After embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich's named Roland Burris to fill President-elect Barack Obama's vacant Senate seat, Democratic Senate leaders claim they will invoke their constitutional power to block the appointment. Analysts discuss the situation's legal and political implications.

Congressional leaders and the White House announced Thursday that they reached a deal on an economic stimulus package that would give most U.S. taxpayers refunds ranging from $600 to $1,200 and roll out tax breaks for businesses.