To the Point

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The Pitch Is History, Did He Make the Sale? Sep 10, 2009

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Last night's address to Congress was called a "make or break" moment for the presidency of Barack Obama, but it's one part of an ongoing process. We look at the speech, the immediate reaction and what might happen next. Also, Sarah Palin, death panels and Afghanistan.

Big Money and the Right to Free Speech Sep 09, 2009

Show notes

An attack film called Hillary: The Movie is at the heart of a case that could change the way political campaigns have been financed for more than 100 years. We hear about today's extraordinary session of the US Supreme Court, the first for the new Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Also, the capture of a New York Times Reporter illustrates the escalating danger in Afghanistan. On Reporter's Notebook, can the US afford human exploration in space?

The August Recess Is Finally Over Sep 08, 2009

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Congress is back after the August recess, faced with the same problems it failed to address in July. We hear about healthcare, global warming, finance reform — partisan Republicans and divided Democrats. Also, President Obama speaks to America's school children, and an official finding of widespread "fraud" in Afghanistan's presidential election.

A Medical Miracle with Conflicting Consequences Sep 07, 2009

Show notes

Eighty million baby boomers are reaching their late 50's. Will an aging population burden the young or use the wisdom that comes from experience to create a better society? On this archived edition of To the Point, originally broadcast in April of this year, we look at the pros and cons of an aging America. Also, an update on healthcare reform, and a status report on the labor movement in 2009.

Programming note: This program will be not air on KCRW as it will be pre-empted by special Labor Day programming. It will be available as a podcast and on-demand, and will be archived online.

Convicted Bomber Released but Lockerbie Case Far from Over Sep 04, 2009

Show notes

Scotland has released the only man convicted of the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103. Critics claim the British government was motivated by interest in Libya's oil reserves. Meantime, some observers still question the 2001 conviction of Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed al-Megrahi, who's now being treated in Libya for terminal prostate cancer. How much will ever be known about the actual Lockerbie incident and the release of the man sentenced to life in prison for the deaths of 270 people? Sara Terry guest hosts. Also, NATO airstrikes in Afghanistan kill scores of people, and reading, writing – and politics.

Healthcare Reform 2.0: Obama Prepares to Re-charge the Debate Sep 03, 2009

Show notes

Barack Obama is attempting to regain control of the debate on healthcare reform. His proposals drew criticism from conservatives at a series of town hall meetings in August, and Republican senators, once considered potential partners in bi-partisanship, have openly attacked the plan. Guest host Sara Terry considers the prospects for reform, the President's strategy in his speech to Congress next week, and whose support he'll need to win. Also, Iran's parliament approves President Ahmadinejad's cabinet, and a look back at Teddy Kennedy -- in his own words.

Are Hearts and Minds Being Won or Lost in Afghanistan? Sep 02, 2009

Show notes

The latest US strategy against the Taliban calls for winning the hearts and minds of the Afghan people. But complaints of election fraud threaten the credibility of President Hamid Karzai, and contractors guarding the US embassy, have shocked Afghan sensibilities. We update developments as support in the US is on the decline for what’s called "Barack Obama's war." Also, Pfizer is fined $2.3 billion for illegal marketing of drugs, and reassessing piracy.

Too Big to Fail - and Still Growing Sep 01, 2009

Show notes

Banks that were "too big to fail" were rescued from the consequences of bad decisions with taxpayer money. They're beginning to pay it back but, at the same time, they've grown bigger than ever. What does that mean for consumers? Can government get the banks under control before they get reckless again? Also, an update on the fires that are ravaging southern California, and big change in Japan.

Hurricane Katrina and Medical Choice in Extreme Emergencies Aug 31, 2009

Show notes

The US is faced with a possible flu epidemic this fall, and plans are being made for extreme emergencies. If medical facilities are overwhelmed, who gets access first? Who makes that decision? What can be learned from what happened in New Orleans after Katrina? Also, an update on deadly Los Angeles-area wildfires, and President Obama's commanding general assesses Afghanistan.

Offshore Wind Power: The Promises and the Realities Aug 28, 2009

Show notes

Offshore wind is an alternative energy source touted by the Obama Administration. But plans may be delayed by controversy over a project planned for waters off Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard, where the President's on vacation. We hear about green power and global warming, natural beauty and the tourist economy, and what's at stake for America's energy future. Also, Iranian President Ahmadinejad wants opposition leaders prosecuted, and a kidnapping victim is found -- 18 years later.

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