NBC: Holder in line for attorney general

President-elect Barack Obama's aides have been privately talking to senators about whether Washington attorney Eric Holder would be confirmed as the next attorney general.

Admirals, generals: Let gays serve openly
More than 100 retired generals and admirals called Monday for repeal of the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy on gays so they can serve openly, according to a statement obtained by The Associated Press.

Experts: Lack of playtime is hurting children

Without ample opportunity for forms of play that foster innovation and creative thinking, America's children will be at a disadvantage in the global economy, psychologist argues.

Ships diverted after oil tanker hijacked

Pirates who seized a Saudi supertanker loaded with $100 million in crude oil anchored the ship within sight of impoverished Somali fishing villages Tuesday.

Violence a political danger for Chávez

Many Venezuelans who once supported the Hugo Chavez are now considering a vote against the president's candidates because of the government's hapless response to rising crime rates.

Oral Roberts U. to lay off 100 workers

Oral Roberts University will lay off about 100 employees, days after it agreed to a near-$450,000 separation agreement with its former president who resigned amid a spending scandal.

NATO fires on insurgents in Pakistan
NATO troops in eastern Afghanistan fired 20 artillery rounds at insurgents inside Pakistan after coordinating with Islamabad, officials said Tuesday.

Auto execs ask Congress for aid

Detroit's Big Three automakers are pleading with Congress for a $25 billion lifeline to save their once-proud companies from collapse, warning of broader peril for the national economy as well.

Homes sought for dogs as tracks close

Pet adoption agencies are pushing to find homes for a growing number of retired greyhounds amid a struggling dog racing industry and a weak U.S. economy.