Morning Buzz: Nov. 26, 2007

The Senate's No. 2 Republican will retire at the end of the year. Sen. Trent Lott, the minority whip, will resign to pursue "other opportunities." He was elected to his fourth term in 2006 and became whip, considered redemption for having to step down as the party's majority leader after making comments commending Sen. Strom Thurmond. His remarks made it look as though Lott supported Thurmond's previous pro-segregation policies.

Firefighters made progress today against the second wildfire this year to singe Malibu. Dozens of homes were destroyed in the Southern California blaze. Firefighters believe the fire was started by humans but are still investigating the possibility that it was set intentionally.

President Bush is preparing for tomorrow's Mideast gathering in Annapolis, Md., by inviting Israeli and Palestinian leaders to separate meetings at the White House. Bush is hoping to broker a Middle East peace deal.