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Is the Fight against Global Warming a Losing Battle? Jan 29, 2009

Show notes

Scientists now say climate change can’t be reversed for 1000 years, even if greenhouse gases are cut to pre-industrial levels. What does that mean for green technology? Should the consumer economy be reduced instead of expanded? Also, Governor Blagojevich on his impeachment trial, and the Postal Service is threatening to drop a day of deliveries. Is it crying wolf?

Job Cuts Are Taking Their Toll Jan 28, 2009

Show notes

Some 2.5 million Americans lost their jobs in 2008, and this year three million more are likely to be laid off. We look at the impact of unemployment across the country. What will it take to get the next job in a restructured economy? Also, President Obama's envoy is in Jerusalem as fighting flares, a Super Bowl ad is more than just a commercial.

Economic Stimulus and the Promise of Bipartisanship Jan 27, 2009

Show notes

Barack Obama said he'd restore the economy in a bipartisan way, but debate over his stimulus package sounds all too familiar. Also, President Obama and George Mitchell reach out to Arabs. On Reporter's Notebook, the first bill likely to be signed into law by President Obama.

Why Are US Troops in Afghanistan? Jan 26, 2009

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Barack Obama promised to get US troops out of Iraq and send more to Afghanistan. Vice President Biden says more casualties should be expected. We hear about deteriorating conditions and the risks of escalation. Also, President Obama directs the EPA to review fuel standards, and financial troubles for America’s premier newspaper, the New York Times.

America’s Capitol City and Urban Problems Nationwide Jan 23, 2009

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Washington, DC is a divided city. High officials, government workers and diplomats live and work in prosperous neighborhoods. The majority black population lives somewhere else. Barack Obama says he wants to bring the two together. Also today, two diplomatic envoys for troubled parts of the world. What’s in store for the Middle East and South Asia?

Will the Banking Crisis End with Nationalization? Jan 22, 2009

Show notes

Nobody wants the US government to take over the banking industry, but more and more people are saying it might happen. Three hundred billion dollars given to banks by the Bush Administration is hardly small change, but bank losses may add up to two trillion anyway. On Reporter's Notebook, opening up the records.

The Inaugural Address Heard Around the World Jan 21, 2009

Show notes

Tens of millions of people watched Barack Obama take office. News coverage, commentary and public opinion are as diverse as the audience. Today we’ll hear what’s being said in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa. On Reporter's Notebook, fast action on Guantanamo Bay and growing problems with Mexico.

America’s 44th Peaceful Transition of Power Jan 20, 2009

Show notes

After taking the oath of office on Abraham Lincoln’s bible, President Barack Hussein Obama called it “a moment that will define a generation.” On our program, we’ll discuss the Inaugural Address in the context of history and contemporary politics. And we’ll talk about what comes next.

The Dreams and the Realities of Black Americans Jan 19, 2009

Show notes

Barack Obama won 95% of the black vote in November’s election, but African Americans are anything but unanimous on what his election will mean. On Reporter's Notebook later on, a surprise Obama advisor and confidant: John McCain.

A Controversial Presidency Comes to an End Jan 16, 2009

Show notes

George W. Bush enjoyed 90% approval ratings after September 11th. There was widespread initial support for his war in Iraq. But he leaves office less popular than any outgoing president since Richard Nixon, and since the November elections he has tried to shape his own legacy. On Reporter's Notebook later on, jet airliners and migrating birds.

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