Left, Right, and Center
-
The White House Scandal Trifecta: IRS, AP and Benghazi
It's a week of scandal for the administration. Is it much ado about nothing, or game over?
-
Benghazi, Immigration, the FBI and the Summer of Debt
Debating Benghazi, Immigration, the FBI's Flub, the Summer of Debt and the Great Gatsby
-
This... Is Interesting: The Arab Spring: Have We Missed...
"This... Is Interesting", a new program by Matt Miller, is now available as a podcast in iTunes. Enjoy the new show at http://kcrw.com/thisisinteresting
-
Two Economies, Immigration, Syria, and Second Term Woes
The Syrian ?red line? seems to have moved. Are good job numbers really that good? Congress looks again at immigration reform. And is Obama blowing his second term?
-
Syria, Boston and George W. Bush
Syria crosses the "red line," the Boston bomber's rights, George W. Bush's legacy.
-
This... Is Interesting: The Robots Are Coming!
"This... Is Interesting", a new program by Matt Miller, will be available as podcast soon. Until then, enjoy the new show at http://kcrw.com/thisisinteresting
-
The Latest from Boston, Gun Bills Go Down
The Boston investigation, gun control is defeated in the Senate
-
Gun Control and Immigration
Gun control in the Senate. Plus, immigration and entitlements.
-
A Dismal Jobs Report and the Morning After Pill
A Depressing Jobs Report, Unrestricted Birth Control, Kamala Harris's Looks and Social Security.
-
Same-Sex Marriage and the Immigration Speed Bump
The Supreme Court and same-sex marriage; plus immigration policy.
-
Israel, Nukes and the GOP
Obama in Israel, Iraq ten years later, and the GOP autopsy.
-
Left, Aequum et Centrum
A new Pope, new budgets, new cyber threats... the same big banks.
-
A Tale of Two Economies, Obama's Charm Offensive
Two economies, President Obama's charm offensive, the Rand Paul filibuster, and Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg leaning in.
-
Fiscal Cliff Forever; Saucy Scalia; and Double Pope
Sequester madness begins today, the Supreme Court takes on the Voting Rights Act and gay marriage, a tough-sentence for Bradley Manning, and coming soon: a new Pope.
-
Sequester Madness, Republicans Love Obamacare?...
Sequester madness, rethinking Republicans, the GOP turns Pro-Obamacare, an Oscar preview, and politicians behaving badly.
-
A Hagel Filibuster, SOTU, Pope and North Korea
A Hagel filibuster, Obama's big speech, North Korea's nuclear test, and a clash over the Pope.
-
Drones; SOTU; Rebranding the GOP; the Saturday Mail...
The war over drones, Republican rebranding, the State of the Union preview, and the postman won't even knock once on Saturdays.
-
Blah Jobs, Grilling Hagel and Immigration Reform
Another blah jobs report, Hagel on the firing line and is this the year for immigration reform?
-
Inauguration, CIA Leaks, and a New Cop at the SEC
Is Obama the liberal Reagan? Jail time for CIA leaks, Mary Jo White nominated to head SEC and sending women into combat.
-
Guns, Inauguration Day, and the GOP Retreat
President Obama unveiled his gun-control package this week - will it lower gun violence? Also, the GOP ponders the debt limit as Obama drafts his second inaugural address.
-
Was Afghanistan worth it? Chuck Hagel, Jack Lew and...
Karzai at the White House, was Afghanistan worth it? Nominating Chuck Hagel and Jack Lew, but where are the women? Joe Biden on gun reform. Should we mint a trillion dollar coin?
-
One Fiscal Cliff Down, Boehner, and Al Gore's Big Payday
The stop-gap fiscal cliff leaves nobody happy, Republicans open the 113th Congress with a fight, Google is not evil, and Al Gore cashes in.
-
Our Best Year Ever?
Our end-of-year special looks at asks whether 2012 was, in some ways, the best year ever, and compares the glasses that are half empty and the glasses that are half full.
-
Guns and the Naked Fiscal Cliff
The NRA breaks its silence about the school shootings in Connecticut by proposing armed security in schools; meantime, Speaker John Boehner's plan B goes nowhere.
-
School Shooting; Susan Rice Withdraws and More
School Shooting in Connecticut, Susan Rice withdraws, Obama on Pot, Bradley Manning, a little fiscal cliff, and the labor law in Michigan.
-
All Fiscal Cliff, All the Time
Is the brink of the cliff the new normal? Jobs remain stagnant as the fiscal cliff draws near.
-
Palestine, Rice and the Fiscal Cliff
The UN elevates the status of Palestine, Republicans continue to dis Susan Rice, Mitt tries the turkey chili, and a divided Washington glides toward the fiscal cliff.
-
Election Post-Mortem: LRC Live at the Broad
Matt Miller, Bob Scheer and Matthew Continetti's smart, impassioned, irreverent EXTENDED look at the presidential election that gave President Obama a second term.
-
Rockets near Jerusalem and Petraeus on the Hill
Rockets near Jerusalem, Petraeus on the Hill, leadership transition in China, and the death of the Twinkie.
-
LRC Live: The Definitive Post-Mortem of Election 2012
Matt Miller, Bob Scheer and Matthew Continetti's smart, impassioned and sometimes irreverent look at the presidential election that gave President Obama a second term?
-
A New American Majority and the Fiscal Cliff
A post-election conversation on the new American majority and the impending fiscal cliff.
-
Crunch Time for the Candidates
The final word of the presidential campaign includes jobs numbers, Sandy and political endorsements.
-
Change versus Romnesia
It's down to the wire for the presidential campaign. Is it change or Romnesia, hope or status quo that will energize the base?
-
Change versus Romnesia
It's down to the wire for the presidential campaign. Is it change or Romnesia, hope or status quo that will energize the base?
-
Debates Old and New, Newsweek and George McGovern
The last debate, the next debate, the demise of Newsweek and the meaning of George McGovern.
-
The Rorschach Debate
Parsing out the vice presidential debate becomes a Joe Biden Rorschach test.
-
The Rorschach Debate
Parsing out the vice presidential debate becomes a Joe Biden Rorschach test.
