President Barack Obama is calling on lawmakers to stop blocking the confirmation of government appointees in the Senate by raising objections not related to their qualifications. In a surprise appearance in the White House briefing room Tuesday, Obama said he will consider making recess appointments if the Senate ...

Republican Sen. Richard Shelby of Alabama will stop blocking Senate confirmation of about 70 government appointees nominated by President Barack Obama, his office said. Shelby had placed "holds" on most of Obama's nominees, delaying the Senate from acting on them, in a dispute over federal spending involving ...

Looking to douse public and congressional anger, chief executives at some of the biggest financial institutions are on a mission to repair their image and gain more influence over legislation that would overhaul regulations that govern their industry. They have their work cut out for ...