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    <title>National Government and Politics for WNCT</title>
    <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics</link>
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    <dc:language>en</dc:language>
    <dc:creator>WNCT</dc:creator>
    <dc:rights>Copyright 2009</dc:rights>
    <dc:date>2009-11-21T13:07:03-05:00</dc:date>

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         <item>
          <title>President Barack Obama gives first prime time news conference</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/president_barack_obama_gives_first_prime_time_news_conference/31280/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
President Barack Obama tonight faced question after question about the economic stimulus plan during his first prime time news conference.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2009 22:18:29 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/president_barack_obama_gives_first_prime_time_news_conference/31280/#When:03:18:29Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Official: Bailout overhaul likely to include buying bad assets</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/official_bailout_overhaul_likely_to_include_buying_bad_assets/31263/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Treasury Department says it&#8217;s making &#8220;minor tweaks&#8221; to its overhaul of the government&#8217;s $700 billion financial rescue, but it&#8217;s basically done.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2009 18:33:23 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/official_bailout_overhaul_likely_to_include_buying_bad_assets/31263/#When:23:33:23Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Obama faces tough week; stimulus, bailout on tap</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_obama_faces_tough_week_stimulus_bailout_on_tap/31175/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama takes his case for a massive economic stimulus direct to the people tomorrow night with his first prime-time news conference.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 08 Feb 2009 21:22:12 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_obama_faces_tough_week_stimulus_bailout_on_tap/31175/#When:02:22:12Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: McCain: Democrats no more bipartisan than GOP</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_mccain_democrats_no_more_bipartisan_than_gop/31138/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Republican Sen. John McCain says that Democratic lawmakers putting together an economic stimulus plan are no more open to input from the opposing party than the GOP was during the Bush administration.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 08 Feb 2009 15:07:34 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_mccain_democrats_no_more_bipartisan_than_gop/31138/#When:20:07:34Z</guid>
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          <title>Republicans, House Democrat wary of stimulus bill</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/republicans_house_democrat_wary_of_stimulus_bill/31137/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Republican congressional leaders and a key House Democrat are voicing misgivings - but for different reasons - over the Senate version of an economic recovery plan costing more than $800 billion.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 08 Feb 2009 15:05:36 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/republicans_house_democrat_wary_of_stimulus_bill/31137/#When:20:05:36Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Around the Nation: Ripple Effect and Saturday Senate</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/around_the_nation_ripple_effect_and_saturday_senate/31105/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Senate goes back into session this hour (noon Eastern time), as it moves closer to passing President Barack Obama&#8217;s economic recovery plan.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 07 Feb 2009 18:19:59 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/around_the_nation_ripple_effect_and_saturday_senate/31105/#When:23:19:59Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: Deal reached on Senate stimulus bill</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_deal_reached_on_senate_stimulus_bill/31085/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Senators from both parties are announcing that a deal has been reached to advance President Barack Obama&#8217;s economic recovery plan through the Senate.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2009 20:44:49 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_deal_reached_on_senate_stimulus_bill/31085/#When:01:44:49Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: Obama plans to name economic recovery board Friday</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_obama_plans_to_name_economic_recovery_board_friday/30972/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama is planning a White House event for Friday to name the members of his Economic Recovery Advisory Board and outline its mission.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:34:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_obama_plans_to_name_economic_recovery_board_friday/30972/#When:01:34:53Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama creates faith&#45;based office with wide mission</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_creates_faith-based_office_with_wide_mission/30971/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Expressing his own faith in &#8220;a force for good greater than government,&#8220; President Barack Obama has set up a White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:33:20 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_creates_faith-based_office_with_wide_mission/30971/#When:01:33:20Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>NEW: Geithner to unveil bailout plan Monday</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_geithner_to_unveil_bailout_plan_monday/30970/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner and other top officials are putting the finishing touches on a plan to overhaul the government&#8217;s $700 billion financial rescue program.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:24:29 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_geithner_to_unveil_bailout_plan_monday/30970/#When:01:24:29Z</guid>