-
Jobs, Taxes and Debatable Behavior
An uplifting jobs report, and a big win for Mitt Romney at the first presidential debate make for an exciting week in American politics.
-
Jobs, Taxes and Debatable Behavior
An uplifting jobs report, and a big win for Mitt Romney at the first presidential debate make for an exciting week in American politics.
-
Presidential Debates; Bibi Draws a Line
Romney and Obama prepare for their first presidential debate. Plus, American worker wages, and Bibi Netanyahu tells the UN that Iran's uranium enrichment program must be stopped.
-
Presidential Debates; Bibi Draws a Line
Romney and Obama prepare for their first presidential debate. Plus, American worker wages, and Bibi Netanyahu tells the UN that Iran's uranium enrichment program must be stopped.
-
Mom, Apple Pie and...Wealth Redistribution?
Mitt Romney spends another week on the defensive after a video surfaces, with him saying unflattering things about voters whose low incomes exempt them from income taxes.
-
US Film Stokes Mideast Violence
US embassies in the Islamic world under siege as an anti-Muslim movie trailer goes viral. Fed goes all-in for mortgage-backed bonds. Striking differences in Chicago.
-
The Democrats Have Their Say
Michelle Obama humanizes. Bill Clinton extemporizes. President Obama rhapsodizes. Then along come those August job figures. Incumbency has its pluses...and its minuses.
-
Goodbye Tampa, Hello Charlotte
The GOP leaves Tampa. The Democrats are headed to Charlotte. We look back at the Republican convention and ahead to what the Dems have in store.
-
Hurricane Todd
Congressman Todd Akin's remarks about rape hit the GOP's best-laid-campaign-plans like a hurricane. Predicted for next week's GOP Convention? An actual hurricane.
-
The Thirteen Percent Solution?
With the Paul Ryan pick, does Romney get a deficit-hawking, fiscally disciplined conservative? A cold-hearted, shrink-government-at-all-costs ideologue? Both?
-
The Thirteen Percent Solution?
With the Paul Ryan pick, does Romney get a deficit-hawking, fiscally disciplined conservative? A cold-hearted, shrink-government-at-all-costs ideologue? Both?
-
Campaign Heating Up... The Planet Too
Latest polls show Obama?s lead widening. Your (kind-of) definitive guide to the Romney veepstakes and Eliot Spitzer says what he really thinks of Goldman Sachs.
-
Campaign Heating Up... The Planet Too
Latest polls show Obama?s lead widening. Your (kind-of) definitive guide to the Romney veepstakes and Eliot Spitzer says what he really thinks of Goldman Sachs.
-
Ted Cruz: Texas Tea Party and Ivy League
GOP Senate hopeful Ted Cruz is a Texas Tea Party darling with a national fan base. Maybe that's because Ivy Leaguer Cruz is not your typical Tea Party darling.
-
Shooting Rampage in Colorado
Will a deadly shooting rampage in a Colorado movie theater push guns onto the election year political agenda? Can really effective gun control be legislated?
-
JP Morgan's 7-Billion-Dollar Surprise: Claw-Back to the...
JP Morgan's losses from its hedge-managers-gone-wild London unit could go as high as $7 billion. Too big to manage? And Bain becomes Romney's bane...a-gain.
-
Middle Class Blues
US jobs numbers stayed flat for June, and the Eurozone continues its downward slide. What's to become of America's middle class and who's to blame?
-
Middle Class Blues
US jobs numbers stayed flat for June, and the Eurozone continues its downward slide. What's to become of America's middle class and who's to blame?
-
Obamacare? Romneycare? Robertscare?
The Supreme Court's 5-4 decision upholding (most of) President Obama's healthcare reform effort was a surprise for -- among other reasons -- who made up those five.
-
Obama, Romney and Latino Voters
President Obama and challenger Romney talk to Latinos. Moody's is bearish on the big banks. The push and pull over Fast and Furious. And all eyes on SCOTUS.
-
Obama, Romney and Latino Voters
President Obama and challenger Romney talk to Latinos. Moody's is bearish on the big banks. The push and pull over Fast and Furious. And all eyes on SCOTUS.
-
Greek Drama
Greece to vote on ditching the Euro. Egypt?s fledgling democracy faces a test. Obama by-passes Congress on immigration reforms. The GAO scorches Fed directors.
-
Will Europe Decide the 2012 Presidential Race?
Democrats lose the Wisconsin recall. A drone strike takes out an al Qaeda leader. European economies slide. What will it mean for this fall?s election?
-
The Big Gulp
Ugly job and manufacturing numbers for May confirm that March and April weren't any statistical blip. Markets took a dive. So whose downturn is this anyway?
-
The Democrats' Private Equity Paradox
If politics makes for strange bedfellows, campaign fundraising can make for one heck of an awkward morning-after, as leading Democrats were reminded this week.
-
Facebook Goes Public
Facebook takes the leap. JP Morgan chief Jamie Dimon takes one for the team. TD Ameritrade founder Joe Ricketts gets rolled. Greece leaving the Eurozone?
-
Gay Marriage: State or Civil Right?
President Obama goes public with his evolution on gay marriage; JPMorgan Chase loses and bank reformers gain; Europe's anti-social economy, and Sen. Lugar's lament.
-
Gay Marriage: State or Civil Right?
President Obama goes public with his evolution on gay marriage; JPMorgan Chase loses and bank reformers gain; Europe's anti-social economy, and Sen. Lugar's lament.
-
The Argument for Crony Capitalism
April jobs numbers disappoint, a Chinese dissident exposes a sore spot in US-China relations and a Bain Capital-ist revives the argument for income inequality.
-
The Argument for Crony Capitalism
April jobs numbers disappoint, a Chinese dissident exposes a sore spot in US-China relations and a Bain Capital-ist revives the argument for income inequality.
-
Playing The Bin Laden Card
The economy slows as it grows. The Obama campaign plays the Bin Laden card. Romney takes five more primaries; Gingrich announces that he?ll announce he's out.
-
Bureaucrats Gone Wild
The squeaky clean Secret Service and General Services Administration are ensnared in scandals involving behavior befitting the bad guys they usually investigate.
