John Thune Takes Charge in the Senate, Ushering in a New Leadership Era

The affable traditional conservative from South Dakota is the first new chief of the Senate G.O.P. in nearly two decades. He will confront a challenge managing President-elect Donald J. Trump’s expectations.

What Trump’s Cabinet Picks Tell Us About His Second Term

President-elect Donald Trump is filling key cabinet positions with controversial picks at a breakneck speed. Jonathan Swan, senior political correspondent at The Times, explains why these choices are significant, even if they don’t all make it into office.

Trump Picks Scott Turner, Little-Known Official From First Term, to Lead HUD

The housing agency plays a central role in addressing the growing national affordability crisis.