Senate

McCain.Poker.jpg

** FILE ** Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., plays a hand held poker game during a Senate hearing on Syria, Tuesday, September 3, 2013. (Image: CNN screen shot)

9_4_2013_desk-candy-drawer8201.jpg

The candy desk, which consistently needs the most maintenance, stands in the back row on the Republican side, close to the most heavily used entrance to the Senate chamber. (senate.gov PHOTOGRAPHS)

9_4_2013_desk-mcconnell8201.jpg

Some desks are considered such historical treasures that the Senate has passed legislation officially assigning them: The "Clay desk" goes to the senior senator from Kentucky.

9_2_2013_florida-daily-life-58201.jpg

Heritage Foundation President Jim DeMint is trying to wield conservative power outside the Senate. (Associated Press)

8_202013_ap5781590920588201.jpg

Boyd Marcus (right) is a longtime Republican adviser who has supported campaigns such as the failed Senate bid of GOP candidate George Allen last year. (Associated press)

Screen Shot 2013-07-30 at 4.34.55 AM.png

Fresno cherry farmer and cattle rancher Andy Vidak, who is fluent in Spanish, said he captured the state Senate seat in last week's closely watched runoff vote by connecting with Hispanic voters with a "common-sense" approach that focused on job creation, affordable energy and opposition to big government. (Screen grab from VidakforSenate.com)