-
North Korea's Missile Malfunction
North Korea's dud missile launch complicates an already difficult relationship with the international community.
-
Obama, Candidate in Chief
President Obama took direct aim at presumptive GOP challenger Mitt Romney, and fended off criticisms over a weak jobs report and accusations that he stuck it to SCOTUS.
-
Getting a Read on the Supremes
The US Supreme Court heard 3 days of arguments over the Affordable Care Act. Is this the end of the mandate? Our system of social insurance? What of judicial deference?
-
If I Had a Son, He'd Look like Trayvon
President Obama speaks out on the killing of unarmed Florida teen Trayvon Martin. Is it right for a president to weigh in on a federal investigation?
-
Going for Brokered?
GOP hopeful Rick Santorum's hopes spring eternal after GOP primary wins this week. Romney still has a commanding lead, but what might a brokered convention look like?
-
Going for Brokered?
GOP hopeful Rick Santorum's hopes spring eternal after GOP primary wins this week. Romney still has a commanding lead, but what might a brokered convention look like?
-
Good Jobs News, but Where Are the Good New Jobs?
This week the President claimed credit for the unemployment rate not going up. After a visit from Israeli PM Netanyahu can he claim credit for Israel not hitting Iran?
-
Forecast: Dreier, Then Snowe
Ahead of Super Tuesday, the GOP fans the debate over birth control coverage...and gets burned. The President has tough words for Iran. Another moderate lawmaker retires.
-
Higher Gas Prices: Problem or Solution?
Romney hangs Santorum by his Senate record. Gas prices keep going up -- but is that such a bad thing? Oh right, maybe it is. US winks at, nudges Syria's opposition.
-
Cars, Contraception and Calling China on the iPhone
Mitt Romney?s Michigan problem. Apple's China problem. Congress quietly passes a budget. A new novel warns of an economy ruled by robots ? but is it already upon us?
-
Birth Control Back-Pedal
The Obama Administration changes health insurance rules on birth control; Rick Santorum gets a rousing welcome at CPAC and the rest of the week's political happenings.
-
Walking It Back
A breast cancer research funder learns the power of the web -- the hard way. Mitt Romney gets schooled on the power of the sound-bite after a "very poor" choice of words.
-
Campaigning vs. Governing
Whether it was the President's State of the Union or the GOP debate in Jacksonville, Florida, passions were on display this week for the President and his challengers alike.
-
SOPA, SOTU...and South Carolina
As the GOP candidates blow through South Carolina, the Internet lights up over who owns content and what President Obama must say in his upcoming State of the Union speech.
-
Appreciating Tony Blankley
We remember friend and colleague, Tony Blankley, who championed the conservative view over six years of Left Right Center and who passed away last week.
-
The (Elusive) Middle Class Agenda
President Obama and the GOP candidates all tout their Middle-Class Agendas, so whose agenda addresses wage earners in a time of technological change and globalization?
-
Third Party Politics
The backlash against Obama on the left and the tepid support for Romney would seem to make this a fine time for an independent party to emerge. But it's also the year of...
-
Extreme Makeover: US Economy Edition
Globalization, advancing technology and the real estate collapse have led to a long-term economic crisis. Time for a tectonic shift in America? Or just muddle through?
-
Leaving Iraq: Better or Worse Off?
As the US pulls out, what's our legacy in Iraq? On Capitol Hill, the parties switch sides over a tax break. Iconoclast Christopher Hitchens, loses his fight with cancer.
-
Europe Kicks the Can
European leaders ? except Britain -- agree to come together. Conservatives pile on GOP frontrunner Gingrich. Which past president will President Obama be compared to next?
-
Occupy This and That
Unemployment numbers disappoint. The Fed?s trillions in secret loans. A federal judge scorches the SEC. Europe back from the abyss. Will elections be Egypt's undoing?
-
Third Party Politics
The backlash against Obama on the left and the tepid support for Romney would seem to make this a fine time for an independent party to emerge. But it's also the year of...
-
Occupied by Occupy
An update on the Occupy protests, rescuing the Euro, the Supreme Court on Obama's healthcare reform law, and the Super Committee and the deficit reduction deadline.
-
Perry's Brain Freeze and the GOP Race for President
The latest on the GOP presidential race and Rick Perry's gaffe, Election Day 2011 as a bellwether for 2012, Italy and the Eurozone, and the Super Committee's challenge.
-
Will Herman Cain Survive? Will Obama Go Negative?
Cain dodges sexual harassment allegations, and a weakening economy impacts Obama's re-election strategy. Also, Greece, European debt, and the Occupy protests.
-
Relief in Europe and US Income Inequality
We assess the European debt-crisis deal. Also, reports on wealth in the US, lobbyists and the Obama re-election campaign, and Rick Perry and the GOP presidential race.
-
Troops out of Iraq by Year's End
Reaction to the President's news on US troops withdrawal from Iraq. Also, post-Gadhafi Libya, new Greek austerity measures and the latest on GOP presidential candidates...
-
Cures for an Ailing Economy?
We look at all things related to the economy in the news this week, and find a lot of bad and ugly, but not much good...
-
Jobs, Taxes and Wall Street Occupied
Employment stalls as Occupy Wall Street protests increase in intensity. Palin and Christie are out as Romney ramps up. Finally, we remember Apple founder Steve Jobs.
-
How Can We Save Europe?
Germany and the European debt bailout, the Fed's Bernanke challenges lawmakers, the constitutionality of Obama?s healthcare act, Chris Christie, and the death of al-Awlaki...
-
UN Sharpens Focus on Middle East
Reaction to Palestinian request for UN membership, worldwide markets' anxiety over a deepening global recession, another GOP debate, and a possible government shutdown.
-
Boehner v. Obama; Romney v. Perry
Setbacks in Europe?s debt crisis. Boehner knocks Obama's jobs plan. How "presidential" are Rick Perry and Mitt Romney? And poverty data from the Census Bureau.
-
Jobs, the GOP and Remembering 9/11
We get reaction to President Obama's jobs address. Then, look at Rick Perry's debut at the GOP debate, and reflect on where we are ten years after the September 11 attacks.
