The problem with the Senate is much less the rules than the broader culture, leading to more polarization, less comity, more ideological division, and less institutional identity.

Democrats are sure—absolutely sure—that a government shutdown stemming from a budget fight will play right into their hands. But with a president whose polls are dropping just as fast as his ability to sell an agenda, Dems are wrong to accept any argument that boils down to "Well, that’s the way it always works."

We need to be better prepared if and when further escalation occurs in the middle east.

Obama's coalition has come apart recently, as Republicans gain an advantage with women, support among young voters is stagnating, and indispensable independents have almost completely abandoned Obama and his party.

The federal government should pursue assistance programs that actually make sense.

The strengthening of market discipline should be the central objective in shaping policy for the resolution of large, complex financial institutions.

J. M. Barrie's famous 1904 play, Peter Pan or the Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up, reflected the difficulty of the young entering the adult world in Victorian times. The story, still enormously popular, made the refusal to grow up sound charming. Far less charming is the thwarted transition to adulthood...

Larry Miller's newest book is a joyful, grateful meditation on America and the good things in life.