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Ann Coulter wants a wall. But does Trump actually need to deliver?

As President Trump prepares to address the nation Tuesday, he’s under withering attack from once-friendly conservative quarters. Some strategists say the president shouldn’t underestimate his own power to sell some sort of compromise. 

Art of the deal: In politics, Trump finds negotiations a different ballgame

A zero-sum negotiating posture – one side wins, the other loses – is counterproductive in Washington, where the two parties ultimately have to work with one another. Experts say probing underlying interests could reveal ways to satisfy both sides.

A shutdown fight that’s about much more than a wall

The impasse over funding for a barrier on the US-Mexico border reflects broader disagreements between President Trump and Democrats over questions of security and American identity.

The Trump effect at two: Have views of an unconventional presidency shifted?

Supporters see his norm-busting approach as good for the country at the same time that critics view it as dangerously unstable. Is he sowing chaos or being unconventionally effective?

Why President Trump may want a 'good shutdown'

If Congress can’t agree on issues such as funding for a border wall, key parts of the government could shut down. But while the president seems eager for the fight, there are political risks for Republicans.

Vote counts: In Florida, recount fuels widening electoral distrust

Confidence that elections are being conducted fairly is a cornerstone of a functioning democracy. As Florida undertakes a highly contentious recount, partisan accusations on both sides could have a far-reaching impact.

Breakfast with Tom Perez: why Democratic chair is upbeat about 2020

Tom Perez, chair of the Democratic National Committee, talks up his party's wins in the midterms, strategy for 2020, and his unending faith in the Buffalo Bills with reporters at a Monitor Breakfast.

Democratic chair says Trump is 'absolutely' beatable in 2020

At a Monitor Breakfast, DNC Chairman Tom Perez pointed to Democratic wins in red states like Kansas, and the ouster of incumbent Sen. Dean Heller in Nevada, as indicators of what he calls a "50-state strategy" for the party.

Facing new political reality, Trump talks compromise but readies for combat

Can a leader offer compromise with one hand while keeping the other clenched in a fist? As a combative President Trump faced the press Wednesday, his message to congressional Democrats was mixed.

Barnstorming with Trump in the ultimate campaign prop: Air Force One

At a dizzying succession of Make America Great Again rallies, President Trump makes the case for Republican candidates. But really, the crowd is there to see him.

Trump’s rhetorical style again adds scrutiny to power of words

Is this Boston sports fan 'tired of winning'? No, but understated in victory.

Lovers of the Red Sox have experienced some of the lowest lows and highest triumphs of any fans in sport. One longtime Boston fan and Monitor writer reflects on the team's – and her own – journey.

Flashbacks from 2016 put Democrats on notice – and on edge

In Florida's kaleidoscopic politics, a window into America's future

Florida isn’t just a potentially pivotal state in this fall’s election. It also has emerged as a kind of microcosm of the nation’s politics, including sharp racial and generational divides.

How hurricane Michael could affect Florida’s high-stakes midterms

During previous natural disasters, bipartisan cooperation was the order of the day as everyone worked to help those in harm’s way. That unwritten code of civility has faded, as seen in Florida, where political gamesmanship continued even as the storm hit.

Breakfast with Tom Donohue: ‘real trade war’ would harm economy

At a Monitor Breakfast, US Chamber of Commerce leader Tom Donohue talked trade, tariffs, and why - after 21 years at the helm - he's not talking retirement. 

What has changed since Anita Hill? Female senators who were there weigh in.

History often gives us some perspective on progress. Two former US senators offer their view of Anita Hill’s testimony before Congress in 1991, and the lessons for Kavanaugh hearings today.

All the president’s seatmates: two days with Trump on Air Force One

Steak tacos, tres leches cake, and a napkin ring featuring the presidential seal: This was the press pool's meal on the president’s plane. Fear not dear taxpayers, the reporters’ employers do pay for their flights.  

Can John McCain memorials be a healing moment?

Ever combative, John McCain has been viewed through widely different lenses since his passing. But his memorials come at a time when the higher ideals he openly strove for are seen by many as a needed balm.  

Lost in the Russia scandal maze? Read your way out.

Journalistic books delving into President Trump's relationship with Moscow are two a penny. To better understand the Russia scandal, try reading books that explore Russian history. Or 'Crime and Punishment.'