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Balancing State Budgets or Union Busting? Feb 24, 2011

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Republican governors in several states continue their face-off with organized public workers. Is it just about their budgets? What's the role of partisan politics? How do Americans feel about the value of unions? Also, the opposition closes in on the Libyan capital, and General Motors turns a profit.

The Case of Raymond Davis and a Crisis Between Two Uneasy allies; Washington and Islamabad. Feb 23, 2011

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The case of CIA spy Raymond Davis raises a host of issues, including: competition between US and Pakistani intelligence agencies; Congressional frustration with foreign aid; and Pakistan’s buildup of its nuclear arsenal.

Libya at a Bloody Crossroads Feb 22, 2011

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Estimates of the numbers dead in Libya are reaching into the hundreds: protesters killed by soldiers and by mercenaries from other countries.

Wisconsin and the Rights of Government Employees Feb 21, 2011

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In Wisconsin, the dispute continues between a new Republican Governor and public workers. Will it spread to other states? Is it part of a national campaign to prevent government employees from forming unions? Also, Libya's government opens fire on civilians. On Reporter's Notebook, once deposed by his people, where can a dictator go?

Watson Wins Jeopardy, but Is His Intelligence Artificial? Feb 18, 2011

Show notes

The IBM computer Watson wasn't perfect on Jeopardy this week, but it was good enough to defeat two champion human beings. What's new and different about Watson? Can artificial intelligence really cope with complex reality? Also, crackdowns continue on anti-government protesters in the Middle East. On Reporter's Notebook, the Governor of Wisconsin, public employees and President Obama.

Republicans Vote to Slash the Federal Budget Feb 17, 2011

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Republicans have promised to cut 100 billion dollars out of this year’s spending. But, despite Tea-Party fervor, that’s easier said than done.

A New Paradigm in the Middle East Feb 16, 2011

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Since people power ousted Mubarak of Egypt, protesters have taken to the streets in Bahrain, Yemen, Algeria, Jordan, Libya and Iran.

Republicans Set Their Sights on NPR and PBS Feb 15, 2011

Show notes

The audience for National Public Radio has been growing fast, but Republicans want to defund it, along with Public TV. We hear about ideological issues and about different consequences for urban centers and rural areas that don’t have alternatives. Also, President Obama holds forth on Egypt and budget cuts. On Reporter's Notebook, is the New York Stock Exchange being swallowed up?

Obama, Republicans Bring Out the Budget Knives Feb 14, 2011

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President Obama calls his latest budget proposal a "responsible alternative" to massive cuts demanded by Tea Party Republicans. Will the upcoming battle shut down the government? Also, a Middle East update.

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak Steps Down Feb 11, 2011

Show notes

Less than 24 hours after disappointing massive crowds of Egyptians, President Hosni Mubarak electrified his country tonight by stepping down after all. One of the most entrenched dictators in the Arab world has been toppled by People Power.

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