Gains Seen On Minority Discrimination — But Little Else
As Obama prepares to take office, majorities say the country is losing ground on many key issues, especially economic ones.
Both McCain and Obama Favor Expanding Faith-Based Initiatives
Two experts discuss how and why partnerships between governments and religious social service groups are likely to continue to grow no matter which party controls the White House.
Public Support Falls for Religion’s Role in Politics
A new Pew Research survey finds a decline in the share of Americans who want churches and other houses of worship to be involved in political matters. Most of the drop in the past four years has come among political conservatives.
The Blaine Game: Controversy Over the Public Funding of Religion
A scholar discusses challenges in Florida to its so-called Blaine Amendments that restrict state aid to religious schools. More than two-thirds of states have similar constitutional provisions.
Justices’ OK for Indiana’s Voter ID May Prompt Other States to Follow Suit
With bills pending in state legislatures across the country, more states may move to require photo identification for voters in November.
Govs Press For More Money on Real ID, Medicaid
Meeting in Washington, the states’ chief executives made clear their unhappiness with federal standards for driver’s licenses and costly new Medicaid rules.
Look Out Below! America’s Infrastructure Is Crumbling
“Much of America is held together by Scotch tape, bailing wire and prayers,” says one expert of the state of the country’s dams, bridges, roadways and sewer lines.
The Public’s Not-So-Happy New Year
Americans begin 2008 with a highly negative view of national conditions and President Bush, and with tempered expectations for the coming year. More Democrats look forward to elections, but Republicans are more optimistic about the year ahead.
With Feds Stuck, States Tackle Immigration
State lawmakers have taken widely divergent approaches to dealing with an influx of immigrants; some are rolling out welcome mats while others are slamming shut their doors.
Thompson Stands with GOP Rank and File during First Debate
In his first appearance on a debate stage with his rivals for the Republican nomination, the former Tennessee senator stuck to very traditional — and very popular — positions among his party’s voters.
