AP - Final auditions for Republican John McCain's running mate, perhaps? Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney was in Denver on Tuesday to criticize Democrat Barack Obama on behalf of the GOP nominee-in-waiting. And another Republican said to be in serious contention for the No. 2 slot, Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, was scheduled to play attack dog in the Democratic convention city on Thursday.

AP - Republican candidate John McCain is defending his staunch backing for the war in Iraq as well as an aggressive role for the U.S. around the world.

AP - Republican presidential candidate John McCain called rival Barack Obama his "very honorable opponent" on Monday as he began a busy week of low-key events while Democrats prepared to nominate Obama.

AP - Democrats opened their national convention on Monday, seeking peace in the family as they pursue victory in the fall for Barack Obama and his historic quest for the White House.

AP - As Democrats try to mollify disappointed supporters of Hillary Clinton, Republicans pushed the theme Monday that Democrats are divided and open to voting for John McCain.

AP - Sen. Ted Stevens accused the Justice Department of trying to smear his character Monday as he prepared to defend his seat in a crowded Republican primary election.

AP - Democrats open convention saluting Obama but still seeking peace in the party family ... Michelle Obama tries to connect with families in convention speech ... McCain notes tough campaign with 'honorable opponent' ... Clinton, Obama working on deal to give her roll call votes ... GOP platform unlikely to spawn major fights as activists focus on electing McCain ... Biden's first stop in Denver is for takeout barbecue; earlier wishes Amtrak "family" well ... Thune says he is out of the running to be McCain's pick for No. 2

AP - Republicans are debating an election platform that differs in at least one striking way from the past — it's purged of the dear-leader tributes that turned statements of party principles into an incessant hailing of the chief.

AP - Republican presidential candidate John McCain on Monday called rival Barack Obama his "very honorable opponent" as he began a busy week of low-key events while Democrats prepared to nominate Obama.

AP - Ailing Sen. Edward M. Kennedy prepared to rally Democrats with an appearance at the opening of the Democratic National Convention on Monday as Democrats struggled to present a unified front amid tensions left over from their bruising primary battle.

AP - Presumptive Republican nominee John McCain gave a nod Monday to Democratic rival Barack Obama as his "very honorable opponent" upon the opening of his national nominating convention, and collected the backing of a celebrated Hispanic entertainer.

AP - Ted Stevens, the longest-serving Republican in Senate history, faces six challengers Tuesday in Alaska's primary, but his recent indictment on corruption charges poses little threat to Stevens' quest for the GOP nomination to seek a seventh full term.