But if he displays still more of his new-found flexibility, and is rewarded with some from nationalists and republicans on the other side of Ulster's sectarian divide, Mr Trimble may yet face down anti-agreement foes and continue to carry the majority of unionists with him.

ECONOMIST: The first minister��s first day

Now, a Lebanese artist is presenting a play that openly addresses the issues that divide the country, challenging the Lebanese audience to face their past and present.

NPR: Play Challenges Lebanese to Face Past, Present

It's a status quo that extends beyond any particular party and right now that status quo is fighting back with everything it's got, with the same old tactics that divide and distract us from solving the problems people face, whether those problems are health care that folks can't afford or a mortgage they cannot pay.

CNN: Obama speech: 'Yes, we can change'

Heated debate by committee members on Thursday showed the partisan divide over gun legislation, as well as the challenge supporters face in getting any substantive measures through Congress.

CNN: Senate panel passes ban on assault-style weapons