul Medicare.

By Felicia Sonmez | 10:31 AM ET, 06/15/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:59 PM ET, 06/14/2011

Bernanke to Congress: Don’t allow the U.S. to default

By Felicia Sonmez

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said Tuesday that a failure to raise the debt ceiling this summer is not an option.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:59 PM ET, 06/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:55 PM ET, 06/14/2011

Marco Rubio’s first Senate speech lauds U.S. as worldwide protector of liberties

By David A. Fahrenthold

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) made his first speech on the Senate floor Tuesday, offering a sweeping defense of America’s role as a protector of liberties around the world.

By David A. Fahrenthold | 03:55 PM ET, 06/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:47 PM ET, 06/14/2011

Fellow New York Democrat says Weiner may resign soon

By Felicia Sonmez

Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-N.Y.) said Tuesday that Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.) may soon resign his seat, but didn’t say how she came by the information.

By Felicia Sonmez | 01:47 PM ET, 06/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:01 PM ET, 06/14/2011

Biden-led deficit talks resume Tuesday as negotiations catch speed

By Felicia Sonmez

Vice President Biden and a group of six bipartisan, bicameral congressional leaders meet again at the Capitol on Tuesday for their sixth round of talks on a deficit-reduction plan.

By Felicia Sonmez | 01:01 PM ET, 06/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:39 AM ET, 06/14/2011

Weiner’s circle of friends, though ‘appalled’ by behavior, remains loyal

By Felicia Sonmez

The Brooklyn Democrat retains a core group of about 10 supporters in the House who are standing by their friend even as they condemn his behavior.

By Felicia Sonmez | 10:39 AM ET, 06/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:39 AM ET, 06/14/2011

Weiner’s circle of friends, though ‘appalled’ by behavior, remains loyal

By Felicia Sonmez

The Brooklyn Democrat retains a core group of about 10 supporters in the House who are standing by their friend even as they condemn his behavior.

By Felicia Sonmez | 10:39 AM ET, 06/14/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:36 PM ET, 06/13/2011

House passes another Libya rebuke of Obama

By David A. Fahrenthold

The House approved Monday an amendment designed as another symbolic rebuke of President Obama over the Libya campaign.

By David A. Fahrenthold | 10:36 PM ET, 06/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:28 PM ET, 06/13/2011

House approves Weiner’s leave of absence

By Felicia Sonmez

The House on Monday approved a request by Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.) for a two-week leave of absence.

By Felicia Sonmez | 08:28 PM ET, 06/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:02 PM ET, 06/13/2011

What happens when a member of Congress takes a leave of absence?

By Felicia Sonmez

Disgraced Rep. Anthony Weiner’s (D-N.Y.) announcement Saturday that he is seeking a leave of absence from his congressional duties rather than resigning his seat was met with dissatisfaction by party leaders, who responded with a series of coordinated statements calling on Weiner to step down.

By Felicia Sonmez | 06:02 PM ET, 06/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:18 PM ET, 06/13/2011

Cantor: Democrats should take away Weiner’s committee assignments

By Felicia Sonmez

The House majority leader suggested that Democratic leaders remove Weiner from his perch on a key committee if he does not resign.

By Felicia Sonmez | 02:18 PM ET, 06/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:31 AM ET, 06/13/2011

The week ahead on the Hill: Deficit-reduction talks speed up; House returns after Weiner scandal

By Felicia Sonmez

A look at the week ahead on Capitol Hill: Deificit reduction talks speed up; House returns after Weiner scandal.

By Felicia Sonmez | 09:31 AM ET, 06/13/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:44 PM ET, 06/12/2011

As calls for Weiner’s resignation grow, new photos surface

By Felicia Sonmez

One day after senior Democratic lawmakers called on Rep. Anthony Weiner to resign, new suggestive photos taken by the New York lawmaker surface online.

By Felicia Sonmez | 02:44 PM ET, 06/12/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:25 PM ET, 06/10/2011

Delaware police inquire about teenager’s interaction with Weiner

By Felicia Sonmez

Police in New Castle, Del., have questioned a 17-year-old high school student regarding her online communications with Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.), FoxNews.com reported Friday night.

