BostonGlobe.com Political Headlines - January 2, 2013

• House OK's fiscal deal as GOP resistance wanes: Attempts within the Republican caucus to defeat or change a Senate bill that would lower taxes on virtually all Americans fizzled as the day wore on. Globe Washington bureau chief Christopher Rowland reports.

• In reversal, Senator Brown backs tax increase: Scott Brown had little choice but to vote for the Senate's fiscal plan and break his vow against raising taxes on anyone. Globe reporter Chelsea Conaboy outlines.

• Therese Murray planning an ambitious agenda: The state Senate president will offer an agenda that includes an expansion of early voting, welfare changes, and help for the transportation system. Globe politics reporter Noah Bierman covers.

• More towns designing flags to join State House display: Once flagless towns in the Commonwealth are adopting municipal flags, after a bit of coaxing from constituents and state lawmakers. Globe politics reporter Noah Bierman elaborates.

• Mayor William Lantigua finding support for 2d run: The Lawrence mayor's first term was marked by state and federal investigations, two recall attempts, and the indictments of two of his close allies. Globe reporter Maria Sacchetti profiles.

• People are truly good at heart? Sadly, no:
  Human nature has an inherently cruel component, and it's by controlling ourselves that we can create a better world. Globe columnist Jeff Jacoby writes.