U.S. government news Monday, March 8 Fed board seats remain unfilled   UPI / 3:54PM WASHINGTON, March 8 (UPI) -- A top candidate for a post on the U.S. Federal Reserve board of governors may turn down an offer if one is made, sources told The New York Times.

Thursday, March 4 USDA accused of risking public health   UPI / 9:54AM WASHINGTON, March 4 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture risked the public health by not taking action on reports of unsafe slaughterhouse practices, a veterinarian says.

Tuesday, March 2 Postal service delivers bad budget news   UPI / 10:54AM WASHINGTON, March 2 (UPI) -- The U.S. Postal Service said it could lose $238 billion over the next decade if the agency doesn't get more flexibility on schedules, prices and labor costs.

Monday, March 1 Fed Vice Chairman Kohn to retire   UPI / 6:44PM WASHINGTON, March 1 (UPI) -- Vice Chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve Donald Kohn has announced he will retire in June, the White House said Monday.

Saturday, February 27 FDIC closes banks in Nevada, Washington   AP / 12:34PM Bank failures in Carson City, Nev., and Tacoma, Wash., brought to 22 the number of U.S. banks to be closed so far this year, officials said. FDIC closes banks in Nevada, Washington   UPI / 12:14PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Bank failures in Carson City, Nev., and Tacoma, Wash., brought to 22 the number of U.S. banks to be closed so far this year, officials said.

Friday, February 26 Justice asked to probe absent Bush e-mails   UPI / 6:35PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 26 (UPI) -- Democrats and watchdog groups called on the Justice Department to investigate the disappearance of e-mails from lawyers in the George W. Bush administration.

Tuesday, February 23 FDIC has 702 banks on problem list   AP / 2:34PM The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said Tuesday that the list of troubled banks rose to 702 at the end of 2009, up sharply from a year earlier. FDIC has 702 banks on problem list   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 23 (UPI) -- The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said Tuesday that the list of troubled banks rose to 702 at the end of 2009, up sharply from a year earlier.

Friday, February 12 USDA facing allegations of discrimination   UPI / 3:44PM COLUMBUS, Ohio, Feb. 12 (UPI) -- Thousands of black farmers allege in a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture they faced discrimination in seeking benefits.

Monday, February 8 Governors, White House to meet on carp   UPI / 11:54AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- Midwestern U.S. governors and a top White House adviser were set to hold talks Monday on how to keep invasive Asian carp out of the Great Lakes. Consumers dropping the credit habit   UPI / 11:44AM NEW YORK, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- U.S. consumers are turning away from credit cards in favor of debit cards, cash or checks, research groups and the Federal Reserve Bank have said.

Saturday, February 6 GOP: Obama budget, deficits 'reckless'   UPI / 3:14PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 6 (UPI) -- The Obama administration's budget proposals and deficit spending are "reckless," a Republican Party spokesman said Saturday.

Tuesday, February 2 Gates, Mullen defend Defense budget   UPI / 7:14PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- The $708 billion Defense Department budget for fiscal year 2011 is needed for the United States to win the battles it fights, U.S. military leaders said.

Monday, February 1 Pentagon: Budget reflects reform goals   UPI / 10:34PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- The $708 billion U.S. Defense Department fiscal year 2011 proposal includes $159 billion for overseas operations, mainly Afghanistan and Iraq, officials said. Commerce sees decrease in 2011 budget   UPI / 5:54PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 1 (UPI) -- The U.S. Commerce Department's requested $8.9 billion for fiscal year 2011 is a $5 billion cut from this year's $13.9 billion, the White House said Monday.

Thursday, January 28 Senate confirms Bernanke for second term   UPI / 8:14PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate confirmed Ben Bernanke's second term as head of the Federal Reserve Bank Thursday by a 70-30 vote margin, a slim victory for a bank chairman.

Tuesday, January 26 WH: Priorities won't suffer budget freeze   UPI / 4:44PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama will keep investing in important priorities even though he has proposed a $250 billion budget freeze, his spokesman said Tuesday.

Monday, January 25 Panel on middle class meets at White House   UPI / 7:54AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- The U.S. economy and its effect on the middle class will be the focus of a White House meeting Monday, the White House said.

Sunday, January 17 Bush 'chatted' with Clinton as president   UPI / 1:04PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 17 (UPI) -- Former U.S. President George W. Bush says that during his time in the White House he called and "chatted" with his predecessor, Bill Clinton.

Friday, January 15 USDA undersecretary to resign   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. Agriculture Deputy Undersecretary Burnham Philbrook is resigning because of a family illness, the Agriculture Department said Friday. FDIC head: 'Shadow banks' need regulation   UPI / 2:05AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- Regulators and the market failed to control the "shadow banking system," Sheila Bair, head of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., said in Washington.

Tuesday, January 12 FDIC explores risk-related fee policy   UPI / 4:35PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said it would seek public input on a plan to have bank fees reflect risk-taking built into bank pay policies.

Monday, January 11 White House Web site opens up to questions   UPI / 5:24PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- The White House Web site is a medium by which administration leaders can report on their work and answer Americans' questions, a senior adviser said.

Thursday, January 7 USDA seizes food from Nashville warehouse   UPI / 11:54PM NASHVILLE, Jan. 7 (UPI) -- Federal agents raided a Nashville food distributor's warehouse, saying food products were contaminated by insects, rodents and other sanitation hazards.

Thursday, December 31 FAA approves single carrier status for Delta, NWA   AP / 12:34PM Dec. 31--The Federal Aviation Administration today gave Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines clearance to fly as a single carrier -- a milestone that moves their consolidation closer to completion.

Tuesday, December 29 FDIC busy in November   UPI / 4:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. revealed that it issued 34 cease and desist orders in November to U.S. banks out of 51 enforcement actions.

Monday, December 7 White House to review thyroid drug move   UPI / 10:35AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- A Bush administration move dropping plans to stockpile thyroid drugs to protect U.S. nuclear power workers is being re-examined, White House officials say.

Thursday, December 3 Fed chairman fends off critics in bid for 2nd term   AP / 8:34PM Dec. 3--WASHINGTON -- Making a case for his confirmation to a second term as the chairman of the Federal Reserve, Ben Bernanke on Thursday defended unpopular actions he's taken that helped stem a spreading global financial crisis, and he offered a mea culpa for the Fed's failure to see the storm coming.

Wednesday, December 2 FDIC points to those under-served   UPI / 8:54AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 2 (UPI) -- A Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. report says that 25 percent of U.S. households do not use banks to cash paychecks or deposit funds.

Sunday, November 29 Bush silent despite policy disagreements   UPI / 2:05PM DALLAS, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- Former U.S. President George W. Bush disagrees with plenty that his successor is doing, but refuses to openly criticize him, friends say.

Friday, November 27 White House crashers met president   UPI / 11:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Michaele and Tareq Salahi, the couple who crashed U.S. President Obama's first state dinner, got to meet the president, the White House said Friday. White House Christmas tree is from W. Va.   UPI / 5:24PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- A horse-drawn carriage delivered the official White House Christmas tree, an 18 1/2-foot-tall Douglas fir from Shepherdstown, W.Va., Friday afternoon.

Tuesday, November 24 USDA: Food aid participation varies   UPI / 11:54PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- Participation in government food assistance programs varies widely among states, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said Tuesday. Lending dropped sharply in third quarter   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said Tuesday U.S. bank lending had declined for the fifth consecutive quarter July through September. Insurance fund for bank deposits turns red   UPI / 1:05PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- An increase in U.S. bank failures put the federal fund that guarantees consumer deposits in the red in the third quarter, a report released Tuesday said.

Friday, November 20 Bernanke confirmation hearing to be Dec. 3   UPI / 10:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate Banking Committee said Friday Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke will appear before it Dec. 3 for a confirmation hearing. House panel approves Fed audits   UPI / 12:54PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- A congressional panel approved a bill that would put the traditionally independent U.S. Federal Reserve under closer scrutiny of politicians.

Thursday, November 19 FAA computers back up; D/FW delays minimal   AP / 2:35PM Nov. 19--An FAA computer glitch that caused flight delays FAA fixes flight-altering computer glitch   UPI / 11:35AM ATLANTA, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- The computer system glitch that caused flight delays across the United States has been corrected, the Federal Aviation Administration said Thursday.

Tuesday, November 17 Industrial output flat in October   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production rose 0.1 percent in October, following a gain of 0.7 percent in September, the Federal Reserve said Tuesday.

Saturday, November 14 Local banks brace for FDIC assessment: Group that insures depositors' savings approves plan that mandates banks prepay millions in premiums   AP / 1:34PM Nov. 14--Savannah bankers will kiss more than 2009 goodbye come New Year's Eve.

Wednesday, November 11 Ag expert picked to lead USAID   UPI / 8:24AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- A physician and agriculture expert was tapped to lead the U.S. Agency for International Development, ending a 10-month search to fill the foreign policy post.

Tuesday, November 10 Senate bill to overhaul financial regulation would strip Fed, FDIC of some powers   AP / 7:34PM WASHINGTON -- A key Senate committee chairman unveiled a sweeping 1,136-page bill Tuesday that, if enacted, would mandate the most comprehensive overhaul of financial regulation since the Great Depression.

Friday, November 6 Consumer borrowing dropped in September   UPI / 4:54PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- Outstanding consumer credit fell by $14.8 billion in September, dropping for the eighth consecutive month, the U.S. Federal Reserve said Friday.

Wednesday, November 4 'Iron Chef' heads to White House   UPI / 8:14PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- The TV cooking show "Iron Chef America" will do an episode at the White House, the Food Network said Tuesday. Grain futures close mixed Wednesday   UPI / 6:05PM CHICAGO, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- Grain futures closed mixed on the Chicago Board of Trade Wednesday as stocks turned flat after the Federal Reserve left lending rates unchanged.

Monday, November 2 Pentagon says it's hiding online SSNs   UPI / 12:54PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 2 (UPI) -- The U.S. Defense Privacy Office says it is moving to ensure that military service members' Social Security numbers are redacted from the Internet.

Tuesday, October 27 Central Atlantic manufacturing gains   UPI / 11:44AM RICHMOND, Va., Oct. 27 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity rose for the sixth consecutive month in the central Atlantic states, the Richmond, Va., Federal Reserve Bank said Tuesday.

Monday, October 26 Harvests slow, USDA says   UPI / 4:24PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture said the nation's corn harvest is nearly complete in Texas and North Carolina, but just under way in several other states.

Thursday, October 22 George W. Bush joins motivational program   UPI / 12:24PM FORT WORTH, Texas, Oct. 22 (UPI) -- Former U.S. President George W. Bush will headline a motivational seminar in Fort Worth, Texas, a political expert says. Expert: USDA document spill harmless   UPI / 6:54AM NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- Papers accidentally spilled on New Orleans streets while being hauled away from a federal agency office were not sensitive, a document expert said.

Friday, October 16 Industrial production rose in September   UPI / 11:35AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production rose 0.7 percent in September, following a gain of 1.2 percent in August, the Federal Reserve said Friday. Pentagon gets budget numbers wrong   UPI / 2:04AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 16 (UPI) -- The U.S. Defense Department has complicated its effort to increase funding for propaganda by getting its numbers wrong, officials say.

Thursday, October 15 FAA seeks $9.2M US Airways, United fines   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- A U.S. regulator proposed $9.2 million in fines against US Airways Group Inc. and United Airlines for flying jets that didn't comply with rules and regulations.

Wednesday, October 14 White House, senators mull reform   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- The stage was set Wednesday for U.S. Senate and White House negotiators to begin hammering out a compromise healthcare reform package, officials said. 'Fiesta Latina' at the White House   UPI / 12:05AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Gloria Estefan and Marc Anthony headlined a night of Latin music at the White House Tuesday, playing music U.S. President Barack Obama said "speaks to us all." Report: Florida Rep. Wexler to resign   UPI / 12:05AM BOCA RATON, Fla., Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Rep. Robert Wexler, D-Fla., plans to resign from Congress to become the head of a Washington foreign-policy think tank, Democratic sources said Tuesday.

Tuesday, October 13 Liz Cheney launches foreign policy group   UPI / 10:14AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Former Vice President Dick Cheney's daughter Liz says she's starting a group to counter what she calls the Obama administration's "radical" foreign policy.

Sunday, October 11 Toxic commercial loans plague small banks   UPI / 11:05AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 (UPI) -- Toxic commercial real estate assets held by small U.S. banks are threatening their survival and the broader economy, analysts say.

Wednesday, October 7 Turkey may remove Koran class age limit   UPI / 5:05PM ANKARA, Turkey, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- The Turkish minister of labor and social security says the country's law against children under 12 taking courses on the Koran may be abolished. Senate OKs $625 billion defense budget   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate approved a $625.6 billion Pentagon budget that includes $128.6 billion for U.S. military operations overseas.

Tuesday, September 29 FDIC Takes First Steps Toward Raising $45 Billion From Banks   AP / 4:34PM WASHINGTON -- Federal regulators on Tuesday proposed raising an additional $45 billion from the nation's banks to help rebuild the fund that insures customer deposits as an increasing number of failures threaten to drain the fund's reserves. USDA loan bias case wrapping up   UPI / 12:34PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- Native American farmers suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture may be owed $1 billion in lost income, the lead attorney in a class-action lawsuit said. EU candidate seeks tougher foreign policy   UPI / 10:04AM BRUSSELS, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- A British politician aiming to take on the new job of European Union foreign minister says the EU should be tougher on Russia and Israel.

Monday, September 28 States rush to borrow at low interest rate   UPI / 10:05AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 28 (UPI) -- Low interest rates have prompted U.S. state and local governments to increase their borrowing, Federal Reserve records show.

Tuesday, September 22 Central Atlantic manufacturing on the rise   UPI / 12:44PM RICHMOND, Va., Sept. 22 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity rose for the fifth consecutive month in the central Atlantic states, the Richmond, Va., Federal Reserve Bank said Tuesday. FDIC may borrow from banks   UPI / 8:54AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 22 (UPI) -- Senior regulators say the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. is contemplating borrowing money from healthy U.S. banks to keep its deposit insurance fund solvent. White House dabbles in state races   UPI / 8:44AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 22 (UPI) -- A more assertive role in state politics by the White House could undercut President Barack Obama's appeal as being above the partisan fray, observers say.

Monday, September 21 USDA says crops still slow   UPI / 5:14PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 21 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture said 40 percent of the soybean crop had dropped leaves -- the latest indication that U.S. crops are slow to mature this year.

Thursday, September 17 White House: U.S. to share H1N1 vaccine   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- The United States is prepared to make 10 percent of its H1N1 vaccine supply available to other countries, an announcement by the White House said Thursday.

Tuesday, September 15 Solana: Turkey likely spot for nuke talks   UPI / 3:05PM BRUSSELS, Sept. 15 (UPI) -- Nuclear talks next month between Iran and Western powers will likely be held in Turkey, European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana said Tuesday.

Sunday, September 6 Obama returns to D.C. from Camp David   UPI / 7:24PM CAMP DAVID, Md., Sept. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama Sunday returned to the White House after taking a break at Camp David, the presidential retreat in Maryland, the White House said.

Friday, September 4 FAA Investigating American Airline's MD-80 Repairs   AP / 3:35PM FORT WORTH, Texas -- American Airlines has been under investigation for several months by the Federal Aviation Administration for improper repairs to a handful of MD-80 airplanes.

Tuesday, September 1 Report: White House fears Afghan backlash   UPI / 9:35AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 1 (UPI) -- Record U.S. casualties in Afghanistan are sparking White House fears that demands will mount for a premature military withdrawal, sources say.

Sunday, August 30 FDIC seizes Maryland bank   UPI / 1:05AM TOWSON, Md., Aug. 30 (UPI) -- A Maryland bank founded in 1903 has been seized by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., which arranged to have another institution take over its operations.

Friday, August 28 USDA grants to help poor rural residents   UPI / 3:54PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said Friday the U.S. Department of Agriculture will provide $600,000 in grants to help poor rural residents.

Thursday, August 27 White House sued over e-mail collection   UPI / 10:44PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 27 (UPI) -- Two conservative advocacy groups claim in a lawsuit the White House "unlawfully collected information" on U.S. healthcare reform opponents. FDIC insurance fund shrinks   UPI / 2:04PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 27 (UPI) -- The safety net for U.S. bank depositors dropped 20 percent in the second quarter, the Federal Deposit Insurance Co. said Thursday.

Wednesday, August 26 FDIC Sets Purchase Rules for Equity Firms   AP / 6:34PM Private equity firms seeking to buy failed banks will need to partner with existing banks to avoid tough requirements, U.S. regulators decided Wednesday. FDIC sets purchase rules for equity firms   UPI / 6:14PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 26 (UPI) -- Private equity firms seeking to buy failed banks will need to partner with existing banks to avoid tough requirements, U.S. regulators decided Wednesday.

Tuesday, August 25 Obama to Reappoint Fed Chairman Bernanke   AP / 1:14AM U.S. President Barack Obama will reappoint Ben Bernanke to a second term as chairman of the Federal Reserve, administration officials said.

Thursday, August 20 FDIC to relax bank auction proposals   UPI / 3:05PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 20 (UPI) -- Regulators in Washington are fiddling with proposals to make it easier for private equity firms to buy failed banks, sources close to the discussions said.

Wednesday, August 19 New monitoring system used by USDA   UPI / 11:05AM NEW YORK, Aug. 19 (UPI) -- The Wildlife Conservation Society says a monitoring system it uses to measure stream habitat has been adopted by a U.S. agency working to restore waterways.

Friday, August 14 Skid in industrial production turns around   UPI / 11:54AM WASHINGTON, Aug. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production rose 0.5 percent in July, the second increase since the recession began in December 2007, the Federal Reserve said Friday.

Monday, August 10 Budget cuts bring many Calif. lawsuits   UPI / 1:44PM SACRAMENTO, Aug. 10 (UPI) -- A group of litigators is finding success in recovering money for clients whose funding was cut by the California state budget, observers say.

Tuesday, August 4 USDA goes after gulls at ferry terminals   UPI / 9:14PM SEATTLE, Aug. 4 (UPI) -- Federal bird-killing specialists battling gulls at ferry terminals around Seattle say they are aiming at specific problem birds, not the entire population. Obama, Helen Thomas celebrate birthdays   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 4 (UPI) -- President Barack Obama and Helen Thomas, dean of the White House Press Corps, celebrated their birthdays Tuesday in the White House press room.

Saturday, August 1 Bush: Allies must be firm with N. Korea   UPI / 3:44PM JEJU, South Korea, Aug. 1 (UPI) -- North Korea should be sent a strong message to give up its nuclear weapons program, former U.S. President George W. Bush says.

Thursday, July 30 Lenders fees interfere with homeowner help   UPI / 10:14AM BOSTON, July 30 (UPI) -- Government incentives for banks to help struggling U.S. homeowners have stiff competition from delinquent loan fees, the Boston Federal Reserve Bank said.

Monday, July 27 USDA awards science education grants   UPI / 3:14PM WASHINGTON, July 27 (UPI) -- Twenty-three universities will share $3.3 million to enhance their international research and teaching capabilities, the U.S. Agriculture Department said.

Saturday, July 25 Bush mulled using military on U.S. soil   UPI / 11:14AM WASHINGTON, July 25 (UPI) -- Former President George W. Bush considered using U.S. soldiers to arrest terror suspects in New York, sources told The New York Times.

Wednesday, July 22 Bernanke: Commercial defaults may be next   UPI / 2:05PM WASHINGTON, July 22 (UPI) -- The United States may face a wave of commercial real estate defaults as the financial crisis evolves, U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said Wednesday. Economic Outlook: Bernanke's threat   UPI / 7:54AM Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, testifying before Congress for a second day Wednesday, says unemployment threatens to undercut the U.S. recovery.

Tuesday, July 21 Stars come out for White House music event   UPI / 10:54PM WASHINGTON, July 21 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama welcomed Alison Krauss, Union Station, Brad Paisley and Charley Pride to the White House Tuesday for a night of country music. Oil prices flat, watching Bernanke signals   UPI / 8:54AM NEW YORK, July 21 (UPI) -- Oil prices were relatively flat Tuesday, hovering above $64, as traders watched for key testimony from U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke. Economic Outlook: Spotlight on Bernanke   UPI / 8:34AM U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, once faulted for being slow to address market fears, will now explain the central bank's growing interventionism.

Wednesday, July 8 White House keeping eye on auto suppliers   UPI / 4:05PM WASHINGTON, July 8 (UPI) -- A lead automotive industry adviser to the White House said the government was keeping a close eye on suppliers to the shaky U.S. auto industry.

Tuesday, July 7 Social Security numbers can be guessed   UPI / 10:44AM PITTSBURGH, July 7 (UPI) -- A way to guess many of the nine digits in a person's Social Security number by using publicly available information has been found, U.S. researchers said.

Thursday, July 2 White House arranges H1N1 flu summit   UPI / 10:54PM WASHINGTON, July 2 (UPI) -- White House officials announced an influenza A H1N1 Preparedness Summit with states to prepare for the possibility of a more severe outbreak of swine flu. One phone number for life? Possible ...   UPI / 1:44PM MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., July 2 (UPI) -- A lifetime of living with one U.S. Social Security number could soon be matched by a lifetime of living with one phone number, a product reviewer said.

Tuesday, June 23 Clinton seen as surprisingly subordinate   UPI / 11:05AM WASHINGTON, June 23 (UPI) -- The star power of U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has played a subordinate role to the power of the White House in foreign policy, analysts say.

Thursday, June 18 Obama budget lacks drug program grants   UPI / 11:54AM WASHINGTON, June 18 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama's administration says in its first budget that state grants for school drug programs were omitted due to design flaws.

Tuesday, June 16 Children return to White House garden   UPI / 7:54PM WASHINGTON, June 16 (UPI) -- Children who helped first lady Michelle Obama plant the White House garden in April returned to the garden Tuesday to harvest vegetables. Brady drops by the White House   UPI / 6:44PM WASHINGTON, June 16 (UPI) -- Former Reagan press secretary and gunshot victim James Brady dropped into the revamped James S. Brady press briefing room at the White House Tuesday.

Monday, June 15 New York manufacturing fell in month   UPI / 10:54AM NEW YORK, June 15 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity in New York state declined over the last month, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York said.

Wednesday, June 10 House committee subpoenas Fed   UPI / 1:14PM WASHINGTON, June 10 (UPI) -- A congressional committee has subpoenaed the U.S. Federal Reserve to obtain information about the sale of Merrill Lynch to Bank of America. Security scares close White House streets   UPI / 9:54AM WASHINGTON, June 10 (UPI) -- Two security scares prompted the closure of Washington streets and sidewalks around the White House for about an hour Tuesday, officials said.

Monday, June 8 Shriners Hospitals face budget problems   UPI / 3:34PM GREENVILLE, S.C., June 8 (UPI) -- Shriners may have to close six U.S. hospitals or cut back on free care to close a 30 percent budget gap in 2009, the hospitals' president said.

Friday, June 5 FAA: Airports ignoring bird safety studies   UPI / 3:44PM WASHINGTON, June 5 (UPI) -- A U.S. Federal Aviation Administration review found 150 airports have not completed legally mandated studies of wildlife hazards to planes, officials said.

Tuesday, June 2 Watershed projects get $42.3M boost   UPI / 8:05PM TERRE HAUTE, Ind., June 2 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture says it will provide nearly $42.3 million in stimulus funds to 14 states for watershed projects and jobs. Court: Bank of America can keep fees   UPI / 1:24PM LOS ANGELES, June 2 (UPI) -- The California Supreme Court has sided with Bank of America Corp., saying it can charge overdraft fees on accounts that include Social Security deposits.

Friday, May 29 Calif. may close parks amid budget crisis   UPI / 1:24PM SAN FRANCISCO, May 29 (UPI) -- A California State Parks Foundation official says a proposal to reduce the state's budget deficit could result in numerous state parks closing down.

Wednesday, May 27 FDIC: Banks 'not out of woods yet'   UPI / 5:54PM WASHINGTON, May 27 (UPI) -- The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.'s list of banks in trouble grew from 252 to 305 in the first quarter, the federal regulator said Wednesday.

Saturday, May 23 Elizabeth Edwards rules out White House   UPI / 1:44PM WASHINGTON, May 23 (UPI) -- Elizabeth Edwards, wife of former U.S. Sen. John Edwards, said the North Carolina Democrat's noted infidelity has ruled out a run for the White House. FDIC board votes for more assessments   UPI / 8:54AM WASHINGTON, May 23 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. says it will charge banks more to insure investors' deposits as bank failures drain FDIC insurance funds.

Friday, May 22 Midwest farmland value falls in quarter   UPI / 2:44PM CHICAGO, May 22 (UPI) -- Agricultural acreage in the heart of the Midwest fell 6 percent in value in the first quarter, the Chicago Federal Reserve Bank said Friday. White House to greet Rolling Thunder   UPI / 2:24PM WASHINGTON, May 22 (UPI) -- Artie Muller, founder of the non-profit organization Rolling Thunder, said a White House official will greet the group's motorcycle ride through Washington.

Thursday, May 21 Liddy to leave AIG   UPI / 10:44PM NEW YORK, May 21 (UPI) -- Edward Liddy, chosen last year by the Federal Reserve to run U.S. insurance giant AIG, announced his resignation Thursday. White House food safety group has Web site   UPI / 7:34PM WASHINGTON, May 21 (UPI) -- To help upgrade the U.S. food safety system, the White House Food Safety Working Group has created a Web site to explain its activities and progress. Crude oil prices drop on Fed news   UPI / 5:35PM NEW YORK, May 21 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices dropped on the New York Mercantile Exchange Thursday after the U.S. Federal Reserve reduced its expectations for economic growth.

Tuesday, May 19 Harrison to Skip White House Visit, Again   AP / 12:35PM For a second time, under a second president, James Harrison says he's skipping a visit to the White House with the Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers.

Friday, May 15 Industrial production slowed in April   UPI / 1:54PM WASHINGTON, May 15 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production slowed 0.5 percent in April after a steeper decline of 1.7 percent in March, the U.S. Federal Reserve said Friday. New York manufacturing low, but climbing   UPI / 10:44AM NEW YORK, May 15 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity in New York state increased over the last month, but still remains in negative territory, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York said.

Tuesday, May 12 Jazz, poetry at White House, taped for HBO   UPI / 11:24PM WASHINGTON, May 12 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama said a program of jazz and poetry at the White House Tuesday was intended to "celebrate the power of words and music." FAA halts low-altitude New York flyover   UPI / 10:54AM NEW YORK, May 12 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy was set to conduct a flyover of New York City despite a storm of protest about an earlier flight that frightened residents, officials said.

Saturday, May 9 Pre-White House Dinner parties get stars   UPI / 3:54PM WASHINGTON, May 9 (UPI) -- A screening of "Poliwood" and two other gala Washington parties have set the stage for the White House Correspondents' Association dinner.

Friday, May 8 Obama budget cuts bring Dem protests   UPI / 9:05AM WASHINGTON, May 8 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama's proposal to cut $17 billion from the budget hurts worthy programs, some congressional Democrats say.

Thursday, May 7 Defense budget: $130B in overseas support   UPI / 8:54PM WASHINGTON, May 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. Defense Department $663.8 billion budget proposal has $130 billion for overseas support, mainly in Iraq and Afghanistan, Secretary Robert Gates said. Sebelius: HHS budget helps contain costs   UPI / 7:54PM WASHINGTON, May 7 (UPI) -- U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says her $879 billion budget proposal will control healthcare costs and protect public health. Interior: Budget protects, promotes nature   UPI / 6:14PM WASHINGTON, May 7 (UPI) -- The proposed $12 billion budget for the U.S. Interior Department reflects projects such as energy, climate impact and land preservation, the secretary said. EPA: Budget creates jobs, protects climate   UPI / 5:14PM WASHINGTON, May 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's proposed $10.5 billion budget would create jobs and protect the environment, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson said.

Sunday, May 3 U.S. officials downplay swine flu outbreak   UPI / 1:14PM WASHINGTON, May 3 (UPI) -- Top officials in the U.S. administration said Sunday the ongoing swine flu outbreak is likely not as serious as initial estimates predicted. Protected interest groups back budget   UPI / 11:05AM SACRAMENTO, May 3 (UPI) -- Groups protected in a California state budget compromise, including the oil industry, are financing campaigns to ratify it, political strategists said.

Saturday, May 2 USDA: H1N1 confirmed at Canadian farm   UPI / 10:44PM WASHINGTON, May 2 (UPI) -- Canadian officials say swine at an Alberta farm tested positive for the H1N1 virus spreading internationally, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said.

