In its cost, duration, competitiveness and breadth of citizen involvement, this nomination battle stands alone in the history of American presidential politics.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said that four Navy ships waiting to deliver aid would probably be withdrawn soon.
A nasty battle has raised hopes among Democrats that this might just be the year they flip a seat that has been reliably Republican.
Members of Trinity United Church of Christ said they were saddened, but not angered, by Senator Barack Obama’s choice to leave the church.