Obama’s Pentagon nominee suggests support for arming Ukraine
WASHINGTON (Reuters) – President Barack Obama’s pick to become defense secretary told Congress on Wednesday he was leaning in favor of providing arms to Ukraine but later cautioned that the focus must remain on pressuring Russia economically and politi…
U.S. House passes bill that limits 2016 consumer bureau budget
WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday passed a bill that would add extra hurdles for government agencies writing new rules and limit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s funding next year.
Senate Democrats again block bill derailing Obama on immigration
WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Senate Democrats held firm on Wednesday and for the second time this week blocked a Republican proposal to cut off funding for President Barack Obama’s immigration reform policies.
Illinois governor lays out controversial agenda
(Reuters) – Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner laid out on Wednesday an ambitious and controversial agenda that includes constitutional fixes for the state’s public pension system and budget.
Jeb Bush, looking to 2016, tackles questions about Bush name
DETROIT (Reuters) – Republican Jeb Bush made clear on Wednesday he realizes his famous last name could be a hindrance in a 2016 presidential campaign, and said he would work hard to connect with people and “do it on my own.”
Jeb Bush stumbles on Yemen in speech
DETROIT (Reuters) – Republican Jeb Bush stumbled on foreign policy in a big speech on Wednesday, telling a crowd that American diplomats have been withdrawn from Yemen, when in fact not all of them have been.
Number two U.S. diplomat to discuss North Korea on inaugural Asia trip
WASHINGTON (Reuters) – New U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit South Korea, China, and Japan next week in his first trip in the position for talks that will focus on North Korea and other regional issues, the State Department said on Wednesday.
Top Obama adviser Dan Pfeiffer to step down: White House
WASHINGTON (Reuters) – U.S. President Barack Obama’s top communications adviser and a longtime member of his inner circle, Dan Pfeiffer, is stepping down from his post in March, the White House said on Wednesday.
Romney’s exit boosts Walker’s odds in 2016 New Hampshire presidential primary
BOSTON (Reuters) – Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney’s decision not to make a third White House run in 2016 has boosted Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker’s chances with Republican voters in New Hampshire, home to the first presidential primary, a…
New Jersey Governor Christie ducks media after vaccination comments
LONDON (Reuters) – New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, a possible 2016 presidential contender, canceled three scheduled media appearances in the UK on Tuesday, amid a controversy over his comments on measles vaccinations.
