Hamas urges attacks...Richardson bows out...Burris heading to DC

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) The mastermind of Hamas' takeover of Gaza says the Israelis "have legitimized the killing of their children by killing our children." He's been seen on TV urging Palestinians to "crush" Israeli forces and target Israeli civilians.

WASHINGTON (AP) President-elect Barack Obama is hoping to have an economic stimulus package on his desk soon after he's sworn in.

Democratic leaders say mid-February could work. Obama has meetings set up with lawmakers from both parties throughout the day today to talk about that package.

WASHINGTON (AP) New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson is out as the nominee to be the next commerce secretary. Richardson pulled his name from consideration as a federal grand jury looks into how one of his political donors landed a lucrative New Mexico transportation contract.

CHICAGO (AP) Senate appointee Roland Burris travels to Washington today even as Democratic leaders continue to say he won't be seated. Burris says he is "now the junior Senator from the state of Illinois." Opponents say the appointment is tainted because it was made by embattled Gov. Rod Blagojevich (blah-GOY'-uh-vich).

BEIJING (AP) China says it's launching a major crackdown on Internet pornography. A statement on its official government Web site says the aim is to "purify the Internet's cultural environment and protect the healthy development of minors."


(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 01-05-09 0637CST | save this article / add to your favorites list