Republicans are struggling to figure out how or even whether to challenge or criticize Barack Obama as he prepares to assume the presidency.

Republicans and labor leaders oppose Gov. Jon S. Corzine’s proposal to allow the government to skip contributions of $584 million into pension funds in the coming year.

Republican Congressional leaders did not say they would oppose an economic recovery bill but warned against excessive spending.

Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki pleaded not guilty to four felony charges accusing him of mishandling a multibillion-dollar state college savings program in 2007 when he was state treasurer. Mr. Krolicki, a Republican, appeared in Clark County District Court in Las Vegas. He had been indicted on charges of misappropriation and falsification of accounts. No money is missing.

The reaction of some Republicans to a racially charged song about Barack Obama does the country no good.