Thursday, April 30 Crude oil prices climb   UPI / 9:24AM NEW YORK, April 30 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices rose Thursday on stock market gains and the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank's indication that the economy showed signs of improvement.

Tuesday, April 28 Former WaMu employees sue FDIC   UPI / 3:54PM SEATTLE, April 28 (UPI) -- Four former employees of Washington Mutual filed suit against federal regulators in Seattle, claiming they were cheated out of their severance pay.

Sunday, April 26 USDA: Swine not infected with swine flu   UPI / 11:05PM WASHINGTON, April 26 (UPI) -- U.S. officials said Sunday there is no evidence the outbreak of swine flu has affected swine and consumers cannot get the virus from eating pork.

Friday, April 24 FAA releases bird-strike data   UPI / 4:34PM WASHINGTON, April 24 (UPI) -- Federal aviation regulators released records of bird strikes by planes at U.S. airports that show there have been at least 89,000 since 1990.

Saturday, April 18 Obama names 2 more White House aides   UPI / 6:14AM PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad and Tobago, April 18 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama Saturday used his weekly radio address to announce the appointment of two new White House aides.

Friday, April 17 'One Tree Hill' Actor Arrested   AP / 4:34PM A supporting player on the U.S. television series "One Tree Hill" has been arrested for allegedly trafficking fake Social Security cards and stealing numbers. 'One Tree Hill' actor arrested   UPI / 4:14PM NEW YORK, April 17 (UPI) -- A supporting player on the U.S. television series "One Tree Hill" has been arrested for allegedly trafficking fake Social Security cards and stealing numbers.

Wednesday, April 15 Industrial production slowed in March   UPI / 12:14PM WASHINGTON, April 15 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production slowed 1.5 percent in March, close to the decrease in February, the Federal Reserve said Wednesday. New York manufacturing climbs from lows   UPI / 11:24AM NEW YORK, April 15 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity in New York state rose sharply above the low set in March, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York said.

Tuesday, April 14 Welcome to the White House, Bo   UPI / 5:24PM WASHINGTON, April 14 (UPI) -- First pup Bo lapped up the love at the White House Tuesday after being introduced officially to America and the world. White House calls N. Korea decision wrong   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, April 14 (UPI) -- The United States urged North Korea to end its confrontational talk and honor its commitments to denuclearize the peninsula, the White House said Tuesday.

Wednesday, April 8 White House OKs new satellite program   UPI / 9:05AM WASHINGTON, April 8 (UPI) -- A new, top-secret satellite program to replace the country's aging imagery system has been OK'd by the White House, the top U.S. intelligence officer said.

Tuesday, April 7 Actor Kal Penn to work for White House   UPI / 3:34PM WASHINGTON, April 7 (UPI) -- Actor Kal Penn says he has left his TV drama "House" to accept the position of associate director in the White House office of public liaison in Washington.

Saturday, April 4 Defense budget: A change in direction   UPI / 9:44AM WASHINGTON, April 4 (UPI) -- U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates's budget recommendations will show "a fundamental shift in direction," a Pentagon spokesman said Friday.

Saturday, March 28 GOP: Obama budget moves U.S. 'to left'   UPI / 9:44AM WASHINGTON, March 28 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama's budget proposals will move the country "dramatically" to the left, a Republican Party spokesman warned Saturday.

Friday, March 27 FAA keeps bird-strike data secret   UPI / 3:54PM WASHINGTON, March 27 (UPI) -- Keeping bird-strike information under wraps makes flying safer by encouraging reporting of the strikes, U.S. aviation regulators said Friday.

Wednesday, March 25 Mortgage applications surge in week   UPI / 10:44AM WASHINGTON, March 25 (UPI) -- The volume of applications for U.S. mortgages increased sharply last week after the Federal Reserve said it would pump money into the market.

Sunday, March 22 WaMu holding company sues FDIC   UPI / 11:05PM SEATTLE, March 22 (UPI) -- The holding company for Washington Mutual Inc. has sued the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. for allegedly denying claims against the firm's former banking unit.

Saturday, March 21 Grassroots budget efforts swing into gear   UPI / 3:14PM WASHINGTON, March 21 (UPI) -- Grassroots activist networks both supporting and opposing U.S. President Barack Obama's budget swung into action this weekend, observers said. Obama touts U.S. budget priorities   UPI / 9:04AM WASHINGTON, March 21 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama says that while the numbers may change during negotiations, the key priorities in his budget proposals will not.

Thursday, March 19 George W. Bush signs memoir deal   UPI / 7:14PM DALLAS, March 19 (UPI) -- Former U.S. President George W. Bush has reached an agreement to write about his key political and personal decisions, the publisher said Thursday. 'Meltdown' author blames policy and Fed   UPI / 1:14PM WASHINGTON, March 19 (UPI) -- Historian Thomas Woods claims the current financial crisis can be squarely pegged as the result of bad policy and the actions of the U.S. Federal Reserve.

Tuesday, March 17 Analysts speculate Fed may buy U.S. bonds   UPI / 6:24PM WASHINGTON, March 17 (UPI) -- Analysts speculate the U.S. Federal Reserve could move toward buying government debt during a policy meeting that beganns Tuesday. Obama believes in Geithner, spokesman says   UPI / 5:54PM WASHINGTON, March 17 (UPI) -- President Barack Obama has "complete confidence" in Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner, ripped for not blocking an AIG bonus distribution, a spokesman said.

Monday, March 16 New York manufacturing off sharply   UPI / 11:34AM NEW YORK, March 16 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity in New York state declined sharply over the last month, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York said. U.S. industrial production falls   UPI / 10:54AM WASHINGTON, March 16 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production fell 1.4 percent in February, falling for the fourth consecutive month, the U.S. Federal Reserve said Monday.

Sunday, March 15 Obama, Dems to mobilize budget supporters   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, March 15 (UPI) -- Democrats are gearing up an extensive grassroots mobilization strategy to defend and advance U.S. President Barack Obama's budget proposals, sources say.

Friday, March 13 USDA approves E. coli vaccine   UPI / 9:24PM WASHINGTON, March 13 (UPI) -- The U. S. Department of Agriculture has approved a new vaccine to reduce the prevalence of E. coli O157 in beef cattle.

Thursday, March 12 FAA orders Boeing 777 engine fix   UPI / 4:05PM WASHINGTON, March 12 (UPI) -- Rolls-Royce PLC must urgently redesign a Boeing 777 aircraft-engine part blamed for two major mishaps in the past year, U.S. transportation officials said.

Monday, March 9 Calif. pols got trip during budget crisis   UPI / 8:34PM SACRAMENTO, March 9 (UPI) -- Lawmakers traveled, ate gourmet food and visited theme parks compliments of special interests as California's budget impasse persisted last year, records show.

Friday, March 6 Credit jumped, unexpectedly, in January   UPI / 5:05PM WASHINGTON, March 6 (UPI) -- Outstanding U.S. consumer debt jumped unexpectedly in January, gaining at an annual rate of 3/4 percent, the Federal Reserve said Friday.

Thursday, March 5 Poll finds support for Afghan buildup   UPI / 6:14PM HAMDEN, Conn., March 5 (UPI) -- U.S. voters support President Barack Obama's plan to send 17,000 troops to Afghanistan and approve of his foreign policy, the Quinnipiac Poll said Thursday.

Sunday, March 1 Fierce ideological fights coming on budget   UPI / 8:04AM WASHINGTON, March 1 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama's first budget request is likely to spark fierce ideological clashes, with its deficit spending being the main event, analysts say.

Saturday, February 28 FDIC Increases Banks' Deposit Insurance Premiums   AP / 8:34AM Feb. 28--With banks failing at a rate of nearly two a week since New Year's Day, federal regulators Friday announced a sharp increase in the premiums financial institutions pay into the national deposit insurance fund. Obama vows to fight for budget   UPI / 7:54AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama says he's gearing up for a tough fight against special interests in enacting his $3.55 trillion budget bill.

Friday, February 27 FDIC back-up fund at 25-year low   UPI / 8:54AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Federal funds used to back up U.S. banks dropped to $19 billion at the end of 2008, the lowest amount since 1993, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. said.

Thursday, February 26 FDIC fund slips amid bank failures   UPI / 10:54PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 26 (UPI) -- The federal insurance fund that guarantees the security of U.S. bank deposits is being drained by the rise in financial institution failures, officials said. Cap-and-trade part of energy budget   UPI / 4:44PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 26 (UPI) -- The U.S. Energy Department's budget has $26.3 billion in spending for next year, nearly the same as this year, under President Barack Obama's plan. Budget deletes some USDA subsidy programs   UPI / 1:54PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 26 (UPI) -- Several U.S. Agriculture Department subsidy programs would be phased out while other programs are beefed up under President Barack Obama's budget plan. Gates sought secrecy in budget process   UPI / 9:44AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates sought secrecy pledges from top military leaders to prevent leaks about specifics in the defense budget, an aide said.

Wednesday, February 25 FAA sued over safety recommendations   UPI / 11:14PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 25 (UPI) -- The U.S. government is being sued by an airline safety watchdog for allegedly failing to act on suggested runway improvements and plane icing issues. Wonder honored at White House   UPI / 10:54PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 25 (UPI) -- Stevie Wonder, touted by U.S. President Obama as the singer-songwriter who made the "soundtrack of my youth," was given the Gershwin Award at the White House.

Friday, February 20 White House: Report clouds Iran's veracity   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 20 (UPI) -- A report indicating Iran has more uranium than thought earlier represents a "lost opportunity" for it to prove its peaceful intentions, the White House said.

Thursday, February 19 Pelosi wants budget cut recommendations   UPI / 8:54PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., Thursday asked committee chairmen to look for ways to cut the federal budget amid the nation's growing deficit. Schwarzenegger set to sign Calif. budget   UPI / 10:54AM SACRAMENTO, Feb. 19 (UPI) -- California lawmakers approved a plan to close the state's $42 billion budget deficit Thursday with deep cuts and new taxes, ending a 15-week partisan conflict.

Tuesday, February 17 New York reports record lows for business   UPI / 10:34AM NEW YORK, Feb. 17 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity in New York state declined over the last month, falling to a record low, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York said.

Monday, February 16 Fireball not satellite debris, FAA says   UPI / 1:44PM SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 16 (UPI) -- Whatever was seen streaking across the Texas sky wasn't debris from the collision of two satellites, Federal Aviation Administration officials said.

Saturday, February 14 Obama to honor Wonder at White House   UPI / 1:34PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 14 (UPI) -- Singer Stevie Wonder will be the guest of honor at a White House event hosted by U.S. President Barack Obama, the president's staff says.

Thursday, February 12 Poll: Non-criminal Bush inquiry favored   UPI / 9:54AM PRINCETON, N.J., Feb. 12 (UPI) -- Most U.S. adults appear to support an investigation into possible Bush administration wrongdoing but fewer than half want a criminal inquiry, a poll indicates.

Tuesday, February 10 FAA employee ID info stolen from computer   UPI / 2:14PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 10 (UPI) -- The Federal Aviation Administration Tuesday told its employees that someone stole personal identity information from the agency's databases.

Saturday, February 7 Biden says U.S. will listen to allies   UPI / 8:54PM MUNICH, Germany, Feb. 7 (UPI) -- U.S. Vice President Joe Biden says the Obama administration will change the direction and tone of American foreign policy by listening to its allies. Bush loyalists assail Obama White House   UPI / 7:44AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 7 (UPI) -- Former Bush administration officials are freely criticizing U.S. President Barack Obama now that the transition period is over, observers say.

Thursday, February 5 USDA considers using GE corn for ethanol   UPI / 12:35PM WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture is considering approving the use of genetically engineered corn for use in manufacturing ethanol.

Tuesday, February 3 Lending drops in spite of bailout   UPI / 8:24AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- Lending by U.S. banks dropped about 1 percent in the final quarter of 2008 in spite of the government's bailout efforts, Federal Reserve data show.

Monday, February 2 Taming budget deficit an elusive goal   UPI / 8:54AM WASHINGTON, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- A grand bargain to tame the hemorrhaging U.S. budget deficit by cutting entitlement program benefits and raising taxes seems unlikely, lawmakers say.

Thursday, January 22 White House team grapples with technology   UPI / 7:44PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 22 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama and his team have run into a technology block at the White House, which is outfitted with outdated equipment, officials said.

Monday, January 19 White House changeover a six-hour affair   UPI / 12:54PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- A former Washington official says removing a U.S. president from the White House while ushering in a successor takes six busy hours.

Sunday, January 18 Poll: Two-thirds see Bush term as failure   UPI / 1:14PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- Two-thirds of Americans see the presidency of George W. Bush as a failure, a CNN/Opinion Research Corp. poll released Sunday indicates.

Friday, January 16 Perino thanks White House media   UPI / 7:44PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- White House Press Secretary Dana Perino wished her successor her best Friday and asked the White House media corps to cut him some slack. Manufacturing output fell in December   UPI / 1:34PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production slowed 2 percent in December on widespread declines, the U.S. Federal Reserve said Friday. Obama to take on Social Security, Medicare   UPI / 6:05AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- President-elect Barack Obama said Thursday his administration will make "hard decisions" on Social Security and Medicare reform.

Thursday, January 15 Lawyer: Missing White House e-mails found   UPI / 10:44PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- Millions of missing White House e-mails have been located and are available for transfer to the National Archives, a lawyer said at a hearing in Washington. Bush: New terror 'gravest' threat   UPI / 8:44PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush, in his farewell address Thursday night, warned that the "gravest threat" facing the nation is a possible future terror attack.

Wednesday, January 14 Bush, Pentagon respond to torture report   UPI / 6:24PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- The White House does not condone torture, U.S. President George Bush's spokeswoman said in response to a military official's claim a prisoner was tortured. Bush official portrait caption changed   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- The U.S. National Portrait Gallery says it has amended the caption accompanying the portrait of President George W. Bush at the request of a U.S. senator.

Tuesday, January 13 Official: Greece objected to arms shipment   UPI / 10:44PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 13 (UPI) -- The U.S. military says it canceled the shipment of ammunition from the Greek port of Astakos to a U.S. stockpile in Israel after Greek officials voiced concern. Secretive Fed Unveils New Plans for Credit Crisis   AP / 7:34PM WASHINGTON -- With its benchmark lending rate effectively at zero, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, in a move without modern precedent, on Tuesday publicly laid out an aggressive agenda for the nation's otherwise secretive central bank and suggested that he's hardly out of ammunition to fight the global financial crisis.

Monday, January 12 USDA announces food labeling regulation   UPI / 7:44PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Monday the language of a new regulation that will require country of origin labeling for many foods. Attack on U.S. greatest threat, Bush says   UPI / 11:24AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- The greatest threat to President-elect Barack Obama is the potential for another attack on the United States, President George Bush said Monday.

Sunday, January 11 Carrier 'George H.W. Bush' launched   UPI / 9:54AM NORFOLK, Va., Jan. 11 (UPI) -- A new aircraft carrier named for former U.S. President George H.W. Bush has been commissioned at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia, officials said.

Saturday, January 10 Bush calls for gratitude for U.S. military   UPI / 10:14AM WASHINGTON, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday said Americans "owe a debt of gratitude" to members of the U.S. military.

Thursday, January 8 White House replica home up for sale   UPI / 12:05PM ATLANTA, Jan. 8 (UPI) -- An Atlanta resident says the struggling U.S. economy has forced him to place his home, a scaled-down replica of the White House, up for sale.

Tuesday, January 6 Bush thanks U.S. forces   UPI / 9:44PM FORT MEYER, Va., Jan. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Tuesday thanked the nation's service members as he spoke at a military appreciation parade in Fort Meyer in Virginia. White House calls for Gaza cease-fire   UPI / 9:24PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- The White House Tuesday called for a "durable and lasting" cease-fire in the Gaza conflict. Bush names three marine national monuments   UPI / 6:14PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush designated "three beautiful and biologically diverse areas" in the Pacific as marine national monuments Tuesday.

Sunday, January 4 George H.W. Bush: No advice for Obama   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Former U.S. President George H.W. Bush said Sunday he would like to see another of his sons, Jeb, become president.

Monday, December 29 USDA accepting telemed grant applications   UPI / 5:34PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- The U.S. Agriculture Department's Rural Development said Monday it was accepting applications for the Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant program. Rocket fired on Israeli site kills one   UPI / 7:54AM ASHKELON, Israel, Dec. 29 (UPI) -- At least one person died and five were injured Monday when a missile fired from Gaza struck a construction site in Ashkelon, Israel, officials said.

Saturday, December 27 Bush: Honor military at Christmastime   UPI / 10:14AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday called on Americans to "remember the men and women of our armed forces" at Christmastime.

Wednesday, December 24 Bush calls troops   UPI / 11:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush phoned 45 deployed service members Wednesday, delivering holiday greetings and thanking them for their service. Bush revokes pardon for contributor   UPI / 7:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush revoked a pardon Wednesday after media reports linked it to a political contribution, a reversal the White House calls unprecedented.

Tuesday, December 23 Bush sends final Christmas message   UPI / 5:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush, in his final Christmas message as president of the United States, asked for help for the needy. Bush visits Walter Reed patients, has MRI   UPI / 11:34AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush not only visited patients at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, he was a patient himself briefly.

Monday, December 22 Frank criticizes White House over housing   UPI / 7:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., said the White House is to blame for the federal housing program passed last summer that has shown little results. Bush donates coats, visits wounded   UPI / 6:14PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush dropped off nearly 150 coats Monday collected from White House staff members for the national "One Warm Coat" project.

Sunday, December 21 White House blasts NYT story   UPI / 7:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- The White House Sunday blasted a front-page New York Times story that says the Bush administration worsened the home mortgage crisis. Battle for White House e-mails goes on   UPI / 7:24AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. historians say their legal battle to preserve and recover e-mail records from the Bush administration White House is far from decided.

Saturday, December 20 Bush: Auto rescue 'shield' for Americans   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush Saturday said the U.S. auto industry loan "will shield the American people from a harsh economic blow at a vulnerable time."

Friday, December 19 Obama praises Bush for auto action   UPI / 9:44PM CHICAGO, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. President-elect Barack Obama praised President George Bush's decision Friday to provide a bridge loan package to two ailing U.S. automakers.

Thursday, December 18 Bush still mulling shape of automaker aid   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 18 (UPI) -- President George Bush says the disarray in U.S. markets and consideration for his successor are two factors in how he helps the ailing U.S. auto industry.

Wednesday, December 17 Hasselbeck invited to White House party   UPI / 6:14PM NEW YORK, Dec. 17 (UPI) -- Elisabeth Hasselbeck was asked to the White House Christmas party after she groused on "The View" about how she hadn't been invited, the U.S. show said. Bush touts security gains on his watch   UPI / 5:54PM CARLISLE, Pa., Dec. 17 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush laid out his case Wednesday that actions his administration took during the past seven years kept America safe from terrorists.

Tuesday, December 16 White House looking at auto aid options   UPI / 6:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Stakeholders in the U.S. auto industry must show they're willing to sacrifice if assistance funds are to be allotted, a White House spokeswoman said Tuesday. EDITORIAL: Shoes, Not Flowers: A Final Message for the President   AP / 6:34AM Dec. 16--The shoe-throwing incident in Iraq this week is a metaphor for the Bush doctrine of foreign policy.

Monday, December 15 State budget woes expected to worsen   UPI / 9:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- States' budget woes are expected to deepen amid a worsening national economy, a report released Monday said. Bush reaffirms U.S. pledge to Afghanistan   UPI / 8:24AM KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush ended his likely last visit to theaters of war in Afghanistan where he met Monday with U.S. troops and the Afghan president. Fed may cut rates to new lows   UPI / 7:54AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 15 (UPI) -- Economists predict the U.S. Federal Reserve Open Market Committee may cut interest rates to historic lows after a two-day meeting beginning Monday.

Sunday, December 14 Bush visits Afghanistan   UPI / 11:44PM KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush made an unannounced visit to Afghanistan Monday, visiting with the U.S. troops and meeting President Hamid Karzai. Man throws shoes at Bush in Iraq   UPI / 10:24PM BAGHDAD, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- An Iraqi journalist threw two shoes at U.S. President George W. Bush Sunday during a news conference in the Iraqi prime minister's office in Baghdad.

Saturday, December 13 Bush: U.S. 'making good progress' on drugs   UPI / 10:14AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday said the nation is "making good progress" in the fight against illegal drugs.

Friday, December 12 Bush not ruling out TARP funds for autos   UPI / 12:14PM WASHINGTON, Ill., Dec. 12 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush pledged Friday to seek new options, such as Wall Street rescue funds, to help U.S. automakers after a bailout bill died in Congress. Pelosi calls for White House to save autos   UPI / 7:14AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 12 (UPI) -- House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., called on the White House to come up with plan to help U.S. automakers after a bailout bill failed in the Senate.

Thursday, December 11 Bush: Economy reason to help automakers   UPI / 6:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- The weak U.S. economy provides a powerful argument for congressional support of $14 billion in automaker aid, a White House spokeswoman said Thursday.

Wednesday, December 10 White House says it will push auto bill   UPI / 12:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- White House deputy chief of staff Joel Kaplan said the White House and members of Congress have a conceptual agreement on a bill to help U.S. automakers.

Tuesday, December 9 Bush: Time for Mugabe to go   UPI / 4:24PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush says it is time for Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe "to go," joining an international chorus of criticism. Bush defends record in West Point speech   UPI / 4:14PM WEST POINT, N.Y., Dec. 9 (UPI) -- President George Bush, making his final appearance at a military academy as U.S. commander in chief Tuesday, defended his doctrine of pre-emptive action.

Monday, December 8 White House blasts N.Y. Times editorial   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- The White House says an editorial in The New York Times newspaper was in error when it took President George Bush to task on pre-Iraq War intelligence. Bush to speak at West Point   UPI / 11:54AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush plans to deliver an update on his strategy in Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and elsewhere in a speech Tuesday at West Point, N.Y.

Sunday, December 7 Bush: Abu Ghraib 'a disappointment'   UPI / 3:14PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush says the revelation of prisoner torture at Abu Ghraib in Iraq was "a terrible disappointment."

Saturday, December 6 Bush tries out at placekicker   UPI / 5:34PM PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 6 (UPI) -- President George Bush revealed his inner football player Saturday, taking a kick at a football prior to the Army-Navy game in Philadelphia. Bush portrait unveiled   UPI / 1:54PM PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 6 (UPI) -- President George Bush was presented a gold medal Saturday at the unveiling of his portrait at the Union League of Philadelphia. Bush: Iraq war 'on its way to being won'   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 6 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush said Saturday the "war in Iraq is not yet over" but "it is decisively on its way to being won."

Friday, December 5 Higher taxes predicted due to budget woes   UPI / 1:14PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. residents could soon face higher taxes and increased tuition due to state budgetary concerns, the National Conference of State Legislatures says.

Thursday, December 4 Bushes have bought house in Dallas   UPI / 4:05PM DALLAS, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- President Bush and his wife, Laura, have bought a house in an upscale neighborhood in Dallas, the White House confirmed Thursday. Larijani urges Obama to adopt new policy   UPI / 12:05PM TEHRAN, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. President-elect Barack Obama should adopt a new foreign policy when it comes to the Middle East, Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani says.

Wednesday, December 3 FDIC: Overdrafts hit vulnerable consumers   UPI / 10:54AM WASHINGTON, Dec. 3 (UPI) -- A Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. survey found that young and poor depositors were hit with the majority of overdraft fees by U.S. banks.

Monday, December 1 Bush regrets Iraq intel, immigration flap   UPI / 4:54PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- George Bush said Iraq was both his biggest disappointment and his greatest accomplishment during his eight-year tenure as U.S. president. Bush recognizes World AIDS day with ribbon   UPI / 3:44PM WASHINGTON, Dec. 1 (UPI) -- A red ribbon on the White House North Portico reaffirms his administration's resolve to tackle HIV/AIDS directly, U.S. President George Bush said Monday.

Sunday, November 30 Future Bush residence problematic   UPI / 1:24PM DALLAS, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- Political observers say setting up a post-presidency home for U.S. President George W. Bush is problematic due to security concerns.

Thursday, November 27 Bank of Korea arranges currency swap   UPI / 2:14PM SEOUL, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- The Bank of Korea said Thursday it would receive $4 billion through a U.S. Federal Reserve currency swap to shore up the won. Remote outposts receive presidential call   UPI / 1:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush called U.S. armed forces members stationed in remote locations Thursday to wish them a happy holiday, the White House says.

Tuesday, November 25 Bush thanks Fort Campbell soldiers   UPI / 2:24PM FORT CAMPBELL, Ky., Nov. 25 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush praised soldiers Tuesday at Fort Campbell, Ky., in a pre-Thanksgiving appearance to thank them for their service.

Monday, November 24 Bush hails Citigroup bailout   UPI / 10:54AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush Monday hailed the decision to shore up Citigroup as a "first step toward economic recovery."

Saturday, November 22 Bush pushes for free trade on Peru trip   UPI / 1:14PM LIMA, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush called on leaders meeting in Peru Saturday to embrace free trade despite recent global economic uncertainty. Obama daughters bond with Bush girls   UPI / 1:05PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush's family say they enjoyed a bonding moment with U.S. President-elect Barack Obama's two daughters during a White House tour.

Friday, November 21 Bush raps Congress on carmaker aid   UPI / 6:44PM LIMA, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Friday criticized Congress for not voting on a compromise measure to allow automakers access to $25 billion in federal loans.

Thursday, November 20 GMAC seeks bank holding company status   UPI / 3:24PM NEW YORK, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- GMAC Financial Services said Thursday it had applied to the U.S. Federal Reserve for bank holding company status, a step toward securing federal aid.

Wednesday, November 19 Pentagon to seek $524B baseline budget   UPI / 2:34PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- The Pentagon will be asking the U.S. Congress for its biggest-ever baseline budget next year: $524 billion, military sources say.

Tuesday, November 18 President Bush awards 11 Humanities Medals   UPI / 10:05AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush handed out 2008 National Humanities Medals to nine people, a museum and a philanthropic foundation during a White House ceremony.

Monday, November 17 White House Official Doubts Taliban Claim   AP / 1:34PM Mullah Omar, the Taliban head in Afghanistan, will likely not renounce his group's violent ways under a new proposed deal, a White House official said Monday.

Friday, November 14 Bush waiting for Congress on auto question   UPI / 6:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- The White House is waiting to learn what the U.S. Congress does on a possible bailout for automakers, a spokeswoman said Friday.

Thursday, November 13 Government aid not a cure-all, Bush says   UPI / 2:44PM NEW YORK, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- Government intervention is not a universal remedy for the financial malady afflicting U.S. and global markets, U.S. President George Bush said Thursday.

Wednesday, November 12 White House says bailout not for Big 3   UPI / 8:44PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 12 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush would consider more aid for automakers if Congress acts, but isn't inclined to use Wall Street bailout funds, a spokeswoman said.

Tuesday, November 11 White House e-mail lawsuit to proceed   UPI / 2:34PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- A Washington judge has refused to dismiss a lawsuit against the Bush administration for allegedly improperly deleting White House e-mails. Bush thanks military for 'standing up'   UPI / 1:24PM NEW YORK, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush thanked military personnel for "standing up when your country needed you most" in remarks commemorating Veterans Day Tuesday.

Monday, November 10 Bush presents 6 with Purple Hearts   UPI / 7:14PM BETHESDA, Md., Nov. 10 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush conferred Purple Hearts to six wounded military personnel Monday at Bethesda Naval Hospital. Pentagon group: Budget 'unsustainable'   UPI / 3:05PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- An internal Pentagon advisory group is urging U.S. President-elect Barack Obama to scale back expensive and troubled weapons programs.

Thursday, November 6 U.S. answers Iraqi changes to troop deal   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- The United States has responded to changes Iraqi officials made to the pact on maintaining a U.S. troop presence in Iraq, a White House spokeswoman said. Sources: Axelrod Obama White House adviser   UPI / 4:24PM CHICAGO, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- David Axelrod, Barack Obama's top campaign strategist, has accepted the position of senior adviser in the Obama White House, Democratic sources said Thursday.

Wednesday, November 5 White House, Congress runs cost $5.3B   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- The 2008 U.S. campaigns for the White House and Congress were by far the costliest in history, consuming $5.3 billion in spending overall, records show.

