Austin, a retired four-star Army general, served in the military for 40 years including as the first Black general to lead U.S. Central Command, which oversees military operations in the Middle East.
Avril Haines began her confirmation hearing by pledging to "never shy from speaking truth to power," an implicit criticism of President Trump's management of the country's vast intelligence network.
The Senate returns for the first time since the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol. Five committees will question nominees to lead Defense, State, Homeland Security, Treasury and the top intelligence post.
The conviction of some Christians that God has a particular plan for America gave extra potency to efforts in support of Trump's attempts to overturn his election defeat.
With the backdrop of the U.S. Capitol, where anger and fear are raw after the Jan. 6 riot, President-elect Biden will give his address on Inauguration Day. Biden has vowed to bring Americans together.
Authorities at the U.S. Capitol are on high alert. NPR's Noel King talks to National Guard Vice Chief Lt. Gen. Marc Sasseville about how the guard is helping to secure Inauguration Day events.
President-elect Biden's nominee for Secretary of State Tony Blinken will answer questions at Tuesday's hearing. He has promised to restore America's credibility on the world stage with humility.
It's President Trump' last full day in office. Senate panels consider five of President-elect Biden's cabinet nominees. Thousands of Honduran immigrants cross into Guatemala trying to reach the U.S.
President-elect Biden is heading to Washington from Delaware as President Trump works through his last full day in office. Washington, D.C. is locked down ahead of Wednesday's inaugural ceremonies.