The last time an American president asked Congress for a declaration of war was in 1941, after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. Longtime CBS and NBC News correspondent Marvin Kalb says this new normal undercuts Congress' constitutional authority and undermines America's reputation worldwide. Read a Q&A with Kalb.

Months after her much-publicized departure from politics, former U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe joins us to discuss her new book, Fighting for Common Ground.

The stock market is flying high. We take a look what's going on, and at how Fed chairman Ben Bernanke's testimony before Congress could affect the markets tomorrow.

Sen. Dick Durbin joins us to discuss the bipartisan immigration bill being considered in Congress, and the latest on the Hill.

In its final hours last night, the 112th Congress passed a carefully orchestrated fiscal cliff deal despite staunch House Republican opposition. We discuss the deeper meaning behind the deal, and the way it came together, with a panel of economists.

The race to replace Jesse Jackson, Jr. intensifies, as two state legislators face criminal charges. Carol Marin and her political roundtable discuss the state of local politics.

A date has been set for a special election to replace Jesse Jackson Jr. in Congress. Paris Schutz has more on a wide open field of candidates.

Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. has resigned from Congress, citing ongoing health concerns and acknowledging a federal investigation.

Two members of Congress join us to discuss the looming fiscal cliff and what Congress is doing to avoid it.

Pulitzer Prize-winner Hedrick Smith examines the roots of American income inequality. 

Sen. Dick Durbin joins us for a frank talk on the presidential election, partisan gridlock, and his own future in the Democratic Party.

We asked what you thought about Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr.’s extended absence. We read what some of you had to say in Viewer Mail.

Multiple news outlets are reporting that Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. is being treated for a "mood disorder." This, after NBC News reported that he is being treated for alcoholism, a claim his office denies. We have reaction.

Tuesday night marked the end of an undoubtedly contentious primary season in Illinois. Learn more about how it all went down.

Millions of Americans are likely to see their payroll taxes go up in January. We hear from both Illinois U.S. senators about the prospects for a deal.

A super bust. That is what many are saying about the Congressional debt super committee after members admit they will not come to an agreement to cut the deficit. We take a look at why no deal came together.