"The White House is downplaying its draft proposal as merely a backup plan if lawmakers don't come up with an immigration overhaul of their own. It won't be necessary, Republican and Democratic lawmakers alike are telling the Obama administration."

"A proposal by the Center for American Progress outlines a plan for the introduction of pre-kindergarten programs for all 3- and 4-year-olds... Children aged 3 and 4 would be eligible to attend preschool for free if they come from a family of four earning $46,100 or less. For families making more than that, the rates would be adjusted based on income."

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid had previously indicated he would not allow a vote as the House likely wouldn't support a ban on assault weapons.

"The soldiers of the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team have gone to war five times since 9/11, and 84 have been killed - including 13 during their current deployment to Afghanistan. How would the impending budget cuts affect civilians at their post? And what will it all mean for their spouses and family members who work on the base?"

I think it is good that Giffords is pushing for gun control because I believe that we need it.

Gun cabinets are just as easy for kids to break into even if the kids do not have the key. I don't think you should not include people with disabilities from being able to have firearms in their homes, it may not be the safest thing but it is still a right that they have. Most people who have firearms in their homes have them to protect themselves and their families, not to harm other people. I think we need stricter gun laws for everyone, not just certain people.

"Fiscal cliff negotiators are considering a raise in the age for Medicare eligibility, which some voters support. But the move could have some unexpected consequences."

"No matter which case the court chooses, the same issue will be front and center - whether legally married gay Americans can be kept from the range of benefits that are otherwise extended to married couples."