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Bernard Madoff: Behind Bars Mar 12, 2009

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Bernard Madoff violated the trust and burned up the fortunes of 4800 people. He's likely to spend the rest of his life behind bars. But until now, has he been protected -- by a de-regulated financial system and a culture of greed? Also, the Iraqi shoe-thrower gets three years, and another Obama appointee steps down, this time from a high-level intelligence job.

Climate Change and Nuclear Power Mar 11, 2009

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Climate change and the need for clean energy might revive America's nuclear industry but, will it? High cost and the fear of terrorism are still major issues, and without Nevada's Yucca Mountain, deadly nuclear waste has no place to go. Also, President Obama's big earmark problem, and the UN has been marking time on illegal drugs.

The Global Recession Brings Global Insecurity Mar 10, 2009

Show notes

Forget the "axis of evil." Economic recession now threatens political upheaval in important parts of the world, with national security consequences here in the US. We look at potential sources of trouble today. Is Washington paying attention? Also, stocks rally on news from Citibank, and the Dalai Lama calls Tibet a "hell on earth."

Income Redistribution: Basic Fairness or 'Class Warfare?' Mar 09, 2009

Show notes

The Obama budget and tax plan would shift America's wealth from the top down. Is it time to close the gap between rich and poor or would increased taxes stifle growth by removing incentives for the wealthy to keep on working? Are there other causes of income inequality? Also, a turnaround on stem-cell research, and a promise to crack down on defense contractors. Is Obama up to the job?

Barack Obama, Technology and the Internet Mar 06, 2009

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Telecommunications technology is changing so fast that federal regulators can barely keep up. We talk about Internet access, neutrality and openness as seen by the Obama Administration. Also, unemployment reaches an “astounding” level, and the return of daylight savings.

Could AIG Wreck the Global Economy? Mar 05, 2009

Show notes

American Insurance Group, the world's biggest insurance company, is getting history's biggest bailout. But where are almost $200 billion in taxpayer dollars ending up? The Federal Reserve told a senate committee today that going public could destroy AIG, putting at risk the world's financial system. We update the hearing and get the background. Also, “substantial doubt” about GM's ability to survive, and Russia and Iran are on the agenda as Hillary Clinton attends her first meeting of NATO.

Tracking the Great Recession, Region by Region Mar 04, 2009

Show notes

No place in America is recession proof, but some places are being hit much harder than others. Today we find out where it's worst and why, and ask what communities will need most to help them to bounce back. Also, new details on the Obama Administration's foreclosure prevention program, and a sitting head of state is indicted for crimes against humanity.

America's 'New Path' in the Middle East Mar 03, 2009

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The Obama Administration says it's cutting a "new path" toward Middle East peace. With Israel and the Palestinians both divided among themselves, we hear about outreach to Syria, Turkey and even Iran. Also, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown becomes the first European leader to visit President Obama, and the Church of Rome and the Theory of Evolution.

Is It Time to Cease Fire in the War on Drugs? Mar 02, 2009

Show notes

Three former South American presidents are among those who’ve asked the United States for a "paradigm shift" in the so-called "War on Drugs." New York and California are already moving in that direction. Is it wasting billions of dollars while addiction and violence increase? Would legalization perpetuate a dangerous cycle and make matters worse? Also, the government tries to keep AIG afloat, and lost Chinese relics and Yves St. Laurent. Who's the real owner.

Religious Violence and Political Turmoil in Pakistan Feb 27, 2009

Show notes

More US troops will go to Afghanistan, but US diplomacy is focused on that country together with Pakistan. We hear about Pakistan’s deal with Muslim extremists and ask best-selling author Greg Mortenson what he’s telling the US military about the remote provinces of both countries. Also, the President outlines the end to the war in Iraq, and the Obama budget as a massive political gamble.

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