A Republican president is helping advance what has long been a Democratic priority as part of a defense bill. Not all Republicans are thrilled about it.

The Tories now have the biggest majority since Margaret Thatcher's win in 1987, all but ensuring the United Kingdom will exit the European Union in January.

The federal labor law board said McDonald's should not be held liable for labor practices of its franchisees. The ruling directed a judge to approve a settlement in a years-long union case.

The agreement would fund programs through the end of September 2020 and avoid a government shutdown. Federal agencies run out of money at midnight on Dec. 20.