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          <title>Senate centrists try to clear way for passage of stimulus</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/senate_centrists_try_to_clear_way_for_passage_of_stimulus/30968/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Senate moderates from both parties are trying to cut as much as $100 billion from the economic stimulus package.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:17:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/senate_centrists_try_to_clear_way_for_passage_of_stimulus/30968/#When:01:17:54Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>White House: Obama considers Daschle issue serious</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/white_house_obama_considers_daschle_issue_serious/30614/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - The White House says President Barack Obama considers Tom Daschle&#8217;s tax troubles to be a &#8220;very serious&#8221; matter.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2009 18:10:18 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/white_house_obama_considers_daschle_issue_serious/30614/#When:23:10:18Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama stimulus plan faces changes in Senate</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_stimulus_plan_faces_changes_in_senate/30611/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - The U.S. Senate has opened debate on President Barack Obama&#8217;s massive economic stimulus package.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2009 18:08:37 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_stimulus_plan_faces_changes_in_senate/30611/#When:23:08:37Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: GOP leader: Sen. Gregg departure won&#8217;t shift power</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_gop_leader_sen._gregg_departure_wont_shift_power/30490/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - No change in the Senate&#8217;s balance of power if New Hampshire Republican Judd Gregg leaves to become commerce secretary.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 01 Feb 2009 15:12:08 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_gop_leader_sen._gregg_departure_wont_shift_power/30490/#When:20:12:08Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: GOP leaders say little Senate backing on stimulus</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_gop_leaders_say_little_senate_backing_on_stimulus/30489/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Senate begins debate this week on its version of the stimulus bill and Republicans see little support from their side.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 01 Feb 2009 15:10:24 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_gop_leaders_say_little_senate_backing_on_stimulus/30489/#When:20:10:24Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: Official: Gregg leading candidate for Commerce</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_official_gregg_leading_candidate_for_commerce/30465/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - An Obama administration official says that Republican Sen. Judd Gregg of New Hampshire is the leading candidate to become commerce secretary.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 31 Jan 2009 16:12:09 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_official_gregg_leading_candidate_for_commerce/30465/#When:21:12:09Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: Obama facing dilemma over protectionism</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_obama_facing_dilemma_over_protectionism/30463/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Less than two weeks into office, President Barack Obama faces a dilemma contained in a massive economic stimulus bill: Backing protectionist measures that could set off a trade war, or opposing them, which could trigger a backlash from his supporters.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 31 Jan 2009 16:09:41 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_obama_facing_dilemma_over_protectionism/30463/#When:21:09:41Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: Senate GOP leaders warns against `Christmas list&#8217; approach</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_senate_gop_leaders_warns_against_christmas_list_approach/30462/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Republicans are pledging to work with President Barack Obama on the economy.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 31 Jan 2009 16:07:42 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_senate_gop_leaders_warns_against_christmas_list_approach/30462/#When:21:07:42Z</guid>
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          <title>White House: Stricter food safety rules coming</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/white_house_stricter_food_safety_rules_coming/30433/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - The White House is pledging stricter oversight of food safety in response to a salmonella outbreak that has sickened more than 500 people in the United States and may have killed at least eight.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:58:52 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/white_house_stricter_food_safety_rules_coming/30433/#When:23:58:52Z</guid>
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          <title>RNC elects first black national party chairman</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/rnc_elects_first_black_national_party_chairman/30430/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Republican National Committee has elected former Maryland Lt. Gov. Michael Steele the first black Republican National Committee chairman.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:52:47 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/rnc_elects_first_black_national_party_chairman/30430/#When:23:52:47Z</guid>