-
Where Are the Jobs?
The latest jobs report, the Obama-Boehner scheduling squabble, news of upcoming suits against big banks over mortgage securities, and Cheney's new memoir...
-
Bernanke and the Broken Economy
Fed Chair Bernanke takes a jab at partisan politics but offers no steps to bolster the economy. Also, Rick Perry's surge in the polls, and VP Dick Cheney's memoir...
-
Investor Anxiety; Syrian Instability; Perry Scrutinized
Arianna Huffington joins us to discuss investor anxiety over economic instability, Obama's call for Syria's Assad to resign, and presidential candidate Rick Perry.
-
Moody Markets; London's Burning; Candidates' Debate
We reflect on the week's volatile trading on the stock market and the riots in the UK. Plus, the GOP debate in Iowa and anticipation of Texas Governor Perry's candidacy...
-
Heading for a Double Dip?
After the Dow's steady downturn, the grim economic forecast and a bruising fight over the budget, what are political implications and prospects for Obama and lawmakers?
-
Default or Deal?
We devote our entire program to the debt ceiling "madness" as our nation's elected officials reach the endgame of negotiations...
-
Kabuki Dancing on the Debt Ceiling
Is a "grand bargain" in the works? The Democratic Senate rejected a House GOP bill to cut and cap the budget, leaving President Obama and Speaker Boehner to find compromise....
-
Til Debt Do Us Part
The debt ceiling stand-off in Washington intensified this week....
-
Jobs; Budget; Murdoch; Space
Today, a weak jobs report dampens hopes for the economy, Obama and Boehner split on a budget deal, "The News of the World" becomes news, a the last Shuttle mission.
-
DSK's Reversal of Fortune, Obama as Scolder-in-Chief,...
Today, the sexual assault case against former IMF head Strauss-Kahn, President Obama's news conference, Bachmann's presidential campaign, and gay marriage in NY.
-
Troop Timetable; Budget Breakdown and Fed Forecast
There's broad criticism of Obama's schedule to withdraw troops from Afghanistan, a budget deal bust, and Bernankes downgrading of the Fed forecast of economic growth...
-
Euro Crisis; Fannie Mae; US-Pakistan Relations; Troop...
Greek debt's vast impact, the NYT's David Brooks on Fannie Mae fiddling while financial markets burned, AfPak security and troop withdrawal, and AARP on social security.
-
Afghanistan Troop Withdrawal; 'Newtiny;' Weiner Effect;...
The fight over US withdrawal from Afghanistan, Gates criticizes NATO, Gingrich team's "Newtiny," the Anthony Weiner scandal, and fixing debt versus creating jobs.
-
Slow Job Growth; Jousting over the Budget; Romney's...
Slow job growth and economic trouble ahead. House Dems and GOP meet separately with Obama on the budget and Medicare. Republican Mitt throws his hat in the presidential ring.
-
Medicare, G8 and the Arab Spring; Dismal First Quarter...
Setbacks for Paul Ryan's proposed Medicare plan, G8 leaders $20 billion pledge to pro-democracy movements, and the Commerce Department's disappointing economic estimates.
-
Barack and BiBi, DSK and Arnold; Newt's Stumble; Cornel...
Obama and Israel's Netanyahu strain to compromise, sex scandals of the rich and powerful, Newt's presidential bid hits a snag and Cornel West's broadside against Barack Obama.
-
Debt Limit Debate; Galleon Guilty; GOP in 2012
The debt debate continues on Capitol Hill, the Galleon Group is guilty of insider trading, and we look at the confirmed and potential GOP presidential candidates.
-
Obama Gets Osama; Good/Bad Jobs News; GOP on the Run
Three takes on the US operation that killed Osama bin Laden. Also, the good news and bad news on the jobs report, and the GOP and the Ryan budget plan.
-
Birthers and Bernanke; Petraeus and Panetta
President Obama moves to silence "birthers" and shakes up his national security team. Also, Ben Bernanke holds the first news conference in Federal Reserve history.
-
The New Corporate World Order; Religion in American...
Stepping back from the week's news, we address the role and responsibility of multinational corporations to our economy, and the role of religion in American politics.
-
Two Debt Plans; Financial Crisis Culprits; Politics of...
We compare federal debt plans and dueling visions of government's role. Also, a report on the culprits and causes of the financial crisis. Plus, the politics of sports.
-
Budget Impasse; Paul Ryan's 2012 Budget; Libya Update
At air time, with no sign of a budget deal, a government shutdown looms large. Also, the GOP budget proposal for FY 2012, the Democrats' response, and the latest on Libya.
-
Any Clearer on Libya?; Budget Battle Heats Up; 2012 GOP...
Has President Obama clarified US doctrine in Libya? Also, continuing budget battles on Capitol Hill, and emerging GOP contenders for the 2012 presidential race.
-
Libya; Nuclear's Future; Michele Bachmann; Plunging Home...
What's the US' endgame in Libya? What's next for nuclear energy in the US? Michele Bachmann, GOP presidential contender? And new housing sales hit record lows.
-
Libya Showdown; Japan Fallout; Budget Ideologies
Libya is forced to call for a cease-fire, Japan battles to prevent a nuclear disaster, and politicians duke it out over the budget on Capitol Hill.
-
Gas Prices; Libya; Wisconsin; Homegrown Terrorism; NPR
Japan's devastating earthquake and tsunami, gas prices, a no-fly zone in Libya, collective-bargaining rights in Wisconsin, domestic terrorism, and NPR.
-
Federal and State Budget Showdowns; Libya; Newt in 2012?
Capitol Hill lawmakers prevent a government shutdown -- for now. Also, a new poll on opposition to broad cuts in Medicare and Social Security, the budget standoff in Wisconsin and Ohio, Defense Secretary Gates on Libya, and speculation over Gingrich?s presidential ambitions.
-
Mideast; Midwest; DOMA; Budget
Should the US intervene as security forces open fire on protestors in Libya? Will the Wisconsin Assembly's passage of a bill to strip collective bargaining rights become a national issue? Plus our panel reacts to the news that the Obama Administration will no longer defend the Defense of Marriage Act. Finally, with the budget standoff between the White House and Capitol Hill, are we looking at a possible government shutdown next week? (Chrystia Freeland, Global Editor-at-Large of Thomson...
