Politics: Afternoon Edition: Does Mitt Romney's bad trip overseas matter?

If you have difficulty viewing this newsletter, click here to view as a Web page. Click here to view in plain text. Tuesday, July 31, 2012 HEADLINES THE FIX: Does Mitt Romney's bad trip matter? The assessments of the trip to London, Israel and Poland ranged from scathing to resigned among the Republican professional political class. But will it hurt him? » Read full article Romney aide to reporters: 'Shove it' When a journalist noted that Romney has taken almost no questions from his traveling press corps throughout the foreign trip, Romney spokesman Rick Gorka retorted, "Kiss my ass." » Read full article Rep. LaTourette to retire, citing polarization The Ohio Republican told reporters that to rise in party ranks, politicians must now hand over "your wallet and your voting card" to party extremes, and he is not willing to do so. » Read full article IN THE LOOP: Why a candidate's staff matters In 2008, Obama campaign loaded up on staff firepower, while this year's Romney camp had a relative ghost crew. » Read full article THE FIX: The case for Rob Portman to be vice president With the day of reckoning rapidly approaching, we continue our "case for/case against" treatment of the top contenders for the VP pick. » Read full article QUOTE OF THE DAY Romney spokesman Rick Gorka responding to reporters shouting questions to Mitt Romney in Poland: "Kiss my ass. This is a Holy site for the Polish people. Show some respect." MULTIMEDIA Video: Approval-rating precedents paint grim picture for Obama reelection If you take a look at other recent incumbents seeking reelection, President Obama's low approval rating doesn't bode well for his prospects this November. The Washington Post's Felicia Sonmez breaks down the numbers. Get The Washington Post, your way. Want to stay on top of the latest news, features, commentary and more? Here's how: Mobile: Alerts: Social Media: Applications Web site E-mail SMS RSS Feeds Facebook Twitter SEND TO A FRIEND UNSUBSCRIBE E-NEWSLETTER CENTER GET HELP Washington Post Digital E-mail Customer Care 1150 15th Street NW Washington, D.C. 20071 ©2012 The Washington Post Privacy Policy