By Felicia Sonmez | 07:25 PM ET, 06/10/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:35 PM ET, 06/10/2011

The Friday five: What to watch for this weekend

By Felicia Sonmez

Five things to keep an eye on heading into the weekend.

By Felicia Sonmez | 06:35 PM ET, 06/10/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:33 PM ET, 06/10/2011

Ohio Gov. John Kasich to join Boehner, Obama, Biden for golf

By Felicia Sonmez

Ohio Gov. John Kasich (R) will be joining House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio), President Obama and Vice President Biden for a golf summit next weekend.

By Felicia Sonmez | 05:33 PM ET, 06/10/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:21 PM ET, 06/10/2011

Purported Gaddafi letter presses Congress for cease-fire

By Felicia Sonmez

Some congressional leaders have received a letter purportedly authored by Libyan leader Moammar Gaddafi calling for a cease-fire and for humanitarian aid.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:21 PM ET, 06/10/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:00 PM ET, 06/10/2011

House Foreign Affairs chairwoman demands answers from Clinton on Libya

By Felicia Sonmez

The chairwoman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs is urging Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to give Congress detailed answers on the U.S. military intervention in Libya.

By Felicia Sonmez | 01:00 PM ET, 06/10/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:26 PM ET, 06/10/2011

Adam Jentleson to become top Reid spokesman

By Felicia Sonmez

Adam Jentleson, the deputy communications director for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Senate Democrats’ messaging operation, is slated to become the Nevada Democrat’s new communications director, sources said Friday.

By Felicia Sonmez | 12:26 PM ET, 06/10/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:55 PM ET, 06/09/2011

King to hold second hearing on radicalization among American Muslims

By Felicia Sonmez

Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.) announced Thursday that he has scheduled a Homeland Security Committee hearing for next week, examining “The Threat of Muslim-American Radicalization in U.S. Prisons.”

By Felicia Sonmez | 06:55 PM ET, 06/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:29 PM ET, 06/09/2011

Biden group debt-ceiling negotiators agree to step up pace

By Felicia Sonmez

Congressional leaders emerged from the fifth round of deficit reduction talks led by Vice President Biden pledging to accelerate the pace of their meetings.

By Felicia Sonmez | 04:29 PM ET, 06/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:05 PM ET, 06/09/2011

Weiner: I’m not resigning

By Felicia Sonmez

New York Democratic Rep. Anthony Weiner maintained Thursday that he does not plan to resign his seat, despite growing calls from members of his own party.

By Felicia Sonmez | 02:05 PM ET, 06/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:48 AM ET, 06/09/2011

What to watch for in today’s Biden-led deficit-reduction talks

By Lori Montgomery and Felicia Sonmez

The group led by Vice President Biden sits down today for its fifth meeting on deficit reduction. Here’s what to watch for.

By Lori Montgomery and Felicia Sonmez | 11:48 AM ET, 06/09/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:31 PM ET, 06/08/2011

Conservative duo sought Issa’s help on Weiner

By Felicia Sonmez

E-mails show two members of a group of conservative Twitter users requested assistance from Rep. Darrell Issa’s office in exposing Rep. Anthony Weiner’s inappropriate online communications.

By Felicia Sonmez | 05:31 PM ET, 06/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:02 PM ET, 06/08/2011

Senators add voices to House rebuke of Obama over Libya campaign

By David A. Fahrenthold and Paul Kane

President Obama’s hopes that the Senate would vote to support the military campaign in Libya seemed to be fading Wednesday. Instead, the same kind of discontent that led the House to rebuke Obama over Libya last week seems to be spreading to Congress’ other chamber.

By David A. Fahrenthold and Paul Kane | 05:02 PM ET, 06/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:56 PM ET, 06/08/2011

Warner: Gang of Six still ‘best hope’ for deficit-reduction deal

By Felicia Sonmez

Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) said he believes the Senate working group, rather than a separate group being led by Vice President Biden, offers the best possibility for a deficit-reduction deal.

By Felicia Sonmez | 02:56 PM ET, 06/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:10 PM ET, 06/08/2011

Utah’s Bob Bennett: 2012 election may not be as anti-incumbent as 2010

By Felicia Sonmez

Will 2012 be another anti-incumbent year? One of the first casualties of last cycle’s “throw the bums out” fervor says probably not.