-
Wisconsin Standoff; Budget Cuts; Middle East Crackdown
In Wisconsin, in the midst of a deep state budget crisis, thousands of public sector employees have been protesting a bill that would slash their collective bargaining rights. Is this a preview of budget fights to come in other states? Also, House Republicans continue the largest series of spending cuts in recent history. Has their enthusiasm taken them too far? Finally, in the Middle East, state security forces have stepped up violence against protestors, in Bahrain, Yemen, and Libya.
-
Mubarak Steps Down; Fannie and Freddie's Future; Budget...
Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has resigned in the wake of massive anti-government protests which lasted more than two weeks. What's next for Egypt? Also, the Obama Administration's proposal to gradually abolish mortgage lenders Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, and a look ahead to the release of the 2012 federal budget, expected on Monday. (Arianna Huffington is away.)
-
Egypt's Moment of Truth
We devote today's entire show to the events in Egypt and the Arab World, the protests and crackdown in Cairo, as Egyptians battle for Tahrir Square. We respond to reports that journalists and foreign aid workers have been targeted and discuss the explosion of social media and its influence. Also, how are the protests in Egypt reverberating in Israel, and in other Arab states? What are the implications for President Obama and US foreign policy in the Middle East?
-
Egypt; Record Deficit Projection; Financial Meltdown;...
As tens of thousands of anti-government protestors take to the streets in Egypt, how will reaction from the US affect the way Egyptian authorities react to the crisis? Also, the Congressional Budget Office is projecting a record deficit of $1.5 trillion, nearly half a billion dollars higher than its previous estimate. Whose negligence and recklessness led to the 2008 financial meltdown? There's a new round of finger pointing in Thursday's 633-page report on the crisis. Finally, the take-away...
-
GOP Agenda, Obama's Pro-Business Maneuvers, US-China...
The first order of business for the 112th Congress was its vote to repeal the healthcare law. Also, President Obama courts the business community by ordering a review of government regulatory agencies and appointing the chairman of GE to run his outside panel of economic advisors. Finally, after a state visit by Chinese president Hu, what course should the US be taking with China? (Terrence McNally sits in for Matt Miller, who is off this week.)
-
The National Conversation Sparked by the Tragedy in...
We devotes today's entire show to the shootings in Tuscon, which have left six people dead, and have prompted national reflection and debate in their aftermath. Fourteen others were wounded, including US Representative Gabrielle Giffords, who authorities say was the target of an assassination plot.
-
112th Congress and Divided Government
We discuss the agenda of the 112th Congress and the new House Speaker John Boehner, as well as the symbolism attached to House members reading the US Constitution on Thursday. Also, military spending cuts in the midst of war, and dissecting House Budget Committee chairman Paul Ryan's plan to rein in spending. Plus, the move to repeal Obamacare. Are there any viable Republican plans which could deliver health insurance to millions of Americans? Finally, the role of two new members of...
-
American Exceptionalism
Our New Year's edition focuses entirely on American Exceptionalism -- the challenges and the responsibilities that come with it, and how it is regarded as a force that is both brutal and benevolent.
-
Where's the Center? Are Political Labels Valid?
This holiday edition focuses entirely on what it means to define ourselves as "left," "right" and "center," and how those labels have been reconfigured and reassessed in recent years.
-
Afghanistan; Healthcare; Spending & Tea Party; Financial...
We discuss the newly released report on progress in Afghanistan and a not-so-fond remembrance of Richard Holbrooke by Bob. A federal judged ruled the health insurance purchase mandate to be unconstitutional. The lame-duck Congress tries for an omnibus spending bill and the Tea Party dunked it. The Financial Commission has split along party lines. The GOP blames government, the Democrats blame Wall Street. Plus, the winners of the "rename the Center" contest.
-
Tax Deal; WikiLeaks Wars; START Stopped?; Prince Charles
Was Obama's tax deal a betrayal or a triumph? A stimulus or a disastrous drain on the economy as deficits rise? Is WikiLeaks the revolt of the anarchists or the bold defense of journalism and transparency in an Internet age? Will START be stopped? And what's the backstory of bickering between Putin and Medvedev? Lastly, Charles and Camilla were shaken by attacks on their car in London. Will riots begin in the US?
-
Afghanistan; WikiLeaks; Jobs; Taxes; Fed; Deficit
Obama's surprise visit to Afghanistan tops the news. What WikiLeaks revealed was embarrassing but was it classified? Jobs outlook is still heading downward, as unemployment benefits are not extended. Does the deficit matter more than people do? Where's Democrats' rage over tax cuts for the rich in a time of war and record unemployment? Is the Fed or Congress running the economic show? And will there ever be financial regulation that works.
-
Korea; Taliban Scam; Fed Jobs Report; Insider Trading;...
What exactly does North Korea want, and what will our real response be? Also, Scamistan: how a Pakistani shopkeeper got away with pretending to be a Taliban leader and got paid to negotiate with the Afghans. Plus, The job news going forward is still pretty bleak, says the Federal Reserve. Finally, a brief note on Ireland's financial crisis.
-
The Fed; Tax Cuts; GM; Afghanistan; TSA Touch Up!
Big news week !!! Bernancke defends QE2 against flack from Germany and China. Did we destroy the world's economy and are they right to fight back? Or do we have the right to save our own economy in the best way for the US? Tax cuts: the new Democratic strategy is to take separate votes for continuing tax breaks UNDER $250,000 and another for OVER $250,000? Has Obama abandoned the cause, handing it off to Congress? GM's IPO: Uncle Sam decreased his ownership, 1 million jobs saved--can...
-
Debt Commission; Obama's Overseas Bust;...
The commission to study how to get federal debt under control floated a trial balloon when it released recommendations by Alan Simpson and Erskine Bowles, and it seems just about nobody likes or believes what they're saying. Obama went to Indonesia, Korea and the G-20 and came back empty handed. Is the thrill gone? And what manner of Beast will Newsweek become under Tina Brown's guidance?
