The recent government shutdown and struggle over raising the debt ceiling were the result of many factors. Big money in politics, congressional dysfunction, and geographical self-sorting by like-minded voters all played a role. So did redistricting. For those unfamiliar with redistricting, below are some common questions and answers. Also see our Citizen's Guide to Redistricting.

Truth in Media Project.

At the heart of the ongoing immigration reform debate is the question of the anticipated costs and benefits of reform. Assessing the impact of various reform proposals on economic growth, wages, and federal and state budgets is critical to making an informed judgment as to whether enactment of reform is in the best interests of the country.

Lyle Denniston looks at four potentially very significant new challenges under way to Obamacare, including one argument that is growing in popularity with the law’s critics.

From Lo-Fi to Mayfair, Instagram is no longer run by culture starved hipsters and #foodporn sharing Yelpers. Politicians, past and present, are signing on to the photo sharing app as a way to personally connect to their constituents.

Here are my picks for the top 5 politicians on Instagram in 2013.

A critical decision in the ongoing legal battle on abortion was handed down Monday. The ruling found that provisions in a law passed by the Texas Legislature, House Bill 2, were unconstitutional due to conflicts with a doctor's right to treat their patients as per his/her medical expertise and that it unreasonably restricted one's access to an abortion.

The judgement was given Monday by U.S. District Judge Lee Yeakel:

McCormick is the second independent candidate to enter the race along with Evan Falchuk, the candidate for the newly founded United Independent Party. He is also not the only venture capitalist in the race as Charlie Baker, the only Republican in the race so far, joined the firm General Catalyst after an unsuccessful 2010 campaign for governor.

Would a government really fine a family $500 a day for planting a garden in their front yard? That’s what Jason and Jennifer Helvenston wondered as they decided to fight for their veggies in a battle to keep their front yard garden - a symbol of sustainability and sound budgeting in this trying economy.