By Felicia Sonmez | 02:10 PM ET, 06/08/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:19 PM ET, 06/07/2011

With Senate talks in flux, Webb crafts alternate Libya resolution

By Ben Pershing

Pushback against President Obama’s military operation in Libya entered a new phase Tuesday, as a Senate resolution supporting the White House appeared stalled.

By Ben Pershing | 05:19 PM ET, 06/07/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:36 PM ET, 06/07/2011

Pelosi requests Weiner investigation

By Felicia Sonmez

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi has written to the House Ethics Committee formally requesting an investigation into whether Rep. Anthony Weiner broke House rules in the scandal involving inappropriate communications with several women online.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:36 PM ET, 06/07/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:24 AM ET, 06/07/2011

RNC chairman Priebus calls on Weiner to resign

By Felicia Sonmez

Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus on Tuesday called on Rep. Anthony Weiner to resign, one day after Weiner admitted that he had lied about sending a lewd photo.

By Felicia Sonmez | 11:24 AM ET, 06/07/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:58 AM ET, 06/07/2011

Kucinich releases ten-point ‘plan for peace’ in Libya

By Felicia Sonmez

Ohio Democratic Rep. Dennis Kucinich on Tuesday released a plan for “an immediate cease-fire and transition to a stable, democratic Libya.”

By Felicia Sonmez | 10:58 AM ET, 06/07/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:55 PM ET, 06/06/2011

Pelosi calls for ethics investigation of Weiner’s conduct

By Felicia Sonmez

Republicans took aim at Democratic congressional leaders after Rep. Anthony Weiner admitted that he engaged in “inappropriate” online relationships.

By Felicia Sonmez | 05:55 PM ET, 06/06/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:56 AM ET, 06/06/2011

The week ahead on the Hill: 5th round of Biden talks, Panetta and Mueller visit Capitol Hill

By Felicia Sonmez

A look at the week ahead on Capitol Hill.

By Felicia Sonmez | 07:56 AM ET, 06/06/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:08 PM ET, 06/03/2011

Obama, Boehner headed for golf summit

By Paul Kane

After months of public anticipation, President Obama and House Speaker John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) have settled on a date to play golf together: Saturday, June 18.

By Paul Kane | 06:08 PM ET, 06/03/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:36 PM ET, 06/03/2011

The Friday Five: What to keep your eye on heading into the weekend

By Felicia Sonmez

We’re starting a new feature this week: The Friday Five – a list of five things to keep your eye on heading into the weekend.

By Felicia Sonmez | 05:36 PM ET, 06/03/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:07 PM ET, 06/03/2011

Weiner cancels Wisconsin appearance to spend time with wife

By Felicia Sonmez

Rep. Anthony Weiner, at the center of a media firestorm after a lewd photo appeared on his Twitter stream, has canceled a Wisconsin appearance in order to spend time with his wife.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:07 PM ET, 06/03/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:47 PM ET, 06/03/2011

Party lines blur as House debates Kucinich, Boehner Libya resolutions

By Felicia Sonmez

Traditional party allegiances seemed to mean little Friday as House members took to the floor to speak out on U.S. involvement in Libya.

By Felicia Sonmez | 01:47 PM ET, 06/03/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:48 AM ET, 06/03/2011

House Republicans slam White House over jobs report

By Felicia Sonmez

House Republican leaders used a jobs report released Friday to slam White House economic policies and to make their case for a deficit-reduction deal with spending cuts.

By Felicia Sonmez | 10:48 AM ET, 06/03/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:29 PM ET, 06/02/2011

House Democrats talk debt limit, Afghanistan with Obama

By Felicia Sonmez and Paul Kane

At a White House meeting, House Democrats and President Obama reemphasized their opposition to House Republicans’ 2012 budget blueprint and their call for revenue increases to be included in any longer-term deficit-reduction deal.

By Felicia Sonmez and Paul Kane | 08:29 PM ET, 06/02/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:57 PM ET, 06/02/2011

Moody’s warning on debt deal supports Republican demands, Boehner says

By Felicia Sonmez

House Speaker John Boehner said Thursday that a new report by Moody’s backs up House Republicans’ position that any deficit-reduction package must include significant spending cuts.