-
Political Earthquake: Does Obama Get It?; Bernanckes...
While the GOP high fives itself for its showing in the midterms, can either party govern, and will they, or will the next two years be a political power play in the run up to 2012? Plus will the Fed's quantitative easing and the infusion of more money into the economy make things better or not?
-
Midterm Madness: Is Obama Ready for the GOP
Pre-election jitters for all. And the GOP's nervous about the outcome, too; there'll be a power struggle between the Speaker and the Committee chairs, lots of wrangling going on. People will vote for lower taxes but can the party deliver? With all the anger and rage, can any party govern? And what solutions do they offer. Plus, is Obama too cool?
-
Juan Williams; Fannie/Freddie; Mid-terms; UK Austerity
NPR's firing of Juan Williams has create a firestorm of negative publicity and political calls to defund public broadcasting. How much is the Fannie Mae-Freddie Mac mortgage mess really costing American taxpayers? In the last ten days before mid-terms, who will turn out to vote? Also, is the UK's austerity program to help balance their budget a lesson for the US?
-
Mortgage Mess; Bernanke; Mid-Term Closing Arguments
It's impossible to overestimate the potential damage to the US economy and to capitalism itself if the notion of property rights is undermined; what will happen with all these robo-mortgages and what is MERS anyway? Ben Bernancke to the rescue: will the fed step in? Will help our economy? Will it hurt the global economy? And these are the last few weeks for final arguments on behalf of their parties; have Dems made the case? Are Republicans being forced into positions even they don't want to...
-
Foreclosure Moratorium; Gen. Jones; Af-Pak; MidTerms
Who owns the mortgages that are being foreclosed and what happens to the market if foreclosures are halted? An in-depth examination plus some speculation on how it turns out. General Jim Jones leave the field; where does that leave the US position in Afghanistan and Pakistan? And do Obama's job ratings help or hurt the Democrats in the upcoming mid-term elections?
-
Rahm Gone; China; Backyard Obama; Tea Party;...
Rahm Emmanuel steps down as Chief of Staff; wants to run for Mayor of Chicago. Is this a shakeup or just normal job burnout? Is the White House in flux? With the House voting to impose import tariffs on China, will the Senate bring the issue to a vote? Then a really in-depth look at China's history and economy and a deep think look at the structural issues presently undermining our own democracy. Finally a glance at the mid-terms, the Tea Party and the Whitman-Brown face off in California.
-
Summers and Volcker; GOP Pledge; Dems Duck Tax Cuts;...
Larry Summers departs the scene, and Paul Volcker says the financial system is broken. Is the GOP Pledge like the Contract with America? Plus, the Democrats decide not to decide about tax cuts. And will the documentary Waiting for Superman be the tipping point for school reform?
-
Tea Party Surge; Unemployment & Uninsurance; Elizabeth...
Headlines of the week lead to deep thoughts about the nature of government, civil society and the future of democracy. There's a bit of anti-establishment feeling out in the voting public. Will it energize the GOP? Will it strengthen or harm democracy? Is there a new wind blowing where the people call the shots? Plus, is Elizabeth Warren's appointment fabulous news or a disaster?
-
Obama's Presser; The Economy; 9/11 and a Florida Pastor
We go 'around the horn' on President Obama's press conference, and consider Elizabeth Warren as Obama's possible nominee to head head of the Consumer Protection Agency. Also, on the ninth anniversary of 9/11, all four decry the media attention given to a previously unknown pastor's threats to burn Korans.
-
Obama-Jobs; Iraq-Blair; Dems Doom Foretold
Joblessness is still on the rise and the recovery is stagnant. Also, was Iraq worth it, and do supporters need to apologize for their support of the war? Tony Blair's new memoir says he has no regrets. And is it true that Democrats are doomed in November?
-
Bernanke Bucks; Primaries-Midterms-GOP; Mehlman Comes Out
Fed Chief Ben Bernanke says he hasn't ruled out buying up more bad paper to prop up the economy. What do the primaries portend about the mid-term elections ahead? Finally, is it a big deal that former RNC chair Ken Mehlman has come out as gay and will fight for gay marriage?
-
US Troops Leave Iraq; NY Mosque; Bloggers Get Their Day!
With half the team out of town or out of the country, LRC Producer Sarah Spitz sits in as a non-opining host to talk about the impact of US combat troops' departure from Iraq, the just announced US-led negotiations between Israel and Palestinians in Washington next month, and the controversy over the Cordoba house mosque. Plus, Bob and Tony answer questions from our blog posters.
-
America's Sour Mood: Economy, Afghanistan, Third Party
A Wall Street Journal poll is registering America's sour mood about politics, policy, the war in Afghanistan, the economy, and massive disappointment in both the major parties. We take up all the issues today and resolve none of them! But the conversation's lively, nonetheless.
-
Jobs; Prop 8; MO v ObamaCare; Michelle Spain; Tax Cuts
Still not enough jobs and a slow economy to boot may prove politically and rhetorically treacherous for Obama. Is Prop 8 a human-rights or moral issue? Should the people's endorsement be allowed to be overturned by judges? Missouri speaks out against ObamaCare. Michelle Obama stands accused of missing her husband's birthday and vacationing lavishly in Spain. And should the Bush tax cuts be continued in a time of great deficits?
-
Obama in Detroit; Arizona Immigration; WikiLeaks; Rangel
Obama gave a rousing speech in Detroit, where he says the stimulus has helped the area's economy but reminded everyone that the road ahead is hard. Is this a precursor to story line for the November elections? Will it result in a setback for the Democrats? The Arizona immigration law suffered a temporary setback and the legal arguments in the case fascinate Tony. Will WikiLeaks' revelations put troops in harm's way? And Charlie Rangel's been accused of a number of ethical violations. How...
-
Sherrod, New Media and Race; Unemployment Benefits; BP
What can we learn from the Shirley Sherrod case? That unexamined media should not prompt impulsive responses? That race is a card being played by both sides? That the new media is not as scrupulous as what was once called journalism? Who's at fault and what is the fault line? Plus, unemployment benefit-extension was approved but at what cost? And BP and the Gulf oil spill aren't over yet. Who's the really responsible party here? (Sara Terry sits in for Matt Miller.)
