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Revolution Day in Iran Splits Populace Feb 11, 2010

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On the thirty-first anniversary of the Islamic revolution, Iran is marked by ongoing turmoil. There's pressure within from a protest movement that wants regime change, and pressure without from an international community that wants to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions. Guest host Sara Terry explores how the revolution has changed Iran and Iranians. What role do the clerics who led the revolution play in the country today? Also, an "angry" dissatisfaction with Washington, and an anniversary of a different kind. Twenty years ago today Nelson Mandela became a free man.

Help for Haiti?: The Work Has Just Begun Feb 10, 2010

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It's been almost a month since a 7.0 earthquake hit Haiti. Aid workers are still struggling to cope with a situation that some have described as worse than the 2004 tsunami. Guest host Sara Terry explores humanitarian efforts. What aid is reaching people? Who still needs help? What are the biggest challenges? Also, Greeks strike over austerity measures, and revising the psychiatrists' “bible” and what that means for diagnosing disorders.

Putting on the Brakes: Are Government Regulators Doing Their Job? Feb 09, 2010

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With its Prius recall and problems with a sticking accelerator pedal, Toyota is front and center in the news. But regulations run far and wide in the life of the American consumer. There are hundreds of state and federal agencies that are supposed to make our lives safer. Guest host Sara Terry asks whether they really do the job. Also, of tea and Sarah Palin. Checking in with the grassroots right.

Terror on Trial: Politics as Usual Feb 08, 2010

Show notes

In a mid-term election year, is political rhetoric obscuring the real issues in the debate of trying the alleged Christmas Day bomber? Republicans have attacked the Obama Administration's decision to prosecute Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab in civilian court, and administration officials are fighting back. Sara Terry guest hosts. Also, Iran raises international alarm with its uranium enrichment plans, and thanks to the Saints, New Orleans will "let the good times roll."

Britain Loves PMQ's, Is It Time for a US Version? Feb 05, 2010

Show notes

Britain’s Prime Minister must take public questions from opponents in Parliament once a week. After President Obama wowed Washington with his Q&A with Republicans, a bipartisan group asked him to do the same thing here, but the White House said no. Can Congress demand a “President’s Questions?” Guest host Matt Miller asks whether direct dialogue would reduce the political polarization in the US. Is there an audience for nuance? Also, a slow recovery despite decreasing unemployment, and it's not just ads for products at this year's Super Bowl.

Can Tea Parties Brew Real Political Change? Feb 04, 2010

Show notes

Tea partiers are opposed to federal spending, healthcare reform, Wall Street banks and dinners featuring steak and lobster. They don't like Democrats or even Republicans. What are they for? Can they organize to make a political difference in this election year? We look for some answers as the Tea Party convention opens in Nashville. Also, now it's the Prius' brakes, and despite the recession, healthcare spending is jumping up faster than ever — approaching 20% of the entire economy.

For Toyota, How Bad Will It Get? Feb 03, 2010

Show notes

With sales of Toyota vehicles already on the decline, new safety questions are being raised today. We look at the latest claims, how Toyota has responded over the years and what it will take to restore a tarnished corporate image. Also, Senate Democrats and Obama do a Q&A, and in Iran, an anniversary, a space program and the prospect of international sanctions.

The Battle over the Budget in an Election Year Feb 02, 2010

Show notes

The federal budget is more than a spending plan. It's also a statement about priorities in an election year. We hear about President Obama's latest proposals and the likely debates about unemployment, the deficit and the role of government in an election year. Also, changing military policy on 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' and China says the Obama Administration is trying to "undermine" relations.

What's the Outlook for Peace in Afghanistan? Feb 01, 2010

Show notes

NATO's latest strategy in Afghanistan is to forget trying for a military victory and to concentrate on "reintegration" and "reconciliation." We talk with the deputy to General Stanley McCrystal and others about what that means and how it might be accomplished. Also, President Obama's new budget, and his plans for 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.'

The War Is On; Where's the Army? Jan 29, 2010

Show notes

The Obama campaign motivated some 13 million volunteers, but many now feel abandoned by the Obama White House. Has he failed to build a movement to push his agenda or has Washington changed him more than he has changed Washington? Also, the President's Q&A with the GOP, and Tony Blair in a public defense of Britain's role in the war on Saddam Hussein.

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