AP - President Bush pulled the rug out from under Republicans this week when he abruptly dropped his opposition to a massive housing rescue. Their reaction? Good riddance.

AP - Borrowing from a European model, Minneapolis and St. Paul police hope to quell any disruptions at this summer's Republican National Convention by exchanging cell phone numbers and offering other olive branches to demonstrators.

AP - On first leg of his European tour, Obama discusses war and economics with Merkel ... Rice not worried by Obama's foreign policy forays overseas ... Poll: Obama builds support among Hispanic voters ... Obama wraps up tour of Israel with visit to Jerusalem holy site ... Police seek to soften protesters' disruptions at GOP convention

AP - Quotes from John McCain, the Republican nominee-in-waiting.

AP - Obama says he'll work for Mideast peace — Israelis, Palestinians need to be stronger, unified ... Speculation increases about a McCain running mate ... Obama sees security progress in Iraq; calls situation in Afghanistan 'perilous'... Ron Paul supporters secure larger venue for event to rival GOP convention ... Obama to bask in Europe's adulation amid hopes for new era in America politics

AP - Supporters of maverick Rep. Ron Paul who are organizing a rally as an alternative to the Republican National Convention are moving their crosstown event to a larger venue.

AP - Construction crews began removing row after row of Xcel Energy Center seats. Forklift drivers slid load after load of electrical equipment off semi trucks. And the arena's manager handed over a ceremonial key to the building.

AP - Supporters of maverick Rep. Ron Paul who are organizing a rally as an alternative to the Republican National Convention are moving their crosstown event to a larger venue.

AP - Obama says there has been security progress in Iraq but now a political solution is needed ... While Obama basks in overseas attention, speculation rises about a McCain running mate ... Obama vows to work for breakthrough in Israel-Palestinian peace negotiations ... Larger venue secured by supporters of Rep. Ron Paul for event to rival GOP convention ... Obama to bask in Europe's adulation amid hopes for new era in America politics

AP - Obama gets withdrawal support from Iraqis, military briefing, helicopter tour from Petraeus ... McCain releases energy attack ad, questions Obama's credentials as rival tours war zone ... GOP counting on convention planning, venue to lift McCain's prospects in November ... Obama cuts back on spending in June as he builds up cash reserves