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2005 DECEMBER
Dec. 30, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks Discuss 2005
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks discuss Jack Abramoff's legal troubles, the winners and losers of 2005 and the year's most significant events, including Hurricane Katrina and the rise of political Islam.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Dec. 28, 2005
Analysis
Enron Plea Deal
Former Enron chief accounting officer Richard Causey pleaded guilty Wednesday to a security fraud charge. A reporter discusses the plea deal and how this development will affect the upcoming Enron trial.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Dec. 28, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court Nominee Alito's Judicial Views
Documents released recently from Supreme Court nominee Judge Samuel Alito's past have sparked a debate over his judicial philosophy. Two experts discuss what the documents reveal about his views on executive privilege, abortion rights and civil rights and what they could mean for his confirmation hearings.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Dec. 23, 2005
Analysis
Hired for a Day
A report examines the tensions of hiring day laborers that may be illegal immigrants with a focus on Herndon, a city in Northern Virginia that just opened a city-funded day laborer site.

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Dec. 23, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Columnists Mark Shields and David Brooks discuss Congress' last-minute action on the Patriot Act, the domestic surveillance controversy and other political developments of the week.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Dec. 23, 2005
Update
Alito Supported Wiretaps Without Warrants
As a Justice Department lawyer in the 1980s, Supreme Court nominee Judge Samuel Alito argued that executive branch officials should not be held liable if they ordered wiretaps without obtaining warrants, according to documents.


Dec. 22, 2005
Analysis
Padilla Stays in the Brig
A government request to transfer terrorism suspect Jose Padilla from military to civilian custody was rejected yesterday by an appeals court. A reporter discusses the latest developments.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Dec. 21, 2005
Analysis
Senate Showdown Over Budget, Drilling in ANWR
In last minute votes on Wednesday, the Senate approved a bill to trim spending on social programs such as Medicare, Medicaid and student loans but rejected a military spending bill that included a controversial provision to drill for oil in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

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Dec. 21, 2005
Analysis
Saddam's Tribunal
Two experts discuss how Saddam Hussein's trial stacks up to other noted war crimes tribunals of the modern age.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Dec. 20, 2005
Analysis
A Defeat for "Intelligent Design"
A federal judge in Dover, Pa. ruled Tuesday against teaching "intelligent design" in public schools. He said intelligent design, which credits an unseen creator with human development, has no place in a science curriculum. Following an update from a reporter, two lawyers involved in the case discuss the decision.

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Dec. 20, 2005
Analysis
A Closer Look at NSA
The Bush administration has recently come under fire for authorizing the National Security Agency to spy on people in the United States suspected of terrorism ties. Two experts discuss the powers of NSA.

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Dec. 19, 2005
Analysis
The NSA & Domestic Surveillance
In response to a barrage of criticism, President Bush said Monday he did not break the law when he authorized spying on Americans suspected of ties to terrorism. Following a background report, two senators discuss the use of domestic surveillance in the anti-terrorism effort.

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Dec. 19, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks discuss presidential power amid revelations of domestic surveillance, along with the administration's efforts to bolster support for the war on Iraq.

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Dec. 14, 2005
Analysis
Iraqis Vote for Parliament
Iraqis will head to the polls Thursday to vote on the country's first permanent parliament.

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Dec. 13, 2005
Analysis
USA Patriot Act Debate
Congress remains divided over renewing sections of the controversial Patriot Act, a bill that allows access to personal records in terrorism cases but critics say infringes on civil liberties. Two senators discuss their differing views of the Patriot Act.

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Dec. 13, 2005
Newsmaker Interview
Jordanian View of Saddam Hussein's Trial
The trial of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein receives heavy press coverage in the neighboring country of Jordan but many Jordanians question the validity of the court and the involvement of foreigners.

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Dec. 13, 2005
Update
Judge Orders FEMA to Extend Hotel Stay Deadline
The Federal Emergency Management Agency must extend by one month its deadline for payment of hotel rooms for victims of Hurricane Katrina, a federal judge ruled Monday.


Dec. 12, 2005
Analysis
Mistrial for Merck
An update on the first federal trial against Merck and Co. over its painkiller Vioxx, which ended in a mistrial Monday.

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Dec. 6, 2005
Analysis
Military Recruitment on Campus
The Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday over whether colleges can turn away military recruiters in protest of the Pentagon's policy on gays in the military and still receive federal funding.