Tuesday, November 4 Israeli P.M.: Bush is friend of Israel   UPI / 5:44PM JERUSALEM, Nov. 4 (UPI) -- Whatever his approval ratings may be in the United States as he prepares to leave office, President Bush has a big fan in Israel, the lame duck prime minister.

Saturday, November 1 Bush urges Americans to vote   UPI / 10:14AM CAMP DAVID, Md., Oct. 31 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday urged Americans "to go to the polls and vote" on Election Day.

Friday, October 31 White House: No surprises about bin Laden   UPI / 9:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- The capture of Osama bin Laden, or any other surprise, isn't expected before Tuesday's U.S. presidential election, a White House spokesman said Friday. Human Rights lays out U.S. wish list   UPI / 2:14AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- The next U.S. president should make human rights a central part of his foreign policy agenda, Human Rights Watch said Thursday.

Thursday, October 30 McCain points up difference with Obama   UPI / 4:44PM DEFIANCE, Ohio, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Republican presidential candidate John McCain assailed his Democratic rival Thursday, saying he was untested in foreign policy and wrong on domestic issues.

Monday, October 27 Bush ending role as chief GOP fundraiser   UPI / 10:05AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- President George Bush ended his role as fundraiser-in-chief last week having raised $80 million for Republican candidates, a tally shows. Possible Axelrod White House role debated   UPI / 7:44AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 27 (UPI) -- Should Democratic U.S. presidential nominee Barack Obama win the White House, political consultant David Axelrod could join the administration, pundits say.

Saturday, October 25 Bush calls for Ohio voter probe   UPI / 8:05PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 25 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush has asked the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the status of 200,000 newly registered Ohio voters, the White House said.

Friday, October 24 McCain, Palin campaign against Bush   UPI / 10:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Republican presidential nominee John McCain and his running mate, Sarah Palin, began running hard against President George W. Bush this week, analysts say. Bush casts early ballot for McCain   UPI / 4:05PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush and first lady Laura Bush voted early, casting their ballots for Republican candidate John McCain, the White House said Friday.

Tuesday, October 21 McCain trying to distance self from Bush   UPI / 10:54AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- Republican John McCain, trying to boost his numbers in the tight presidential race, has been attempting to put air between him and U.S. President George Bush.

Monday, October 20 Attitudes shifting on economy, Bush says   UPI / 6:34PM ALEXANDRIA, La., Oct. 20 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush met with business leaders in Louisiana Tuesday to discuss the U.S. financial crisis that has spilled all over the world. GOP candidates distance selves from Bush   UPI / 5:24PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- Republican incumbents returning to their districts across the United States are distancing themselves from their unpopular president, The Hill reported Monday.

Saturday, October 18 Bush: Economic recovery will take time   UPI / 11:44AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 18 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush said Saturday that it will take time for the impact of his administration's attempts to revive the economy to become apparent.

Wednesday, October 15 Report claims W.H. political activity   UPI / 9:44PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- A congressional report released Wednesday alleges the White House Office of Political Affairs used taxpayer money to help elect Republicans.

Tuesday, October 14 Bailout has bank stakes, more FDIC action   UPI / 9:05AM WASHINGTON, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- A $250 billion direct stake in banks is among the planks included in the $700 billion bailout plan for the U.S. financial system, President Bush said Tuesday.

Friday, October 10 U.S. discussing plans to lift FDIC cap   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- U.S. finance leaders are in the early stages of discussions about a government plan to back all U.S. bank deposits, sources said.

Thursday, October 9 Bush signs presidential transition order   UPI / 5:54PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush signed an executive order Thursday directing his staff to begin preparing for transferring the White House to his successor. Laura Bush reportedly plans move to Dallas   UPI / 2:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 (UPI) -- First Lady Laura Bush reportedly wants a house in the upscale Dallas enclave of Highland Park when she and her husband return to Texas.

Wednesday, October 8 Bush signs U.S.-India nuclear trade pact   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- An agreement opening civilian nuclear trade between the United States and India was signed in Washington Wednesday by U.S. President George Bush. McCain ad budget goes negative   UPI / 4:54PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- John McCain and the Republican National Committee spent about $11 million recently on negative TV ads attacking Democrat Barack Obama, a university study says. Obama, McCain support Fed's rate cut   UPI / 12:14PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- The two major party presidential candidates said Wednesday they support U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke's decision to lower a key lending rate.

Wednesday, October 1 FDIC insurance added to bailout debate   UPI / 2:24PM WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- The second proposed bailout plan for U.S. financial firms may include a provision for more than doubling bank deposit insurance.

Tuesday, September 30 Obama proposes raising FDIC limit   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 30 (UPI) -- Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., called for increasing federal deposit insurance from $100,000 to $250,000 to help restore confidence in the U.S. financial system. Wildfires eat into Forest Service budget   UPI / 12:54PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 30 (UPI) -- The U.S. Forest Service budget shows more than $400 million has been shifted to fighting wildfires in the past two years.

Saturday, September 27 Bush urges bailout plan support   UPI / 1:05PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 27 (UPI) -- President George Bush called on Americans Saturday to back his $700 billion Wall Street bailout proposal as negotiators met to craft the historic legislation. House GOP rebukes Bush on bailout plan   UPI / 9:44AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 27 (UPI) -- A U.S. House Republican move to scuttle a $700 billion financial bailout bill is the culmination of frustrations with the White House, observers say.

Friday, September 26 Poll: U.S. public wants military pullback   UPI / 2:44AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 26 (UPI) -- A Pew Center survey finds that public support in the United States for an assertive foreign policy has dropped sharply.

Wednesday, September 24 Bush hails Iraqi election agreement   UPI / 6:44PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 24 (UPI) -- The Iraqi Parliament's reaching an agreement on provincial elections was hailed by U.S. President George Bush as a milestone in the country's reconciliation. FAA suspends licenses of sleeping pilots   UPI / 9:34AM HONOLULU, Sept. 24 (UPI) -- Two go! airline pilots had their licenses suspended for reportedly falling asleep on a flight from Honolulu to Hilo, Hawaii, earlier this year.

Saturday, September 20 Bush: 'Big package for big problem'   UPI / 2:05PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush says his $700 billion financial crisis bailout plan is "a big package because it's a big problem."

Friday, September 19 Bush outlines bold market recovery plan   UPI / 1:44PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 19 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush outlined Friday a number of far-reaching and costly steps aimed at staunching a growing financial crisis.

Thursday, September 18 Bush expresses confidence in SEC chair   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 18 (UPI) -- The White House said Thursday U.S. President George Bush has full confidence in Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Chris Cox. FDIC-insured banks safe, FDIC says   UPI / 4:54PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 18 (UPI) -- U.S. consumers' money in an insured bank is safe as long as its within the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. coverage limits, the FDIC head said Thursday. Energy prices gain from financial fix   UPI / 9:34AM NEW YORK, Sept. 18 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices climbed Thursday for a second day, reaching $101.25 a barrel after an influx of Federal Reserve cash weakened the U.S. dollar.

Wednesday, September 17 Bush denounces embassy attack   UPI / 7:44PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- The attack on the U.S. Embassy in Yemen is a reminder that "we are at war," U.S. President George Bush said Wednesday in Washington. Cheney aide: Bush won't attack Iran   UPI / 3:24PM JERUSALEM, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush won't attack Iran's nuclear facilities before his term expires, a former White House adviser says. BOJ leaves interest rate unchanged   UPI / 3:05AM TOKYO, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- Japan's central bank Wednesday left its key interest rate unchanged at 0.5 percent, following a similar decision by the U.S. Federal Reserve.

Tuesday, September 16 All eyes on Fed after bleak Monday   UPI / 7:44AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 (UPI) -- Turmoil in the financial markets Tuesday overshadowed the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank's regularly scheduled meeting following Monday's market shifts.

Monday, September 15 New York area business mixed in report   UPI / 11:35AM NEW YORK, Sept. 15 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity in the New York Federal Reserve district slipped to a reading of minus 7.4, dropping 10.2 points from August to September, the bank said.

Sunday, September 14 Palin's foreign policy experience debated   UPI / 5:05PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 14 (UPI) -- Republican U.S. vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin lacks foreign policy bona fides, said a supporter of Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama. Engineers say FAA rushed plane approval   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. aviation engineers say they were improperly pressured to sign off on a new type of aircraft before all safety questions were answered.

Saturday, September 13 Bush: U.S. 'safer now' than 7 years ago   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 12 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush said Saturday the United States is "safer now than it was seven years ago" when terrorists attacked New York and Washington.

Friday, September 12 Brazil opposes potential Bolivian coup   UPI / 2:44PM BRASILIA, Brazil, Sept. 12 (UPI) -- The Brazilian government is against any attempt to overthrow the government in Bolivia, a foreign policy official says.

Thursday, September 11 GOP foreign policy experts cool to Palin   UPI / 5:54PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 11 (UPI) -- An adviser to Republican presidential candidate John McCain concedes GOP foreign policy experts are cool about vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin.

Wednesday, September 10 U.S. needs domestic oil source, WH says   UPI / 6:24PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 10 (UPI) -- News that major oil exporters decided to cut daily production points to the need for the United States to produce oil here, a White House official said. Bin Laden hunt still on, Bush aide says   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 10 (UPI) -- President George Bush has been directing the hunt for Osama bin Laden, and the effort to stop an attack on the United States again, Bush's spokeswoman said.

Tuesday, September 9 Bush says more U.S. troops to leave Iraq   UPI / 11:14AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 9 (UPI) -- Some 8,000 U.S. military personnel will be rotated out of Iraq without replacement during the next several months, U.S. President George Bush said Tuesday. Bush said lower violence in Iraq a success   UPI / 10:35AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 9 (UPI) -- Progress in Iraq remains tenuous, but gains, such as the reduction in violence, indicate a "degree of durability," U.S. President George Bush said Tuesday. Bush: Iraq's Anbar province 'transformed'   UPI / 10:35AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 9 (UPI) -- Anbar province in Iraq is hard proof that the surge of U.S. combat troops in Iraq worked to reduce violence, U.S. President George Bush said Tuesday.

Monday, September 8 Report: Bush will retain Iraq troop levels   UPI / 9:54PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 8 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush will announce U.S. combat troop levels in Iraq will remain unchanged for the remainder of his term, The Washington Post said Monday.

Sunday, September 7 Obama slams McCain on social security   UPI / 11:44AM NEWARK, N.J., Sept. 7 (UPI) -- Democratic U.S. presidential nominee Barack Obama says Republican opponent John McCain is out to privatize social security.

Saturday, September 6 Bush again slams Congress on energy   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday criticized Congress again for not holding a vote on opening "more of America's domestic oil resources for exploration."

Friday, September 5 Aides: Palin cramming for first debate   UPI / 7:44AM WASHINGTON, Sept. 5 (UPI) -- Campaign aides say several foreign policy experts are helping U.S. Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin cram for a debate less than a month away.

Wednesday, September 3 Bush: Oil reserves available for recovery   UPI / 3:54PM BATON ROUGE, La., Sept. 3 (UPI) -- Oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve will be released to help Louisiana recover from Hurricane Gustav, U.S. President George Bush said Wednesday.

Tuesday, September 2 Bush: 'The man we need is John McCain'   UPI / 6:44PM ST. PAUL, Minn., Sept. 2 (UPI) -- John McCain's life has prepared him to make hard choices and lead the United States, President George Bush told Republican delegates in St. Paul, Minn. Bush says Palin pregnancy a family matter   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 2 (UPI) -- Count U.S. President George Bush among politicians who say vice presidential candidate Sara Palin's daughter's pregnancy is off limits, the White House said. FAA allows more aerospace self-regulation   UPI / 2:44PM EVERETT, Wash., Sept. 2 (UPI) -- Aerospace firms in Washington and elsewhere are increasingly taking over their own regulation, say industry experts. Bush to Speak to GOP Convention From White House   AP / 1:54PM ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Republicans revamped their convention plan Tuesday to feature a live message from President Bush and prime-time pitches from two men they hope can reach out to independent voters, Sen. Joe Lieberman and former Sen. Fred Thompson. Bush tells Congress to 'step up' on energy   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, Sept. 2 (UPI) -- . President George Bush slammed the U.S. Congress Tuesday, saying members must understand "we need more domestic energy, not less".

Saturday, August 30 Bush: Stimulus having 'intended effect'   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, Aug. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday said the economic stimulus passed by Congress "is having its intended effect" amid signs the economy is improving.

Thursday, August 28 Bush's speech to make case for McCain   UPI / 5:05PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush will speak at the Republican National Convention in Minnesota to boost John McCain, not rehash his tenure, the White House said.

Wednesday, August 27 USDA awards $35M for energy projects   UPI / 3:05PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 27 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded $35 million for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects, the department announced Wednesday. USDA proposes new downer cattle regulation   UPI / 11:14AM WASHINGTON, Aug. 27 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture is proposing a new regulation that would prohibit the slaughter of cattle that can't walk. FAA: Delays caused by computer failure   UPI / 10:54AM ATLANTA, Aug. 27 (UPI) -- Federal aviation officials are blaming 134 delayed flights throughout the United States on computer failures in Georgia and Utah.

Saturday, August 23 Bush: Dem oil bill 'designed to fail'   UPI / 10:24AM CRAWFORD, Texas, Aug. 23 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday accused congressional Democrats of trying to block offshore oil drilling by pushing a bill "that is designed to fail."

Thursday, August 21 Canadian magazine: Bush is a liberal   UPI / 11:24AM TORONTO, Aug. 21 (UPI) -- A Canadian weekly news magazine claimed in this week's issue U.S. President George Bush is "shockingly liberal." FDIC re-writes loan terms at IndyMac   UPI / 9:04AM WASHINGTON, Aug. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. regulators plan to rewrite terms on about 25,000 troubled Indymac Bancorp, mortgages that could set a trend for other lenders, an official said.

Wednesday, August 20 White House calls for speedy withdrawal   UPI / 11:24PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 20 (UPI) -- The Russian government needs to speed its withdrawal from the Republic of Georgia, a White House spokesman said Wednesday. Bush lists veterans, security successes   UPI / 9:54AM ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 20 (UPI) -- The United States has provided greater support for veterans and modernized military tactics for the war on terror, U.S. President George Bush said Wednesday.

Saturday, August 16 Bush says U.S. stands with Georgia   UPI / 6:14PM CRAWFORD, Texas, Aug. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush called on Russia Saturday to honor Georgia's borders and withdraw its troops from its overmatched neighbor.

Thursday, August 14 Bush, CIA discuss Georgia crisis   UPI / 6:54PM MCLEAN, Va., Aug. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. President Bush and CIA leaders Thursday discussed the situation in Georgia and different scenarios about what could happen in the area, officials said. McCain wants Social Security 'on table'   UPI / 9:34AM NEW YORK, Aug. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. John McCain has supporters wondering what path he favors in handling the thorny issue of changes to Social Security, The New York Times says.

Tuesday, August 12 Bush backs House GOP energy protest   UPI / 9:04PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 12 (UPI) -- President George Bush repeated his call for Congress to allow offshore drilling Tuesday, saying he sided with House Republicans' efforts to force a vote. BRIEF: USDA: Corn Has Recovered From July Floods   AP / 7:34PM Aug. 12--The corn crop appears to have recovered from July flooding, with the Agriculture Department reporting Tuesday that yields are expected to average 155 bushels an acre, a 3.9 bushel increase from the year prior.

Monday, August 11 Corn silking catching up, USDA reports   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 11 (UPI) -- The U.S. corn crop has nearly caught up with its historic average in silking, its key pollination stage, the Department of Agriculture said Monday. Bush: Russia must respect Georgia   UPI / 6:24PM WASHINGTON, Aug. 11 (UPI) -- Russia must respect Georgia's sovereignty and end its push deeper into the country, U.S. President George Bush said in Washington Monday. Bush carries Cheek message to China   UPI / 4:04PM BEIJING, Aug. 11 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush said Monday he has carried human rights activist Joey Cheek's message about the crisis in Darfur to the Chinese government.

Saturday, August 9 Bush visits Olympic beach volleyball   UPI / 5:44PM BEIJING, Aug. 9 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush made a surprise visit to the Olympic beach volleyball venue in Beijing Saturday, trying his hand at the sport.

Wednesday, August 6 Bush, Thai PM discuss peace, future   UPI / 5:54PM BANGKOK, Aug. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush and the Thai prime minister agreed to improve relations through health and education, and security issues, the two leaders said. Bush lauds relations with S. Korea   UPI / 7:44AM SEOUL, Aug. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush said Wednesday in Seoul that U.S. relations with South Korea remain strong in face of threats from North Korea.

Tuesday, August 5 Bush arrives in S. Korea, meeting with Lee   UPI / 8:14AM SEOUL, Aug. 5 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush arrived in Seoul for talks with his South Korean counterpart on military, economic and diplomatic issues.

Monday, August 4 Bush, S. Korea to tackle global concerns   UPI / 7:44PM ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE, D.C., Aug. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush and his Korean counterpart will discuss free trade, North Korean denuclearization and other global issues, a White House aide said.

Saturday, August 2 Bush blames Congress for oil prices   UPI / 10:24AM KENNEBUNKPORT, Maine, Aug. 1 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday blamed Democratic congressional leaders for "high gas prices."

Thursday, July 31 Bush: Coal part of U.S. energy future   UPI / 6:14PM WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va., July 31 (UPI) -- Coal should play an important role in producing electricity to help the United States achieve energy security, U.S. President George Bush said. Progress seen in Iraq, Bush says   UPI / 9:14AM WASHINGTON, July 31 (UPI) -- Conditions in Iraq are such that U.S. troops sent there will serve 12-month tours instead of 15 months, U.S. President George Bush said Thursday.

Wednesday, July 30 Bush: Bring energy measures to a vote   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, July 30 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush called out Congress Wednesday for its inaction on several energy-related measures as the August recess approaches.

Tuesday, July 29 Bush lists ways to reach energy security   UPI / 7:14PM EUCLID, Ohio, July 29 (UPI) -- The United States has options to become less dependent on foreign oil, President George Bush said Friday, but Congress must act now for the future. White House chides Congress on energy   UPI / 4:44PM WASHINGTON, July 29 (UPI) -- The White House criticized U.S. congressional Democrats Tuesday for delaying consideration of energy-related legislation before the August recess. NASA, USDA sign space research pact   UPI / 3:54PM WASHINGTON, July 29 (UPI) -- The National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have signed an agreement to enable space-based plant research.

Sunday, July 27 Olmert said to blast Bush on Iran   UPI / 1:04PM JERUSALEM, July 27 (UPI) -- Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has written to U.S. President George Bush complaining about U.S. rapprochement with Iran, an Israeli news Web site claims.

Saturday, July 26 Bush: U.S. aid fights ' violent extremism'   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, July 26 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday said U.S. aid for political development, AIDS and other issues helps "defeat the forces of violent extremism."

Thursday, July 24 USDA renews program to fight pig syndrome   UPI / 4:34PM WASHINGTON, July 24 (UPI) -- The U.S. Agriculture Department Thursday said it was renewing funding for research, education and extension service regarding pig health. Pelosi: House won't validate Bush policy   UPI / 1:44PM WASHINGTON, July 24 (UPI) -- U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Thursday rejected White House pressure on energy legislation, saying President Bush just wants his failed policies validated.

Wednesday, July 23 Bush briefed on defense issues   UPI / 9:14PM WASHINGTON, July 23 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush discussed a range of issues with his military advisers in the Pentagon's high-security "tank" Wednesday, his press secretary said. Official: White House made emissions call   UPI / 11:05AM WASHINGTON, July 23 (UPI) -- A former U.S. official has contradicted claims that a decision to block California's stringent emissions plan was not influenced by the White House. Bush to sign housing bill   UPI / 10:14AM WASHINGTON, July 23 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush, saying the measure's positives outweigh the negatives, said he wouldn't veto the housing bill expected to win approval in Congress.

Tuesday, July 22 USDA awards $6.9M for energy projects   UPI / 5:44PM WASHINGTON, July 22 (UPI) -- The U.S. Agriculture Department Tuesday said it released $6.9 million in loans and grants for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. McCain walks tightrope on Bush support   UPI / 11:24AM WASHINGTON, July 22 (UPI) -- Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Sen. John McCain is walking a tightrope with his alliance to the unpopular current U.S. president, analysts say.

Saturday, July 19 Bush claims credit on energy, economy   UPI / 10:24AM WACO, Texas, July 18 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday trumpeted steps his administration took this week on rising energy costs and sagging home values. U.S. diplomat joins Iran talks   UPI / 7:05AM GENEVA, Switzerland, July 19 (UPI) -- A U.S. diplomat Saturday was present in Switzerland at direct talks with Iranian officials in what analysts say is a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy.

Friday, July 18 Bush, Maliki agree on 'aspirational goals'   UPI / 4:24PM TUCSON, July 18 (UPI) -- U.S. President Bush and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki agreed to a "time horizon" for a change in the U.S. mission in Iraq, the White House said Friday.

Thursday, July 17 Bush tours N. Calif. wildfire area   UPI / 6:34PM REDDING, Calif., July 17 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush visited Northern California Thursday to get a firsthand look at the devastation caused by an early season outbreak of wildfires. Bush eulogizes Tony Snow   UPI / 6:24PM WASHINGTON, July 17 (UPI) -- U.S. President Bush called his former press secretary "irreplaceable" in a eulogy Thursday at Tony Snow's funeral in Washington. USDA awards $4.1M to study bee disease   UPI / 1:24PM WASHINGTON, July 17 (UPI) -- The University of Georgia will get a $4.1 million grant to study diseases affecting the bee population, U.S. Agriculture Department Secretary Ed Schafer said.

Wednesday, July 16 NATO hires Coca Cola branding exec   UPI / 3:14PM BRUSSELS, July 16 (UPI) -- NATO, the European-U.S. alliance, has hired a Coca Cola executive with experience in image-making and foreign policy to update its brand image.

Tuesday, July 15 U.S. fighting war on two fronts, Bush says   UPI / 1:24PM WASHINGTON, July 15 (UPI) -- President George Bush said the United States is fighting a war on terror in Iraq and Afghanistan and has "the patience and determination" to succeed in both. Bush: U.S. energy fix will take time   UPI / 12:44PM WASHINGTON, July 15 (UPI) -- Offshore oil exploration won't solve short-term U.S. energy issues, but will send a psychological message on supply and demand, President George Bush said. Bernanke warns of slow economic recovery   UPI / 10:54AM WASHINGTON, July 15 (UPI) -- U.S. financial institutions remain stressed and the economy faces a slow recovery, Federal Reserve Bank Chairman Ben Bernanke said Tuesday.

Monday, July 14 IndyMac deposits safe, FDIC says   UPI / 8:54PM WASHINGTON, July 14 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. says depositors with accounts at the seized IndyMac Federal Bank FSB have nothing to fear. Bush pays condolence call on Snow family   UPI / 6:05PM WASHINGTON, July 14 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush Monday paid a condolence call on the family of former White House spokesman Tony Snow, who died during the weekend. Bush lifts executive offshore drilling ban   UPI / 3:34PM WASHINGTON, July 14 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush Monday renewed his call for Congress to repeal the ban on offshore oil exploration, in place since the early 1980s.

Sunday, July 13 Bush 'Saddened' By Snow's Death   AP / 5:34PM U.S. President George Bush said Sunday he was saddened to hear of the death of former White House Press Secretary Tony Snow. Bush 'saddened' by Snow's death   UPI / 5:14PM WASHINGTON, July 13 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush said Sunday he was "saddened" to hear of the death of former White House Press Secretary Tony Snow.

Saturday, July 12 Bush blames Congress for gas prices   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, July 11 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday said "Democrats in Congress" are largely to blame for higher fuel prices.

Friday, July 11 USDA to list stores in meat recalls   UPI / 10:24PM WASHINGTON, July 11 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture said it will begin listing retail stores carrying some meat and poultry products that have been recalled. Bush: Millions of stimulus checks sent   UPI / 2:44PM WASHINGTON, July 11 (UPI) -- More than 112 million economic stimulus checks have been mailed, representing about $91 billion in relief, U.S. President George Bush said Friday.

Wednesday, July 9 Bush, Lee agree to enforce U.S. beef rule   UPI / 1:54PM TOYAKO, Japan, July 9 (UPI) -- South Korean President Lee Myung-bak and U.S. President George Bush agreed Wednesday to stringently enforce safeguards on the importation of U.S. beef. Bush calls G8 summit 'success'   UPI / 8:14AM TOYAKO, Japan, July 9 (UPI) -- The Group of Eight had "significant success" addressing climate change, the food crisis and accountability, U.S. President George Bush said. Bush, Hu discuss Olympics at summit   UPI / 7:34AM TOYAKO, Japan, July 9 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush and Chinese President Hu Jintao had bilateral talks Wednesday in Japan, discussing the Beijing Olympics and other topics.

Tuesday, July 8 Candidates offer ideas on Social Security   UPI / 6:04PM WASHINGTON, July 8 (UPI) -- Both major U.S. presidential candidates are proposing dramatic changes to Social Security, but they diverge on how to keep the program solvent, observers said.

Monday, July 7 Bush, Medvedev confer at G8 summit   UPI / 3:26PM TOYAKO, Japan, July 7 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev agree Iran and North Korea must give up their nuclear aspirations, they said Monday. Bush, AU leader Kikwete discuss Zimbabwe   UPI / 3:26PM TOYAKO, Japan, July 7 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush and African Union leader Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete discussed but disagreed about sanctions for Zimbabwe during the G8 summit in Japan. Bush: Thank U.S. troops for freedom   UPI / 3:26PM WASHINGTON, July 5 (UPI) -- President George Bush Saturday said U.S. military forces "make it possible for America to endure as a free society."

Friday, July 4 Bush: Time for G8 to 'write checks'   UPI / 4:16AM WASHINGTON, July 2 (UPI) -- It's time for the Group of Eight countries to be held accountable for their pledges to help developing nations, U.S. President George Bush said Wednesday. June 'tough' in Afghanistan, Bush says   UPI / 4:16AM WASHINGTON, July 2 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush acknowledged Wednesday that troop deaths in Afghanistan in June surpassed casualty levels in Iraq for the second straight month. Bush presses for renewal of aid to Africa   UPI / 4:16AM WASHINGTON, July 3 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush is urging Congress to act on an aid package to Africa stalled by a handful of Senate Republicans.

Sunday, June 29 McCain's campaign emphasis questioned   UPI / 11:34AM WASHINGTON, June 29 (UPI) -- Some Republican Party strategists say they're puzzled by the foreign policy emphasis in the campaign of likely GOP U.S. presidential nominee John McCain.

Saturday, June 28 Bush calls for more Zimbabwe sanctions   UPI / 5:34PM WASHINGTON, June 28 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush called Saturday for additional sanctions against the government of Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe.

Friday, June 27 Bolton: Israel may hit Iran after election   UPI / 4:24PM MOSCOW, June 27 (UPI) -- John Bolton, a controversial foreign policy adviser to U.S. President George Bush, told a Russian news agency Israel is likely to hit Iran after the election.

Wednesday, June 25 Former FAA inspector claims retaliation   UPI / 1:44AM SEATTLE, June 25 (UPI) -- A former safety inspector is suing the FAA in Seattle, claiming gender discrimination and retaliation for her efforts to enforce rules at Alaska Airlines.

Tuesday, June 24 Jenna Bush gets White House celebration   UPI / 4:16AM WASHINGTON, June 22 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush danced with his newly wed daughter, Jenna, at a White House reception Saturday, a guest says.

Sunday, June 22 Bush wants more domestic oil drilling   UPI / 4:15AM WASHINGTON, June 21 (UPI) -- The United States should increase domestic oil production in the Rocky Mountains, Alaska and off-shore, President George Bush says.

Friday, June 20 President Bush tours Iowa flooding   UPI / 4:16AM CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa, June 19 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush toured the flood-stricken Iowa communities of Cedar Rapids and Iowa City Thursday as federal officials discussed recovery plans. Mid-Atlantic manufacturing index drops   UPI / 4:16AM PHILADELPHIA, June 19 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity in the Mid-Atlantic region contracted over the last month, the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia said Thursday.

Wednesday, June 18 Bush: Open continental shelf, ANWR   UPI / 11:54AM WASHINGTON, June 18 (UPI) -- President George Bush asked Congress Wednesday to allow drilling for oil off U.S. coasts and on federal land to fight rising oil and gas prices.