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          <title>Obama targets greenhouse gases, fuel efficiency</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_targets_greenhouse_gases_fuel_efficiency/29925/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama is ordering reviews that could allow states to impose higher auto emission standards and force automakers to produce more fuel-efficient cars.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 18:52:06 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_targets_greenhouse_gases_fuel_efficiency/29925/#When:23:52:06Z</guid>
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          <title>Illinois Senate begins impeachment trial without governor</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/illinois_senate_begins_impeachment_trial_without_governor/29924/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - The governor claims &#8220;the fix is in,&#8220; but Illinois Senate leaders maintain that the impeachment trial of Gov. Rod Blagojevich will be fair.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2009 18:45:05 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/illinois_senate_begins_impeachment_trial_without_governor/29924/#When:23:45:05Z</guid>
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          <title>Gallop Poll says Americans like Obama thus far</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/gallop_poll_says_americans_like_obama_thus_far/29805/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Senator John McCain made a relatively quiet return to the Senate after the election.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2009 18:42:03 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/gallop_poll_says_americans_like_obama_thus_far/29805/#When:23:42:03Z</guid>
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          <title>Obama pushes to pass economic stimulus plan</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_pushes_to_pass_economic_stimulus_plan/29804/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
President Obama&#8217;s trying to make it clear that he&#8217;s focused on the economy; however, the new administration is also making it plain that a solution will not come quickly.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2009 18:39:34 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_pushes_to_pass_economic_stimulus_plan/29804/#When:23:39:34Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: McCain grudgingly says confirmation of defense pick should proceed</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_mccain_grudgingly_says_confirmation_of_defense_pick_should_proceed/29794/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Sen. John McCain says the confirmation of President Barack Obama&#8217;s choice for deputy defense secretary should move forward despite concerns about his role as a former defense lobbyist.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2009 16:04:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_mccain_grudgingly_says_confirmation_of_defense_pick_should_proceed/29794/#When:21:04:38Z</guid>
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          <title>UPDATE: Democrats say economy will continue slide, even with big infusion of aid</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_democrats_say_economy_will_continue_slide_even_with_big_infusion_of_/29791/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Don&#8217;t expect a quick fix to the nation&#8217;s economic problems.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 25 Jan 2009 15:57:18 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_democrats_say_economy_will_continue_slide_even_with_big_infusion_of_/29791/#When:20:57:18Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>new outrage over Bank of America, Merril Lynch</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_outrage_over_bank_of_america_merril_lynch/29784/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
President Obama promises there will be more conditions on the second half of the Wall Street bailout money.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 23:45:39 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_outrage_over_bank_of_america_merril_lynch/29784/#When:04:45:39Z</guid>
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          <title>Blagojevich&#8217;s lawyer says adios</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/blagojevichs_lawyer_says_adios/29772/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Things keep getting worse for Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 18:53:08 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/blagojevichs_lawyer_says_adios/29772/#When:23:53:08Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: Boehner calls for tax cuts to stimulate economy</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_boehner_calls_for_tax_cuts_to_stimulate_economy/29757/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - House Republican leader John Boehner (BAY&#8217;-nur) is renewing his call today to stimulate the economy through tax cuts instead of spending.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:07:04 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_boehner_calls_for_tax_cuts_to_stimulate_economy/29757/#When:21:07:04Z</guid>
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          <title>UPDATE: Obama meets with economic advisers; promotes economic plan</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_obama_meets_with_economic_advisers_promotes_economic_plan/29756/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama continues to work on fixing the ailing U.S. economy.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 24 Jan 2009 16:06:17 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_obama_meets_with_economic_advisers_promotes_economic_plan/29756/#When:21:06:17Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: Reports: Homeless agency fires Ill. first lady</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_reports_homeless_agency_fires_ill._first_lady/29517/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