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Dec. 5, 2005
Analysis
Saddam Hussein on Trial
A reporter gives an update on Saddam Hussein's trial on charges of crimes against humanity.

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Dec. 5, 2005
Analysis
Debating Rendition Tactics
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice Monday defended the CIA practice of snatching and transferring terror suspects overseas for questioning, a tactic also known as rendition.

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Dec. 2, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks discuss President Bush's strategy in Iraq, the divide among Democrats over a military withdrawal and the resignation of Rep. Randy Cunningham following bribery charges.

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Dec. 2, 2005
Analysis
Debating Torture
Where to draw the line between interrogation and abuse has divided intelligence and terrorism experts and raised questions about the effectiveness of torture as a means to extract information from terror suspects.

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Dec. 1, 2005
Analysis
Clues From Judge Alito's Past
Documents released from Supreme Court nominee Samuel Alito's time as a lawyer in the Reagan administration show he supported restrictions on abortion but legal experts hesitate to predict how he would vote if confirmed.

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NOVEMBER
Nov. 30, 2005
Analysis
High Court Hears Abortion Case
The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in Ayotte v. Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, the court's first case since the confirmation of Chief Justice John Roberts. The case examines the constitutionality of a New Hampshire law requiring parental notification before teenagers have an abortion.

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Nov. 30, 2005
Update
Alito Submits Questionnaire to Senate Committee
Alito submitted written statements to the Senate Judiciary Committee in which he said judges should take a limited, "self-disciplined" approach when considering cases.


Nov. 28, 2005
Analysis
Immigration Control Along U.S.-Mexico Border
In a speech in Arizona, President Bush stressed the need for improved enforcement along the U.S.-Mexico border and proposed a guest worker program. Following a background report, four guests discuss the proposals.

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Nov. 28, 2005
Analysis
Saddam Hussein on Trial
A reporter provides the latest on Saddam Hussein's trial from Baghdad.

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Nov. 23, 2005
Analysis
Jose Padilla Charged
Jose Padilla, who was arrested in 2002 for an alleged plot to attack the United States, has been indicted on charges related to supporting terror campaigns in Afghanistan and elsewhere, U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales said Tuesday. Two experts discuss the Bush administration's handling of the case.

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Nov. 21, 2005
Analysis
Guilty Plea in Lobby Case
Michael Scanlon, a former press aid to Rep. Tom DeLay and former partner to lobbyist Jack Abramoff, pleaded guilty on conspiring to bribe public officials, a charge that arose from a government investigation into attempts to defraud Indian tribes and corrupt public officials. Two reporters discuss the case.

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Nov. 14, 2005
Analysis
Legal Rights of Detainees
Congress is debating an amendment limiting the legal rights of detainees at the U.S. prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Two experts discuss the proposal.

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Nov. 11, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Lowry
Political analysts Mark Shields and Richard Lowry discuss the White House's justification for the war in Iraq after President Bush accused critics of trying to rewrite history concerning the lead-up to the war.

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Nov. 10, 2005
Newsmaker Interview
John McCain
U.S. Senator John McCain, R-Ariz., discusses the recent bombings in Jordan, winning the Iraq war, and U.S. prisoner abuse policy.

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Nov. 8, 2005
Analysis
Senate Debates Torture Rules
An amendment presented by Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz, to outlaw torture of detainees in U.S. custody and establish rules for their interrogation, has sparked debate in Congress. Following a background report, two senators on opposite sides of the debate discuss the amendment and possible exemptions for the CIA.

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Nov. 7, 2005
Analysis
Rioting Continues in France
French police have been unable to stop rioting in the suburbs of Paris that broke out after two teenagers were accidentally electrocuted while running from police. The incident sparked anger that turned to violence in protest of French government's treatment of immigrants.

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Nov. 4, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks discuss the debate over the handling of pre-Iraq war intelligence, the arraignment of former vice presidential chief of staff Lewis Libby, and the state of the Alito nomination.

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Nov. 4, 2005
Update
Alito Hearings Scheduled for January 9
The head of the Judiciary Committee announced Thursday that hearings on Judge Samuel Alito's nomination to the Supreme Court will begin at noon on January 9th with opening statements from the senators and the nominee.


Nov. 3, 2005
Analysis
Developing Brooklyn
A proposed 24-acre development in Brooklyn has drawn a line between residents who think the new buildings will improve the borough and those who want it to remain the way it is.

