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Friday, March 08, 2013
Thursday, March 07, 2013

It's All Politics

Watchdogs Not Celebrating Obama Group's Switch On Big Donors

Jim Messina (left), the head of Organizing for Action and a former top Obama campaign and White House aide, watches President Obama make a statement in the White House Cabinet Room in 2010.

March 7, 2013 Organizing for Action, which was formed from the Obama for America campaign committee to promote the president's second-term agenda, now says it won't take money from corporations or PACS. Critics say they'll believe it when they see it.

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Departing Obama Speechwriter: 'I Leave This Job Actually More Hopeful'

Jon Favreau, President Obama's former chief speechwriter, is pictured on the South Lawn of the White House in 2010.

March 7, 2013 In 2009, at age 27, Jon Favreau became the second-youngest chief presidential speechwriter in White House history. Despite his youth, he seemed to have the utter trust of President Obama, who called him his "mind reader." He left his post earlier this month and now has his sights set on Hollywood.

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The Two-Way

How Did Strom Thurmond Last Through His 24-Hour Filibuster?

Sen. Strom Thurmond of South Carolina after his 24+ hour filibuster in 1957. He was a Democrat then. Later, Thurmond would switch to the Republican Party.

March 7, 2013 In 1957, Sen. Strom Thurmond prepared for his filibuster against civil rights legislation with steam baths — to become dehydrated so he wouldn't need a bathroom break. He got at least one chance to relieve himself, however. This week, Sen. Rand Paul gave up when nature's call became too urgent.

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The Two-Way

Holder Responds To Paul About Drone Strikes On U.S. Soil

A Predator drone.

March 7, 2013 "Does the president have the authority to use a weaponized drone to kill an American not engaged in combat on American soil?" the attorney general asks. "The answer to that question is no."

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It's All Politics

Rand Paul Talks His Way Into The Political Big Time

Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul leaves the floor of the Senate early Thursday following his filibuster of the nomination of John Brennan to be CIA director.

March 7, 2013 Paul's epic-length filibuster not only drew attention to an issue of increasing concern to Congress, but also helped raise his own profile. The Kentucky Republican has long been considered a presidential aspirant.

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The Two-Way

Will Breaking Bread Break The Deadlock In D.C.?

Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., gave a thumbs-up Wednesday night after he and other GOP senators had dinner with President Obama.

March 7, 2013 The president dined Wednesday with Republicans. He has lunch today with the 2012 GOP vice presidential nominee. Next week: More discussions with Republicans over a meal.

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The Two-Way

Today: First Key Votes On Gun Laws Since Newtown Shootings

Guns on display at a show in Fort Wayne, Ind., last month.

March 7, 2013 The Senate Judiciary Committee takes up four proposals. They include a new ban on assault-style weapons. While the bills are likely to get the committee's OK, they face opposition after that.

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The Two-Way

Nearly 13 Hours Later, Sen. Paul Ends His Filibuster; Here's The Video

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., during his filibuster.

March 7, 2013 The senator said he "would speak, until I can no longer speak," and he hit that wall early Thursday. His goal was to get the Obama administration to pledge it won't use drone attacks against American citizens on U.S. soil. He's put a bright spotlight on the issue.

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