What's Next

Afghanistan Force Seeking boots on the ground NATO commanders have asked for 2,500 more troops to fight the Taliban before the harsh winter hinders their efforts. Allied Defense Ministers are expected to reply at a meeting next week.

Border Closing Congress okays 700-mile fence The House approved plans to build fencing along part of the U.S.-Mexico border, the first in a series of security bills lawmakers hope to pass before breaking for the midterm-election season.

Ney to Plead Guilty Congressman faces prison G.O.P. Representative Bob Ney, accused of taking bribes and lying to Congress, is expected to be the first lawmaker to admit guilt in the Jack Abramoff lobbying scandal when he appears in court Oct. 13.

Cycling Scandals New doping investigation begins As Floyd Landis seeks dismissal of his case, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency is looking into another cyclist--Tyler Hamilton, right, whose two-year ban on a doping charge ends this week.

Getting to Harvard Will the admissions change stick? Harvard may call off its decision to end early admissions next fall--a move aimed at helping poor and minority students--if the quality of applicants drops or other colleges fail to follow suit.