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Nov. 1, 2005
Analysis
The Alito Debate Begins
As the high-stakes battle over the confirmation of Judge Samuel Alito gears up, two senators discuss the nominee.

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Nov. 1, 2005
Update
Rehnquist Absent from Bench, Undergoes Cancer Treatment
Chief Justice William Rehnquist missed the Supreme Court's first day Monday at the advice of his doctors who are treating his thyroid cancer with radiation and chemotherapy.

OCTOBER
Oct. 31, 2005
Analysis
Assessing the Alito Nomination
President Bush nominated U.S. Court of Appeals Judge Samuel Alito to the U.S. Supreme Court Monday. Two legal scholars discuss the nomination.

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Oct. 31, 2005
Analysis
Judge Samuel Alito Nominated to U.S. Supreme Court
President Bush nominated federal appeals Judge Samuel Alito Jr. to the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday after Harriet Miers withdrew her nomination last Thursday.

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Oct. 31, 2005
Analysis
Shields, Lowry and Beschloss
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields, National Review editor Rich Lowry and presidential historian Michael Beschloss discuss President Bush's leadership and performance during recent challenging political situations and his nomination of Samuel Alito to the U.S. Supreme Court.

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Oct. 28, 2005
Analysis
CIA Leak: Legal Ramifications
A federal grand jury investigating the leak of a CIA operative's name charged vice presidential adviser I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby with obstruction of justice, making a false statement and perjury.

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Oct. 27, 2005
Analysis
Miers Withdraws Nomination
Harriet Miers withdrew her nomination as a Supreme Court nominee amid criticism from conservatives. Two senators on the Judiciary Committee discuss her decision and the next step for the White House.

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Oct. 27, 2005
Analysis
The Harriet Miers Withdrawal
A report on the events leading up to Harriet Miers' decision to withdraw her nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court.

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Oct. 27, 2005
Analysis
Shields, Brooks and Greenburg
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields, New York Times columnist David Brooks and Chicago Tribune legal correspondent Jan Crawford discuss the ramifications of and reasons behind the Harriet Miers withdrawal.

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Oct. 26, 2005
Analysis
Leahy and Specter on Miers
Following a background report, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Arlen Specter and ranking Democrat Patrick Leahy discuss the state of the Harriet Miers Supreme Court nomination.

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Oct. 21, 2005
Analysis
Brooks and Oliphant
New York Times columnist David Brooks and Boston Globe columnist Tom Oliphant discuss senators' reactions to Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers, Tom DeLay's indictment on charges of money laundering, the CIA leak investigation and the war in Iraq.

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Oct. 19, 2005
Analysis
Questions for Harriet Miers
A report on the status of the Harriet Miers nomination. Senate Judiciary Committee members say they want more information on the Supreme Court nominee.

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Oct. 19, 2005
Conversation
Justice Breyer
Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer discusses his recent book "Active Liberty: Interpreting Our Democratic Constitution," his judicial philosophy and changes in the court since Chief Justice John Roberts' arrival.

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Oct. 19, 2005
Analysis
Saddam's Trial Begins
An update on the opening of Saddam Hussein's trial.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Oct. 18, 2005
Analysis
Questions for Harriet Miers
Documents Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers supplied the Senate with on Tuesday shed more light on her opinions. Following a background report, Sens. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., discuss the new information about the candidate.

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Oct. 17, 2005
Analysis
New Bankruptcy Law
Two experts discuss the new, stricter requirements for filing for bankruptcy in America, which took effect Monday.

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Oct. 14, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks discuss the role of religion in Harriet Miers' nomination as a Supreme Court justice and the political ramifications in the United States of the impending vote on a new constitution in Iraq.

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Oct. 14, 2005
Analysis
Religion in the Court
A report reviews the role of religion in the nomination of Harriet Miers to the U.S. Supreme Court.

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Oct. 13, 2005
Analysis
Intellectual Piracy in China
Merchants selling fake products such as Pfizer's Viagra in violation of intellectual property rights threaten manufacturers who depend on patents to protect large monetary investments in research and development. The sixth report in a series on China's rising economy examines intellectual piracy.

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Oct. 12, 2005
Analysis
Police Brutality in New Orleans
A report on the challenges facing the New Orleans Police Department following the beating of a 64-year-old man by policemen Saturday night. Then, three experts discuss how to handle the problems.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Oct. 12, 2005
Analysis
Changes in Iraqi Constitution
After weeks of quarreling, Shiite, Sunni and Kurdish leaders in Iraq settled on last-minute changes in the draft constitution. A professor of history and a former state department officer who advised the chairman of the constitutional committee discuss the new draft up for referendum on Saturday.

