WASHINGTON — The question surfaces each time a mass murder unfolds: Will this one change the political calculus in Washington against tougher gun control?

EDITOR'S NOTE _ An occasional look at political claims that take shortcuts with the facts or don't tell the full story

WASHINGTON — We're heavier in pounds and hotter by degrees than Americans of old. We're starting to snub our noses at distant suburbs after generations of burbs in our blood. Our roads and bridges are kind of a mess. There are many more poor, and that's almost sure to get worse.

Editor's note -- An occasional look at statements by political candidates and how well they adhere to the facts.

Editor's note -- An occasional look at statements by political candidates and how well they adhere to the facts.

Editor's note -- An occasional look at statements by political candidates and how well they adhere to the facts.

WASHINGTON - The nation's caustic political climate has become a suspect of sorts in the rampage that left six dead and a lawmaker critically injured in Arizona. Already, appeals are being heard to tone down the rhetoric.