Democrats

Congress balks at needed revamp of infrastructure system

North America

President Donald Trump’s $1.5 trillion plan to rebuild U.S. infrastructure is grand in ambition, bold on reform and going nowhere at present. But federal data do not support the notion that the U.S. is suffering an infrastructure crisis. Instead, analysts say, the problem is excessive regulatory barriers and a flawed funding system that favors “shiny objects” instead of mundane but essential maintenance.

Trump’s sound and fury signifies no immigration reform

Europe

In the United States, immigration and border security have suddenly become hot issues in the 2016 presidential campaign. Recent controversies over Middle Eastern refugees and terrorist threats have only deepened the political divide on the subject. Major reform is therefore unlikely before the November election. Even afterward, the challenges will remain so intract...

Politics and the ramifications of Iran’s nuclear deal for Israel and the Middle East

Maghreb & the Middle East

The outcomes of Israel’s elections on March 17, 2015, and negotiations between the six leading world powers and Iran can make differences in the short run and invite more tension or open new options. But in the absence of a ‘military solution’ there will be two nuclear-capable nations in the region. Both will need to prepare for difficult formative stages within a ...

Obama's choices after defeat in mid-term elections

North America

The Republicans seized control of both Houses in the US mid-term elections and have tied President Barack Obama’s hands for the next two years in terms of introducing domestic policy initiatives. The president will look to the world stage to shape policy but the challenges are very tough. Victory presents the GOP with new challenges of its own. Is there room for co...

VIDEO: A European view of the US debt ceiling crisis

North America

US immigration bill faces tough tests

North America

US President Barack Obama is trying to deliver on his promise to resolve the issues of the 11 million illegal immigrants. He has support in the Senate for a bill which will legalise their status and improve border security with Mexico. But the proposals face tough hurdles in Congress where the Republicans hold the majority. And there is no guarantee that the legisl...

Hurricane Sandy blows away US election forecasts

North America

The United States presidential election 2012 is too close to call. It was heading for a photo finish between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney after the verbal sparring in US television debates. But Hurricane Sandy blew away the forecasts just days before voting and campaigning was halted and voters concentrated on handling a national emergency. ...

US election 2012: America is split on how to solve its growing debt crisis

North America

America is in a state of limbo as its political class waits for the results of the November presidential elections to give it direction. But as the Democrats and Republicans polarise opinion on whether there should be more government spending or less, the country faces a mounting debt burden of almost US$16 trillion - more than its GDP. The debt crises of European ...