Tuesday, June 17 Industrial production slowed in May   UPI / 4:24PM WASHINGTON, June 17 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production slowed 0.2 percent in May after a steeper decline of 0.7 percent in April, the U.S. Federal Reserve said Tuesday. Bush pledges help, to tour flooded areas   UPI / 1:05PM WASHINGTON, June 17 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush said Tuesday he will visit the flood-ravaged Midwest and his administration is working to answer pressing needs in the area.

Monday, June 16 Judge dismisses White House e-mail suit   UPI / 7:14PM WASHINGTON, June 16 (UPI) -- A U.S. judge Monday dismissed a government watchdog's lawsuit seeking records on missing White House e-mails.

Sunday, June 15 Bush against 'arbitrary' troop withdrawals   UPI / 3:14PM LONDON, June 15 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush arrived in Britain Sunday to meet with Prime Minister Gordon Brown on Iran and global climate change. Bush: British shouldn't set Iraq timeline   UPI / 9:04AM PARIS, June 15 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush has criticized Prime Minister Gordon Brown for discussing a timetable for the withdrawal of British troops from Iraq.

Friday, June 13 Survey finds foreign interest in U.S. race   UPI / 1:14AM WASHINGTON, June 13 (UPI) -- A survey of 24 countries finds high interest in the U.S. presidential race and a hope that the next president will improve U.S. foreign policy.

Thursday, June 12 Bush: War talk could have been different   UPI / 4:16AM LONDON, June 11 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush, saying his language may have led some to think he favors war, told a British newspaper he regrets the Iraqi war's divisiveness.

Wednesday, June 11 'All options' open on Iran, Bush says   UPI / 7:05AM MESEBERG, Germany, June 11 (UPI) -- Diplomacy is preferred in dealing with Iran's nuclear program but U.S. President George Bush said Wednesday he'd also consider other approaches to the issue.

Tuesday, June 10 Bush, ministers reach agreement on Iran   UPI / 6:05PM KRANJ, Slovenia, June 10 (UPI) -- The United States and the European Union reached a strategy to induce Iran to back off its nuclear plans during the EU summit, U.S. President George Bush said.

Monday, June 9 Mideast, Iran, Kosovo on EU agenda   UPI / 9:24PM LJUBLJANA, Slovenia, June 9 (UPI) -- Mideast tensions and Kosovo's independence will be on tap when U.S. President George Bush meets with European Union members in Slovenia, the White House said.

Saturday, June 7 Bush: Troops' pay in jeopardy 'after July'   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, June 7 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush Saturday said pay for U.S. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan could be in jeopardy if Congress does not approve his war funding request.

Thursday, June 5 Budget resolution squeaks through House   UPI / 7:05PM WASHINGTON, June 5 (UPI) -- The U.S. House, 214 to 210, Thursday approved a $3 trillion domestic and defense budget blueprint that includes discretionary funds for 12 appropriations bills.

Monday, June 2 USDA puts $5M toward bird flu study   UPI / 11:44PM WASHINGTON, June 2 (UPI) -- The University of Maryland-College Park has received $5 million from the U.S. Agriculture Department to renew bird flu research efforts, the agency said. Bush calls Mugabe's tactics 'deplorable'   UPI / 6:54PM WASHINGTON, June 2 (UPI) -- Tactics used by Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe against his political opposition and its leaders are "deplorable," U.S. President Bush said Monday. Bush lukewarm about climate change bill   UPI / 6:44PM WASHINGTON, June 2 (UPI) -- President George Bush Monday criticized sweeping climate change legislation being considered by the U.S. Senate, saying it would cost taxpayers $6 trillion.

Thursday, May 29 McCain, Bush 'cordial' at fundraiser   UPI / 11:14PM PHOENIX, May 29 (UPI) -- Republican John McCain and President George Bush were "cordial" with each other as they raised $3.5 million for McCain's presidential campaign, guests said. Bush, Mormon church leader Monson meet   UPI / 3:24PM SALT LAKE CITY, May 29 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush visited Thomas S. Monson, president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Thursday before leaving Utah.

Wednesday, May 28 Corn trades lower on USDA grazing news   UPI / 7:54PM CHICAGO, May 28 (UPI) -- Grains traded lower Wednesday in Chicago on a U.S. Department of Agriculture announcement that it would open 24 million acres of protected land to grazing. Bush stumps for McCain, GOP in Utah   UPI / 5:34PM SALT LAKE CITY, May 28 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush, for the second time in two days, stumped for Arizona Republican John McCain Wednesday, this time in Utah. Bush thanks U.S. Air Force cadets   UPI / 4:05PM COLORADO SPRINGS, May 28 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush compared modern-day warfare and World War II tactics Wednesday, then thanked Air Force cadets in Colorado for choosing to serve.

Tuesday, May 27 White House concerned by IAEA Iran report   UPI / 7:34PM WASHINGTON, May 27 (UPI) -- Concerns raised by the U.S. nuclear agency about Iran's nuclear program should shed light about Iran's intentions, a spokeswoman for U.S. President Bush said. McCain, Bush in joint fundraiser   UPI / 4:54PM PHOENIX, May 27 (UPI) -- President George Bush traveled to Phoenix Tuesday to attend a fundraiser for presumptive Republican presidential nominee Arizona Sen. John McCain. Bush troubled by Suu Kyi's detention   UPI / 3:05PM WASHINGTON, May 27 (UPI) -- The extension of Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi's house arrest by Myanmar's ruling junta is troubling, U.S. President George Bush said Tuesday. Bush treads fine line on Sudan   UPI / 11:54AM WASHINGTON, May 27 (UPI) -- The Bush administration's criticism of Sudan is at odds with private meetings with Sudanese officials, dividing experts on the effectiveness of U.S. policy. U.S. Federal Reserve expands oversight   UPI / 9:05AM WASHINGTON, May 27 (UPI) -- The U.S. Federal Reserve's emergency bailout of investment bank Bear Stearns in March began an era of extended federal oversight, financiers said.

Sunday, May 25 FAA clears skies over Kennedy compound   UPI / 1:10AM HYANNISPORT, Mass., May 24 (UPI) -- The Federal Aviation Administration has closed the skies over the Kennedy compound in Hyannisport, Mass.

Saturday, May 24 Bush: Honor war dead on Memorial Day   UPI / 10:24AM WASHINGTON, May 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush Saturday urged Americans to "remember the true purpose" of Memorial Day, "to honor the sacrifices that make our freedom possible." Bush fundraiser moved to smaller venue   UPI / 12:54AM PHOENIX, May 24 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush's scheduled Phoenix fundraiser for John McCain's presidential campaign has been moved to a smaller venue, a published report said.

Friday, May 23 Bush to hit the campaign trail for McCain   UPI / 9:04PM WASHINGTON, May 23 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush will hit the fundraising circuit next week to raise money for Republican presidential candidate John McCain and others. FAA conducts runway sensor trials   UPI / 11:24AM BOSTON, May 23 (UPI) -- The Federal Aviation Administration is testing a sensor at a Boston airport to detect debris on the runway that could lead to crashes, officials say. Medvedev visits China to strengthen ties   UPI / 6:44AM BEIJING, May 23 (UPI) -- Newly installed Russian President Dmitry Medvedev traveled Friday to China, noting the Asian giant is one of his country's major foreign policy partners.

Thursday, May 22 Bush to Congress: Pass war spending bill   UPI / 1:44PM FORT BRAGG, N.C., May 22 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush used a pre-Memorial Day visit Thursday to Fort Bragg, N.C., to push Congress to pass "a responsible war funding bill."

Wednesday, May 21 Bush signs bar to genetic discrimination   UPI / 6:24PM WASHINGTON, May 21 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush Wednesday signed a bill barring employers and insurers from discriminating against people genetically predisposed to disease. Bush allows cell phones to be sent to Cuba   UPI / 5:05PM WASHINGTON, May 21 (UPI) -- President George Bush marked a day of solidarity with the Cuban people by allowing U.S. residents to send cell phones to their families in Cuba.

Tuesday, May 20 White House denies plan to attack Iran   UPI / 12:05PM JERUSALEM, May 20 (UPI) -- The White House Tuesday flatly denied an article in an Israeli newspaper stating U.S. President George Bush intended to attack Iran.

Monday, May 19 White House chides NBC on Bush interview   UPI / 6:34PM WASHINGTON, May 19 (UPI) -- The White House Monday accused NBC News of selectively editing U.S. President George W. Bush's comments about administration policy on Iran. Bush says position on Iran unchanged   UPI / 4:24PM WASHINGTON, May 19 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush says he's never wavered on Iran -- if it verifiably suspends its uranium enrichment program, negotiations could begin.

Sunday, May 18 Bush backs Karzai's aid appeal   UPI / 11:44AM SHARM EL SHEIKH, Egypt, May 18 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush in Egypt Sunday said he backed a request by Afghan President Hamid Karzai for $50 billion in foreign aid.

Friday, May 16 FAA: Planned Boston tower too tall   UPI / 5:14PM BOSTON, May 16 (UPI) -- The Federal Aviation Administration told Boston officials that a planned 1,000-foot tower could cause an obstruction to aircraft.

Thursday, May 15 U.S. industrial production slowed in April   UPI / 12:40PM WASHINGTON, May 15 (UPI) -- U.S. industrial production slowed in April after a marginal rise in March, the U.S. Federal Reserve said Thursday. May manufacturing flat in New York   UPI / 12:10PM NEW YORK, May 15 (UPI) -- Manufacturing activity in New York state declined slightly in May, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York said Thursday.

Wednesday, May 14 Bush: U.S. stands with Israel against foes   UPI / 2:50PM JERUSALEM, May 14 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush, speaking Wednesday in Jerusalem, pledged to support Israel against extremists and terrorists, including Hamas and Iran. Obama woos working-class voters in Michigan   AP / 1:31PM WARREN, Mich. (AP) -- Democrat Barack Obama, campaigning in a state that poses several challenges for him in the fall, appealed to working-class voters Wednesday with a pledge to pump billions of dollars into efforts to revitalize the nation's manufacturing sector. Obama woos working-class voters in Michigan   AP / 12:50PM STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. - Democrat Barack Obama, campaigning in a state that poses several problems for him in the fall, appealed to working-class voters Wednesday with a pledge to pump an extra $200 million a year into efforts to revitalize the nation's manufacturing sector. Determined Clinton wins W.Va., says race not over   AP / 2:21AM CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Hillary Rodham Clinton coasted to a large but largely symbolic victory in working-class West Virginia on Tuesday, handing Barack Obama one of the worst defeats of the campaign yet scarcely slowing his march toward the Democratic presidential nomination.

Tuesday, May 13 Bush disappointed with intel before Iraq war   AP / 11:01PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush said Tuesday he was disappointed in "flawed intelligence" before the Iraq war and was concerned that if a Democrat wins the presidency in November and withdrew troops prematurely it could "eventually lead to another attack on the United States." Televangelist John Hagee apologizes to Catholics   AP / 7:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- John Hagee, an influential Texas televangelist who endorsed John McCain, apologized to Catholics Tuesday for his stinging criticism of the Roman Catholic Church and for having "emphasized the darkest chapters in the history of Catholic and Protestant relations with the Jews." Underdog Clinton looks for win in W.Va.   AP / 7:20PM CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton reached out for a largely symbolic victory in the West Virginia primary Tuesday over Barack Obama, front-runner in a historic Democratic presidential race nearing an end. Bush calls new attack on US his worst worry   AP / 7:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush said Tuesday he was disappointed in "flawed intelligence" before the Iraq war and was concerned that if a Democrat wins the presidency in November and withdrew troops prematurely it could "eventually lead to another attack on the United States." Bernanke: Financial turmoil in markets easing   AP / 6:30PM WASHINGTON - Turmoil in financial markets has eased somewhat, but the situation is still "far from normal," Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said Tuesday. Stocks mixed after retail sales report, oil spikes   AP / 3:51PM NEW YORK - Wall Street traded mixed Tuesday after a report on retail sales and comments from Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke gave investors little incentive to extend the previous session's big advance. Record oil and gas prices also dampened buying. Bush sends nuke treaty to Congress   UPI / 3:51PM WASHINGTON, May 13 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush Tuesday formally sent to Congress a proposed agreement on nuclear energy cooperation with Russia, the White House said. Now the underdog, Clinton looks for win in W.Va.   AP / 3:51PM CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Hillary Rodham Clinton collided with Barack Obama in the West Virginia primary on Tuesday, persisting in the Democratic presidential race despite dwindling odds and a lengthening delegate deficit. Stocks decline after retail sales report, oil spikes   AP / 3:12PM NEW YORK - Wall Street pulled back Tuesday after a report on retail sales and comments from Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke gave investors little incentive to extend the previous session's big advance. Record oil and gas prices added to the selling pressure. Clinton poised for W.Va. win; Obama looks ahead   AP / 2:42PM CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -- More party leaders swung behind Barack Obama, edging him closer to the Democratic presidential nomination, even as he braced for a loss to Hillary Rodham Clinton in the West Virginia primary Tuesday. US weighing North Korea food relief   AP / 1:01PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Bush administration is discussing ways in which the United States might help get food aid to North Korea. Stocks decline after retail sales report, Bernanke speech   AP / 11:50AM NEW YORK - Wall Street pulled back Tuesday after a report on retail sales and comments from Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke gave investors little incentive to extend the previous session's big advance. Stocks head to higher open after retail sales report   AP / 9:31AM NEW YORK - Wall Street headed to a higher opening on Tuesday after a better-than-expected report on retail sales and comments from Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke that turmoil in the financial markets have eased. Bush tempers upbeat optimism about Mideast peace   AP / 8:00AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- When President Bush began his first energized pursuit of an Israeli-Palestinian peace accord just over five months ago, confidence was his constant companion. "I'm optimistic," he said over and over about the prospects for ending one of the world's longest-running disputes within little more than a year. Clinton poised for W.Va. win; Obama looks ahead   AP / 3:50AM CHARLESTON, W.Va. - The Democratic presidential race runs on two tracks now, one snaking through the West Virginia primary Tuesday and the other mapped out by Barack Obama through battleground states in the fall. Bush tempers upbeat optimism about Mideast peace   AP / 3:50AM WASHINGTON - When President Bush began his first energized pursuit of an Israeli-Palestinian peace accord just over five months ago, confidence was his constant companion. "I'm optimistic," he said over and over about the prospects for ending one of the world's longest-running disputes within little more than a year.

Monday, May 12 Barr launches Libertarian White House bid   AP / 9:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Former Republican Rep. Bob Barr launched a Libertarian Party presidential bid Monday, saying voters are hungry for an alternative to the status quo who would dramatically cut the federal government. Barr announces Libertarian White House bid   AP / 7:33PM WASHINGTON - Former Republican Rep. Bob Barr launched a Libertarian Party presidential bid Monday, saying voters are hungry for an alternative to the status quo who would dramatically cut the federal government. McCain urges free-market principles to reduce global warming   AP / 6:40PM PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- John McCain broke with the Bush administration and Republican Party orthodoxy Monday as he not only declared global warming real, but reached out to Democrats and independents with a free-market solution that includes capping carbon-fuel emissions. Play of the Day: A breakfast surprise -- Clinton   AP / 5:40PM CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -- Doris Smith went downtown early Monday to see about getting tickets to Barack Obama's rally. Advance seats were sold out, she said, and the only option was to stand in line for up to two hours or more and hope for the best. Obama, Clinton look to West Virginia   AP / 12:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democratic presidential contenders Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton were preparing for Tuesday's primary in West Virginia, a contest that Clinton is heavily favored to win but which likely won't dent Obama's almost insurmountable lead in the delegate count.

Sunday, May 11 President calls Jenna's wedding 'spectacular'   AP / 9:50PM WACO, Texas (AP) -- President Bush spent months joking about being a father of the bride, but on Sunday he was downright wistful about giving his daughter Jenna away to her longtime beau. Clinton: From inevitable to on the ropes   AP / 1:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton began her presidential quest armed with talent, tenacity, fame, money, connections and a team that knew how to win.

Saturday, May 10 Obama outlines plans for race against McCain   AP / 11:50PM BEND, Ore. - Barack Obama began sketching the outlines of his expected presidential contest against Republican John McCain on Saturday, saying the fall election will be more about specific plans and priorities than about questions of political ideology or who is more patriotic. Obama overtakes lead in superdelegates for first time   AP / 11:30PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama erased Hillary Rodham Clinton's once-imposing lead among superdelegates Saturday when he added more endorsements from the group of Democrats who will decide the party's nomination for president. Jenna Bush's wedding is low-key affair at ranch   AP / 6:50PM CRAWFORD, Texas - Jenna Bush couldn't see herself getting married at the White House surrounded by antique furniture and oil portraits of presidents. She and Henry Hager opted to say "I do" Saturday at President Bush's ranch in Crawford where the corn is thigh-high, roads are named Cattle Drive and the Texas flag is painted on the rooftops of barns. Bush wants court out of subpoena fight   AP / 12:40PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- If there's one thing Congress and the Bush administration can agree on, it's that they've got a fight of historic proportions on their hands. Jenna Bush's wedding is low-key affair at ranch   AP / 12:11PM CRAWFORD, Texas - Jenna Bush couldn't see herself getting married at the White House surrounded by antique furniture and oil portraits of presidents. She and Henry Hager opted to say "I do" Saturday at President Bush's ranch in Crawford where the corn is thigh-high, roads are named Cattle Drive and the Texas flag is painted on the rooftops of barns. Feminists sharply divided between Clinton, Obama   AP / 10:40AM NEW YORK (AP) -- No constituency is more eager to see a woman win the presidency than America's feminists, yet -- despite Hillary Rodham Clinton's historic candidacy -- the women's movement finds itself wrenchingly divided over the Democratic race as it heads toward the finish. Obama from obscurity to verge of history   AP / 10:10AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The amazement was on their faces. Hundreds waited for Barack Obama on that evening in South Carolina, 15 weeks ago, to claim victory -- a surprising victory, surprisingly large. Feminists sharply divided between Clinton, Obama   AP / 4:15AM NEW YORK - No constituency is more eager to see a woman win the presidency than America's feminists, yet - despite Hillary Rodham Clinton's historic candidacy - the women's movement finds itself wrenchingly divided over the Democratic race as it heads toward the finish.

Friday, May 9 Obama picks up 9 superdelegates, union endorsement   AP / 9:50PM WASHINGTON - Barack Obama all but erased Hillary Rodham Clinton's once-imposing lead among national convention superdelegates on Friday and won fresh labor backing as elements of the Democratic Party began coalescing around the Illinois senator for the fall campaign. Tiny Crawford plays supporting role for Jenna Bush wedding   AP / 9:05PM CRAWFORD, Texas (AP) -- So close and yet so far: Tiny Crawford is sort of like a bridesmaid at arm's length from Jenna Bush's wedding Saturday. McCain's 2000 vote for Bush up for debate   UPI / 1:10PM WASHINGTON, May 9 (UPI) -- Whether Sen. John McCain voted for President George Bush in the 2000 U.S. presidential election is being debated by a liberal blogger and McCain's office. Clinton presses on, urges supporters to ignore calls to quit   AP / 4:30AM SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Her voice raspy, her tone determined, Hillary Rodham Clinton urged her supporters Thursday to ignore the political pundits who have declared her toast.

Thursday, May 8 Obama accuses McCain of 'losing his bearings'   AP / 10:30PM NEW YORK (AP) -- Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama said Thursday that Republican John McCain was "losing his bearings" for repeatedly suggesting the Islamic terrorist group Hamas preferred Obama for president. Obama gets big welcome, fresh support on Capitol tour   AP / 8:30PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Barack Obama got a front-runner's welcome back at the Capitol Thursday, pressing congressional "superdelegates" to support him in a visit that had the look and feel of a campaign victory lap. Clinton presses on, urges supporters to ignore calls to quit   AP / 7:20PM SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) -- Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton said Barack Obama's support among working, white Americans has diminished. Her fresh comments about race dogged her Thursday as she pressed on with her struggling candidacy. Cindy McCain says she'll never release her tax returns   AP / 5:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Cindy McCain says she will never make her tax returns public even if her husband wins the White House and she becomes the first lady. McCain jokes about rivals with comedian Jon Stewart   AP / 8:30AM NEW YORK (AP) -- Of the Democratic presidential candidates, would Republican John McCain rather take on Barack Obama or Hillary Rodham Clinton? Evidence scant that Wright hurt Obama much in Ind., N.C.   AP / 4:20AM WASHINGTON - The reaction - or lack of it - by Indiana and North Carolina voters to the Rev. Jeremiah Wright's incendiary comments emphasizes how deeply entrenched the racial lines of support are for the two Democratic presidential rivals.

Wednesday, May 7 Obama picks up superdelegates; undecideds moving his way   AP / 9:50PM WASHINGTON - Barack Obama's march toward the Democratic presidential nomination picked up support from four more superdelegates Wednesday, pushing him ever closer to victory over Hillary Rodham Clinton - even as their primary marathon staggered on. Time, money running out as Clinton vows to press on   AP / 8:33PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Her money drained and her options dwindling, a resolute Hillary Rodham Clinton vowed Wednesday to press on with her presidential bid even as she and top advisers were hard-pressed to describe a realistic path for her to wrest the nomination from Barack Obama. History of corruption clouds primary in northern Indiana   AP / 6:20PM GARY, Ind. (AP) -- It was midnight and the nation was still awaiting results from the Indiana primary, one of the biggest remaining prizes of the epic Democratic presidential battle between Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama. Bush criticizes new Cuban leadership   AP / 5:30PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush said Wednesday that Cuba's post-Fidel Castro leadership has made only "empty gestures at reform" and rejected calls for easing of U.S. restrictions on the communist island. Obama gains superdelegates after trading wins with Clinton   AP / 3:51PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama pocketed the support of at least four Democratic convention superdelegates on Wednesday, building on the momentum from a convincing North Carolina primary victory. Rival Hillary Rodham Clinton vowed to remain in the race "until there's a nominee." Hillary Clinton says she'll stay in the presidential race   AP / 3:51PM SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. - Hillary Rodham Clinton says she will remain in the presidential race "until there's a nominee." The former first lady declined to say whether that meant through the roll call of the states at the Democratic National Convention this summer. Bush vows veto of housing, war funding   UPI / 2:40PM WASHINGTON, May 7 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush Wednesday vowed to veto a war funding bill and housing bills he said would benefit speculators and lenders. Obama gains superdelegates after trading wins with Clinton   AP / 1:30PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama pocketed the support of at least four Democratic convention superdelegates on Wednesday, building on the momentum from a convincing North Carolina primary victory. Rival Hillary Rodham Clinton disclosed she had loaned her strapped campaign an additional $6.4 million in recent weeks. Obama ascendant after trading primary wins with Clinton   AP / 1:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama pocketed the support of at least four Democratic convention superdelegates on Wednesday, building on the momentum from a convincing North Carolina primary victory. Rival Hillary Rodham Clinton disclosed she had loaned her strapped campaign an additional $6.4 million in recent weeks. Exit polls: Race key in NC, IN but Wright's impact mixed   AP / 2:10AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Race again played a pivotal role in Tuesday's Democratic presidential clashes, as whites in Indiana and North Carolina leaned solidly toward Hillary Rodham Clinton and blacks voted overwhelmingly for Barack Obama, exit polls showed. Almost half said they were influenced by the focus on Obama's former pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright.

Tuesday, May 6 Exit polls: Race key in NC, IN but Wright's impact mixed   AP / 9:10PM WASHINGTON - Race again played a pivotal role in Tuesday's Democratic presidential clashes, as whites in Indiana and North Carolina leaned solidly toward Hillary Rodham Clinton and blacks voted overwhelmingly for Barack Obama, exit polls showed. Half the voters said they were influenced by the focus on Obama's former pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright. Clinton leads in Indiana, battles Obama in North Carolina   AP / 7:33PM INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton stepped ahead of Barack Obama in the Indiana primary on Tuesday and the two rivals battled across North Carolina, the last big-delegate prizes left in their long race for the Democratic presidential nomination. McCain castigates Obama on judges   AP / 6:50PM WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (AP) -- Republican John McCain criticized Democratic rival Barack Obama for voting against John Roberts as U.S. chief justice, reaching out to the Christian right on one of their chief concerns: the proper role of judges in government. Fed auctions $75 billion to banks to ease credit stresses   AP / 1:50PM WASHINGTON - Battling to relieve stressed credit markets, the Federal Reserve said Tuesday it has provided a total of $435 billion in short-term loans to squeezed banks since December to help them overcome credit problems. Indiana, N.C. voters settling largest remaining contests   AP / 9:31AM EVANSVILLE, Ind. - Voters in Indiana and North Carolina crowded polling places Tuesday as they sought to settle the largest remaining contests in the Democratic presidential nomination struggle between Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton that has dragged improbably into spring. Bernanke urges more action to stem home foreclosure crisis   AP / 4:50AM WASHINGTON - A rising tide of late mortgage payments and home foreclosures poses considerable dangers to the national economy, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke warned anew as he urged Congress to take additional steps to alleviate the problems.

Monday, May 5 AP IMPACT: More than 3.5 million new voters, AP survey finds   AP / 11:30PM DURHAM, N.C. (AP) -- Voter excitement, always up before a presidential election, is pushing registration through the roof so far this year -- with more than 3.5 million people rushing to join in the historic balloting, according to an Associated Press survey that offers the first national snapshot. On eve of Indiana, NC, Clinton, Obama duel on gas prices   AP / 11:20PM DURHAM, N.C. (AP) -- Dueling over gas prices, Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama strained for every last vote on Monday, the eve of the Indiana and North Carolina primaries that are the biggest prizes left in their epic Democratic nomination fight. Bernanke urges more action to stem home foreclosure crisis   AP / 9:12PM WASHINGTON - A rising tide of late mortgage payments and home foreclosures poses considerable dangers to the national economy, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke warned anew Monday as he urged Congress to take additional steps to alleviate the problems. McCain criticizes Obama on national security   AP / 9:12PM CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- Republican John McCain on Monday dismissed Democratic rival Barack Obama as having zero national security experience. Federal Reserve reports tighter bank lending standards   AP / 8:10PM WASHINGTON - The Federal Reserve reported Monday that more banks are tightening lending standards on home mortgages, other types of consumer loans and business loans in response to a spreading credit crisis. Federal Reserve reports tighter bank lending standards   AP / 7:12PM WASHINGTON - The Federal Reserve reported Monday that more banks are tightening lending standards on home mortgages, other types of consumer loans and business loans in response to a spreading credit crisis. Bush: No short-term fix for oil prices   UPI / 7:12PM WASHINGTON, May 5 (UPI) -- The rocketing price for a barrel of crude oil underscores the need for the United States to become less dependent on foreign oil, the White House said Monday. AP IMPACT: More than 3.5 million new voters, AP survey finds   AP / 6:20PM DURHAM, N.C. (AP) -- Voter excitement, always up before a presidential election, is pushing registration through the roof so far this year -- with more than 3.5 million people rushing to join in the historic balloting, according to an Associated Press survey that offers the first national snapshot. Bush says he'd review gas tax holiday   UPI / 5:50PM WASHINGTON, May 5 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush said Monday he'd look at presidential candidates' calls for a holiday from the federal gas tax during the summer. Bush wedding may be Crawford's last hurrah   UPI / 11:50AM CRAWFORD, Texas, May 5 (UPI) -- Crawford, Texas, is heading into its last summer of being in the national spotlight as the location of the western White House, a filmmaker said. GOP Gleeful at Obama rocky period   AP / 8:41AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Republicans can hardly contain their glee as they watch Barack Obama battle through a rocky period. And why should they?

Sunday, May 4 Bush hails recovery of tornado-leveled Kansas town   AP / 11:10PM GREENSBURG, Kan. (AP) -- President Bush hailed the resilience of this town and its tiny high school graduating class Sunday, one year after a tornado barreled through with astonishing fury. Obama, Clinton turn to news shows to woo superdelegates   AP / 4:51PM NEW YORK (AP) -- Two presidential candidates, two celebrity interviewers, two agendas, one audience: the undecided superdelegates likely to select the Democratic nominee. A quick sale for Obama in Indiana   AP / 3:30PM Kenneth Fawley decided early that Barack Obama was his presidential candidate of choice. Now he's affirmed that by voting early. Differences between McCain and Obama go well beyond the obvious   AP / 3:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The differences couldn't be more striking -- and they go well beyond older, white and Republican vs. younger, black and Democratic. 2 campaigns, 2 different candidates   AP / 12:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The differences couldn't be more striking -- and they go well beyond older, white and Republican vs. younger, black and Democratic.