By Felicia Sonmez | 04:57 PM ET, 06/02/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:44 PM ET, 06/02/2011

Cantor, Boehner split on response to Weiner photo

By Felicia Sonmez

The House leaders on Thursday gave contrasting responses to the incident involving a lewd photo sent from Rep. Anthony Weiner’s (D-N.Y.) Twitter account.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:44 PM ET, 06/02/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:56 PM ET, 06/02/2011

Boehner says vote on Libya could come by tomorrow

By David A. Fahrenthold and Felicia Sonmez

House Speaker John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) appeared to indicate that there will be a vote Friday on some kind of resolution related to the U.S. military campaign in Libya.

By David A. Fahrenthold and Felicia Sonmez | 02:56 PM ET, 06/02/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:36 PM ET, 06/02/2011

What to watch for in Geithner’s meeting with House freshmen

By Felicia Sonmez

Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner is slated to huddle from 4 to 5:30 p.m. today with freshman House members in a Capitol conference room.

By Felicia Sonmez | 01:36 PM ET, 06/02/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:55 AM ET, 06/02/2011

GOP bill expresses ‘disapproval’ of U.S. military operations in Libya

By David A. Fahrenthold

A Republican congressman, with dozens of GOP co-sponsors, has introduced a resolution expressing “disapproval” of U.S. military operations in Libya — another sign of growing discontent with that campaign on Capitol Hill.

By David A. Fahrenthold | 10:55 AM ET, 06/02/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:29 PM ET, 06/01/2011

Democrat Kathy Hochul sworn in as newest House member

By Felicia Sonmez

Rep. Kathy Hochul (D-N.Y.) was sworn in to the House Wednesday, a little over one week after she won in a district where Republicans’ Medicare overhaul proposal took center stage.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:29 PM ET, 06/01/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:17 PM ET, 06/01/2011

House Republican freshman Landry turns down invitation to White House meeting

By Felicia Sonmez

Jeff Landry, a member of the House Republican freshman class had a message for President Obama Wednesday: Thanks, but no thanks.

By Felicia Sonmez | 12:17 PM ET, 06/01/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:14 AM ET, 06/01/2011

Haley Barbour to testify on Gulf oil spill at House hearing

By Felicia Sonmez

Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour (R) is slated to testify on Thursday at a House committee hearing examining the issues affecting residents of last year’s Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

By Felicia Sonmez | 11:14 AM ET, 06/01/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:59 AM ET, 06/01/2011

Ahead of White House meeting, economists write to Boehner

By Felicia Sonmez

More than 150 economists have signed a statement supporting House Speaker John Boehner’s (R-Ohio) call for spending cuts at least equal to the amount by which Congress raises the country’s debt ceiling this year, a figure that could total trillions of dollars.

By Felicia Sonmez | 06:59 AM ET, 06/01/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:44 PM ET, 05/31/2011

Weiner asks media to ‘respect’ silence on alleged hacking incident

By Felicia Sonmez

Rep. Anthony Weiner deflected reporters’ questions Tuesday regarding a lewd photo that surfaced on his Twitter stream, calling the matter “a distraction” from more pressing issues.

By Felicia Sonmez | 08:44 PM ET, 05/31/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:19 PM ET, 05/31/2011

Steny Hoyer defends Weiner in Twitter photo incident

By Felicia Sonmez

Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) on Tuesday defended Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.), who said his Twitter account was hacked when a lewd photograph showed up on the feed.

By Felicia Sonmez | 03:19 PM ET, 05/31/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:26 PM ET, 05/31/2011

Allen West: U.S. needs more, not less, military spending

By Felicia Sonmez

As the cost of U.S. military operations in Afghanistan becomes an increasingly weighty factor for President Obama’s national security team, an outspoken GOP House freshman is calling for more defense spending.

By Felicia Sonmez | 01:26 PM ET, 05/31/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:33 AM ET, 05/31/2011

The week ahead on the Hill: ‘Clean’ debt limit vote, Kucinich’s Libya resolution and two more White House huddles

By Felicia Sonmez

A look at the week ahead on Capitol Hill.

By Felicia Sonmez | 07:33 AM ET, 05/31/2011 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

2chambers: December, 2011