The president-elect’s economic recovery plan ran into cross-fire from his own party, suggesting that it could take more time to pass than Democrats once hoped.

Chris Matthews, the host of the MSNBC program “Hardball,” told his staff on Wednesday night that he would not run for the Senate in 2010 in Pennsylvania.

Republican Congressional leaders did not say they would oppose an economic recovery bill but warned against excessive spending.

Lobbyists tied to Senator Ted Stevens of Alaska have reaped millions in fees but are about to feel the pinch.

Lobbyists tied to Senator Ted Stevens of Alaska have reaped millions in fees but are about to feel the pinch.

Lobbyists tied to Senator Ted Stevens of Alaska have reaped millions in fees but are about to feel the pinch.

Obama advisers and Congressional Democrats are aiming for a package by late January that could total just under $1 trillion.

In Washington, Senator Charles E. Schumer is beneficiary, advocate and overseer of an industry that is his hometown’s most important business.

In Washington, Senator Charles E. Schumer is beneficiary, advocate and overseer of an industry that is his hometown’s most important business.

The Bush administration said it would consider using money from the $700 billion financial bailout to help automakers.