Stay tuned ... you may get a summer break, but the news doesn't. Here are some stories to keep an eye on.

• Author: Smith, Patricia
• Position: SUMMER 2012

1. PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

   Now that Mitt Romney appears headed for the Republican nomination, attention is shifting to the general election against his Democratic opponent, President Barack Obama, in November. After trying to appeal to more-conservative Republicans, who vote heavily in the primaries, Romney may now adjust his message to attract middle-of-the-road independent voters--who are often the deciding factor in presidential elections.

   While the candidates will certainly debate foreign policy, national security, and other issues, the election looks likely to hinge on the economy: If the recovery picks up steam, voters are more likely to give the president a second term; if not, they may decide new leadership is needed in Washington.

   A big decision for Romney will be choosing a running mate. Although the vice presidency is often mocked, even by men who've held the job--John Adams famously called it "the most insignificant office" ever invented--running mates can make a difference. Senator John McCain's selection of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin in 2008, for example, did him no good in the race against Obama and Joe Biden.

   Possibilities for Romney's No. 2 spot include Senator Marco Rubio of Florida and Senator Rob Portman of Ohio. But nothing, including Romney's nomination, will be official until the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida, which begins August 27. (The Democrats are expected to renominate President Obama the following week at their convention in Charlotte, North Carolina.)

2. THE ECONOMY

   Technically, the economy is recovering, but to the 13 million Americans still unemployed, it doesn't feel that way.

   Both the stock market and consumer spending have rebounded in recent months, giving economists reason for optimism. But the housing market, a key part of the economy, remains weak. And businesses seem hesitant to hire new workers, so the unemployment rate remains around 8 percent. If gas prices continue their climb during summer vacation season, it could hamper the recovery: When drivers pay more at the pump, they have less money to spend elsewhere.

3. THE MIDDLE EAST

   Tensions are running high with Iran, which continues to defy the U.S. and the United Nations by pursuing its nuclear program. A new round of tough economic sanctions will take full effect this summer; the idea is to force Iran back to the negotiating table.

   But Israel, which considers Iran's hardline Islamic government a threat to its existence, could take...