-
The Attack Media and the Reverse Race Card
White House priorities have been overshadowed this week by a false charge of reverse racism. What was the role of the media, from the right to the mainstream? Should the President address the issue directly? Also, Bell's highly paid public servants call it quits, and the death of the energy bill.
-
Financial Regulation; Goldman Deal; BP Well Capped;...
The Financial Regulation bill that passed has many flaws, chief among them that it doesn't prevent "too big to fail." Then, a look at the Goldman-Sachs settlement. Is it a real punishment or mere slap on the wrist? BP may have capped the blown-out deep-sea drilling well, but really does that mean the end to the devastation? And why are Obama's legislative successes earning him sinking approval ratings?
-
'Obama-Anti-Business' Economy; Google/China; US v AZ
How did this "Obama is anti-business" political theme begin and what does it mean? US corporations appear to be sitting on $1.8 trillion in cash that they're not investing. What does it mean for our economy? Google makes a deal with China. Also, will the US v AZ immigration suit be good or bad for the Democrats and Obama? Where does McCain stand on it? (Arianna Huffington is away.)
-
Jobs/Economy; FinReg; Kagan; Immigration
The jobs report is grim; we need 200,000 jobs per moth for five years to get back to only 5.5% unemployment. What to do? Also, Financial regulation is derailed, Kagan's kabuki dance is analyzed; and Obama's immigration speech is briefly dissected.
-
Financial Regulation; G-20; McChrystal Affair
Financial reform -- at last, as President Obama heads to the G-20. Plus, the McChrystal affair and the turnover of power in Afghanistan.
-
BP and Obama; Government, Who's It For?
Obama did some arm twisting this week, resulting in BP's $20 billion escrow fund for victims of the Gulf Oil Spill disaster. Was he right to do it the way he did it? A larger discussion of the role of government ensues; at the end of the day, there's still an oil spill, and we don't know what will happen politically as a result.
-
2010 Primary Wrap Up
What do the primaries tell us about the state of politics today, and what do they portend for the November mid-term elections? A wide-ranging roundup with our panel of pundits. (Lawrence O'Donnell sits in for a vacationing Matt Miller, David Frum for Tony Blankley.)
-
Jobs; BP and BHO; Israel-Gaza; The Gores
The jobs report is a mixed bag, but not necessarily good news for the recovery. BP's failures to stop the oil have caused unrealistic expectations of what Obama can or should have done and the media's feeding the fray. Was Israel's attack on the Gaza-bound flotilla just a ruse on the part of Turkey to create a crisis and move toward nationalism and away from the West? Plus, what does the Gores separation say about the state of marriage? (Arianna Huffington is away; David Frum sits in for a...
-
Obama's Oil Crisis; Economic Anxiety; Clinton-Sestak...
Was Obama too slow? Is the BP Gulf Spill his Katrina? Economic shocks continue to rattle the market and the globe. Is Spain the new Greece? Is China manipulating currency exchanges and holding US and Europe hostage? Plus, with news of the White House asking Bill Clinton to ask Joe Sestak not to run against Arlen Specter, is this business as usual from a President who promised cleaner politics and no more backroom deals? Is it really important? (David Frum sits in for Tony Blankley.)
-
Who is Rand Paul; FinReg; BP spill; Calderon?s visit
Rand Paul won his Republican primary decisively, but Tony decries him as a little ?kooky? for following his libertarian ideology ?to the nth degree,? and Arianna likens his candidacy to a ?train wreck.? But Bob defends Paul because he rejected the bank bailout, calls for auditing the Fed, and opposed the war in Iraq.
-
Oil CEOs, Elena Kagan nom, Brits, Stocks slide, Mid-Terms
With oil pouring into the gulf, Obama smacks down the responsible CEOs, and Bob sees a national mood for more regulation. Tony disagrees as polls show most Americans still favor offshore drilling. But Arianna views Obama?s anger at the oil executives with skepticism, and wonders if it will end up business as usual. On the Kagan nomination, Matt asks with nearly every borough of New York represented on the high court, what happened to diversity? In Great Britain, Tony points to a new proposal...
-
Econ-Anxiety; Oil Spill; NY Bomber; UK election; Newsweek
Greece, Spain, Portugal, Italy - debt is overpowering the EuroZone - and impacting the US as well. Wall Street's jitters and glitches aren't helping much! Tony's outraged by Obama's rhetoric about putting the boot on BP's neck, but Bob says that the outrage should be aimed at the many loopholes oil companies have been given. The UK election: will it be a hung parliament? Tony predicts another election is immanent. Bob says the Labor Party betrayed the labor movement. Everyone wants change...
-
Oil Spill; AZ Immigration; Goldman-Sachs Hot Seat; Greece
The oil well spewing 250,000 gallons of oil per day into the Gulf of Mexico is hitting shores and waterways now. There will be long-term environmental, policy and political consequences. Also, Arizona's new immigration law with its winners and losers, calls for boycotts, May Day protests and more. Even before the civil case was filed, it's now been revealed that there is a criminal investigation into Goldman-Sachs' investment practices. Finally, will Greece turn the EuroZone toxic?
-
Financial Reform; Greek Tragedy; Catholic Troubles; SEC...
The battle over financial reform continues as the Senate prepares for debate on dueling bills. Obama's Wall Street speech only gently spanked the bankers. Is that enough? Also, Greece is seeking multi-billions for a bailout, and a Belgian bishop has resigned, admitting to engaging in sexual abuse. Finally, the SEC has its own crisis ? PORN scandal!
-
Goldman Fraud? Financial Reform; Tea Party and Tax Day
The SEC has taken its first action against Goldman Sachs for investor fraud ? will it help or hurt efforts at financial reform and regulation? Or will they just be slapped with a fine and allowed to continue business as usual? Tony sees a bit of conspiracy in the timing of this announcement, just as the financial reform bill comes up in Congress, and he?s bemused that Goldman said they?d support the bill. Bob says Goldman has benefitted from its government relations across multiple...
