Economists point to rising debt as next crisis

The Founding Fathers left one legacy not celebrated on Independence Day but which affects us all. It's the national debt, which is a staggering $11.4 trillion — about $37,000 for every American.

Analysis: Armstrong could spark best Tour ever

Analysis: Cyclist looks as good as ever, but even-better teammate stands in his way

Powerful sedative found in Jackson's home

A law enforcement official says the powerful sedative Diprivan was found in Michael Jackson's home. Diprivan is an intravenous anesthetic drug widely used in operating rooms to induce unconsciousness. Also known as Propofol, it's very unusual to have in a private home

July 4 fireworks shows go up in smoke

With the recession eating away at state and local budgets everywhere, it will be a silent Fourth of July across the country for many communities that have canceled their annual fireworks shows.

Rural S.C. terrorized by 5 killings in past week

A terrified rural South Carolina community hunkered down over the Fourth of July after the sheriff said a serial killer was on the loose, and longtime residents were reminded of a murderer who terrorized the town in the 1960s.

Defiant Honduras withdraws from OAS

Honduras rebuffed demands by the international community to reinstate President Manuel Zelaya and pulled out of the Organization of American States, thrusting the nation deeper into  crisis.

1.2 million apply for Jackson memorial tickets

More than a million fans from around the world applied for 17,500 free tickets to Michael Jackson's public memorial service next week, organizers said on Friday.

2 GIs die in bombing, gunfight at Afghan base
Militants blew up a vehicle outside the gates of a U.S. base in Afghanistan on Saturday, sparking a two-hour gunbattle, officials said. Two American troops were killed and four others injured.

Analysis: Yet again, Palin plays by own rules

Sarah Palin demonstrated once again yesterday that she is one of America's most unconventional politicians, following an unpredictable path to an uncertain future.

Michelle Obama bringing glamour to Moscow

The first lady, who has wowed publics in the U.S. and Europe with her easy elegance and charm, will perhaps face a bigger challenge in winning over a Russian public that has scant respect for women who grab the limelight from their powerful husbands.