CHICAGO (AP) - A Chicago homeless agency has fired Illinois&#8217; first lady from her $100,000-a-year job as its chief fundraiser.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:45:26 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_reports_homeless_agency_fires_ill._first_lady/29517/#When:01:45:26Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Senate confirms Clinton as secretary of state</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/senate_confirms_clinton_as_secretary_of_state/29514/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON(AP) - The Senate has confirmed Hillary Rodham Clinton to be secretary of state.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:38:10 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/senate_confirms_clinton_as_secretary_of_state/29514/#When:01:38:10Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: Three&#45;quarters of stimulus to go in 18 months</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_three-quarters_of_stimulus_to_go_in_18_months/29513/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - A top White House official says the Obama administration wants to spend three-quarters of an $825 billion economic stimulus package within 18 months of its passage.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:22:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_three-quarters_of_stimulus_to_go_in_18_months/29513/#When:01:22:11Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama to sign order shutting Gitmo in a year</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_to_sign_order_shutting_gitmo_in_a_year/29512/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Associated Press has learned that President Barack Obama plans to sign an executive order Thursday to close the Guantanamo Bay detention center within a year and halt military trials of terror suspects held there.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:19:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_to_sign_order_shutting_gitmo_in_a_year/29512/#When:01:19:11Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>President Obama inaugurated as 44th President</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/president_obama_inaugurated_as_44th_president/29432/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Tonight&#8217;s top story, Barack Obama was sworn in as our 44th President today.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 23:32:37 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/president_obama_inaugurated_as_44th_president/29432/#When:04:32:37Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Doctors say fatigue caused Kennedy&#8217;s seizure</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/doctors_say_fatigue_caused_kennedys_seizure/29422/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Doctors are blaming fatigue for the seizure that Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, ill with a brain tumor, suffered during a post-inauguration luncheon for President Barack Obama.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 22:55:42 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/doctors_say_fatigue_caused_kennedys_seizure/29422/#When:03:55:42Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Bush tells cheering Texans &#8216;it is good to be home&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_bush_tells_cheering_texans_it_is_good_to_be_home/29429/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
MIDLAND, Texas (AP) - President George W. Bush says &#8220;it is good to be home.&#8220;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 21:07:45 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_bush_tells_cheering_texans_it_is_good_to_be_home/29429/#When:02:07:45Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama talks of &#8216;new way forward&#8217; on foreign policy</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_talks_of_new_way_forward_on_foreign_policy1/29426/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama is telling the world&#8217;s Muslims that his administration will be looking for a &#8220;new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect.&#8220;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 21:03:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_talks_of_new_way_forward_on_foreign_policy1/29426/#When:02:03:53Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama vows responsible end to Iraq war</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_vows_responsible_end_to_iraq_war/29425/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Barack Obama is vowing to &#8220;responsibly leave Iraq to its people&#8221; and also to build what he calls a &#8220;hard-earned peace in Afghanistan.&#8220;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 21:02:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_vows_responsible_end_to_iraq_war/29425/#When:02:02:54Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama speaks of &#8216;crisis&#8217; facing nation</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_speaks_of_crisis_facing_nation/29424/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama says he&#8217;s taking the helm of a nation that is &#8220;in the midst of crisis.&#8220;
&nbsp;  &nbsp;            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 20:58:22 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_speaks_of_crisis_facing_nation/29424/#When:01:58:22Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>New administration gets warm welcome from crowd despite cold</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_administration_gets_warm_welcome_from_crowd_despite_cold/29423/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - The mood in Washington, D.C. this inauguration day has been warmly festive, but the chilly weather has been taking its toll.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 20:56:35 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_administration_gets_warm_welcome_from_crowd_despite_cold/29423/#When:01:56:35Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obamas take part in parade tradition</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obamas_take_part_in_parade_tradition/29420/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, have taken part in tradition of reviewing the Inaugural.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2009 20:50:43 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obamas_take_part_in_parade_tradition/29420/#When:01:50:43Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>NEW: Anti&#45;war protesters throw shoes at White House</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_anti-war_protesters_throw_shoes_at_white_house/29282/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Anti-war protesters were throwing shoes outside the gates of the White House on President George W. Bush&#8217;s last day in office.