In the Headlines

"Republican Governors Take a Hard Look at How to Rebuild Party After Big Losses" (Christopher Cooper, Wall Street Journal) - The Republican Governors Association's two-day meeting included some of the party's rising stars and some of the likeliest candidates for the 2012 presidential election. But the main topic of the annual meeting was the party's losses at the presidential, congressional and state levels, and how the party could be rebuilt.

"Obama faces test on WH political office" (Carrie Brown, The Politico) - It was a standard applause line on the campaign trail: Barack Obama condemned the “perpetual campaign” that has consumed Washington, contending that the slash-and-burn politics practiced by the Bush White House had gotten in the way of governing.

"Facing Obama, Iran Suddenly Hedges on Talks" (Thomas Erdbrink, Washington Post) - Since 2006, Iran's leaders have called for direct, unconditional talks with the United States to resolve international concerns over their nuclear program. But as an American administration open to such negotiations prepares to take power, Iran's political and military leaders are sounding suddenly wary of President-elect Barack Obama.

"DNC chair faces $15M debt; fight for RNC boss" (Liz Sidoti, AP) - The Democratic Party faces a smooth transition as President-elect Barack Obama essentially chooses the next national chairman whose initial task will be retiring a $15 million debt. A fight is ensuing on the Republican side as the losing party searches for a new identity - and perhaps a new leader.