'Congress is in a coma.' Former lawmakers sound alarm on health of the House Congress is wrapping up the year without a lot of legislative accomplishments under its belt and a growing list of lawmakers who are retiring. Former members say the challenges on Capitol Hill have been brewing for a long time. Barbara Sprunt
Apple, Google tell workers on visas to avoid leaving the U.S. amid Trump immigration crackdown With months-long consulate and embassy delays being reported, the two tech companies say staying put in the U.S. right now could prevent workers from getting stranded in their home countries. Bobby Allyn
North Carolina's Lumbee Tribe receives full federal recognition after 137-year effort The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has finally received full federal recognition, which it has sought since 1888. Tribal leaders were moved to tears after President Trump signed the measure. Kristin Wright
Available to download Friday, some Epstein files no longer there Saturday afternoon An NPR analysis of the Epstein files shows some documents, originally available on Friday, are no longer on the Department of Justice's "Epstein Library" website as the DOJ releases more files. Casey Morell
What to know about the Epstein files released by the Justice Department The Department of Justice began releasing its files on Friday on the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Many documents, which include interview transcripts and call logs, have been heavily redacted. Stephen Fowler
Week in Politics: MAGA activists in Phoenix; Trump's address; Democrats face 2024 loss MAGA activists meet in Phoenix, President Trump addresses the nation and his fans, and Democrats grapple with how they lost in 2024. Ron Elving
Trump's year in Washington President Trump won re-election in 2024 on a promise to upend Washington. He pitched a presidency where he alone could solve America's problems. Where does the current reality of these promises stand? Domenico Montanaro
MAGA divisions over antisemitism on display at Turning Point MAGA infighting was underway as Turning Point USA opened its first national conference since the death of Charlie Kirk. Sarah McCammon
Justice Department begins the release of the Epstein files The Justice Department has begun publishing the Epstein files, releasing documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's criminal charges and his death by suicide in federal custody. Stephen Fowler
Judge blocks HUD homelessness overhaul, rebukes agency for causing 'chaos' A federal judge said HUD cannot dramatically change its funding policies on homelessness for now. States, cities and nonprofits say the proposed overhaul would push thousands back onto the streets. Jennifer Ludden