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2009 20:07:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_anti-war_protesters_throw_shoes_at_white_house/29282/#When:01:07:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Release expected soon, after Bush commutes sentences of former US border agents</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/release_expected_soon_after_bush_commutes_sentences_of_former_us_border_age/29281/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Two former U.S. Border Patrol agents are expected to be released from prison within the next two months, now that President Bush has commuted their sentences.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2009 20:05:13 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/release_expected_soon_after_bush_commutes_sentences_of_former_us_border_age/29281/#When:01:05:13Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Biden&#8217;s wife slips that he was offered secretary of state job</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/bidens_wife_slips_that_he_was_offered_secretary_of_state_job/29280/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Joe Biden might not be getting ready to be sworn-in as vice president tomorrow&#8212;if he had taken Barack Obama up on a different offer.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2009 19:54:58 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/bidens_wife_slips_that_he_was_offered_secretary_of_state_job/29280/#When:00:54:58Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>NEW: Biden does construction work on day of service</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_biden_does_construction_work_on_day_of_service/29278/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Vice President-elect Joe Biden spent part of his day of service hanging dry wall at a Habitat for Humanity home in Northeast Washington.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2009 19:42:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_biden_does_construction_work_on_day_of_service/29278/#When:00:42:38Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama prepares for inauguration</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/eyewitness_news_nine_inauguration_coverage_tomorrow/29272/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
This time tomorrow, there will be new faces in the White House when we inaugurate Barack Obama as Commander-in-Chief.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2009 18:35:19 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/eyewitness_news_nine_inauguration_coverage_tomorrow/29272/#When:23:35:19Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama holds opening events for inauguration</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_holds_opening_events_for_inauguration/29208/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The party has already begun.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2009 23:52:09 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_holds_opening_events_for_inauguration/29208/#When:04:52:09Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama says he&#8217;s hopeful despite challenges</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_says_hes_hopeful_despite_challenges/29204/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President-elect Barack Obama says &#8220;Anything is possible in America.&#8220;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2009 21:20:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_says_hes_hopeful_despite_challenges/29204/#When:02:20:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Pelosi wants Bush officials&#8217; actions reviewed</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/pelosi_wants_bush_officials_actions_reviewed/29177/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wants an investigation into whether the Bush administration broke the law when it fired a group of federal prosecutors.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2009 16:35:43 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/pelosi_wants_bush_officials_actions_reviewed/29177/#When:21:35:43Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Axelrod: Treasury pick to gain public confidence</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/axelrod_treasury_pick_to_gain_public_confidence/29176/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - A top aide to Barack Obama says the public should have confidence in Obama&#8217;s pick for treasury secretary despite his tax problems.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2009 16:31:45 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/axelrod_treasury_pick_to_gain_public_confidence/29176/#When:21:31:45Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Obama pauses to honor US war dead at Arlington</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_obama_pauses_to_honor_us_war_dead_at_arlington/29175/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Barack Obama has taken some time in between inaugural festivities to remember the nation&#8217;s war dead.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 18 Jan 2009 16:26:22 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_obama_pauses_to_honor_us_war_dead_at_arlington/29175/#When:21:26:22Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Obama completes train tour; presidency looms ahead</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_all_aboard_obamas_whistle_stop_tour_has_begun/29140/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Barack Obama has arrived in Washington at the end of a majestic train ride across the frigid mid-Atlantic seaboard, moving another step closer to the presidency.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 17 Jan 2009 15:57:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_all_aboard_obamas_whistle_stop_tour_has_begun/29140/#When:20:57:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama hits the road to make pitch for his economic plan</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_hits_the_road_to_make_pitch_for_his_economic_plan/29110/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President-elect Barack Obama has been making a pitch for investment in new sources of energy&#8212;a main feature of his $825 billion economic plan.