Between economy and trouble, Obama approval steady

The economy is recovering, the White House is dealing with multiple controversies, and President Barack Obama appears generally unaffected either way. 1369293887

With Weiner, NYC mayor race takes on new dynamic

However Anthony Weiner does when the polls close, he's certain to add drama to the most competitive New York City mayor's race in more than a decade. 1369293886
Urban renewal? Big US cities showing strong growth

Urban renewal? New census estimates show that most of the nation's largest cities further enhanced their allure last year, posting strong population growth for a second straight year. 1369283378
Obama to push for transparency in face of threats

Amid lingering concerns about his national security policies, President Barack Obama is outlining measures to clarify the deadly use of drones against terror suspects, make good on a pledge to close the controversial prison at Guantanamo Bay and warn Americans about dire threats they continue to face - even from fellow citizens. 1369293887
4 Americans killed since 2009 in US drone strikes

The Obama administration acknowledged publicly for the first time Wednesday that four American citizens have been killed in drone strikes since 2009 in Pakistan and Yemen. The disclosure to Congress comes on the eve of a major national security speech by President Barack Obama in which he plans to pledge more transparency to Congress in his counterterrorism policy.
Anthony Foxx coasts through hearing to take wheel at Transportation

Anthony Foxx avoided the controversy of other Capitol Hill hearings Wednesday, receiving a mostly warm reception from senators who considered his nomination to become transportation secretary.
Broke no laws, IRS official says _ then takes 5th

At the center of a political storm, an Internal Revenue Service supervisor whose agents targeted conservative groups swore Wednesday she did nothing wrong, broke no laws and never lied to Congress. Then she refused to answer lawmakers' further questions, citing her Fifth Amendment right not to incriminate herself.
Medical company declines to answer Senate questions on Medicare billing

The president and chief executive officer of a medical equipment company invoked the Fifth Amendment at Senate hearing Wednesday, declining to answer questions about aggressive marketing tactics used to sell scooters, sleep apnea machines and other home medical supplies to Medicare recipients who may not need or want them.
Carney: Criticism of IRS response 'legitimate'

President Barack Obama's spokesman says the White House is facing "legitimate criticisms" for its shifting accounts about who knew what about the Internal Revenue Service's targeting of conservative political groups, and when they knew it.
Senate rejects bid to let states run food stamps

The Senate on Wednesday rejected a Republican bid to turn the federal food stamp program over to the states.