Saturday, May 3 Obama's appeal to working-class whites faltering, polls show   AP / 9:52PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama's problem winning votes from working-class whites is showing no sign of going away, and their impression of him is getting worse. Obama wins close race, beats Clinton on Guam   AP / 9:32PM HAGATNA, Guam (AP) -- Barack Obama defeated Hillary Rodham Clinton by seven votes in the Guam Democratic presidential caucuses Saturday. The count of more than 4,500 ballots took all night. Obama, Clinton vie in Guam Democratic caucuses   AP / 5:40PM HAGATNA, Guam (AP) -- Barack Obama was leading Hillary Rodham Clinton by just 203 votes out of more than 3,500 cast in Democratic presidential caucuses on Guam as counting continued early Sunday. Bush defends economy in radio address   UPI / 10:20AM CRAWFORD, Texas, May 3 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush Saturday used the economic downturn as an occasion to renew his push to make tax cuts permanent and expand U.S. oil production. GOP uses Obama to boost Republican candidates   AP / 12:30AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Turns out Louisiana and Mississippi weren't quite finished with the Democratic presidential campaign. Sen. Barack Obama won each state's primary earlier this year. But these days his face still appears in television ads in both states, this time from Republicans trying to turn him into a liability for Democrats in two looming special elections for long-held Republican seats.

Friday, May 2 Clinton seeks on gas tax vote, Obama calls it 'shell' game   AP / 11:40PM MUNSTER, Ind. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton called for a vote Friday in the Democratic-controlled Congress on a summertime suspension of the federal gasoline tax, a plan that Barack Obama dismissed as a political stunt that would cost thousands of construction jobs. McCain clarifies remark about oil, Iraq war   AP / 7:32PM PHOENIX - Republican John McCain was forced to clarify his comments Friday suggesting the Iraq war involved U.S. reliance on foreign oil. He said he was talking about the first Gulf War and not the current conflict. At issue was a comment he made at a town hall-style meeting Friday morning in Denver. GOP uses Obama to boost Republican candidates   AP / 5:51PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Turns out Louisiana and Mississippi weren't quite finished with the Democratic presidential campaign. Bush: Economic improvements need patience   UPI / 5:41PM MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo., May 2 (UPI) -- President George Bush Friday told those seeking a quick fix for the slumping U.S. economy that patience is required. Bush seeks funds for war, global food aid   UPI / 3:40PM WASHINGTON, May 2 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush asked Congress Friday to provide "necessary resources" for the war effort in Iraq and the global food crisis. Clinton seeks on gas tax vote, Obama calls it 'shell' game   AP / 3:11PM MUNSTER, Ind. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton called for a vote Friday in the Democratic-controlled Congress on a summertime suspension of the federal gasoline tax, a plan that Barack Obama dismissed as a political stunt that would cost thousands of construction jobs. Bush details $70 billion war funding request for 2009   AP / 1:30PM WASHINGTON - President Bush sent lawmakers a $70 billion request Friday to fund U.S. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan into next spring, which would give the next president breathing room to make his or her own war policy. Obama says Clinton, McCain wrong on gas taxes   AP / 11:50AM INDIANAPOLIS - Sen. Barack Obama said Friday a summertime suspension of the federal gasoline tax could cost 6,000 jobs in next week's primary state of Indiana, and accused Hillary Rodham Clinton and John McCain of "reading from the same political playbook" by endorsing it. Stock poised to rally after payroll report, Fed action   AP / 9:32AM NEW YORK - Wall Street was poised for a sharply higher open Friday after the government reported that the nation's payrolls shrank less than expected and the Federal Reserve injected more liquidity into the financial system. Polls show voters drift to Clinton ahead of next primaries   AP / 8:10AM WASHINGTON - Polls showed voters drifting toward Hillary Rodham Clinton before crucial Democratic primary votes next week, but the all-important party superdelegates - whose backing is now essential for the nomination - were falling increasingly in line behind Barack Obama. Analysis: Momentum, Obama's distractions give Clinton hope   AP / 4:50AM LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Hillary Rodham Clinton has an unmistakable bounce in her step these days - a sense of energy and optimism that somehow belies the daunting challenge she faces in wresting the Democratic presidential nomination from Barack Obama. Defection of longtime superdelegate jolts Clinton   AP / 12:50AM SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton was jolted Thursday by the defection of one of her longtime superdelegate supporters, a former national party chairman who urged fellow Democrats to "reject the old negative politics" and unify behind Barack Obama. Bush calls for approval of $770 million in food aid   AP / 12:50AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush urged Congress Thursday to approve $770 million to help alleviate dramatically escalating food prices that threaten widespread hunger and increasing social unrest around the world.

Thursday, May 1 McCain tells Iowans he would veto farm bill over subsidies   AP / 9:30PM DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) -- Some things never change: Republican John McCain dislikes farm subsidies. Bush calls for approval of $770 million in food aid   AP / 6:52PM WASHINGTON - President Bush urged Congress Thursday to approve $770 million to help alleviate dramatically escalating food prices that threaten widespread hunger and increasing social unrest around the world. AP NewsBreak: Former Democratic leader switches to Obama   AP / 3:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- A leader of the Democratic Party under Bill Clinton switched his allegiance to Barack Obama on Thursday and urged fellow Democrats to end the bruising nomination fight. Obama says public tired of hearing about his former pastor   AP / 12:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democrat Barack Obama and his wife said Thursday the public is tired of hearing about incendiary remarks by their former pastor, as they sought to put the controversy that has rocked his presidential campaign to rest. Obama tries to put the minister controversy to rest   AP / 9:20AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democrat Barack Obama and his wife said Thursday the public is tired of hearing about incendiary remarks by their former pastor, as they sought to put the controversy that has rocked his presidential campaign to rest. Oil prices fall as dollar strengthens against euro   AP / 9:10AM Oil prices fell slightly Thursday as the dollar strengthened against the euro on a smaller-than-anticipated interest-rate cut from the U.S. Federal Reserve. Crude oil prices return to gains Thursday   UPI / 8:50AM NEW YORK, May 1 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices rose slightly to more than $113 a barrel in overnight trading after a fall Wednesday when the the U.S. Federal Reserve cut a key lending rate. AP NewsBreak: Former Democratic leader switches to Obama   AP / 3:59AM WASHINGTON - A leader of the Democratic Party under Bill Clinton has switched his allegiance to Barack Obama and is encouraging fellow Democrats to "heal the rift in our party" and unite behind the Illinois senator.

Wednesday, April 30 Voters say Wright has hurt Obama -- but question how much   AP / 11:40PM SANFORD, N.C. (AP) -- Black and white voters in next week's primary states agreed on one thing Wednesday: Barack Obama's preacher had hurt the Democratic presidential candidate at a crucial time. The question was how much. Obama closing in on Clinton's advantage among superdelegates   AP / 11:40PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama is closing in on Democratic presidential rival Hillary Rodham Clinton's advantage among superdelegates, building on his lead in the primary race even as he faces troubled times. White House admits fault on 'Mission Accomplished' banner   AP / 11:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The White House said Wednesday that President Bush has paid a price for the "Mission Accomplished" banner that was flown in triumph five years ago but later became a symbol of U.S. misjudgments and mistakes in the long and costly war in Iraq. Fed cuts rates as economy slumps, hoping to stop recession   AP / 9:09PM WASHINGTON - Scrambling to shore up the faltering economy, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates to the lowest point in nearly four years Wednesday as the nation teetered on the edge of recession. Voters say Wright has hurt Obama -- but question how much   AP / 6:40PM SANFORD, N.C. (AP) -- Black and white voters in next week's primary states agreed on one thing Wednesday: Barack Obama's preacher had hurt the Democratic presidential candidate at a crucial time. The question was how much. White House admits fault on 'Mission Accomplished' banner   AP / 6:12PM WASHINGTON - The White House said Wednesday that President Bush has paid a price for the "Mission Accomplished" banner that was flown in triumph five years ago but later became a symbol of U.S. misjudgments and mistakes in the long and costly war in Iraq. Obama closing superdelegate gap   AP / 6:12PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama is closing in on Democratic presidential rival Hillary Rodham Clinton's advantage among superdelegates, building on his lead in the primary race even as he faces troubled times. Stocks dip with investors flummoxed over Fed   AP / 6:12PM NEW YORK - Wall Street gave up sharp gains and closed lower Wednesday after the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter point but left investors guessing about the central bank's next move. The Dow Jones industrial average, momentarily soaring above 13,000 for the first time since early January, ended the session with a modest loss. Bush lauds Super Bowl champion New York Giants   AP / 5:52PM WASHINGTON - Add this to the lore of championship ceremonies at the White House: President Bush believes in the Jessica Simpson jinx. Energy futures drop on unexpected jump in crude supplies   AP / 4:11PM NEW YORK - Oil prices fell Wednesday after the government reported U.S. fuel supplies unexpectedly fell last week and the Federal Reserve cut interest rates but gave no clues about further reductions. Stocks mixed with investors flummoxed about rate outlook   AP / 4:11PM NEW YORK - Wall Street gave up sharp gains to trade mixed Wednesday after the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter point but left investors in the dark about the central bank's next move. The Dow Jones industrial average, momentarily soaring above 13,000 for the first time since early January, traded only modestly higher in the last hour of trading. Crude oil prices fall on Fed rate cut   UPI / 4:01PM NEW YORK, April 30 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices dropped Wednesday on word that the U.S. Federal Reserve would cut its benchmark lending rate to 2 percent. Stocks pares gains after Federal Reserve cuts rate   AP / 3:31PM NEW YORK - Wall Street gave up sharp gains Wednesday after the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter point but left investors in the dark about the central bank's next move. The Dow Jones industrial average, momentarily soaring above 13,000 for the first time since early January, traded up about 60 points an hour after the Fed's decision. Stocks rise after Federal Reserve cuts rate   AP / 2:51PM NEW YORK - Wall Street held on to its gains Wednesday after the Federal Reserve cut interest rates a quarter point and issued a soothing statement about its outlook for the economy. The Dow Jones industrial average was up about 120 points. USDA still mum on 'downer cow' rule change   UPI / 10:40AM WASHINGTON, April 30 (UPI) -- The U.S. secretary of agriculture is not taking a position on the proposed ban on processing sick "downer" cattle at slaughterhouses, a spokesman said. Obama looks to put controversial pastor behind him   AP / 8:50AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama is looking to get his campaign back on track today after making a strong effort to distance himself from his controversial former pastor. Obama's quandary over preacher reflects supporters' divide   AP / 4:11AM CHAPEL HILL, N.C. - Thirteen hours after his former pastor startled some with a defiant performance that was televised nationwide, Barack Obama urged 18,000 supporters to stay calm and shrug off such "distractions." Obama seeking to divorce himself from former pastor   AP / 12:50AM WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (AP) -- Barack Obama angrily denounced his former pastor for "divisive and destructive" remarks on race, seeking to divorce himself from the incendiary speaker and a fury that threatens to engulf his front-running Democratic presidential campaign.

Tuesday, April 29 Obama says he's outraged by former pastor's comments   AP / 9:30PM WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (AP) -- Barack Obama angrily denounced his former pastor for "divisive and destructive" remarks on race, seeking to divorce himself from the incendiary speaker and a fury that threatens to engulf his front-running Democratic presidential campaign. Bush faults Congress for inaction on energy, housing bills   AP / 7:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush, hoping to inoculate his party and his presidential legacy from election-year anger over the economy, heaped criticism on the Democratic-led Congress on Tuesday for "letting the American people down." Obama says he's outraged by former pastor's comments   AP / 5:12PM WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Barack Obama angrily denounced his former pastor for "divisive and destructive" remarks on race, seeking to divorce himself from the incendiary speaker and a fury that threatens to engulf his front-running Democratic presidential campaign. McCain seeks tax credit to help buy health insurance   AP / 2:30PM TAMPA, Fla. - Republican John McCain wants to change how people get their health insurance, shifting away from job-based coverage to an open market where people can choose from competing policies. Heated campaign souring Democrats on rival candidates   AP / 1:40PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Loyal Democrat Richard Somer says if Hillary Rodham Clinton gets his party's presidential nomination, he just may sit it out this Election Day. Schumer: Bush has lost faith of the people   UPI / 12:50PM WASHINGTON, April 29 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., Tuesday said the economy is in its current state because U.S. President George Bush ignored repeated warnings.

Monday, April 28 AP Poll: Clinton leads McCain, doing better than Obama   AP / 11:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton now leads John McCain by 9 points in a head-to-head presidential matchup, according to an Associated Press-Ipsos poll that bolsters her argument that she is more electable than Democratic rival Barack Obama. AP Poll: Clinton leads McCain, doing better than Obama   AP / 7:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton now leads John McCain by 9 points in a head-to-head presidential matchup, according to an Associated Press-Ipsos poll that bolsters her argument that she is more electable than Democratic rival Barack Obama. Dean says Clinton or Obama will know when to drop out   AP / 7:01PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democratic Party Chairman Howard Dean said Monday that either Hillary Rodham Clinton or Barack Obama will know when it's time to drop out of the nomination race after the end of the primaries in early June. Stocks finish little changed ahead of Fed rate meeting   AP / 5:30PM NEW YORK - Stocks are finishing little changed after an unenthusiastic response to acquisition news and caution ahead of the Federal Reserve policy meeting this week. Stocks make modest advance amid deals, earnings ahead of Fed   AP / 4:30PM NEW YORK - Wall Street held on to a slight advance Monday as investors appeared unenthusiastic about acquisition news and were cautious ahead of this week's earnings reports and Federal Reserve policy meeting. States faulted over privacy breaches; tighter security urged   AP / 2:52PM MADISON, Wis. - Tax forms were sent out to thousands of people in Wisconsin with their Social Security numbers on the mailing labels. A vendor hired by the state of Georgia lost a computer disk with the names and Social Security numbers of 2.9 million people. A disk with similar information disappeared in Rhode Island. Wright says criticism is attack on black church   AP / 1:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- In a defiant appearance before the Washington media, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright said Monday that criticism surrounding his fiery sermons is an attack on the black church and he rejected those who have labeled him unpatriotic. Stocks flat as investors weigh deals, earnings ahead of Fed   AP / 12:50PM NEW YORK - Wall Street was little changed Monday as investors appeared unenthusiastic about acquisition news and were cautious ahead of this week's earnings reports and Federal Reserve policy meeting. Stocks mostly unchanged as investors weigh deals, earnings   AP / 10:38AM NEW YORK - Wall Street got off to a sluggish start Monday as investors appeared unenthusiastic about acquisition news and were cautious ahead of this week's earnings reports and Federal Reserve policy meeting. Ex-Obama pastor tells NAACP he's descriptive, not divisive   AP / 5:08AM DETROIT (AP) -- The former pastor of Barack Obama whose words have rallied many but offended others told an audience of 10,000 that his critics get it wrong when they call him divisive and polarizing.

Sunday, April 27 Obama's former pastor addresses Detroit NAACP dinner   AP / 10:30PM DETROIT - The outspoken former pastor of Barack Obama told an audience of 10,000 at an NAACP dinner on Sunday that despite what his critics say, he is descriptive, not divisive, when he speaks about racial injustices. Few states allow overseas troops to vote by e-mail   AP / 9:51PM WASHINGTON - U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan can speak to their families by Web camera and fight insurgents using sophisticated electronic warfare. Yet when it comes to voting, most troops are stuck in the past. Electoral map favors a Democrat, has McCain playing defense   AP / 12:50AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The electoral road to the White House favors Democrats this fall -- either Barack Obama or Hillary Rodham Clinton -- and has Republican John McCain playing defense to thwart a presidential power shift.

Saturday, April 26 Bush tweaks candidates at correspondents' dinner   AP / 11:10PM WASHINGTON - President Bush poked fun at his potential successors Saturday night, expressing surprise that none of them were in the audience at the White House Correspondents' Association annual dinner. Clinton challenges Obama to Lincoln-Douglas style debate   AP / 6:00PM MARION, Ind. (AP) -- Democratic rivals Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton turned up the rhetoric Saturday in their increasingly heated primary battle as she issued a new debate challenge and he complained of a race that's largely been reduced to trivia while working families feel economic pain. Democrats focus on the economy in Indiana industrial towns   AP / 2:40PM MARION, Ind. (AP) -- Democrat Barack Obama argued Saturday that voters are yearning for "straight talk and honesty" as he sought distinctions with rival Hillary Rodham Clinton just nine days before the next round of primaries in the hotly contested race for the presidential nomination. Democrats focus on the economy in Indiana industrial towns   AP / 12:51PM MARION, Ind. - Democrat Barack Obama argued that voters are yearning for "straight talk and honesty" on the economy as he sought distinctions with rival Hillary Rodham Clinton just nine days before the next round of primaries in the hotly contested race for the presidential nomination. Democrats favored in electoral map   AP / 11:10AM WASHINGTON - The electoral road to the White House favors Democrats this fall - either Barack Obama or Hillary Rodham Clinton - and has Republican John McCain playing defense to thwart a presidential power shift. Bush prods Congress on student loan bill   AP / 11:10AM WASHINGTON - President Bush said Saturday that the credit crunch is threatening the availability of student loans. He said his administration is doing what it can to help with emergency loans but prodded Congress for authority to do more. Democrats favored in electoral map   AP / 9:50AM WASHINGTON - The electoral road to the White House favors Democrats this fall - either Barack Obama or Hillary Rodham Clinton - and has Republican John McCain playing defense to thwart a presidential power shift. Delegate challenges concerning Florida, Michigan to be heard   AP / 6:40AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- A plan to award half-delegates for the disputed Michigan and Florida Democratic presidential primaries will get a hearing before party leaders. Delegate challenges to be heard   AP / 4:10AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- A plan to award half-delegates for the disputed Michigan and Florida Democratic presidential primaries will get a hearing before party leaders. Obama presses on gas prices, Clinton highlights energy bill   AP / 2:40AM INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Democrat Barack Obama on Friday blamed high gasoline prices on Washington and a political establishment, including his rivals for the presidency, that he says hasn't stood up to oil companies. Hillary Rodham Clinton highlighted his vote for an energy bill she opposed and his campaign contributions from oil company executives.

Friday, April 25 Bush says rebates going out Monday will boost economy   AP / 10:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush said tax rebates will start going out Monday, earlier than previously announced, and should help Americans cope with rising gasoline and food prices, as well as aid a slumping economy. Bush says rebates going out Monday will boost economy   AP / 6:10PM WASHINGTON - President Bush said tax rebates will start going out Monday, earlier than previously announced, and should help Americans cope with rising gasoline and food prices, as well as aid a slumping economy. Obama presses on gas prices, Clinton hits on debates   AP / 2:00PM INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Democrat Barack Obama on Friday blamed high gasoline prices on Washington and a political establishment that he says hasn't stood up to oil companies, his two rivals for the presidency included. Bush cost-saving plan dubbed a failure   UPI / 12:10PM WASHINGTON, April 25 (UPI) -- Critics say a program designed to make the U.S. government workforce more efficient has failed to yield the results predicted by the White House. Pelosi: Clinton, Obama sharing the ticket not a good idea   AP / 11:50AM WASHINGTON - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says Sens. Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton shouldn't share the Democratic presidential ticket unless they really want to. Bush says rebates should help economy   AP / 9:49AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush acknowledged that the economy is weakening, but expressed hope that tax rebates that start going out on Monday should help shore things up. Some young religious voters focus on social justice   AP / 5:49AM CHICAGO - Beau Underwood is putting his faith in politics. He's a 22-year-old at the University of Chicago Divinity School, an active member of the Disciples of Christ and - in his spare time - he's showing candidates that the path to political righteousness doesn't always veer right. Analysis: Lawmakers say Korea deal must have guarantees   AP / 5:29AM WASHINGTON - From the right and the left, President Bush faces criticism over his approach toward North Korea after the White House belatedly disclosed U.S. intelligence findings that the communist regime was helping build a Syrian nuclear reactor - at the same time it was promising to fully disclose its own nuclear activities. Obama seeks union's help while Clinton promotes vets issues   AP / 1:40AM CHICAGO (AP) -- How does Sen. Barack Obama spend a day off in his hometown? By urging hundreds of union activists to back his presidential bid in the final Democratic primaries.

Thursday, April 24 White House says Syria 'must come clean' about nuclear work   AP / 11:30PM WASHINGTON - The White House said Thursday that North Korea's secret work on a nuclear reactor with Syria was "a dangerous and potentially destabilizing development for the world," raising doubts about Pyongyang's intention to carry through with a promised disclosure of its nuclear activities. North Carolina GOP leadership divided over ad   AP / 8:10PM RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) -- North Carolina Republican leaders are standing by a TV ad critical of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama despite dissension in their own ranks and two stations' refusal to air it. White House says Syria 'must come clean' about nuclear work   AP / 7:50PM WASHINGTON - The White House said Thursday that North Korea's secret work on a nuclear reactor with Syria was "a dangerous and potentially destabilizing development for the world," raising doubts about Pyongyang's intention to carry through with a promised disclosure of its nuclear activities. Bush says he's confident about creation of Palestinian state   AP / 6:37PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush sought Thursday to inject some confidence into the flagging Mideast peace process, pledging that the contours of a Palestinian state can still be reached before he leaves office. But old obstacles, mainly disputed West Bank settlements, continue to threaten that prospect. White House says Syria 'must come clean' about nuclear work   AP / 5:30PM WASHINGTON - The White House said Thursday that North Korea's secret work on a nuclear reactor with Syria was "a dangerous and potentially destabilizing development for the world," raising doubts about Pyongyang's intention to carry through with a promised disclosure of its nuclear activities. North Carolina excited to choose between Clinton and Obama   AP / 1:46PM RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) -- Not since 1988 has North Carolina had much of a voice in choosing a presidential nominee. Back then, it joined several Southern states to help pick Al Gore, a neighbor from Tennessee. Clinton raises $10 million, helped by 80,000 new donors   AP / 12:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton raised $10 million in the 24 hours after winning the Pennsylvania primary, aided by contributions from 80,000 new donors, her campaign said Thursday. US prepares to deal with Maoists   AP / 9:40AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- This month's surprising election victory for ex-rebels in Nepal could force the Bush administration to deal with a group it has considered a terrorist organization.

Wednesday, April 23 Clinton's donations surge after Pennsylvania victory   AP / 11:30PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton parlayed her campaign-saving primary victory into a fundraising bonanza Wednesday in the Democratic presidential race. Rival Barack Obama, his delegate lead intact, said, "We just keep on plugging away." Clinton's win still leaves her the underdog   AP / 6:11PM WASHINGTON - Exuding fresh confidence after her Pennsylvania primary win, Hillary Rodham Clinton turned attention Wednesday to contests in Indiana and North Carolina and pressed her case that she can still win the Democratic presidential nomination despite the odds against her. Clinton wins most delegates in Pennsylvania primary   AP / 6:01PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton won the most delegates in Pennsylvania's Democratic primary, but Sen. Barack Obama limited her gains. Clinton's Pennsylvania victory comes with cash prize   AP / 4:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Turns out Hillary Rodham Clinton's victory Tuesday came with a cash prize. Clinton's win still leaves her the underdog   AP / 1:26PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Exuding fresh confidence after her Pennsylvania primary win, Hillary Rodham Clinton turned attention Wednesday to contests in Indiana and North Carolina and pressed her case that she can still win the Democratic presidential nomination despite the odds against her. Jordan's King Abdullah II pays call on Bush   AP / 11:40AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Jordan's King Abdullah II told President Bush on Wednesday that stalled negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis should be based on "clear grounds and fixed timetables" as the United States pushes for reaching a Mideast peace agreement by next January. Analysis: With Pa. win, Clinton survives for yet another day   AP / 2:30AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Clinton should savor the moment. Soon enough, she must face the reality of time and money running out on her once-invincible campaign. N.Y. gov tells commissioners to cut budget   UPI / 1:10AM ALBANY, N.Y., April 23 (UPI) -- New York Gov. David Paterson asked state commissioners to hire only essential workers and warned them he will ban all hiring unless they cut expenses. PA exit polls: Whites, blue-collar voters stick with Clinton   AP / 12:20AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Working-class white voters rallied around Hillary Rodham Clinton on Tuesday as she kept her candidacy alive with a victory in Pennsylvania's presidential primary. Barack Obama won among Democrats who had newly flocked to the party for the day's showdown and scored even stronger than usual with blacks.

Tuesday, April 22 With Pennsylvania win, Clinton survives for yet another day   AP / 11:30PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Clinton should savor the moment. Soon enough, she must face the reality of time and money running out on her once-invincible campaign. Clinton grinds out victory over Obama in Pennsylvania   AP / 11:10PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton ground out a gritty victory in the Pennsylvania primary Tuesday night, defeating Barack Obama and staving off elimination in their historic race for the Democratic presidential nomination. Clinton grinds out victory over Obama in Pennsylvania   AP / 10:50PM PHILADELPHIA - Hillary Rodham Clinton ground out a gritty victory in the Pennsylvania primary Tuesday night, defeating Barack Obama and staving off elimination in their historic race for the Democratic presidential nomination. Clinton grinds out victory over Obama in Pennsylvania   AP / 10:30PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton ground out a gritty victory in the Pennsylvania primary Tuesday night, defeating Barack Obama and staving off elimination in their historic race for the Democratic presidential nomination. Clinton wins Pennsylvania primary   AP / 9:10PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton won the Pennsylvania primary Tuesday night, defeating Barack Obama and staving off elimination in a riveting race for the Democratic presidential nomination. Democrats Clinton, Obama collide in Pennsylvania primary   AP / 6:00PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama collided Tuesday in the Pennsylvania primary, the last of the big-state contests in a Democratic presidential campaign growing more negative the longer it goes. Chelsea Clinton says her mother is more prepared than father   AP / 5:50PM DURHAM, N.C. - Chelsea Clinton said Tuesday her mother would be a better president than her father because Hillary Rodham Clinton is more prepared and more progressive. Pa. voters are choosing between Clinton and Obama today   AP / 1:30PM PHILADELPHIA - Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama collided Tuesday in the Pennsylvania primary, the last of the big-state contests in a Democratic presidential campaign growing more negative the longer it goes. Clinton, Obama go on attack in Pennsylvania finale   AP / 8:10AM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Democrats Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama questioned each other's character and readiness to be commander in chief in last-minute television ads as the six-week Pennsylvania primary campaign steamed toward an uncertain conclusion Tuesday. Clinton reaches for Pa. win; Obama predicts close vote   AP / 3:30AM BLUE BELL, Pa. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton invoked Pearl Harbor, the Berlin Wall and Osama bin Laden as she reached for a victory in Pennsylvania's Democratic presidential primary to recharge her comeback effort. Clinton reaches for Pa. win; Obama hopes vote is close   AP / 1:30AM BLUE BELL, Pa. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton invoked Pearl Harbor, the Berlin Wall and Osama bin Laden as she reached for a victory in Pennsylvania's Democratic presidential primary to recharge her comeback effort.

Monday, April 21 Clinton reaches for Pa. win; Obama says he'll be close   AP / 11:40PM BLUE BELL, Pa. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton invoked Pearl Harbor, the Berlin Wall and Osama bin Laden as she reached for a victory in Pennsylvania's Democratic presidential primary to recharge her comeback effort. Bush defends free-trade agreement with Mexico and Canada   AP / 6:11PM NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- President Bush and Mexican President Felipe Calderon strongly defended free trade across North America on Monday, fending off anti-trade remarks that Democrats running for the White House are using to lure working class voters. Bush seeks to cement legacy of ties with Canada, Mexico   AP / 5:00PM NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- President Bush and Mexican President Felipe Calderon mounted a defense of their economic partnership Monday, pushing back against anti-trade sentiment. White House challenges release of visitor logs   AP / 4:40PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- A federal appeals court sought compromise Monday between a liberal group demanding the names of White House visitors and the Bush administration, which says releasing the names would erode the president's power. Clinton reaches for Pa. win; Obama says he'll be close   AP / 3:11PM BLUE BELL, Pa. - Hillary Rodham Clinton invoked Pearl Harbor, the Berlin Wall and Osama bin Laden as she reached for a victory in Pennsylvania's Democratic presidential primary to recharge her comeback effort. Barack Obama said she would probably win but he hoped to keep it close in Tuesday's voting. Looking for votes in Pa.'s demographics   AP / 1:50PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Older, whiter and more female than the nation as a whole, Pennsylvania looks like Hillary Rodham Clinton country. Wealthier, better educated and more African American than the rest of the state, Pennsylvania's thickly settled southeast corner could belong to Barack Obama. Obama predicts Clinton win in Pennsylvania   AP / 12:30PM SCRANTON, Pa. (AP) -- Barack Obama predicted Monday that Democratic presidential rival Hillary Rodham Clinton would get the critical victory she needs in Tuesday's Pennsylvania primary, but said his goal is to keep it close. AP-Yahoo poll: Economy top worry, but barely affecting votes   AP / 12:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The economy has soared past Iraq as the top problem on the minds of voters. White House challenges release of visitor logs   AP / 4:36AM WASHINGTON - The Bush administration is challenging a court ruling that White House visitor logs are public documents, saying releasing the records would infringe on the separation of powers. Obama, McCain show cash on hand   AP / 2:06AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama raised $41 million in March and had $42 million available to spend against debt-ridden Democratic rival Hillary Rodham Clinton in April, campaign finance reports filed Sunday show.