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2009 18:50:13 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_hits_the_road_to_make_pitch_for_his_economic_plan/29110/#When:23:50:13Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Bush salutes Hudson River pilot who landed plane</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/bush_salutes_hudson_river_pilot_who_landed_plane/29109/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President George W. Bush called the pilot of the ill-fated US Airways jetliner to thank him for saving the lives of the passengers.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2009 18:48:32 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/bush_salutes_hudson_river_pilot_who_landed_plane/29109/#When:23:48:32Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>President Bush defends decisions made during presidency</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/president_bush_defends_decisions_made_during_presidency/28654/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It&#8217;s his last week in office and President Bush is defending some of his more controversial decisions from the last eight years.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:56:31 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/president_bush_defends_decisions_made_during_presidency/28654/#When:22:56:31Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama: $350b bailout needs to help people</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_350b_bailout_needs_to_help_people/28543/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President-elect Barack Obama is calling for more transparency and strict guidelines for using the second half of the $700 billion financial bailout fund.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 11 Jan 2009 18:00:07 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_350b_bailout_needs_to_help_people/28543/#When:23:00:07Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Biden: US will help fight terror in Afghanistan</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/biden_us_will_help_fight_terror_in_afghanistan/28540/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) - Vice President-elect Joe Biden is promising U.S. support for Afghanistan&#8217;s struggle against terrorism, drugs and corruption.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 11 Jan 2009 17:57:16 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/biden_us_will_help_fight_terror_in_afghanistan/28540/#When:22:57:16Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama&#8217;s first foreign trip as president: Canada</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obamas_first_foreign_trip_as_president_canada/28507/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President-elect Barack Obama plans to take his first international trip to Canada.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2009 17:21:37 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obamas_first_foreign_trip_as_president_canada/28507/#When:22:21:37Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Obama releases analysis of economic plan</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_obama_releases_analysis_of_economic_plan/28501/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - There&#8217;s word that President-elect Barack Obama&#8217;s team and the Bush administration may ask Congress for immediate access to the $350 billion left in a financial bailout fund approved last year.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 10 Jan 2009 16:58:33 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_obama_releases_analysis_of_economic_plan/28501/#When:21:58:33Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Officials say Burris won&#8217;t be sworn in with others</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/officials_say_burris_wont_be_sworn_in_with_others/27972/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Roland Burris is hoping to be sworn-in as a senator tomorrow, but several officials say that&#8217;s not going to happen.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2009 20:33:26 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/officials_say_burris_wont_be_sworn_in_with_others/27972/#When:01:33:26Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Obama telling lawmakers he&#8217;ll put stimulus plan on the Internet</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_obama_telling_lawmakers_hell_put_stimulus_plan_on_the_internet/27970/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President-elect Barack Obama has told congressional leaders he&#8217;ll make his stimulus proposal available on the Internet.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2009 20:31:08 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_obama_telling_lawmakers_hell_put_stimulus_plan_on_the_internet/27970/#When:01:31:08Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>NEW: Obama arrives in Washington area</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_obama_arrives_in_washington_area/27853/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE (AP) - President-elect Barack Obama has landed in the Washington area, setting up a final march toward his Jan. 20 inauguration.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 04 Jan 2009 20:21:34 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_obama_arrives_in_washington_area/27853/#When:01:21:34Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Richardson withdraws bid to be commerce secretary</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/richardson_withdraws_bid_to_be_commerce_secretary/27852/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson says he is withdrawing his nomination to be President-elect Barack Obama&#8217;s commerce secretary amid a grand jury investigation.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 04 Jan 2009 20:20:20 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/richardson_withdraws_bid_to_be_commerce_secretary/27852/#When:01:20:20Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kaine to take over as DNC chairman</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/kaine_to_take_over_as_dnc_chairman/27851/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine is set to become the next chairman of the Democratic Party.