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Oct. 10, 2005
Analysis
Battle Over Miers Nomination
Conservatives continue to quarrel over the judicial qualifications of Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers, current White House counsel and a close friend of President Bush. Two guests discuss their differing opinions of Miers.

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Oct. 7, 2005
Analysis
Debating the Miers Nomination
Jim Lehrer speaks with NewsHour analysts Mark Shields and David Brooks about the nomination of Harriet Miers to the Supreme Court, the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to the IAEA, President Bush's speech on terrorism and the Senate vote on interrogation limits.

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Oct. 6, 2005
Analysis
Senate Sets Interrogation Limits
The Senate voted overwhelmingly in favor of an amendment to the military spending bill that sets new limits on how the U.S. military may interrogate detainees it is holding after a series of scandals involving Iraqi and other prisoners.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Oct. 5, 2005
Analysis
Oregon's Assisted Suicide Case
The Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday over whether Oregon has the right to allow doctor-assisted suicide for terminally ill patients. Following a background report, a reporter provides details of the day in court.

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Oct. 4, 2005
Analysis
Contested Miers Nomination
President Bush defended his nomination of Harriet Miers to the Supreme Court, saying she is the best person to fill the vacancy. His choice has caused a split among conservatives and drawn fire from liberal activist groups.

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Oct. 4, 2005
Analysis
President Bush Defends Nominee
President Bush addressed the nation Tuesday morning about various issues, including his selection of Harriet Miers as a Supreme Court justice.

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Oct. 4, 2005
Analysis
Violence Continues in Iraq
After an update on the fighting in western Iraq, a New York Times reporter explains recent political developments in Baghdad, including a change in election rules for the constitutional referendum Oct. 15.

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Oct. 3, 2005
Analysis
John Roberts' First Day
The first day of October meant opening day at the Supreme Court. But Monday was strikingly different, as recently appointed Chief Justice John Roberts sat among his new colleagues. NewsHour regular Jan Crawford Greenburg talks about Roberts' first day on the job and the term ahead.

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Oct. 3, 2005
Analysis
The Miers Nomination
The Senate reaction to President Bush's nomination of White House counsel Harriet Miers was mixed, largely because she never served as a judge and her judicial views are almost completely unknown. Two senators assess her nomination.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Oct. 3, 2005
Analysis
Who Is Harriet Miers?
President Bush nominated Harriet Miers to the Supreme Court Monday to fill the seat of retiring Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Following a background report, a reporter and law professor who know her well discuss the president's nomination.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video

SEPTEMBER
Sept. 30, 2005
Analysis
Jailed Journalist Testifies
New York Times reporter Judith Miller testified in front of a grand jury on the leak of a CIA operative's name. Miller spent 85 days in jail protecting the name of her source until the source gave her a waiver, clearing her to testify. Washington Post reporter Carol Leonnig talks about Miller's testimony.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Sept. 30, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Columnists Mark Shields and David Brooks discuss the indictment of House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, the investigation into stock sales by Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist and Judge John Roberts' confirmation as chief justice of the United States.

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Sept. 29, 2005
Analysis
A New Chief Justice
A report on the confirmation of Chief Justice John Roberts.

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Sept. 28, 2005
Analysis
The Tom Delay Indictment
A Texas grand jury indicted House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, R-Texas, on Wednesday in connection with an alleged illegal campaign finance scheme. Two experts discuss the indictment and its impact.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Sept. 28, 2005
Analysis
82nd Airborne Accused of Iraqi War Prisoner Abuse
A new report alleges the Army's 82nd Airborne Division abused Iraqi prisoners in 2003 and 2004. Two experts assess the allegations and discuss where the Army should go from here.

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Sept. 27, 2005
Analysis
Sen. Frist's Stock Sales
The Justice Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission are investigating the timing of Sen. Majority Leader Bill Frist's decision to sell his shares in a hospital company a month before stock values fell.

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Sept. 27, 2005
Update
Appellate Judge John Roberts Nominated to Supreme Court
President Bush on Tuesday nominated federal judge John Roberts Jr., described as a strong conservative with an unassuming manner, to the U.S. Supreme Court.