Sunday, April 20 Obama, McCain show cash on hand   AP / 11:36PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama raised $41 million in March and had $42 million available to spend against Democratic rival Hillary Rodham Clinton in April, campaign finance reports filed Sunday show. Obama says McCain would be better than Bush   AP / 9:26PM READING, Pa. - Democrat Barack Obama, who often argues that John McCain is the same as President Bush, said Sunday that the Republican presidential candidate would be an improvement over Bush's eight-year reign. McCain ends March with nearly $12 million   AP / 8:06PM WASHINGTON - Sen. John McCain reduced his spending and paid off debts in March after locking up the Republican presidential nomination. He ended the month with $11.6 million in the bank, according to financial reports filed Sunday. McCain: Cutting taxes more important than balanced budget   AP / 8:06PM WASHINGTON - Republican John McCain said Sunday that cutting taxes and stimulating the economy are more important than balancing the budget, and accused both Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama of supporting tax hikes that would worsen the impact of a recession. Bush toes North Korean transparency line   UPI / 1:40PM CAMP DAVID, Md., April 20 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush said he held to his position that North Korea needs to disclose its entire nuclear program at a meeting with South Korea's president. Undecided superdelegates don't feel bound by primaries   AP / 12:50PM WASHINGTON - Many of the Democratic superdelegates who are still undecided say the most important factor in their decision is simple - they just want a winner in November. "Vast right-wing conspiracy" leader's paper backs Clinton   AP / 12:20PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Could it be the "vast right wing conspiracy" is having second thoughts? North Korea, trade top Bush talks with South Korean leader   AP / 7:10AM CAMP DAVID, Md. (AP) -- President Bush and South Korean President Lee Myung-bak said Saturday they still expect North Korea to fully declare its nuclear weapons programs and proliferation activities in a way that can be verified. Bush tamped down assertions that the U.S. is going soft on the communist regime so the nuclear standoff can be resolved before he leaves office. Clinton, Obama press for advantage ahead of pivotal primary   AP / 12:50AM WEST CHESTER, Pa. (AP) -- Barack Obama cast his Democratic presidential rival Saturday as a game-player who uses "slash and burn" tactics and will say whatever people want to hear, a sharp jab at her character in the final chapter of the pivotal Pennsylvania primary campaign.

Saturday, April 19 Dean: McCain's economic plan 'more of the same'   AP / 6:21PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- John McCain doesn't have an effective plan to turn around the faltering U.S. economy, Democratic Party chairman Howard Dean said Saturday. North Korea, trade top Bush talks with South Korean leader   AP / 6:11PM CAMP DAVID, Md. - President Bush and South Korean President Lee Myung-bak said Saturday they still expect North Korea to fully declare its nuclear weapons programs and proliferation activities in a way that can be verified. Bush tamped down assertions that the U.S. is going soft on the communist regime so the nuclear standoff can be resolved before he leaves office. Clinton, Obama press for advantage ahead of pivotal primary   AP / 6:11PM WEST CHESTER, Pa. - Barack Obama cast his Democratic presidential rival Saturday as a game-player who uses "slash and burn" tactics and will say whatever people want to hear, a sharp jab at her character in the final chapter of the pivotal Pennsylvania primary campaign. Obama, Clinton strike homestretch in bid for nomination   AP / 1:30PM WASHINGTON - Finally for the Democrats, the homestretch. Dean: McCain has no effective plan to turn economy around   AP / 11:30AM WASHINGTON - John McCain doesn't have an effective plan to turn around the faltering U.S. economy, Democratic Party chairman Howard Dean said Saturday. Bush asks Congress to reconsider Colombia trade deal   AP / 10:20AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush, ahead of his trip next week to a summit with North American leaders, said Saturday that the House's decision to block a vote on a Colombia free trade agreement was a "serious error" and urged Congress to reconsider. Obama, Clinton woo coal vote in upcoming primaries   AP / 5:47AM WASHINGTON - Democrats Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton are walking a delicate line as they promise to aggressively tackle global warming while trying to assure voters that they continue to believe in the future of coal.

Friday, April 18 Clinton says '08 campaign has broken barriers   AP / 11:32PM WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Hillary Rodham Clinton put aside her differences with her Democratic presidential rival Friday night, saying both she and Barack Obama have been inspirations for every American child to believe he or she can be president. Clinton, Obama complain about complaining   AP / 9:47PM RADNOR, Pa. (AP) -- Democratic presidential rivals Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama are complaining about which candidate is the biggest complainer. Philadelphia suburbs hold key to Pa. primary   AP / 6:51PM MEDIA, Pa. (AP) -- Take the Chester exit of I-95 and wend your way to the Pennsylvania Turnpike. If Barack Obama has any chance of cultivating an upset on April 22, this 20-mile stretch is fertile land. FAA sets up high-level alerts for missed airline inspections   AP / 6:10PM WASHINGTON - The Federal Aviation Administration is going to begin alerting its top headquarters officials when field inspectors miss airline safety inspections, Transportation Secretary Mary Peters announced Friday. McCain reports 2007 income   AP / 4:37PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Republican presidential candidate John McCain has a Senate salary, a Navy pension, monthly Social Security income, book royalties, and a wealthy wife. McCain reports $405,409 in earnings for 2007   AP / 4:10PM WASHINGTON - Republican presidential candidate John McCain has a Senate salary, a Navy pension, monthly Social Security income, book royalties, and a wealthy wife. Former Labor Secretary Reich endorses Obama over Clinton   AP / 2:50PM BOSTON (AP) -- Former Clinton Cabinet member Robert Reich has decided to endorse Barack Obama -- and not Hillary Rodham Clinton -- in the battle for the Democratic presidential nomination. Bush chooses SBA chief Steve Preston to take over HUD   AP / 2:30PM WASHINGTON - President Bush on Friday chose SBA Administrator Steve Preston to lead the government's housing agency at a time of crisis in the industry, praising him as a skilled manager. Democrats hailed Preston as a problem-solver. PM Brown meets Bush, 3 candidates   UPI / 2:07PM WASHINGTON, April 18 (UPI) -- British Prime Minister Gordon Brown met with U.S. President George Bush in Washington -- as well as three people wanting to be the next White House occupant. AP-Yahoo Poll: Obama overtaking Clinton despite bruises   AP / 1:10PM WASHINGTON - Sens. Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton are both sustaining dents and dings from their lengthy presidential fight. The former first lady is clearly suffering more as Democratic voters no longer see her as the party's strongest contender for the White House. Bush chooses SBA chief Steve Preston to take over HUD   AP / 11:40AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush on Friday chose SBA Administrator Steve Preston to take over as head of the government's housing agency at a time of crisis in the industry. Democrats praised him as a problem-solver. Clinton is Ms. Fix-It, Obama a media critic on 'Colbert'   AP / 9:10AM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton played up her image as a tireless problem solver -- this time for laughs -- when she visited Comedy Central's "The Colbert Report" Thursday night. Obama superdelegates find their 'sisterhood' questioned   AP / 4:37AM WASHINGTON - Some female superdelegates backing Sen. Barack Obama are having their "sisterhood" questioned, just as some black Democrats have been challenged for their endorsement of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Thursday, April 17 Obama superdelegates find their 'sisterhood' questioned   AP / 11:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Some female superdelegates backing Sen. Barack Obama are having their "sisterhood" questioned, just as some black Democrats have been challenged for their endorsement of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton. Clinton brings 3 generations to win over female voters   AP / 10:00PM HAVERFORD, Penn. (AP) -- Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton stood between her 88-year-old mother and 28-year-old daughter on Thursday to personalize issues for the "sandwich generation" facing the demands of parents and children. Bush, British PM push tough approach on Iran   AP / 7:50PM WASHINGTON - President Bush and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown tried to dispel doubts about their relationship Thursday, showcasing personal bonhomie as well as common ground on vexing issues such as the Iraq war, a showdown with Iran, global trade and the crises in Sudan and Zimbabwe. Clinton brings 3 generations to win over female voters   AP / 7:50PM HAVERFORD, Penn. - Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton stood between her 88-year-old mother and 28-year-old daughter on Thursday to personalize issues for the "sandwich generation" facing the demands of parents and children. Obama says debate focused on 'gotcha' not policy issues   AP / 4:40PM RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) -- Democratic Sen. Barack Obama dismissively talked about his debate with Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and the line of questioning from ABC News' moderators, arguing that it focused on political trivia at the expense of the problems facing average voters. AP-Yahoo poll shows McCain winning back unhappy Republicans   AP / 2:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Growing numbers of people like what they see in John McCain, vaulting him into a tie with the two Democratic presidential contenders just a few months after Republicans faced a steep disadvantage. Clinton changes course on Obama's electability   AP / 6:30AM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton said emphatically Wednesday night that Barack Obama can win the White House this fall, undercutting her efforts to deny him the Democratic presidential nomination by suggesting he would lead the party to defeat.

Wednesday, April 16 Clinton emphatically says Obama can win White House   AP / 10:50PM PHILADELPHIA - Hillary Rodham Clinton said emphatically Wednesday night that Barack Obama can win the White House this fall, undercutting her efforts to deny him the Democratic presidential nomination by suggesting he would lead the party to defeat. Obama, Clinton won't vow to put loser on ticket as VP   AP / 9:41PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton said emphatically Wednesday night that Barack Obama can win the White House this fall, undercutting her efforts to deny him the nomination by suggesting he would lead the party to defeat. Obama, Clinton won't vow to put loser on ticket as VP   AP / 9:17PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama both declined Wednesday night to pledge a spot on their ticket this fall to the loser of their epic battle for the Democratic presidential nomination. Obama, Clinton to debate as Pennsylvania primary looms large   AP / 7:30PM PHILADELPHIA - The furor over Sen. Barack Obama's words about bitter voters in small towns looms large as the Democratic front-runner and rival Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton are slated to debate Wednesday just days before the Pennsylvania primary. Bush, big White House crowd greet pope on his birthday   AP / 6:51PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush and Pope Benedict XVI agreed Wednesday that terrorism is an unacceptable weapon for any cause or religion, standing strongly united on that issue but divided on others during a day of substance and symbolism at the White House. Bush wants to limit greenhouse gases   UPI / 6:41PM WASHINGTON, April 16 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush Wednesday announced a goal to inhibit the growth of greenhouse gas emissions scientists say are responsible for global warming. Murtha says McCain too old to be president   AP / 5:07PM WASHINGTON - Democratic Rep. John Murtha said Wednesday that Republican Sen. John McCain is too old to be president. Murtha is 75, four years older than McCain. He says they are nearly the same age, and the rigors and stress of running the country is too much for guys their age. Obama reassures Jewish leaders on Hamas, Wright   AP / 5:07PM PHILADELPHIA - Sen. Barack Obama on Wednesday criticized former President Carter for meeting with leaders of the Islamic terrorist group Hamas as he tried to reassure Jewish voters that his candidacy isn't a threat to them or U.S. support for Israel. Bruce Springsteen endorses Obama for president   AP / 5:07PM WASHINGTON - Rock star Bruce Springsteen endorsed Democratic Sen. Barack Obama for president Wednesday, saying "he speaks to the America I've envisioned in my music for the past 35 years." Bush, big crowd greet pope on birthday   AP / 4:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush and Pope Benedict XVI agreed Wednesday that terrorism is an unacceptable weapon for any cause or religion, standing strongly united on that issue but divided on others during a day of substance and symbolism at the White House. Bush, big White House crowd greet pope on his birthday   AP / 11:17AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- An enthralled South Lawn crowd of more than 9,000 sang "Happy Birthday" to Pope Benedict XVI on Wednesday, and President Bush said that the first papal White House visit in 29 years was a reminder for Americans to "distinguish between simple right and wrong." USDA: Spring rains helped wheat and fruit   UPI / 10:47AM WASHINGTON, April 16 (UPI) -- Heavy rains swept through the much of the United States last week, benefiting winter wheat and fruit crops, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported. Bush, big White House crowd to greet pope on his birthday   AP / 10:47AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Pope Benedict XVI has been welcomed at the White House with pomp and pageantry and cheering from thousands of excited people spread across the South Lawn.

Tuesday, April 15 McCain's GOP critics in Arizona continue to press their case   AP / 10:30PM PHOENIX - Sen. John McCain's status as the presumptive Republican presidential nominee has done little to ease the criticism he faces from a small but vocal group of conservatives in his home state. Clinton sketches first 100 days, Obama vows to help workers   AP / 9:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton outlined an aggressive 100-day presidential agenda on Tuesday and Sen. Barack Obama promised to "play offense for working Americans," both rivals observing something of a lull in an increasingly personal Democratic nomination struggle. Bush to announce goal for stopping greenhouse emissions   AP / 9:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush, stepping into the debate over global warming, plans to announce on Wednesday a national goal for stopping the growth of greenhouse gas emissions over the next few decades. Bush to pitch climate change strategy in Rose Garden speech   AP / 7:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush, stepping into the debate over global warming, plans to announce on Wednesday a national goal for stopping the growth of greenhouse gas emissions over the next few decades. McCain calls for summer-long suspension of gas tax   AP / 4:51PM PITTSBURGH - Republican Sen. John McCain on Tuesday called for a summer-long suspension of the federal gasoline tax and several tax cuts as the likely presidential nominee sought to stem the public's pain from a troubled economy. Bush plans White House speech Wednesday on climate change   AP / 4:27PM WASHINGTON - In a Rose Garden speech Wednesday, President Bush will outline the way he thinks the United States can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and challenge lawmakers on climate change legislation up for debate in June.

Monday, April 14 Obama: Clinton Using GOP Playbook   AP / 10:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- After days on the campaign defensive, Democrat Barack Obama accused rival Hillary Rodham Clinton on Monday of leveling criticism straight from the Republican playbook and said even so, he will win the White House over John McCain and an "out of touch" GOP. Pa. Voters Divided Over Obama Remarks   AP / 9:30PM SHENANDOAH, Pa. (AP) -- Yes, some Democrats in Pennsylvania's Rust Belt communities were upset by Barack Obama's suggestion that voters there "cling to guns or religion" because of bitterness about their economic lot. But many more seem to think it was no big deal -- and if there's a problem it's with the political slapfest that has followed. Pa. Voters Divided Over Obama Remarks   AP / 8:30PM SHENANDOAH, Pa. (AP) -- Yes, some Democrats in Pennsylvania's Rust Belt communities were upset by Barack Obama's suggestion that voters there "cling to guns or religion" because of bitterness about their economic lot. But many more seem to think it was no big deal -- and if there's a problem it's with the political slapfest that has followed. Obama: Clinton Using GOP Playbook   AP / 7:46PM WASHINGTON - After days on the campaign defensive, Democrat Barack Obama accused rival Hillary Rodham Clinton on Monday of leveling criticism straight from the Republican playbook and said even so, he will win the White House over John McCain and an "out of touch" GOP. Bush considering global warming bill   UPI / 11:20AM WASHINGTON, April 14 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush may shift his eco-attitude as early as this week, saying he wants Congress to pass a bill to combat global warming, aides said. McCain: More Conservative Than His Image   AP / 10:30AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The independent label sticks to John McCain because he antagonizes fellow Republicans and likes to work with Democrats. McCain: More Conservative Than His Image   AP / 4:10AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The independent label sticks to John McCain because he antagonizes fellow Republicans and likes to work with Democrats. Bush Readies Big Welcome for Pope   AP / 2:50AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The leader of the world's Roman Catholics has been to the White House only once in history. That changes this week, and President Bush is pulling out all the stops: driving out to a suburban military base to meet Pope Benedict XVI's plane, bringing a giant audience to the South Lawn and hosting a fancy East Room dinner. Obama Turns Tables on Clinton   AP / 1:06AM STEELTON, Pa. - Democrat Barack Obama lashed out Sunday at rival Hillary Rodham Clinton, mocking her vocal support for gun rights and saying her record in the Senate and as first lady belied her stated commitment to working class voters and their concerns.

Sunday, April 13 Clinton, Obama Focus on Faith at Forum   AP / 11:30PM GRANTHAM, Pa. - Democratic Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton said Sunday that the potential for life begins at conception as she and presidential rival Sen. Barack Obama answered questions about faith and religion in both their personal lives and the public discourse. Hadley: `Cop-Out' to Skip Olympics Start   AP / 7:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- It would be a "cop-out" for countries to skip the opening ceremonies at the Beijing Olympics as a way of protesting China's crackdown in Tibet, President Bush's national security adviser said Sunday. Clinton Knocks on Doors in Scranton, Pa.   AP / 5:56PM SCRANTON, Pa. - Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton tried to portray herself as an ally of the middle class on Sunday by keeping alive Barack Obama's comments about bitter voters in small towns while taking her campaign door to door in her late father's boyhood hometown. Bush Readies Big Welcome for Pope   AP / 5:46PM WASHINGTON - The leader of the world's Roman Catholics has been to the White House only once in history. That changes this week, and President Bush is pulling out all the stops: driving out to a suburban military base to meet Pope Benedict XVI's plane, bringing a giant audience to the South Lawn and hosting a fancy East Room dinner. Democrats: McCain Financing Questionable   AP / 5:16PM WASHINGTON - Democratic Party officials want a federal judge to order an investigation into whether Sen. John McCain violated election laws by withdrawing from public financing, saying federal regulators are too weak to act on their own. Hadley: Iran Remains Threat in Iraq   AP / 3:50PM WASHINGTON - With al-Qaida's influence diminishing in Iraq, U.S. troops have much work to do in stemming Iranian support for militias, President Bush's national security adviser said Sunday. Obama's Remarks Give Clinton an Opening   AP / 2:00AM MISHAWAKA, Ind. (AP) -- A political tempest over Barack Obama's comments about bitter voters in small towns has given rival Hillary Rodham Clinton a new opening to court working class Democrats 10 days before Pennsylvanians hold a primary that she must win to keep her presidential campaign alive.

Saturday, April 12 Obama's Remarks Gives Clinton an Opening   AP / 7:10PM MISHAWAKA, Ind. - A political tempest over Barack Obama's comments about bitter voters in small towns has given rival Hillary Rodham Clinton a new opening to court working class Democrats 10 days before Pennsylvanians hold a primary that she must win to keep her presidential campaign alive. Obama Counting on Indiana   AP / 1:50PM MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) -- Barack Obama sees himself with a disadvantage in Pennsylvania and with an advantage in North Carolina. War-Weary Pa. Voters Wonder About Exit   AP / 11:10AM ALLENTOWN, Pa. - For Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama, vital to getting the edge in military service-oriented but war-weary Pennsylvania is figuring out how to pull U.S. forces out of Iraq without dragging the flag in the process. Bush Unlikely to Boycott Olympics   AP / 4:17AM WASHINGTON - For President Bush, it would seem a small gesture to make a big point: Staying away from the opening ceremonies of the Beijing Summer Olympics would send a clear signal of U.S. anger over China's crackdown against anti-Beijing Tibetan protesters.

Friday, April 11 USDA eyes irradiation for vegetables   UPI / 10:30PM NEW ORLEANS, April 11 (UPI) -- U.S. Department of Agriculture scientists said irradiation may be the best way to remove pathogens inside fruits and vegetables. Obama Says Some Voters Bitter   AP / 10:07PM TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (AP) -- In the midst of an assault from his rivals, a defensive Barack Obama said Friday that many working-class Americans are angry and bitter over economic inequalities and have lost faith in Washington -- and, as a result, vote on the basis of other issues such as gun protections or gay marriage. Clinton Outlines Anti-Crime Plan   AP / 9:57PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton would eliminate the federal mandatory five-year sentence for crack cocaine users as part of a $4 billion-a-year anti-crime initiative designed, in part, to steer many nonviolent offenders away from prison. Bushes Pay Taxes on $923,807 Income   AP / 9:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The federal tax bill for President Bush and his wife: $221,635. That's how much the Bushes owed on their adjusted gross income of $923,807 for the year 2007, according to a joint return released Friday. The Bushes have paid $203,894 so far, which means they'll need to break out the checkbook -- they owe the government $17,741. Bushes Pay Taxes on $923,807 Income   AP / 5:10PM WASHINGTON - The federal tax bill for President Bush and his wife: $221,635. That's how much the Bushes owed on their adjusted gross income of $923,807 for the year 2007, according to a joint return released Friday. The Bushes have paid $203,894 so far, which means they'll need to break out the checkbook - they owe the government $17,741. Clinton Misstates Wife's Bosnia Tale   AP / 5:10PM WASHINGTON - Former President Clinton has added to the falsehoods surrounding his wife's tale of her trip to Bosnia 12 years ago. In Indiana on Thursday, Bill Clinton defended his wife's mistake in claiming that she landed under sniper fire in Bosnia, accusing the media of treating her like "she'd robbed a bank" for confusing the facts. Bushes Pay Taxes on $923,807 Income   AP / 3:17PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush and his wife paid $221,635 in federal taxes on an adjusted gross income of $923,807 for the year 2007. White House: Bush still will go to Games   UPI / 3:07PM WASHINGTON, April 11 (UPI) -- Presidential candidates may say they'd boycott the Beijing Summer Olympics, but U.S. President Bush hasn't changed his plans, the White House said Friday. Clinton, Obama Mostly the Same on Policy   AP / 1:40PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democrats just can't decide whether Barack Obama or Hillary Rodham Clinton would make a better presidential nominee, and there's some good reason for that. When it comes to policy, they are closely aligned.

Thursday, April 10 Clinton Presses Disputed Trade Claims   AP / 9:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton is pressing her claim that she opposed her husband's free trade push when he was president, despite her favorable words about it at the time. Romney Still in the Political Hunt   AP / 9:00PM BOSTON (AP) -- Republican Mitt Romney is still running -- perhaps for vice president this fall or the White House in 2012 or 2016. Gates: US Troops Won't Drop to 100,000   AP / 7:01PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Thursday he sees no chance that the number of U.S. troops in Iraq will drop to 100,000 by the end of the year, guaranteeing a heavy American military presence as the war grinds into its sixth year to the end of the Bush presidency. Gates: US Troops Won't Drop to 100,000   AP / 5:50PM WASHINGTON - Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Thursday he sees no chance that the number of U.S. troops in Iraq will drop to 100,000 by the end of the year, guaranteeing a heavy American military presence as the war grinds into its sixth year to the end of the Bush presidency. Bush Embraces Pause in Troop Cutbacks   AP / 4:50PM WASHINGTON - President Bush on Thursday ordered an indefinite halt in U.S. troop withdrawals from Iraq after July, embracing the key recommendations of his top war commander. Bush said Gen. David Petraeus will "have all the time he needs" to consider when more American forces could return home. McCain Seeks Aid for Some Homeowners   AP / 4:50PM NEW YORK - Republican Sen. John McCain called for federal aid for well-meaning homeowners who can't pay their mortgages, an attempt to fend off criticism that he has been indifferent to the housing crisis and the market upheaval it has spawned. Reid: Bush doesn't address war decisions   UPI / 1:51PM WASHINGTON, April 10 (UPI) -- Democratic leaders Thursday accused U.S. President George Bush of leaving decisions about ending the war in Iraq for his successor. Bush signs off on drawdown suspension   UPI / 12:37PM WASHINGTON, April 10 (UPI) -- A suspension of troop withdrawals, a reduction in tours of duty and a choice for Iran topped U.S. President George Bush's remarks Thursday. McCain puts air between himself, Bush   UPI / 10:50AM WESTPORT, Conn., April 10 (UPI) -- Presumptive Republican U.S. presidential nominee Sen. John McCain, speaking at a global investment firm, tried to move away from several White House policies. Bush Presence at Olympic Gala Uncertain   AP / 9:47AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush has said he plans to attend the Beijing Olympics, but the White House has not ruled out the possibility that he may miss the opening ceremony, which China hopes to use as an international showcase.

Wednesday, April 9 John Raises $2.5 Million for Clinton   AP / 10:50PM NEW YORK - Experience is central to Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential bid, and Wednesday night she tapped one of pop music's most venerable rockers to help fill her campaign coffers with $2.5 million. Elton John, who has sold records and filled arenas for four decades, played a benefit concert for Clinton at Radio City Music Hall. Dems Assail McCain on Iraq, Economy   AP / 7:30PM ALIQUIPPA, Pa. (AP) -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton said Wednesday she is the only presidential candidate who will begin a prompt drawdown of U.S. troops in Iraq, and rival Sen. Barack Obama cast himself as the one best able to turn the nation's economy around. Bush, Congress Clash on Housing Help   AP / 6:10PM WASHINGTON - The Bush administration announced new steps Wednesday to help more homeowners head off foreclosure. The Senate, in the meantime, worked to complete a bipartisan housing bill the White House says would worsen the mortgage mess. Bush, Goh urge China-Tibet dialogue   UPI / 4:46PM WASHINGTON, April 9 (UPI) -- The Chinese government should open a dialogue with the Dalai Lama on Tibet, U.S. President W. Bush and Singapore Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong said Wednesday. Clinton: I Differ With Bill on Trade   AP / 2:00PM ALIQUIPPA, Pa. (AP) -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton said Wednesday she has a long record of differing with her husband on trade policies, a critical issue as she and Sen. Barack Obama pursue Democratic voters who fault international deals for U.S. job losses. 'Other Woman' Shadows Chelsea Clinton   AP / 9:46AM INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Chelsea Clinton is spending long days on the campaign trail telling college crowds about her mother's positions on everything from health care and student-loan costs to the Darfur crisis and gay rights. 3 die in Gaza clash; soldiers find tunnel   UPI / 7:56AM JERUSALEM, April 9 (UPI) -- An Israeli soldier and two Hamas militants died Wednesday during an exchange of gunfire in the Gaza Strip, military officials said.

Tuesday, April 8 Colombia Trade Deal Splits Clintons   AP / 10:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- The presidential campaign of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton said Tuesday that her husband, the former president, supports a free trade agreement with Colombia that she strenuously opposes. Colombia Trade Deal Splits Clintons   AP / 8:07PM WASHINGTON - The presidential campaign of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton said Tuesday that her husband, the former president, supports a free trade agreement with Colombia that she strenuously opposes. Stocks Fall After Earnings, Fed Minutes   AP / 5:17PM NEW YORK - Wall Street retreated Tuesday after aluminum producer Alcoa Inc. and chip maker Advanced Micro Devices Inc. issued disappointing reports and the Federal Reserve voiced concerns about the slumping economy.

Monday, April 7 Clinton's Tale Part Truth, Part Errors   AP / 9:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democratic Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton has stopped telling a story of a pregnant woman's medical tragedy after an Ohio hospital challenged its accuracy last weekend. Clinton Tale Is Part Truth, Part Errors   AP / 7:50PM WASHINGTON - Democratic Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton has stopped telling a story of a pregnant woman's medical tragedy after an Ohio hospital challenged its accuracy last weekend. McCain Raises $15 Million in March   AP / 7:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. John McCain raised more than $15 million in March for his presidential campaign, a top performance for the likely Republican nominee that still falls far short of the cash gathered by rival Democratic Sens. Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton. Bush Honors College Football Champs   AP / 4:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Louisiana State University's football team took a wild route to the national championship -- losing twice in triple overtime, taking lots of fourth-down risks, grabbing a spot in the title game only when other teams lost late in the year. It was a season in which no school was on top for long. McCain: Iraq No Longer Abyss of Defeat   AP / 9:06AM WASHINGTON - Disregarding a serious flare-up of violence, Republican presidential candidate John McCain says the United States is "no longer staring into the abyss of defeat" in Iraq, opening a campaign week that will draw him and his Democratic opponents back to Washington to question commanding Gen. David Petraeus about the conduct of the unpopular war. Obama Seeks to Affirm His Patriotism   AP / 5:06AM BUTTE, Mont. - Barack Obama wants to make something clear: He loves America.

