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Grading No Child Left Behind Jan 22, 2007

Show notes

With presidential candidates already lining up in both parties, will education be a defining issue in next year's campaign? We assess the pros and cons of No Child Left Behind. Plus, more deaths in Iraq--including two US marines, and on Reporter's Notebook, the growing lineups in both political parties exactly a year before the primary voting begins.

The Doomsday Clock Moves Nearer Midnight Jan 19, 2007

Show notes

Global warming has been added to rumors of nuclear war as the "Doomsday Clock" is moved two minutes closer to midnight. Are recent predictions of catastrophe equally credible? Are they more likely than scenarios human kind has already survived? Does popular culture promote understanding or increase unreasonable fears? Plus, violent storms have claimed lives and disrupted travel throughout Europe, and a tacky British TV show becomes an international incident.

Obama Begins Bid for the White House Jan 18, 2007

Show notes

Illinois Senator Barak Obama ways he will introduce legislation for a "phased redeployment" of US troops in Iraq. Is that the "new kind of politics" that Obama says will trump inexperience in his run for president? Will black Americans identify with a man who shares their color but not their culture? Plus, the White House makes concessions on its domestic eavesdropping program, and weather all over the country is just different enough to raise questions about global warming.

Is the US Gearing Up for War with Iran? Jan 17, 2007

Show notes

As President Bush sends more troops to Iraq, he's also doubling America's air and sea power in the Persian Gulf. Is it "gunboat diplomacy" against Iran? What are the chances of a wider war in the Middle East? Plus, there's pressure on President Bush to take action on global warming, and Cuba's healthcare system has been called the envy of the world, but it's reported that a doctor from Spain has been called to treat Fidel Castro.

A Shaky Start for the New Way Forward Jan 16, 2007

Show notes

As Condoleezza Rice tours the Middle East, Egypt says it supports the President's New Way Forward. Saudi Arabia is decidedly lukewarm. We get a progress report on a delicate selling job. How worried are Arab governments about Iran's rising influence and their own people? Plus, jury selection begins the "Scooter" Libby trial, and California's cold snap means oranges will be more expensive--as soon as next week.

Affirmative Action and Racial Balance in Public Schools Jan 15, 2007

Show notes

Dr. Martin Luther King's goal of equal opportunity is still controversial in 21st Century America. Are race preferences necessary--or unconstitutional--to achieve integration? We'll look at pending Supreme Court cases that could mean the end of affirmative action. Plus, another grisly execution in Iraq, and Dr. Martin Luther King and the importance of non-violence.

Can US Get Out of the Green Zone?; Reaction to Chavez Jan 12, 2007

Show notes

The President's New Way Forward will not only increase American troops in Iraq, but get the civilian reconstruction effort out of the Green Zone. Is it about time or too little too late? Also, Hugo Chavez claims he'll nationalize major industries and make Venezuela a socialist state. Can he accomplish his populist goals? Is he a threat to America's interests in Latin America?

The President's 'New Way Forward' in Iraq Jan 11, 2007

Show notes

President Bush's plans are going ahead to send 21,500 additional US troops to fight in Iraq. Three Republican Senators said today they aren't buying into the program. We talk about the new mission, the prospects of getting it accomplished and the likelihood that Iraq's government will meet the President's "benchmarks." Then, can the world's biggest sports star finally make soccer a major factor in the United States?

In New Orleans: First Katrina, Now Violent Crime Jan 10, 2007

Show notes

Still devastated in the aftermath of Katrina, New Orleans is now in the throes of a violent crime wave. With Mardi Gras less than six weeks away, we hear about a spate of murders and a lack of police. Plus, Somalia becomes the lates front on the US war on terror, and President Bush tonight will acknowledge mistakes and blame Iraq for "handcuffing" US forces with "political interference."

Violence Mounts among Palestinians as Israeli Divide Grows Jan 09, 2007

Show notes

The United States wants to revive the Middle East peace process at a moment when Palestinians are ready for civil war and Israeli's don't trust their own government. Will the threat of Iran get so-called "moderate" Arab governments to help out? Does the road to regional stability run through Jerusalem after all? Plus, Iraqi and US forces kill 50 militants in central Baghdad, and will California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger provide a national model for healthcare?

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