US slips from 19 to 22 in latest ranking of perceived public corruption.

The possible GOP presidential candidate chided Obama's 'European-style' rule. But in Friday's speech at CPAC, Mitt Romney avoided a topic on which he may be vulnerable: health care.

The victory for protesters of all stripes in asserting a new Egyptian identity based on civic values can help other people in their struggle over identity.

AP - Fireworks burst over Tahrir Square and Egypt exploded with joy and tears of relief after pro-democracy protesters brought down President Hosni Mubarak with a momentous march on his palaces and state TV. Mubarak, who until the end seemed unable to grasp the depth of resentment over his three decades of authoritarian rule, finally resigned Friday and handed power to the military.

AP - Revelers swept joyously into the streets across the Middle East on Friday after Hosni Mubarak stepped down as Egypt's president. From Beirut to Gaza, tens of thousands handed out candy, set off fireworks and unleashed celebratory gunfire into the air.

AP - The Obama administration laid out three broad options Friday for reducing the government's role in the mortgage market. All three would almost certainly lead to higher interest rates and costs for borrowers.