Sunday, April 6 Penn Out As Clinton Senior Strategist   AP / 10:30PM ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Mark Penn, the pollster and senior strategist for Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential bid, left the campaign Sunday after it was disclosed he met with representatives of the Colombian government to help promote a free trade agreement Clinton opposes. Bush Aides Put Upbeat Spin on Summit   AP / 10:11PM ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE - White House officials waged an extraordinary campaign during an 11-hour Air Force One flight to put a positive spin on the outcome of Sunday's summit talks between President Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Penn Out As Clinton Chief Strategist   AP / 7:25PM ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - The manager of Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential campaign says Mark Penn has asked to give up his role as chief strategist of the campaign. US, Russia Can't Agree on Missiles   AP / 6:25PM SOCHI, Russia - President Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin failed to overcome sharp differences over a U.S. missile defense system, closing their seven-year relationship Sunday still far apart on an issue that has separated them from the beginning. Deal on Mich., Fla. Unlikely Before June   AP / 3:50PM WASHINGTON - A deal to allow delegates from Florida and Michigan to participate at the Democratic National Convention is unlikely before summer, party chief Howard Dean said Sunday. Obama Tailors Message to Western Voters   AP / 12:30AM BUTTE, Mont. (AP) -- Hunting for votes out West, Democrat Barack Obama on Saturday rejected the idea that the region's sparsely populated states aren't important in the presidential race and renewed his promise to appoint a high-level adviser on Indian issues if elected.

Saturday, April 5 Clinton Ramps Up Call to Count Fla, Mich   AP / 7:40PM HILLSBORO, Oregon (AP) -- Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton Saturday strengthened her pitch to allow disputed primaries in Michigan and Florida to be counted in the nominating contest, noting the vote totals had been officially recognized in each state. Bush, Putin Begin Farewell Talks   AP / 3:50PM SOCHI, Russia - President Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin opened suspenseful farewell talks Saturday as the White House abandoned hopes they would resolve differences on U.S. missile defense plans, one of the most contentious issues in a long list of security disputes. Candidates to Press Petraeus on Iraq War   AP / 3:10PM WASHINGTON - When Army Gen. David Petraeus delivers his assessment of the Iraq war next week, the next commander in chief will weigh in as well. Missile Defense Deal Unlikely in Russia   AP / 12:46PM SOCHI, Russia - President Bush began a farewell call in Russia on Saturday as the White House abandoned hope of a major agreement on missile defense during weekend talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Candidates to Press Petraeus on Iraq War   AP / 11:50AM WASHINGTON - When Army Gen. David Petraeus delivers his assessment of the Iraq war next week, the next commander in chief will weigh in as well. Missile Defense Deal Unlikely in Russia   AP / 9:50AM ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE (AP) -- The White House says it does not expect President Bush's talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin to produce a deal on a missile defense system based in Europe.

Friday, April 4 Clintons Made Nearly $109M Since 2000   AP / 11:10PM WASHINGTON - Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and former President Clinton made nearly $109 million since they left the White House, capitalizing on the world's interest in the former first couple and lucrative business ventures. Some Superdelegates More Super Than Rest   AP / 11:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Some of those presidential superdelegates Democrats Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton are pursuing are more super than others. One delegate, one vote doesn't apply to them. These prominent Democrats can name additional superdelegates, giving them control over multiple convention votes, and that could be the difference in a race that may not be decided until the August convention. Clintons Made Nearly $109M Since 2000   AP / 8:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and former President Clinton made nearly $109 million since they left the White House, capitalizing on the world's interest in the former first couple and lucrative business ventures. Clintons Report $20.4 Million in 2007   AP / 7:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and former President Clinton made nearly $109 million since they left the White House, capitalizing on the world's interest in the former first couple and lucrative business ventures. White House Hopefuls Pay Tribute to King   AP / 5:31PM MEMPHIS (AP) -- Republican and Democrat, black and white, the three remaining presidential candidates summoned memories of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., 40 years after his death on Friday and gently sought to advance their own strivings as they found greatness in his. Some Superdelegates More Super Than Rest   AP / 3:16PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Some of those presidential superdelegates Democrats Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton are pursuing are more super than others. Clinton Discusses Gay Rights With Ellen   AP / 11:30AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democratic Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton told Ellen DeGeneres that she will work to ensure that same-sex couples such as the talk show host and her partner Portia de Rossi are treated fairly. Clinton Denies Obama Electability Remark   AP / 12:50AM BURBANK, Calif. - Hillary Rodham Clinton appeared Thursday to deny published reports that she told New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson that Barack Obama cannot win the general election. But her campaign aides later said the New York senator had misunderstood the question. Clinton Appears on "The Tonight Show"   AP / 12:20AM BURBANK, Calif. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton made fun of herself Thursday, telling "Tonight Show" host Jay Leno she almost didn't make it to his studio.

Thursday, April 3 UCC Calls for Nationwide Race Discussion   AP / 10:50PM CHICAGO - The United Church of Christ, the parent denomination of Barack Obama's church, announced Thursday that it will begin a conversation on racial issues beginning next month in response to sermons by Obama's pastor that were critical of the U.S. FAA Inspectors Say Concerns Ignored   AP / 10:27PM WASHINGTON - The whistleblowers who exposed maintenance and inspection problems at Southwest Airlines told Congress their jobs were threatened and their reports of noncompliance were ignored for years. Clinton Denies Doubting Obama   AP / 9:40PM BURBANK, Calif. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton appeared Thursday to deny published reports that she told New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson that Barack Obama cannot win the general election. But her campaign aides later said the New York senator had misunderstood the question. Obama Outraises Clinton 2-1 in March   AP / 9:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama raked in $40 million in March, leaving Hillary Rodham Clinton and her $20 million in the fundraising dust and stuffing his campaign treasury so he can outspend her in the crucial Pennsylvania primary. Obama Outraises Clinton 2-1 in March   AP / 6:51PM WASHINGTON - Barack Obama raked in $40 million in March, leaving Hillary Rodham Clinton and her $20 million in the fundraising dust and stuffing his campaign treasury so he can outspend her in the crucial Pennsylvania primary. Clinton Says She Will Defend Gay Rights   AP / 6:31PM WASHINGTON - Democratic Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton said she would defend gay rights as president and eliminate disparities for same-sex couples in federal law, including immigration and tax policy. Obama Outraises Clinton 2-1 in March   AP / 6:10PM WASHINGTON - Barack Obama raked in $40 million in March, leaving Hillary Rodham Clinton and her $20 million in the fundraising dust and stuffing his campaign treasury so he can outspend her in the crucial Pennsylvania primary. Obama Raises $40 Million in March   AP / 5:27PM WASHINGTON - Sen. Barack Obama, second to none in the race for campaign cash, raised more than $40 million in March and boosted his vast network of donors to nearly 1.3 million, the campaign announced Thursday. Carter Hints at Support for Obama   AP / 5:27PM WASHINGTON - Former President Carter wouldn't quite say it, but he left little doubt this week about who he'd like to see in the White House next year. Speaking to local reporters Wednesday on a trip to Nigeria, the former Democratic president noted that Barack Obama had won his home state of Georgia and his hometown of Plains. Carter Hints at Support for Obama   AP / 3:16PM WASHINGTON - Former President Carter wouldn't quite say it, but he left little doubt this week about who he'd like to see in the White House next year. Bernanke Defends Bear Stearns Rescue   AP / 2:26PM WASHINGTON - The Federal Reserve moved to assist a Wall Street investment bank on the brink of bankruptcy to prevent a failure that could have dealt serious consequences to the U.S. economy, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said Thursday. Obama Raises $40 Million in March   AP / 11:30AM WASHINGTON - Sen. Barack Obama, second to none in the race for campaign cash, raised more than $40 million in March and boosted his vast network of donors to nearly 1.3 million, the campaign announced Thursday. Bush Says NATO Must Remain Open   AP / 7:56AM BUCHAREST, Romania - President Bush has told NATO leaders that the doors of the alliance must remain open and that it must give "a full and fair hearing" to other nations seeking to join. NATO to Endorse US Missile-Defense Plan   AP / 6:50AM BUCHAREST, Romania - NATO leaders have agreed to fully endorse President Bush's plan to build a missile defense system in Eastern Europe and to urge Russia to drop its objections to the shield, senior American officials said Thursday. Clinton, Obama Seek Money in California   AP / 4:07AM WASHINGTON - In back-to-back stops, Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton are returning to a popular financial wellhead, raising money in California to help finance a heavy stretch of spending in April. Beer Executive Could Be Next First Lady   AP / 4:07AM WASHINGTON - On a spring day at a speedway in the South, John McCain posed with his wife, Cindy, and racing star Dale Earnhardt Jr., highlighting the couple's political and business interests in a single snapshot. Clinton Irked by Richardson Endorsement   AP / 2:36AM SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Former President Clinton is still smarting over New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson's endorsement of Barack Obama. Memo Linked to Warrantless Surveillance   AP / 1:16AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- For at least 16 months after the Sept. 11 terror attacks in 2001, the Bush administration believed that the Constitution's protection against unreasonable searches and seizures on U.S. soil didn't apply to its efforts to protect against terrorism.

Wednesday, April 2 NATO Allies Turn Down Bush Request   AP / 10:20PM BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) -- President Bush suffered a painful diplomatic setback Wednesday when NATO allies rebuffed his passionate pleas to put former Soviet republics Ukraine and Georgia on the path toward membership in the Western military alliance. Clinton Irked by Richardson Endorsement   AP / 9:10PM SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Former President Clinton is still smarting over New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson's endorsement of Barack Obama. During a private meeting with California Democrats this past weekend, Clinton grew red-faced as he talked about how he expected Richardson, who was a member of Clinton's Cabinet, to back Hillary Rodham Clinton for the presidential nomination or at least stay neutral, according to several people who attended. Obama Trims Clinton's Lead in Pa.   AP / 8:30PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Sen. Barack Obama was endorsed Wednesday by a labor union and two Democratic superdelegates, as a poll showed he has cut Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's lead in Pennsylvania almost in half since mid-February as he strives to deny her a resounding victory in the state's presidential primary. Obama Trims Clinton's Lead in Pa.   AP / 7:26PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Sen. Barack Obama was endorsed Wednesday by a labor union and two Democratic superdelegates, as a poll showed he has cut Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's lead in Pennsylvania almost in half since mid-February as he strives to deny her a resounding victory in the state's presidential primary. Obama: I'd Hire Gore   AP / 4:30PM WALLINGFORD, Pa. (AP) -- Sen. Barack Obama said Wednesday he would give Al Gore, a Nobel prize winner, a major role in an Obama administration to address the problem of global warming. Obama, Clinton Woo Unions in Pa.   AP / 4:10PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Sen. Barack Obama received endorsements Wednesday from a labor union and a Democratic superdelegate, as he tried to regain the presidential campaign momentum he enjoyed before Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton won two large states last month. Stocks Trade Mixed As Bernanke Speaks   AP / 2:11PM NEW YORK - Wall Street was narrowly mixed Wednesday after Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said he didn't expect the nation's investment banks to suffer the same damage from the global credit crisis that felled Bear Stearns Cos. Obama Endorsed by Lee Hamilton   AP / 10:40AM INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Former Indiana Rep. Lee Hamilton endorsed Sen. Barack Obama for president Wednesday, praising his ability to transcend partisan division and calling his foreign policy outlook "pragmatic, visionary, and tough." Bernanke Testimony Drives Stocks Lower   AP / 10:10AM NEW YORK - Wall Street is down slightly in the opening minutes of trading after Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke told Congress the economy may weaken in the first half of this year. Wall Street Heads for a Mixed Opening   AP / 8:10AM NEW YORK - Wall Street headed for a narrowly mixed open Wednesday as investors paused after a massive rally in the previous session and awaited Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke's view of the economy. Bush speaks of troops, NATO expansion   UPI / 7:50AM BUCHAREST, Romania, April 2 (UPI) -- The NATO alliance must "finish the fight in Afghanistan," U.S. President George Bush said Wednesday in remarks opening a NATO summit in Romania. Bernanke to Give Congress Economic Update   AP / 4:45AM WASHINGTON - Faced with mounting home foreclosures and job losses, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke is under immense political and public pressure to provide relief and help turn around a faltering economy.

Tuesday, April 1 McCain, Letterman Spar on 'Late Show'   AP / 10:05PM NEW YORK (AP) -- Republican presidential candidate John McCain good-naturedly sparred with David Letterman on Tuesday night's "Late Show." During his monologue, Letterman joked that the Arizona senator reminded him of "the guy at the hardware store who makes the keys" and "the guy who can't stop talking about how well his tomatoes are doing." Clinton Compares Herself to 'Rocky'   AP / 7:20PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Perhaps the analogy was inevitable: Hillary Rodham Clinton as Rocky Balboa, the scrappy underdog boxer from Philadelphia memorably depicted in the 1976 Oscar-winning film. Even if Rocky did lose his first big fight. Obama Casts Race Between Him, McCain   AP / 6:00PM WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (AP) -- Sen. Barack Obama is talking about the elephant in the room -- Republican rival John McCain -- and all but ignoring the Democrat who stands between him and his party's presidential nomination. US-Russia Missile Deal Possible Sunday   AP / 2:40PM COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) -- Scrambling to seal a missile defense deal this weekend, the U.S. is offering guarantees to assure the Russians the system isn't a European military threat aimed at them. Pelosi Says Democratic Race Should Go On   AP / 1:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the superdelegates who may ultimately decide the Democratic party's presidential nominee have a right to vote as they wish, and that the drawn-out contest between candidates Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama should be allowed to reach its conclusion. Suits claim insurers clog Social Security   UPI / 12:20PM WASHINGTON, April 1 (UPI) -- Routine referrals from insurers to the U.S. Social Security system cost millions and clog the system, lawsuits filed against disability insurers claim. GAO report critical of weapons budget   UPI / 8:16AM WASHINGTON, April 1 (UPI) -- Government auditors in a report berated the U.S. Defense Department's weapons budget, saying major systems exceeded their budgets by $295 billion.

Monday, March 31 McCain Touts Military Heritage   AP / 8:10PM MERIDIAN, Miss. (AP) -- Republican Sen. John McCain embarked on a carefully crafted tour to introduce himself to a wider election audience on Monday, but quickly veered off script to express surprise at the Iraqi government's crackdown on Shiite militias. Bush to discuss Afghanistan at NATO summit   UPI / 7:20PM BUCHAREST, Romania, March 31 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush left for Bucharest, Romania, Monday to lobby NATO allies for more international troops in Afghanistan, officials said. Clinton Says Obama Wants to Stop Votes   AP / 7:10PM HARRISBURG, Pa. - Democratic Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton accused rival Sen. Barack Obama and his allies of trying to stop people from voting as some of his backers have called on her to drop out of the presidential race. The Obama campaign rejected the charge, dismissing Clinton's criticism as "completely laughable." Bill Clinton Woos Calif. Superdelegates   AP / 1:31AM SAN JOSE, Calif. - Allowing the Democratic presidential race to continue several more weeks will not hurt the party's chances in November, former President Clinton said Sunday, urging those concerned that the opposite will happen to "chill out" and let the balloting run its course.

Sunday, March 30 Bush Gets First Pitch, First Look   AP / 9:30PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush had enough to worry about -- like not flubbing the first pitch in front of a crowd that might not exactly be his biggest fans anyway. Obama Rallies at Penn State   AP / 8:50PM UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. (AP) -- Shivering in blankets of Penn State's colors, some 20,000 people filled a campus lawn Sunday to hear Barack Obama say he can win the Democratic nomination even if rival Hillary Rodham Clinton stays in the race. Women Push Back in Support of Clinton   AP / 4:50PM NEW ALBANY, Ind. - Debra Starks has heard the calls for Hillary Rodham Clinton to quit the presidential race, and she's not happy about it. Bush Facing Resistance to NATO Expansion   AP / 1:32PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush has told NATO members he wants to expand the alliance to include three Balkan countries and put Ukraine and Georgia on track for membership. Phantoms of the Campaign Soap Opera   AP / 12:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Behold the phantoms of the political opera. Uncertain Economy Awaits Next President   AP / 12:10PM WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton, Barack Obama and John McCain have diagnosed the swooning U.S. economy and have come up with rival plans to revive it. If the downturn lasts as long as some economists predict, one of the three will get a chance to try to sell his or her proposal to Congress as president. Cheney Road Trip: Pack the Green Duffel   AP / 12:10PM WASHINGTON - He travels with a green duffel bag stuffed with nonfiction books about military campaigns and political affairs. He has an iPod and noise-canceling earphones to listen to oldies and some country-western. Clinton, Obama Press for Texas Delegates   AP / 2:00AM AUSTIN, Texas (AP) -- Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama scrambled to secure more Texas delegates Saturday as the state pushed to settle the outcome of the March 4 caucus.

Saturday, March 29 Obama Says Clinton Should Keep Running   AP / 10:16PM JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (AP) -- Barack Obama refused Saturday to go along with other Democrats who are calling for Hillary Rodham Clinton to step away from the race for the Democratic presidential nomination. Administration Pushes Regulatory Chnages   AP / 4:10PM WASHINGTON - The Bush administration is trying to confront the credit crisis that has rattled nerves from Wall Street to Main Street by proposing wholesale changes in how Washington oversees the financial system. Bush Begins Long Farewell on World Stage   AP / 10:46AM WASHINGTON - Winding down his presidency, George W. Bush is beginning his farewell tour on the world stage trailed by questions about how much clout he still wields. Bush Hails Economic Stimulus Package   AP / 10:20AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Consumer confidence is on the skids, yet President Bush is optimistic that tax rebates and help for homeowners will adequately jump-start the economy. Bush Follows JFK in Opening New Ballpark   AP / 4:46AM WASHINGTON - On Sunday night, President Bush is set to throw out the first ball at Nationals Park and help inaugurate the Washington Nationals' new stadium. Bush Seeks Financial Regulation Overhaul   AP / 4:46AM WASHINGTON - The Bush administration is proposing a sweeping overhaul of the way the government regulates the nation's financial services industry from banks and securities firms to mortgage brokers and insurance companies. Clinton Rules Out Leaving Race Early   AP / 4:30AM HAMMOND, Ind. (AP) -- If Hillary Rodham Clinton is feeling heat from pundits and party elders to quit the race and back Barack Obama, you'd never know it from her crowds, energy level and upbeat demeanor on the campaign trail.

Friday, March 28 Obama Gets Boost; Clinton Urged to Quit   AP / 10:50PM PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Barack Obama got a surprise boost in the last big state of the long Democratic campaign Friday with an endorsement from Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey Jr., while another Obama supporter sought to nudge Hillary Rodham Clinton out of the race. Bush: Iraq Violence a Defining Moment   AP / 10:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush declared on Friday that Iraq stands at a defining moment as it struggles to put down heavily armed Shiite militias in new flare-ups of violence that threaten to undercut security gains and sway his decision about U.S. troop drawdowns. Bawdy Obama Skit Riles N.D. Campus   AP / 8:00PM FARGO, N.D. (AP) -- North Dakota State University is investigating complaints about a campus skit in which a white student in blackface portrayed Barack Obama receiving a lap dance. Obama Gets Boost; Clinton Urged to Quit   AP / 6:10PM PITTSBURGH - Barack Obama got a surprise boost in the last big state of the long Democratic campaign Friday with an endorsement from Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey Jr., while another Obama supporter sought to nudge Hillary Rodham Clinton out of the race. US, Australia Call for Meeting on Tibet   AP / 5:40PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush and Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on Friday urged China's leaders to meet with the Dalai Lama over violent unrest in Tibet. Bush Aide Resigns for Alleged Wrongdoing   AP / 5:17PM WASHINGTON - An aide to President Bush has resigned because of his alleged misuse of grant money from the U.S. Agency for International Development when he worked for a Cuban democracy organization. Pennsylvania Senator Endorses Obama   AP / 12:40PM PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey endorsed Democrat Barack Obama on Friday, a move that could help the presidential candidate make inroads with white working-class voters dubbed "Casey Democrats" in the Keystone State. Pelosi Opposes Olympic Boycott   AP / 12:40PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush and Australia's new prime minister, Kevin Rudd, urged China's leaders Friday to meet with the Dalai Lama over violent unrest in Tibet. Dean Says Attacks Getting Too Personal   AP / 12:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democratic Party chief Howard Dean says Barack Obama, Hillary Rodham Clinton and their supporters should beware of tearing each other down, demoralizing the base and damaging the party's chances of winning the White House in November. Pennsylvania Senator to Endorse Obama   AP / 10:40AM NEW YORK (AP) -- Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey plans to endorse Democrat Barack Obama Friday, a move that could help the presidential candidate make inroads with white working-class voters dubbed "Casey Democrats" in the Keystone State. Pennsylvania Senator to Endorse Obama   AP / 7:30AM NEW YORK - Barack Obama will be endorsed by Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey. Clinton's Belfast Role Draws Questions   AP / 4:10AM BELFAST, Northern Ireland (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton cites her role in bringing peace to Northern Ireland as one of the top foreign policy credentials of her presidential bid.

Thursday, March 27 Obama Would Have Left if Wright Stayed   AP / 11:11PM WASHINGTON - White House hopeful Barack Obama suggests he would have left his Chicago church had his longtime pastor, whose fiery anti-American comments about U.S. foreign policy and race relations threatened Obama's campaign, not stepped down. McCain, Romney Campaign Together in Utah   AP / 9:30PM SALT LAKE CITY - In a show of Republican unity, one-time bitter foes John McCain and Mitt Romney raised money and campaigned together Thursday for a single goal - getting McCain elected president. Obama, Clinton Offer Economic Plans   AP / 7:26PM NEW YORK - Democrat Barack Obama said Thursday a firmer government hand is needed on Wall Street and a $30 billion stimulus is needed to rescue homeowners and the jobless. Rival Hillary Rodham Clinton called for a new job retraining program to remedy what both candidates derided as Republican indifference to a sputtering economy. Bush Says Critics Bully Iraq's Leaders   AP / 7:00PM DAYTON, Ohio (AP) -- President Bush said Thursday that congressional critics have bullied Iraq's leaders and ignored political progress achieved at the cost of U.S. lives. Bush expresses regret in Suez Canal death   UPI / 6:10PM WASHINGTON, March 27 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush called Egypt's president to express sympathy for a civilian's death in the Suez Canal shooting incident, the White House said. Success will drive troop levels, Bush says   UPI / 12:20PM DAYTON, Ohio, March 27 (UPI) -- Ensuring success in Iraq will help drive any decision on future troop levels in that country, U.S. President George Bush said in Dayton, Ohio, Thursday. Bush lauds Iraqi security, political gains   UPI / 11:30AM DAYTON, Ohio, March 27 (UPI) -- The surge in U.S. troops deployed to Iraq not only improved the country's security, but also its economic and politics outlook, President Bush said Thursday.

Wednesday, March 26 Obama Seeks to Quell Flap Over Pastor   AP / 9:20PM GREENSBORO, N.C. (AP) -- Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama on Wednesday sought to quell concerns over anti-American remarks by his former pastor, saying people are paying too much attention to a small number of "stupid" comments. Bush Confronts China on Tibet Crackdown   AP / 9:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush sharply confronted China's President Hu Jintao on Wednesday about Beijing's harsh crackdown in Tibet, joining an international chorus of alarm just months before the U.S. and the rest of the world parade to China for the Olympics. Military Tells Bush of Troop Strains   AP / 8:00PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Behind the Pentagon's closed doors, U.S. military leaders told President Bush Wednesday they are worried about the Iraq war's mounting strain on troops and their families. But they indicated they'd go along with a brief halt in pulling out troops this summer. Bush Confronts China on Tibet Crackdown   AP / 7:30PM WASHINGTON - President Bush sharply confronted China's President Hu Jintao on Wednesday about Beijing's harsh crackdown in Tibet, joining an international chorus of alarm just months before the U.S. and the rest of the world parade to China for the Olympics. Obama Seeks to Quell Flap Over Pastor   AP / 7:30PM GREENSBORO, N.C. (AP) -- Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama on Wednesday sought to quell concerns over anti-American remarks by his former pastor, saying people are paying too much attention to a small number of "stupid" comments. Bush, Hu discuss Tibet, other Asian issues   UPI / 7:21PM WASHINGTON, March 26 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush telephoned Chinese President Hu Jintao Wednesday, voicing concerns about the situation in Tibet, the White House said. Obama Chides McCain on Economy   AP / 7:21PM GREENSBORO, N.C. (AP) -- Democrat Barack Obama ridiculed Republican presidential rival John McCain on Wednesday for what he called a "sit back and watch" approach to the economic troubles gripping the nation. Military Tells Bush of Troop Strains   AP / 5:30PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Behind the Pentagon's closed doors, U.S. military leaders told President Bush Wednesday they are worried about the Iraq war's mounting strain on troops and their families. But they indicated they'd go along with a brief halt in pulling out troops this summer. McCain: Collaborate More With Allies   AP / 5:20PM LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Republican John McCain on Wednesday called anew for the United States to work more collegially with democratic allies and live up to its duties as a world leader, drawing a sharp contrast to the past eight years under President Bush. Bush Calls Fuse Delivery a Mistake   AP / 5:10PM WASHINGTON - President Bush, addressing an embarrassing flap that has strained U.S.-China relations, told Chinese President Hu Jintao on Wednesday that the shipment of nuclear missile fuses to Taiwan was a mistake. The president's national security adviser, Stephen Hadley, said the matter came up when Bush called Hu. Clinton Would Have Left Obama's Pastor   AP / 12:36AM GREENSBURG, Pa. - Hillary Rodham Clinton said Tuesday she would have parted company with a minister who talked about America the way Barack Obama's pastor has.

Tuesday, March 25 McCain Addresses Housing Crisis Options   AP / 10:46PM SANTA ANA, Calif. - Republican John McCain on Tuesday derided government intervention to save and reward banks or small borrowers who behave irresponsibly though he offered few immediate alternatives for fixing the country's growing housing crisis. Nancy Reagan Endorses McCain   AP / 9:50PM BEL AIR, Calif. - Former first lady Nancy Reagan endorsed John McCain for president Tuesday as the Arizona senator continued to collect backing from leading Republicans who might help him unite the party and win over critical conservative voters. Clinton Says She Erred on Bosnia Story   AP / 9:50PM GREENSBURG, Pa. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton said Tuesday she made a mistake in claiming that she came under hostile fire in Bosnia 12 years ago, as rival Barack Obama's campaign continued to challenge her credibility. Obama Related to Pitt, Clinton to Jolie   AP / 6:26PM BOSTON - This could make for one odd family reunion: Barack Obama is a distant cousin of actor Brad Pitt, and Hillary Rodham Clinton is related to Pitt's girlfriend, Angelina Jolie. Clinton Would Have Left Obama's Church   AP / 6:07PM GREENSBURG, Pa. - Hillary Rodham Clinton said Tuesday she would have left the church that Barack Obama attends if her minister had talked about America the way Obama's pastor has. Clinton Says She Erred on Bosnia Story   AP / 5:00PM GREENSBURG, Pa. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton said Tuesday she made a mistake in claiming that she came under hostile fire in Bosnia 12 years ago, as rival Barack Obama's campaign continued to challenge her credibility. Fed Auctions Another $50 Billion   AP / 11:10AM WASHINGTON - Fighting to ease a dangerous credit crisis, the Federal Reserve has provided a total of $260 billion in short-term loans to squeezed banks since December to help them overcome credit problems.

Monday, March 24 Clinton: Protect Reputable Home Lenders   AP / 9:47PM PHILADELPHIA - Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton proposed several remedies to the nation's home mortgage problems Monday, including one tool more often associated with Republicans than Democrats. McCain Says US Succeeding in Iraq   AP / 9:47PM CHULA VISTA, Calif. - Fresh off his eighth Iraq visit, Sen. John McCain declared Monday that "we are succeeding" and said he wouldn't change course - even as the U.S. death toll rose to 4,000 and the war entered its sixth year. Clinton 'Misspoke' on Bosnia Trip   AP / 7:37PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton's campaign said she "misspoke" last week when saying she had landed under sniper fire during a trip to Bosnia as first lady in March 1996. No Carville Apology for Judas Remark   AP / 7:17PM WASHINGTON - Hillary Rodham Clinton adviser James Carville is refusing to apologize for comparing New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson to Judas. Bush Sympathetic As War Toll Hits 4,000   AP / 7:17PM WASHINGTON - Marking a grim milestone, a determined President Bush declared Monday the lives of 4,000 U.S. military men and women who have died in Iraq "were not lost in vain." The White House signaled anew that additional troops won't be pulled out soon. Bush reflects on 4,000 U.S. deaths in Iraq   UPI / 6:00PM WASHINGTON, March 24 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush offered sympathy and resolve Monday as he reflected on the number of U.S. troops killed in Iraq reaching 4,000. Bush Says Iraq War Deaths Not in Vain   AP / 5:07PM WASHINGTON - President Bush pledged Monday to ensure "an outcome that will merit the sacrifice" of those who have died in Iraq, offering both sympathy and resolve as the U.S. death toll in the five-year war hit 4,000. Egg roll promotes ocean conservation   UPI / 4:00PM WASHINGTON, March 24 (UPI) -- Conserving rolling ocean waves was the theme of Monday's White House Easter Egg Roll in Washington. Cheney: Hamas Torpedo Mideast Talks   AP / 5:50AM JERUSALEM - Vice President Dick Cheney said Monday that Hamas, with support from Syria and Iran, is trying to "torpedo" peace talks between the Palestinians and Israel.