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 04 Jan 2009 20:19:23 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/kaine_to_take_over_as_dnc_chairman/27851/#When:01:19:23Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Democratic leaders say stimulus unlikely before inauguration</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_democratic_leaders_say_stimulus_unlikely_before_inauguration/27840/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President-elect Barack Obama shouldn&#8217;t expect Congress to have an economic recovery plan waiting for him when he takes office on Jan. 20.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 04 Jan 2009 16:37:21 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_democratic_leaders_say_stimulus_unlikely_before_inauguration/27840/#When:21:37:21Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>NEW: Denver schools chief appointed to Senate vacancy</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_denver_schools_chief_appointed_to_senate_vacancy/27827/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
DENVER (AP) - Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter has appointed Denver&#8217;s public schools superintendent to fill a Senate vacancy that will be created by the promotion of Sen. Ken Salazar to interior secretary in the Obama administration.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 03 Jan 2009 19:45:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_denver_schools_chief_appointed_to_senate_vacancy/27827/#When:00:45:38Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>NEW: Burris lawyer prods Senate Democratic leaders</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_burris_lawyer_prods_senate_democratic_leaders/27814/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
CHICAGO (AP) - A lawyer representing the man appointed to the Senate by embattled Gov. Rod Blagojevich has written to Senate Democratic leaders asking them to seat his client.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 03 Jan 2009 16:44:20 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_burris_lawyer_prods_senate_democratic_leaders/27814/#When:21:44:20Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama: Country needs economic stimulus plan</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_country_needs_economic_stimulus_plan/27813/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
CHICAGO (AP) - In the face of a massive economic crisis and just two and a-half weeks away from moving into the White House, President-elect Barack Obama is urging congressional leaders to move quickly on a recovery plan.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 03 Jan 2009 16:29:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_country_needs_economic_stimulus_plan/27813/#When:21:29:01Z</guid>
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          <title>NEW: Blagojevich pick to be given few privileges</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_blagojevich_pick_to_be_given_few_privileges/27791/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Democratic leaders are taking steps to make it clear that Roland Burris won&#8217;t be welcomed as Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich&#8217;s choice to succeed Barack Obama in the Senate.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 02 Jan 2009 19:03:34 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_blagojevich_pick_to_be_given_few_privileges/27791/#When:00:03:34Z</guid>
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          <title>Republicans want say in economic stimulus plan</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/republicans_want_say_in_economic_stimulus_plan/27411/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Congressional Republicans say they&#8217;ll work with Democrats to craft a plan to stimulate the economy, but only if GOP ideas are considered.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 29 Dec 2008 21:22:41 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/republicans_want_say_in_economic_stimulus_plan/27411/#When:02:22:41Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Controversy could cut Obama&#8217;s vacation short</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/controversy_could_cut_obamas_vacation_short/26951/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
President-elect Barack Obama is taking some time off in Hawaii, but two lingering controversies could force Obama to end his vacation earlier than expected.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:17:08 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/controversy_could_cut_obamas_vacation_short/26951/#When:18:17:08Z</guid>
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          <title>Cheney defends powers in fighting terrorism</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/cheney_defends_powers_in_fighting_terrorism/26880/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - There&#8217;s no doubt the Bush administration expanded government power during the fight against terrorism.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 21 Dec 2008 15:45:17 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/cheney_defends_powers_in_fighting_terrorism/26880/#When:20:45:17Z</guid>
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          <title>Cheney: Palin no lock to be GOP nominee in 2012</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/cheney_palin_no_lock_to_be_gop_nominee_in_2012/26878/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Vice President Dick Cheney says he&#8217;s confident Republicans will rebound from this year&#8217;s election defeats.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 21 Dec 2008 15:40:35 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/cheney_palin_no_lock_to_be_gop_nominee_in_2012/26878/#When:20:40:35Z</guid>
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          <title>Biden says economy is No. 1 issue</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/biden_says_economy_is_no._1_issue/26866/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Joe Biden says the economy is going to be the incoming administration&#8217;s top priority.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 20 Dec 2008 20:33:46 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/biden_says_economy_is_no._1_issue/26866/#When:01:33:46Z</guid>
