Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, acting with finance ministers from the Group of Seven industrialized nations, Friday said the government will buy direct stakes in banks to stem a global financial collapse. Carolyn Lochhead

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The rough tactics being used by Republican Sen. John McCain's campaign are at odds with his longstanding pledge to run "a respectful campaign." Carla Marinucci

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• Alaska panel: Palin abused power
• Politics page

Former San Francisco supervisor, who resigned from office in January after state and federal prosecutors accused him of corruption, pleaded guilty to federal extortion and bribery charges Friday.

Former Finnish President Martti Ahtisaari was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday for his efforts to build a lasting peace from Africa and Asia to Europe and the Middle East.

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• Winner is former school teacher