Sunday, March 23 McCain: I Learned From Keating Five Case   AP / 2:35PM WASHINGTON - Sen. John McCain's ethics entanglement with a wealthy banker ultimately convicted of swindling investors was such a disturbing, formative experience in his political career that he compares the scandal in some ways to the five years he was tortured as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. Obama's Rough Patch Could've Been Worse   AP / 11:45AM MEDFORD, Ore. - Barack Obama refers to the past couple of weeks as a tough, turbulent stretch.

Saturday, March 22 Obama Adviser Faults Bill Clinton Speech   AP / 3:30PM MEDFORD, Ore. (AP) -- Former President Clinton is using divisive tactics and unfairly trying to question Barack Obama's patriotism, a retired general who has a prominent role in the Democrat's campaign said Saturday. Workers Were Punished for Records Breach   AP / 10:35AM WASHINGTON - Two companies that provide workers for the State Department say they fired or otherwise punished those who improperly accessed the passport records of the three major presidential candidates. The security breaches touched off demands for a congressional investigation. Bush honors troops at Easter   UPI / 10:20AM WASHINGTON, March 22 (UPI) -- President George W. Bush Saturday called on Americans to honor U.S. troops, "especially those who have given their lives for the cause of freedom."

Friday, March 21 Candidates' Passport Files Breached   AP / 10:36PM WASHINGTON - At least four State Department workers pried into the supposedly secure passport files of presidential contenders Hillary Rodham Clinton, Barack Obama and John McCain, abashed officials admitted Friday in a revelation that had Condoleezza Rice promising a full investigation and telephoning the candidates to apologize personally. Obama Has Clear Money Advantage   AP / 6:26PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton lived hand to mouth during the rush of presidential primaries while Democratic rival Sen. Barack Obama outspent her and put money in the bank. NM Gov. Bill Richardson Endorses Obama   AP / 6:06PM PORTLAND, Ore. - Bill Richardson, the nation's only Hispanic governor, backed Barack Obama for president Friday, moved to deliver his much-coveted endorsement by the senator's speech about race. NM Gov. Bill Richardson Endorsing Obama   AP / 3:50AM SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) -- New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, the nation's only Hispanic governor, is endorsing Sen. Barack Obama for president, calling him a "once-in-a- lifetime leader" who can unite the nation and restore America's international leadership.

Thursday, March 20 State Fires 2 for Looking at Obama File   AP / 11:27PM WASHINGTON - Two contract employees for the State Department have been fired and a third disciplined for inappropriately looking at Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama's passport file, a spokesman said Thursday. Obama Ties Economic Woes to Iraq War   AP / 8:40PM CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -- Barack Obama blamed the Iraq war for higher oil prices and skyrocketing debt Thursday as he sought to tie the unpopular war to the slumping economy in working-class West Virginia. Judge Allows Questioning in Clinton Suit   AP / 8:37PM WASHINGTON - A battle over Hillary Rodham Clinton's record as first lady broke out on two fronts Thursday, as a federal judge stepped into a dispute over the handling of still-unreleased Clinton phone logs and Barack Obama's campaign challenged her record on trade. Obama Ties Economic Woes to Iraq War   AP / 6:47PM CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Barack Obama blamed the Iraq war for higher oil prices and skyrocketing debt Thursday as he sought to tie the unpopular war to the slumping economy in working-class West Virginia. Bush: Politics Not a Factor in Olympics   AP / 5:06PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- China's crackdown in Tibet will not cause President Bush to cancel his planned trip to the Beijing Olympics, the White House said Thursday. Mich. Do-Over Vote Looks Unlikely   AP / 2:30PM LANSING, Mich. - The state Senate has adjourned without taking up a presidential primary bill, essentially ending Michigan's chances of holding a June 3 do-over Democratic election. McCain Lauds UK Troops in Iraq   AP / 10:10AM LONDON - Republican presidential candidate John McCain on Thursday hailed the bravery of British and U.S. soldiers yet refrained from calling publicly for Britain to slow the pace of its troop withdrawal from southern Iraq. Group Wants Clinton Phone Logs Released   AP / 5:50AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton's early job as health care policymaker gave way during the remainder of her years as first lady to a more traditional, restricted role, according to thousands of pages of calendars outlining her activities in the White House. Bush Defiantly Defends War in Iraq   AP / 4:46AM WASHINGTON - President Bush defiantly defended the Iraq war as U.S. troops began a sixth year of combat in the long and costly conflict that has dominated his presidency. Bush conceded the war has been harder and more expensive than anticipated but insisted it has all been necessary to keep Americans safe. Fed Juggles Inflation, Sour Economy   AP / 4:36AM WASHINGTON - Ben Bernanke's juggling act has gotten harder. The Federal Reserve chairman has been taking extraordinary steps to prevent credit, financial and housing problems from driving the country into a deep recession. At the same time, he faces the danger that the very tonic to brace the sickly economy could bring about another dangerous ailment- inflation. Release Sought for Clinton Phone Logs   AP / 3:26AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton's early job as health care policymaker gave way during the remainder of her years as first lady to a more traditional, restricted role, according to thousands of pages of calendars outlining her activities in the White House. Documents Shed Light on Lewinsky Affair   AP / 2:20AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton was home in the White House on at least seven days when her husband had sexual encounters there with intern Monica Lewinsky, according to Sen. Clinton's schedule, released Wednesday among 11,000 pages of papers from her years as first lady.

Wednesday, March 19 Bush: Iraq a war U.S. 'can and must win'   UPI / 11:10AM WASHINGTON, March 19 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush marked the five-year anniversary of the invasion of Iraq Wednesday by calling it a fight the United States "can and must win." Obama Confronts Racial Division   AP / 5:17AM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Barack Obama confronted the nation's racial divide head-on, tackling both black grievance and white resentment in a bold effort to quiet a campaign uproar over race and his former pastor's incendiary statements. Georgian Leader Looking for NATO Boost   AP / 5:07AM WASHINGTON - President Mikhail Saakashvili of the Republic of Georgia is looking for a boost to his country's aspirations for NATO membership when he meets with President Bush. Bush to Mark 5 Years of War in Iraq   AP / 5:00AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Five years after launching the U.S. invasion of Iraq, President Bush is making some of his most expansive claims of success in the fighting there. Bush said last year's troop buildup has turned Iraq around and produced "the first large-scale Arab uprising against Osama bin Laden."

Tuesday, March 18 Bush Says Iraq War Was Worth It   AP / 9:10PM WASHINGTON - President Bush says he has no doubts about launching the unpopular war in Iraq despite the "high cost in lives and treasure," arguing that retreat now would embolden Iran and provide al-Qaida with money for weapons of mass destruction to attack the United States. Clinton's First Lady Schedules Go Public   AP / 7:20PM LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) -- Thousands of pages of Hillary Rodham Clinton 's schedules as first lady are being released to the public after months of pressure and criticism that the Clintons were delaying the disclosure. Obama Confronts Racial Division   AP / 6:11PM PHILADELPHIA - Barack Obama confronted the nation's racial divide head-on Tuesday, tackling both black grievance and white resentment in a bold effort to quiet a campaign uproar over race and his former pastor's incendiary statements. Obama Pastor: Message Shaped by the Past   AP / 5:51PM As shocking as they may be, the provocative sermons of Barack Obama's pastor come out of a tradition of using the black church to challenge its members and confront what preachers view as a racist society. Some Democrats' Votes May Be Banned   AP / 5:27PM LANSING, Mich. (AP) -- One of the sticking points holding up a possible do-over election in Michigan is a rule that would ban anyone who voted in the Republican presidential primary from voting again. Oil Rebounds on Rate Cut, Stock Rally   AP / 5:17PM NEW YORK - Oil prices bounded higher Tuesday after the Federal Reserve cut interest rates three-quarters of a percentage point and a rally on Wall Street raised energy investors' hopes for the economy. McCain Mistaken on Iran and al-Qaida   AP / 5:07PM AMMAN, Jordan (AP) -- Sen. John McCain, the Republican presidential nominee-in-waiting, mistakenly said Tuesday that Iran was allowing al-Qaida fighters into the country to be trained and returned to Iraq. Oil prices climb Tuesday on Fed news   UPI / 4:20PM NEW YORK, March 18 (UPI) -- Investors returned to crude oil Tuesday on news that the U.S. Federal Reserve cut key interest rates. Obama Says Pastor Wrong and Divisive   AP / 1:01PM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Barack Obama unsparingly criticized his longtime pastor's words while strongly defending the man himself Tuesday in a politically risky speech that appealed to the country to overcome racism and the black anger and white resentment it spawns. Dow Jumps 270 Ahead of Expected Rate Cut   AP / 12:10PM NEW YORK - Wall Street barreled higher Tuesday as investors found relief in better-than-expected results from Lehman Brothers and Goldman Sachs, and anticipated a massive interest rate cut from the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones industrial average surged more than 270 points. Obama Says Pastor Wrong and Divisive   AP / 11:10AM PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Democratic Sen. Barack Obama on Tuesday tried to stem damage from divisive comments delivered by his pastor, while bluntly addressing anger between blacks and whites in the most racially pointed speech yet of his presidential campaign. Stock Market Rises Ahead of Fed Meeting   AP / 10:27AM NEW YORK - Stocks rallied in early trading Tuesday as investors, relieved by better-than-expected results from Lehman Brothers and Goldman Sachs, also anticipated a massive interest rate cut from the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones industrial average surged more than 200 points. Obama to Confront Racial Issues   AP / 9:47AM PHILADELPHIA - Democrat Barack Obama is seeking to distance himself from "stupid statements" by his longtime pastor that have aggravated racial divisions in the contentious Democratic primary battle. He is calling for both sides to tone down their rhetoric. Florida Dems Abandon Mail-In Vote Plan   AP / 4:30AM TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Facing strong opposition, Florida Democrats abandoned plans to hold a do-over presidential primary with a mail-in vote and threw the delegate dispute into the lap of the national party. Obama to Confront Racial Issues   AP / 3:51AM PHILADELPHIA - Democrat Barack Obama is seeking to distance himself from statements by his longtime pastor that have aggravated racial divisions in the contentious Democratic primary battle. He is calling for both sides to tone down their rhetoric.

Monday, March 17 Obama Tells Vets No Lower Drinking Age   AP / 10:50PM SCRANTON, Pa. - Democrat Barack Obama on Monday promised Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans help with their grievances - save one. "I know it drives you nuts. But I'm not going to lower the drinking age," the presidential candidate said. Bush, Paulson pleased by Fed action   UPI / 9:50PM WASHINGTON, March 17 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush and economic advisers are pleased with the Federal Reserve's actions on Bear Stearns, U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said. Obama Tells Vets No Lower Drinking Age   AP / 8:50PM SCRANTON, Pa. - Democrat Barack Obama on Monday promised Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans help with their grievances - save one. "I know it drives you nuts. But I'm not going to lower the drinking age," the presidential candidate said. Bill Clinton Rejects Criticism Over Race   AP / 7:50PM NEW YORK (AP) -- Former President Clinton on Monday called the notion that he unfairly criticized his wife's rival, Barack Obama, "a total myth and a mugging." Obama, Clinton Cite Economic Distress   AP / 6:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democratic congressional leaders urged President Bush on Monday to do more to address the housing woes at the root of the spreading economic crisis, and criticized him for opposing measures to help struggling homeowners. Bush, Paulson pleased by Fed action   UPI / 6:00PM WASHINGTON, March 17 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush and economic advisers are pleased with the Federal Reserve's actions on Bears Stearns, U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said. Manufacturing index falls in Empire State   UPI / 4:20PM NEW YORK, March 17 (UPI) -- A New York state manufacturing index abruptly contracted to a record low in March, the New York Federal Reserve Bank reported Monday. Dollar Falls Against Euro, Yen   AP / 12:10PM BERLIN - The dollar fell to record low against the euro on Monday, and sank to its lowest level in more than 12 years against the Japanese yen as investors reacted to the latest emergency rate cut by the U.S. Federal Reserve and to news that JPMorgan Chase is buying rival investment bank Bear Stearns for a fraction of what it was worth last week. Bear Stearns sold with Fed's help   UPI / 10:06AM NEW YORK, March 17 (UPI) -- J.P. Morgan's $2 a share purchase of troubled Bear Stearns over the weekend came with the aid of $30 billion in financing from the U.S. Federal Reserve. Fed Takes New Steps to Ease Crisis   AP / 4:10AM WASHINGTON - Worry about the damage a growing credit crisis is inflicting on an ailing U.S. economy led the Federal Reserve to make a rare weekend move, lowering a key lending rate before Wall Street opened Monday.

Sunday, March 16 Audit: Bush Barely Trims FOIA Backlog   AP / 7:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Despite ordering improvements more than two years ago, President Bush has barely made a dent in the huge backlog of unanswered requests under the Freedom of Information Act. McCain has diverse foreign policy record   UPI / 6:40PM WASHINGTON, March 16 (UPI) -- Sen. John McCain, known for criticizing Democrats for seeking to cut off funds to Iraq, 15 years ago urged Congress to cut off money to U.S. forces in Somalia. McCain Visits Baghdad   AP / 2:50PM BAGHDAD (AP) -- Sen. John McCain, the likely Republican presidential nominee, arrived in Baghdad on Sunday for a visit with Iraqi and U.S. diplomatic and military officials. Iraq: McCain Visits Baghdad   AP / 1:20PM BAGHDAD (AP) -- Sen. John McCain, the likely Republican presidential nominee who has linked his political future to U.S. success in Iraq, was in Baghdad on Sunday for meetings with Iraqi and U.S. diplomatic and military officials, a U.S. government official said. McCain Makes Unexpected Visit to Iraq   AP / 7:50AM BAGHDAD - Sen. John McCain, the Republican Party's presumptive nominee for president who has linked his political future to U.S. success in Iraq, was in Baghdad on Sunday for meetings with Iraqi and U.S. diplomatic and military officials, a U.S. government official said.

Saturday, March 15 Obama Expands Delegate Lead   AP / 7:17PM DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) -- Democrat Barack Obama expanded his fragile lead in delegates over rival Hillary Rodham Clinton on Saturday, picking up at least seven delegates as Iowa activists took the next step in picking delegates to the national convention. Pelosi's Delegate Stance Boosts Obama   AP / 6:37PM WASHINGTON - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says it would be damaging to the Democratic party for its leaders to buck the will of national convention delegates picked in primaries and caucuses, a declaration that gives a boost to Sen. Barack Obama. Polarities Persist in Democratic Race   AP / 4:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Something happened to the feel-good, way-cool Democratic presidential contest in the months since a woman and a black man began their path-breaking race for the White House. Clinton Backs Michigan Revote Plan   AP / 4:10PM SCRANTON, Penn. - Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton Saturday said she supported an effort by Michigan Democrats to hold a new primary in June. More Rate Cuts From Fed Expected Tuesday   AP / 3:10PM WASHINGTON - Desperate to aid an economy in crisis, the Federal Reserve is ready to deliver yet another big interest rate cut. Old Polarities Persist in Dem Race   AP / 11:30AM WASHINGTON - Something happened to the feel-good, way-cool Democratic presidential contest in the months since a woman and a black man began their path-breaking race for the White House.

Friday, March 14 Obama Denounces Pastor's Comments   AP / 10:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama on Friday denounced inflammatory remarks from his pastor, who has railed against the United States and accused the country of bringing on the Sept. 11 attacks by spreading terrorism. McCain Fears Stepped Up Attacks in Iraq   AP / 10:10PM SPRINGFIELD, Pa. (AP) -- Republican John McCain said he worries that terrorists might try to influence the November general election with increased attacks in Iraq. McCain Fears Stepped Up Attacks in Iraq   AP / 7:50PM SPRINGFIELD, Pa. - Republican John McCain said he worries that terrorists might try to influence the November general election with increased attacks in Iraq. Bush Acknowledges Weakness in US Economy   AP / 5:20PM NEW YORK (AP) -- Trying to calm jitters about the economy, President Bush conceded on Friday that the country "obviously is going through a tough time" but expressed confidence that it will rebound. He cautioned against overreacting to fix the problems. Democratic Rivals Agree to Play Nicer   AP / 3:10PM WASHINGTON - On this presidential rivals Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton can agree: They sometimes disagree with their trash-talking supporters and will try to cool it. Bush Urges Patience on Economy   AP / 2:40PM NEW YORK (AP) -- President Bush preached optimism and Republican orthodoxy of minimalist government intervention Friday as the best approach to an increasingly troubled economy. Clinton, Obama Woo Pa. Political Players   AP / 2:16PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Bill George can't believe his luck. Suddenly, the head of the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO labor union federation finds himself courted by both Democratic presidential candidates' campaigns. Bush Acknowledges Economy Troubled   AP / 1:10PM NEW YORK - Trying to calm jitters about the economy, President Bush conceded on Friday that the country "obviously is going through a tough time" but expressed confidence that it will rebound. He cautioned against overreacting to fix the problems. Obama Tries to Allay Jewish Concerns   AP / 5:06AM CLEVELAND - Barack Obama has a solid Senate record in support of Israel.

Thursday, March 13 House Closes Its Doors for Spying Bill   AP / 9:41PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- House doors were locked Thursday night as lawmakers prepared for their first closed session in 25 years to debate surveillance legislation. Obama Criticizes McCain on Taxes   AP / 6:02PM CHICAGO (AP) -- Democratic Sen. Barack Obama said Thursday that Sen. John McCain reversed his position on President Bush's deep tax cuts in order to win the Republican presidential nomination, one of his sharpest criticisms yet of the Arizona senator he hopes to face this fall. White House: No good answer to energy ills   UPI / 4:30PM WASHINGTON, March 13 (UPI) -- No single answer is satisfactory for U.S. consumers watching gasoline prices rise at the pump and energy bills climb, a White House spokesman said Thursday. Clinton Apologizes to Black Voters   AP / 1:30AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton did something Wednesday night that she almost never does. She apologized. And once she started, she didn't seem able to stop.

Wednesday, March 12 Ferraro Leaves Clinton Campaign Post   AP / 7:50PM WASHINGTON - Geraldine Ferraro stepped down Wednesday from an honorary post in Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential campaign amid a controversy regarding her comments that Barack Obama wouldn't be succeeding in the race for the White House if he weren't black. Ferraro Leaves Clinton Post   AP / 6:20PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Geraldine Ferraro stepped down Wednesday from an honorary post in Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential campaign amid a controversy regarding her comments that Barack Obama wouldn't be succeeding in the presidential race if he weren't black. Obama: Issues, Not Race, Will Prevail   AP / 6:20PM CHICAGO (AP) -- Democrat Barack Obama expressed frustration Wednesday that racial issues keep rising to the top of his presidential battle with Hillary Rodham Clinton, but he said the great majority of voters will base their decisions on substantive issues. Democrats Split Delegates   AP / 5:50PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. Barack Obama picked up five more delegates than Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton in Mississippi's Democratic primary Tuesday. Stocks Dip a Day After Huge Rally   AP / 5:11PM NEW YORK - Wall Street's euphoria over a $200 billion plan from the Federal Reserve turned to caution Wednesday, leading stocks to retreat a day after their biggest rally in more than five years. Obama Says Ferraro Dividing Democrats   AP / 4:51PM WASHINGTON - Democratic Sen. Barack Obama assailed as "slice and dice" politics Geraldine Ferraro's assertion that he wouldn't be where he is in the presidential race if he weren't black. Early Trading Adds to Tuesday Rally   AP / 10:10AM NEW YORK - Stocks built on a sharp rally with moderate gains Wednesday as investors remained upbeat about plans by the Federal Reserve and other central banks to pump more liquidity into distressed financial markets. Obama Wins Mississippi Democratic Race   AP / 8:30AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- With a six-week breather before the next primary, Hillary Rodham Clinton turned her attention to Pennsylvania and beyond to counter the latest in a string of victories by Barack Obama in Southern states with large black voting blocs. Wall Street Looks to Extend Gains   AP / 8:10AM NEW YORK - Wall Street looked to extend its gains Wednesday as investors overseas applauded the move by the Federal Reserve and other central banks to pump more liquidity into distressed financial markets. Asian Stocks Advance on Fed's Move   AP / 6:36AM BANGKOK, Thailand - Asian stocks rose Wednesday as investors welcomed the move by the U.S. Federal Reserve and other central banks to ease pressure on the world's credit markets.

Tuesday, March 11 Cheney Promotes Missile Defense   AP / 10:30PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Borrowing a theme from the presidential contest, Vice President Dick Cheney said Tuesday that the possibility of a 3 a.m. emergency call to the White House is all the more reason for the next commander in chief to follow through on President Bush's plans for a national missile defense. Clinton Disagrees With Ferraro on Obama   AP / 9:50PM HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton said Tuesday she disagrees with Geraldine Ferraro, one of her fundraisers and the 1984 Democratic vice presidential candidate, for saying that Barack Obama "would not be in this position" if he were white instead of black. Clinton Regrets Ferraro Remarks   AP / 7:30PM HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton said Tuesday she disagrees with Geraldine Ferraro, one of her fundraisers and the 1984 Democratic vice presidential candidate, for saying that Barack Obama "would not be in this position" if he were white instead of black. McCain Defends His Tanker Deal Inquiries   AP / 7:30PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Sen. John McCain said Tuesday his inquiries into a $35 billion Air Force tanker contract were designed to assure evenhanded bidding and denied they were motivated by lobbyists who are close advisers to his presidential campaign. Obama, Clinton Battle in Mississippi   AP / 6:50PM JACKSON, Miss. - Barack Obama bid for victory in the Mississippi primary on Tuesday, last in a string of racially polarized contests across the Deep South and a final tune-up before next month's high-stakes race with Hillary Rodham Clinton in Pennsylvania. Ferraro Remarks on Obama Decried   AP / 5:31PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Hillary Rodham Clinton said Tuesday she disagrees with Geraldine Ferraro, one of her fundraisers and the 1984 vice presidential candidate, for suggesting that Barack Obama only achieved his status in the presidential race because he's black. Stocks Shoot Higher on Fed Credit Plan   AP / 5:10PM NEW YORK - Wall Street finally found a reason for a huge rally Tuesday after the Federal Reserve said it plans to pump $200 billion into the financial markets to help ease the strain from the credit crisis. The Dow Jones industrial average shot up more than 416 points, its biggest one-day point gain since July 2002. Crude oil prices fall slightly on Tuesday   UPI / 3:41PM NEW YORK, March 11 (UPI) -- Crude oil prices fell slightly Tuesday after the U.S. Federal Reserve stabilized the dollar's decline by offering to loan $200 billion to prime borrowers. Stocks Up Sharply After Fed Credit Plan   AP / 2:10PM NEW YORK - Wall Street rebounded sharply Tuesday after the Federal Reserve and other central banks said they will pump $200 billion into the financial markets to help ease the strain from the credit crisis. The Dow Jones industrials surged more than 200 points.

Monday, March 10 Obama Ridicules Notion of VP Slot   AP / 9:30PM COLUMBUS, Miss. (AP) -- Democrat Barack Obama ridiculed the idea of being Hillary Rodham Clinton's running mate Monday, saying voters must choose between the two for the top spot on the fall ticket. Clinton camp says Obama lacks credentials   UPI / 9:16PM WASHINGTON, March 10 (UPI) -- Democratic presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton's campaign said Monday that rival Barack Obama lacks the foreign policy credentials to be U.S. president. Obama, Clinton Join McCain Vs. Earmarks   AP / 9:10PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democrats Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton on Monday joined Republican presidential candidate John McCain and a small band of GOP senators in making a run this week against the billions of dollars in home-state pet projects Congress funds each year. Obama, Clinton Join McCain Vs. Earmarks   AP / 6:50PM WASHINGTON - Democrats Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton on Monday joined Republican presidential candidate John McCain and a small band of GOP senators in making a run this week against the billions of dollars in home-state pet projects Congress funds each year. Obama Ridicules Notion of VP Slot   AP / 6:30PM COLUMBUS, Miss. - Democrat Barack Obama ridiculed the idea of being Hillary Rodham Clinton's running mate Monday, saying voters must choose between the two for the top spot on the fall ticket. Bush, Tusk Closer on Missile Defense   AP / 5:25PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said President Bush on Monday had removed key stumbling blocks in negotiations to allow U.S. missile defense interceptors on Polish soil. McCain Seeks to Reintroduce Himself   AP / 5:25PM PHOENIX - Sen. John McCain is finding out what the Republican presidential nomination is worth this week. Then he plans to buff his foreign policy credentials, remind the nation of his long military history and try to frame the issues for the November election - in three separate tours while his two Democratic opponents continue to struggle for their party's nomination. McCain Seeks to Reintroduce Self   AP / 4:55PM PHOENIX (AP) -- Sen. John McCain is finding out what the Republican presidential nomination is worth this week. Bush, Tusk Closer on Missile Defense   AP / 1:05PM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk says President Bush has removed key stumbling blocks in negotiations to allow U.S. missile defense interceptors on Polish soil. Bush: Cheney to Press for Mideast Peace   AP / 12:55PM WASHINGTON - President Bush, dispatching Vice President Dick Cheney to the Middle East, said the goal is to get Israelis and Palestinians to hold firm to the promises they've made toward peace. Obama Looks to Miss. for Momentum   AP / 8:50AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama focused on Mississippi's primary for new momentum in his tight race with Hillary Rodham Clinton, as a consensus began to emerge about two states stripped of their delegates where do-over contests could weigh heavily in the fierce Democratic White House battle. Fla. Mail-In Primary Plan Gains Traction   AP / 1:20AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- A consensus began to emerge Sunday that the best way to give Florida's Democrats a voice in electing a candidate for president lies with the U.S. Postal Service.

Sunday, March 9 Girl in Clinton Ad Supports Obama   AP / 7:06PM BONNEY LAKE, Wash. - Casey Knowles didn't much like a recent campaign commercial for Hillary Clinton - even though she's in it as a sleeping 8-year-old. McCain Competes for Money, Spotlight   AP / 5:45PM PHOENIX - John McCain sees one downside to having clinched the Republican presidential nomination: There's less attention focused on him than on the volatile contest between Democrats Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama. Obama's Black Support Shows Its Limits   AP / 1:10PM CHICAGO - Barack Obama would not be leading the Democratic presidential race without the enthusiasm and high turnout of black voters. Obama's Black Support Shows Its Limits   AP / 12:11PM CHICAGO - Barack Obama would not be leading the Democratic presidential race without the enthusiasm and high turnout of black voters. They spearheaded his comeback win in South Carolina, where Obama trounced Hillary Rodham Clinton and John Edwards with the backing of four out of every five black voters. They provided his margin of victory in many other states, and will play a key role in Tuesday's primary in Mississippi, where Clinton is the underdog. Irish blast Clinton's foreign policy claim   UPI / 8:36AM BELFAST, Northern Ireland, March 9 (UPI) -- David Trimble, who helped broker peace in Northern Ireland said Sen. Hillary Clinton's role in those negotiations was that of a cheerleader, not a participant. Democrats Criticize Bush's CIA-Bill Veto   AP / 3:00AM WASHINGTON (AP) -- Democrats and human rights advocates criticized President Bush's veto Saturday of a bill that would have banned the CIA from using simulated drowning and other coercive interrogation methods to gain information from suspected terrorists. Obama Wins in Wyoming, Adds 7 Delegates   AP / 1:20AM CASPER, Wyo. (AP) -- Sen. Barack Obama captured the Wyoming Democratic caucuses Saturday, seizing a bit of momentum in the close, hard-fought race with rival Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton for the party's presidential nomination.