Policy

The Iran Nuclear Deal Isn’t Dead

The State Department is fighting to keep it alive, even if an agreement benefits Russia and China.

Intention, Not Capacity

The White House’s new way of seeing the Iranian bomb.

Lawmakers Ask if U.S. Companies Helped Develop China’s Spy Balloon

Plus: More congressional scrutiny on China and high-profile House GOP hearings.

Entitlements Under Attack?

Lawmakers struggle to come up with a plan to rein in spending without cuts to Medicare and Social Security.

Headlines Don’t Tell the Whole Story on Education Reform

It might seem like schools have been caught up in the culture wars, but an analysis of 2022 campaigns and election results shows that we can expect slow and steady reforms.

Cut Spending, Raise Taxes, or Wait for Economic Collapse

There are three options for dealing with entitlements.

Why the National Debt Matters

Owing tens of trillions of dollars puts the U.S. on a course for stagnation—or crisis: A Dispatch Explainer.

Out of Sight, Out of Mind

Presidents are increasingly reticent to talk about national security. No wonder Americans are less engaged.

The Immigration Battles Begin

Lawmakers hear from law enforcement leaders about challenges at the U.S.-Mexico border.

AI Is Coming For Our Jobs (And That’s Okay)

Humans are adaptable, and we have a long history of overcoming disruptive technologies.

Can Members of Congress Pack Heat?

Lawmakers renew a clash over carrying firearms: A Dispatch Explainer.

Where the Tech Layoffs Are Hitting Hardest

Companies are cutting programmers, human resources, and DEI staffers.

China Competition a Bipartisan Bright Spot in Congress

Plus: An early look at the House GOP’s Afghanistan withdrawal investigation.

A Blazing Jobs Report in an Odd Economic Moment

Unemployment just hit its lowest level in more than half a century.

Ranks of Republicans Refusing a ‘Clean’ Debt Ceiling Hike Grows

A group of Republicans is joining Kevin McCarthy and the House Freedom Caucus in hardline negotiations.

Nancy Mace’s Ilhan Omar Reversal—And Her Deal With GOP Leaders

Plus: The congressional response to the blockade on Armenians.