Politics Trump picks loyalists for top jobs, testing loyalty of Senate GOP Nominees for several key Cabinet posts in the new administration of President-elect Trump caught officials in Washington off guard and ignited a firestorm of criticism — not all of it from Democrats. Ron Elving
Politics Trump is creating team of loyalists after conflicts with Cabinet members in 1st term In his second term, President-elect Donald Trump is surrounding himself with people who can amplify his message and agree with how he wants to remake the executive branch. Domenico Montanaro
Politics RFK Jr. wants to 'Make America Healthy Again.' He could face a lot of pushback RFK Jr. wants to tackle chronic disease. Despite his widely disputed views on vaccines, his focus on healthy food and taking on special interests may find broad support — and face political headwinds. Will Stone Allison Aubrey
Politics How to approach the holidays with people you deeply disagree with Code Switch weighs in on preparing for difficult political conversations and when to draw the line and uninvite yourself from that family potluck. Leah Donnella
Politics Sen. Chris Murphy: Democrats need to listen to working and poor people Steve Inskeep speaks with Senator Chris Murphy about how the democratic party rebuilds after its election loss. Steve Inskeep Milton Guevara Reena Advani
Politics Outspent 4-to-1, Republicans still made gains in state legislative elections Despite outspending Republicans, Democrats didn't achieve some ambitious goals in state legislative races. The GOP continues to control more legislatures, though Democrats notched some victories. Ryland Barton
Elections As Trump's GOP takes control, what’s next for Washington state’s Democrat-led legislature? Democrats’ majority in the Washington State Legislature may grow slightly after this election, but many aren't preparing for smooth sailing heading into the state's next lawmaking session. Jeanie Lindsay
Politics Republicans retain their hold of the House, clinching full control of Congress Republicans have officially won a full trifecta of power in Washington, D.C., following GOP victories in several key U.S. House contests. Deirdre Walsh Susan Davis
Politics 'I was shocked': Lawmakers react to Gaetz pick to be Trump's attorney general Trump has picked Matt Gaetz as his attorney general and former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as his director of national intelligence, surprising many lawmakers who will have to confirm them. Lexie Schapitl Claudia Grisales Deirdre Walsh Elena Moore
Politics 'Apprehensive and fearful': Federal workers await a dismantling under Trump President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to "dismantle government bureaucracy," enlisting the help of billionaires to achieve his goals. Federal workers with memories of Trump's first term are scared. Andrea Hsu
