The discovery of two "drug catapults" in the Mexican state of Sonora marks the latest twist in the cat-and-mouse game traffickers play with authorities.

The economy gained strength at the end of last year as Americans spent at the fastest pace in four years and U.S. companies sold more overseas. The growth is boosting hopes for a stronger 2011. But it remains too weak to ease high unemployment.

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Senate stood ready Thursday to reject an effort to restrict filibusters, those familiar blockades that sow gridlock and discord

SANAA, Yemen (AP) — Tens of thousands of Yemenis demanded the president step down in nationwide protests Thursday, taking inspiration from the popular revolt in Tunisia and vowing to continue until their U.S.-backed government falls.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The government-appointed panel investigating the roots of the financial crisis says the meltdown occurred because government officials and Wall Street executives ignored warning signs and failed to manage risks.

NEW YORK (AP) -- A storm that had been predicted for days caught much of the East Coast off guard with its ferocity, tearing through with lightning, thunder and mounds of wet snow

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Social Security's finances are getting worse as the economy struggles to recover and millions of baby boomers stand at the brink of retirement.

HOUSTON (AP) -- Police stood guard as an ambulance took Rep. Gabrielle Giffords from intensive care to a rehabilitation hospital in Houston on Wednesday, an encouraging step that came after doctors upgraded her condition from serious to good.

WASHINGTON (AP) -- A continuing weak economy and last month's bipartisan tax cut legislation will drive the government's deficit to a record $1.5 trillion this year, a new government estimates predicts.

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- President Barack Obama sought to put a fresh face on his revamped economic message Wednesday, singling out three Wisconsin factories the White House says would benefit from the administration's new emphasis on innovation and infrastructure improvements.