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          <title>Obama team, Congress fleshing out stimulus bill</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_team_congress_fleshing_out_stimulus_bill/26827/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - President-elect Barack Obama&#8217;s team and congressional staff are trying to come up with details of an economic stimulus plan.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 19 Dec 2008 20:54:34 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_team_congress_fleshing_out_stimulus_bill/26827/#When:01:54:34Z</guid>
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          <title>Obama warns patience &#8216;running out&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_warns_patience_running_out/26826/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
CHICAGO (AP) - President-elect Barack Obama isn&#8217;t saying if he&#8217;ll make any changes to the auto industry loan package announced this morning by the White House.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 19 Dec 2008 20:52:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_warns_patience_running_out/26826/#When:01:52:54Z</guid>
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          <title>Caroline Kennedy says she has lots to learn and offer</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/caroline_kennedy_says_she_has_lots_to_learn_and_offer/26704/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
NEW YORK (AP) - Caroline Kennedy says while she has &#8220;quite a lot to learn,&#8220; she would also have a lot to offer as a U.S. senator.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:09:56 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/caroline_kennedy_says_she_has_lots_to_learn_and_offer/26704/#When:00:09:56Z</guid>
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          <title>Obama names regulators</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_names_regulators/26697/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
CHICAGO (AP) - Barack Obama is assembling more of his cleanup team for the nation&#8217;s financial mess.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 18 Dec 2008 18:53:07 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_names_regulators/26697/#When:23:53:07Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Illinois officials weighing options for Obama seat</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/illinois_officials_weighing_options_for_obama_seat/26254/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
CHICAGO (AP) - Illinois officials say they&#8217;re trying to figure out how to ensure that the process of choosing the person to fill President-elect Barack Obama&#8217;s vacant U.S. Senate seat is not tainted by that state&#8217;s political scandal.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 14 Dec 2008 15:35:33 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/illinois_officials_weighing_options_for_obama_seat/26254/#When:20:35:33Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>McCain pledges to work with Obama on tough issues</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/mccain_pledges_to_work_with_obama_on_tough_issues/26253/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - Republican Sen. John McCain says he&#8217;s ready to work President-elect Barack Obama on economic and national security issues.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 14 Dec 2008 15:34:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/mccain_pledges_to_work_with_obama_on_tough_issues/26253/#When:20:34:11Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Obama names NY housing commissioner to head HUD</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_names_ny_housing_commissioner_to_head_hud/26218/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
CHICAGO (AP) - President-elect Barack Obama says the government can&#8217;t just throw money at the problem of affordable housing and he&#8217;s picked a former Clinton aide to help come up with new ideas.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 13 Dec 2008 15:48:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/obama_names_ny_housing_commissioner_to_head_hud/26218/#When:20:48:53Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>NEW: Report: Rahm Emanuel in talks with Blagojevich office</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_report_rahm_emanuel_in_talks_with_blagojevich_office/26217/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
WASHINGTON (AP) - A top adviser to President-elect Barack Obama had reportedly been in talks with the Illinois governor&#8217;s office about possible Senate replacements for Obama.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 13 Dec 2008 15:45:07 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/new_report_rahm_emanuel_in_talks_with_blagojevich_office/26217/#When:20:45:07Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Blagojevich meets with clergymen</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/blagojevich_meets_with_clergymen/26197/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - While speculation swirls about his future, the governor of Illinois has met at his home today with several local ministers.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Dec 2008 19:19:58 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/blagojevich_meets_with_clergymen/26197/#When:00:19:58Z</guid>
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          <title>UPDATE: Ill. gov. ignores calls to step down, signs bill</title>
          <link>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_ill._gov._ignores_calls_to_step_down_signs_bill/26196/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
CHICAGO (AP) - Embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is still conducting state business despite calls for him to resign and a request before the state Supreme Court to strip him of his powers.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Dec 2008 19:16:26 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.wnct.com/nct/news/national/national_govtpolitics/article/update_ill._gov._ignores_calls_to_step_down_signs_bill/26196/#When:00:16:26Z</guid>
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