According to a Gallup Poll conducted early this month, Americans believe that North Korea, Iran, and Iraq—the “axis of evil” countries from President Bush’s January 2002 State of the Union address—are the greatest enemies of the United States today. Iraq was seen as the biggest threat prior to 2002, but now 26 percent of Americans feel Iran is. Iraq is considered the second greatest threat at 21 percent, and North Korea is third at 18 percent. This is the second year Iran trumps Iraq and North Korea as Enemy #1 in American opinion.
Top lawmakers on Capitol Hill announced Dec. 2 that they have reached a deal to extend the continuing resolution funding the government into February. Now, the House and Senate will have to scramble to pass the legislation by 11:59 p.m. Dec. 3 to avoid a temporary shutdown.