-
Justice Stevens; Nuclear Policy; Financial Hearings
The announcement of Justice John Paul Stevens' retirement will set off a political battle of immense proportions. Will it be a referendum on Obamacare, a test of merits of the potential candidates or just another political throw-down? Also, the new nuclear posture of the US and this week's financial hearings. (Arianna Huffington is away.)
-
A Nation Divided: Why Is America This Deeply Polarized?
Politics has certainly shown its partisan face over healthcare, the stimulus and the Wall Street bailout. But why is there so much anger? Is demagoguery fueling these feelings, or is it truly a debate among citizens about the nature and direction of America? (Matt Miller and Arianna Huffington are away.)
-
Nuclear Deal; Mortgage Relief; GOP and Healthcare; The...
President Obama signed a nuclear arms reduction deal with Russia. Also, today the Obama Administration announced a mortgage relief deal. Will it work, or is it just a bailout for those who took on more debt than they should have? Has the GOP lost its collective mind in the aftermath of losing on healthcare? Plus, the Pope and the pedophile.
-
Healthcare Reform, Up or Down? Deeming or Redeeming?
What does it mean to the left if the healthcare reform bill passes the House this weekend? (Bob likens the bill to losing his virginity.) And what is this "deeming" procedure anyway? Is it worth risking a Constitutional challenge? A little bit about financial reform and what is a principled position ? plus the contention that liberals will always pass a Democratic bill, no matter what. (Lawrence O'Donnell sits in for Matt Miller.)
-
Healthcare; Financial Reform; al Qaeda Seven; Hurt Locker
Obama postpones his Asia trip for the final push on healthcare. Also, a shocking report on Lehman Bros financial manipulations. Will it hasten financial regulation reform? Plus, representing terrorists and the controversy raised by Liz Cheney. Finally, did The Hurt Locker deserve the Oscar for Best Picture?
-
Healthcare Endgame; Jobs; Education; KSM Flip-Flop
No matter what, we will have a healthcare bill ? whether three-quarters of Americans like it or not. The question is: vote it in and fix it later or discard it altogether? The "jobs" bill ? is it a phony? The cuts to education in California are draconian and causing widespread demonstrations. Also, will Obama flip-flop on the Khalid Sheikh Mohammed trial?
-
Healthcare Summit; Goldman/Greece; Toyota/Toyoda in DC
Did President Obama's healthcare summit achieve anything? Is Goldman Sachs bringing down the world's economy? Is it Wall Street gone wild or just the progress of capitalism? And is the US trouncing on Toyota because it owns GM? How did Mr. Toyoda do on Capitol Hill?
-
Tiger; Housing; CPAC; Interest Rates; Healthcare
It's hard to avoid the Tiger Woods apology. So we won't. About paying to help the housing crisis: Is Obama's $1.4 billion offer too little, too late? Will the Fed push up interest rates, and is that going to spell disaster for the economy? What will inflation do to it? Unemployment is disproportionately hitting the middle class and poor, barely touching those with six-figure salaries. Taking the temperature of the conservative GOP: To judge from their conference in Austin, they're quite...
-
Can Obama Reboot; Is Sarah Palin for Real; The Economy
With all four of the panelists in KCRW's studio together for the first time ever, it's a lively show about the direction that President Obama has been heading and should be heading in the future. It's Main Street versus Wall Street, and the anger and frustration over how little government's doing for the little guy. Is the Tea Party really a movement? How seriously are they being taken? If Sarah Palin is the answer, what's the question?
-
Global Markets Reeling; China Flexes Its Muscle;...
The jobs report is mixed, the stock market's reeling and the global economy is in a tumble over Greek debts! We opine on the Obama budget and agree that no one thinks the economy or the markets are doing anyone any good right now. Meanwhile China has begun to flex its muscle, complaining about Obama's decision to meet the Dalai Lama and provide military support to Taiwan. And finally, all those apologies! (Arianna Huffington is away.)
-
State of Obama's Union and Bipartisanship
We review the speech, the messages, the challenges, the throw-downs and the smack-downs. Then, is bipartisanship dead?
-
MA Election; Healthcare DOA?; Obama v Wall St; SCOTUS on...
Emotions swing at the current state of political affairs. Are we in a permanent state of voter revolt? And is there any way to save or salvage the healthcare reforms that are on the table? With the Supreme Court declaring free speech equals free spending for all, has the course of American Democracy been changed forever?
-
Haiti; Banking Commission; Healthcare-MA Special Election
This week's tragic earthquake in Haiti allows us to consider whether this as much a story about poverty and failed governance as it is of natural disasters. Does it allow us a chance to show human compassion and empathy? Also, will bankers ever learn the evils of their ways? Is the Banking Commission a kangaroo court? Is it true that the only thing wrong with capitalism is capitalists? Are we witnessing socialism for the rich and capitalism for the poor? The worship of free markets or a...
-
Jobs Report and Banks; Countering Terror; Dems Doomed?
Bad news on the employment front. Can the Obama administration survive the negative numbers, on the jobs front and his own job approval ratings? If banks aren't lending, what's a citizen to do? Should the US response to terrorism be military or better police work? Also, Dodd and Dorgan won't run again. Are the Dem's doomed or balanced out by the number of GOP dropouts? Plus, should Geithner resign?
-
A Look Back at 2009
Was the Obama presidency the biggest story or the year or was it the economy? Will America lose its place as the global economic leader? A deep think show that looks at the year that was. (Arianna Huffington is away.)
-
Healthcare; Copenhagen; Fat Cat Bankers
Is healthcare doomed? Democrats are revolting. As the left positions itself to fight for public option, will the healthcare-reform baby go down with the bathwater? Can there be a healthcare do-over? Is Copenhagen going into overtime, can there ever be agreement on how to address climate change when half the planet doesn?t think global warming is real? And what about the fat cat bankers that Obama scolded? (Arianna Huffington is away.)
Recommended Shows
PROGRAM INFORMATION
- Santa Monica, CA
- Politics, Political News, Public Radio
- KCRW
- English
-
1900 Pico Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90405310-450-5183 -
Visit the station website
Email the show
Update show info
