Iraq struggles with sectarian politics
Iraq struggles with sectarian politics
BAGHDAD (AP) — As it moves to try to reverse the stunning loss of Ramadi, the capital of Iraq’s largest Sunni province, the Shiite-led government is hamstrung by the sectarian politics it has failed to overcome ever since the Islamic State began its rampage.
Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi vowed Tuesday to arm Sunni tribesmen to help retake Ramadi, a plan the United States has encouraged to better empower the minority community in the fight to defend their cities and reduce their support for the Sunni extremists.
The pledge met immediate skepticism from Sunnis. It also met quick resistance from Shiite rivals within al-Abadi’s own government, who oppose arming Sunnis.
Bill would limit office expenses of former presidents
WASHINGTON (AP) — Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and other former presidents who earn lucrative speaking fees and draw other income would no longer be able to count on taxpayer dollars to pay for their post-White House office space and staff under a bill in the House.
On a voice vote, the House Oversight panel backed a measure Tuesday to limit taxpayer dollars for expenses, including travel, incurred by ex-presidents who earn more than $400,000 a year.
U.S. taxpayers paid a total of $3.5 million last year in pensions and benefits to the four living former presidents.
Takata declares 33.8M air bags as defective
DETROIT (AP) — Air bag maker Takata Corp. agreed to declare 33.8 million of its inflator mechanisms defective, effectively doubling the number of cars and trucks that so far have been recalled in the U.S.
The announcement was made Tuesday afternoon by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which reached an agreement with Takata. It will be the largest recall in the agency’s history.
The air bags are responsible for six deaths worldwide and more than 100 injuries.
Ten automakers have recalled 17 million vehicles in the U.S. and more than 36 million worldwide because of the problem. Those numbers will grow by millions because of the agreement, but it’s unclear which manufacturers will be most affected by the expanded recalls.
China’s ambitions influencing debate
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Obama contends if the U.S. doesn’t write the rules of international trade, China will.
China already is writing rules of commerce and expanding its world trade footprint, and its role is influencing the debate in the U.S. Obama is seeking a trade agreement with Pacific rim countries. But China’s role is raising questions about America’s ability to compete in Asia, and to use trade deals as a way to affect currency policies and labor and environmental standards.