Obama to finalize national security team

Barack Obama is completing his national security team by announcing his unusual choices for CIA director and a national intelligence director who may face tough Senate confirmation questioning.

December jobs report likely to be grim

Trying to survive a deepening recession, employers are cutting their work forces to the bone, leaving more Americans unemployed and with dim prospects of finding a new job any time soon.

NYT analysis: Difficult road for Panetta at CIA

For Leon E. Panetta, President-elect Barack Obama's choice for CIA chief, achieving success will be especially difficult because of intense pressure over recent counterterrorism policies in which the C.I.A. played a leading role.

In Iran:  No credit cards, alcohol ... or urinals

One moment, Rick Steves — in Iran filming — would see murals encouraging young men to walk into the blazing sunset of martyrdom. The next, a bookstore worker would give him a free book.

Gaza fighting rages as U.N. call ignored

Israeli aircraft bombarded Gaza early Friday and Hamas fired rockets into southern Israel, as the government said there would be no quick end to the fighting despite a U.N. resolution calling for a cease-fire.

Cowboy churches rope in new Christians

Moments after flying headfirst onto the arena dirt, the man brushes off his protective vest as rodeo clowns rush in to distract the still-bucking bull. But this isn't a typical rodeo. It's an outreach ministry.

Opinion: Tips to pay off credit cards

In her new book, the financial expert and host of CNBC's "Suze Orman Show"  offers an action plan to help you get out of the vicious  cycle of credit card debt in these difficult financial times. An excerpt.

Troops in Iraq to get beer for Super Bowl
American troops in Iraq will be allowed to drink beer without fear of court-martial for this year's Super Bowl — an exception to a strict military ban on drinking alcohol in combat zones.

‘Slumdog,' ‘Milk' win Critics' Choice awards

The critics have spoken, and "Slumdog Millionaire" is their final answer. The rags-to-riches tale won a leading five prizes, including best picture, at Thursday night's Critics' Choice Awards.