Author Archive

Rebecca Nelson

Rebecca Nelson
Rebecca Nelson is a staff correspondent for National Journal. Her work has appeared in TIME, Chicago, Ms. and Washingtonian, where she previously covered all things D.C. Originally from Seattle, she graduated from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, and has lived and reported in Chicago, London, Los Angeles and New York.
Policy

Obama to Families of American Hostages: 'We Will Stand By You'

The president announced Wednesday that the government will no longer threaten prosecution for families who try to pay ransom to hostage-takers.

Policy

Obama on Iraq Troop Training: 'We Don’t Yet Have A Complete Strategy'

The president said in a press conference from the G-7 meeting Monday that the Pentagon is still waiting on 'commitments' from the Iraqi government.

Policy

The Glowing Optimism of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani

Ashraf Ghani praised U.S. support in his speech before Congress and promised to accelerate his country's move toward self-reliance.

Threats

White House To Delay Troop Withdrawal From Afghanistan

The Obama administration expects to keep 9,800 troops in the country through the end of 2015.

Policy

Romney: Don't Rule Out Boots on the Ground in Iraq

The former GOP presidential contender gave the president some advice on both foreign and domestic policy. By Rebecca Nelson

Policy

In UN Address, Netanyahu Compares Iran to ISIL

The Israeli prime minister called ISIL and Hamas 'branches of the same poisonous tree,' and said the UN's Human Rights Council is an 'oxymoron.' By Rebecca Nelson

Policy

Rand Paul Is Still Figuring Out His Middle East Policy

In a long speech on the Senate floor, the Kentucky Republican laid out a spotty foreign policy vision while taking swipes at members of his own party. By Rebecca Nelson

Threats

GOP Fears That ISIL Fighters Are Entering US Through Mexico Border

Despite some Republican fears, administration officials say ISIL fighters are more likely to enter the U.S. on a flight using Western passports than through Mexico. By Rebecca Nelson and Marina Koren