Local Time Line

An epic fight is brewing over what Congress and President Obama should do about the expiring Bush tax cuts, with such substantial economic and political consequences that it could shape the fall elections and fiscal policy for years to come. Barack Obama – Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 – United States Congress – United States – President

President Obama sought Monday to pressure Republicans to pass an extension of unemployment aid that he says is crucial to help middle-class families hit by the recession.

Despite President Obama’s historic legislative successes, he and congressional Democrats face daunting unemployment numbers and discouraging election prospects. His progressive allies are urging more job creation and economic stimulus measures. Democratic – Barack Obama – Unemployment – President – United States

Serving as a summer retreat for Rockefellers, Vanderbilts and Morgans, Bar Harbor, Maine, has long been a place where visitors could beat the heat — and have their privacy respected. Maine – Bar Harbor Maine – United States – BarHarbor – Rockefeller

Vowing to get to the root cause of the Deepwater Horizon spill, a presidential commission  began hearing from fishermen, academics, government officials and one BP executive. Deepwater Horizon – BP – United States – Gulf of Mexico – Environment