Sept. 23, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Political analysts Mark Shields and David Brooks discuss the political impact of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the growing federal budget deficit, the John Roberts vote and their thoughts on who might replace retiring Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.

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Sept. 22, 2005
Analysis
Roberts Vote Heads to Senate
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 13-5 in favor of sending the nomination of Judge John Roberts as chief justice of the United States to the full Senate. All ten Republicans and three Democrats praised Roberts' qualifications but five Democrats said they would have liked Roberts to be more forthcoming with his answers.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Sept. 21, 2005
Analysis
"Able Danger" Hearings
A report on the Senate Judiciary Committee hearings on allegations that a secret Pentagon program, dubbed Able Danger, turned up valuable information about the alleged ringleader of the Sept. 11 attacks, Mohammed Atta, more than a year before the attacks occurred.

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Sept. 20, 2005
Analysis
Tribute to Simon Wiesenthal
Simon Wiesenthal, a survivor of three concentration camps who is responsible for capturing 1,100 Nazis, died Tuesday at 96 at his home in Vienna, Austria. After two background reports, a guest talks about Wiesenthal's lifelong dedication to find and bring Nazi war criminals to justice.

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Sept. 16, 2005
Analysis
Brooks and Oliphant
Analysts David Brooks and Tom Oliphant discuss the federal government's role in organizing and financing a plan to rebuild the Gulf Coast as well as the confirmation hearings for chief justice nominee John Roberts.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Sept. 15, 2005
Analysis
The Roberts Hearings' Final Day
A report on the final day of John Roberts' confirmation hearings for chief justice of the United States.

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Sept. 15, 2005
Update
Roberts Tries to Address Concerns of Skeptical Democrats
Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee grilled chief justice nominee John Roberts on his views of affirmative action, civil rights and big business, trying to get at his personal, rather than legal, view of the law.


Sept. 14, 2005
Analysis
Third Day of Roberts Hearings
Judge John Roberts faced a second day of questioning in his confirmation hearings for chief justice of the United States. A report highlights important moments of the day.

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Sept. 14, 2005
Analysis
Day Three of Roberts Hearings
On the second day of questioning, Supreme Court nominee John Roberts faced questions on issues ranging from the right to die to how broadly he would interpret the Constitution. Two scholars assess his responses.

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Sept. 13, 2005
Analysis
Katrina Charity Scams
Charitable giving has reached record levels in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, but along with the donations has come a rise in illegal scams hoping to profit from the goodwill. Two guests discuss how to ensure donations reach those in need and urge Americans to research charity organizations before donating.

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Sept. 13, 2005
Analysis
First Round of Questions
Chief justice nominee John Roberts faced hours of pointed questions in Tuesday's first round of questioning from senators on the Judicial Committee. A report selects highlights from the hearings, including questions about abortion, The Voting Rights Act and separation of powers.

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Sept. 13, 2005
Analysis
Questioning Judge Roberts
U.S. chief justice nominee John Roberts faced a first round of questions in his Senate confirmation hearings Tuesday on a range of subjects, including abortion, privacy, and racial and gender discrimination. Two legal scholars assess Roberts' responses.

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Sept. 12, 2005
Analysis
The Roberts Hearings Begin
Less than three years after becoming a federal judge, John Roberts faced the Senate Judiciary Committee Monday in the first day of hearings to see if he should become the nation's top jurist. Two experts talk about what has been said thus far, and the direction the hearings will take throughout this week.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Sept. 12, 2005
Analysis
The Roberts Hearings Begin
Less than three years after becoming a federal judge, John Roberts faced the Senate Judiciary Committee Monday in the first day of hearings to see if he should become the nation's top jurist. Kwame Holman reports on the day's statements.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Sept. 9, 2005
Analysis
Brooks and Oliphant
Analysts David Brooks and Tom Oliphant discuss low public opinions of all levels of government in the wake of Hurricane Katrina as well as changes in FEMA's leadership and next week's Supreme Court confirmation hearings for John Roberts.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Sept. 7, 2005
Update
National Leaders Mourn as Chief Justice is Buried
President Bush and the remaining members of the Supreme Court led hundreds of mourners in honoring Chief Justice William Rehnquist as he was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday.


Sept. 5, 2005
Analysis
Changes at the Supreme Court
President Bush on Monday nominated John Roberts to succeed Chief Justice William Rehnquist as chief justice. A former clerk for Chief Justice Rehnquist joins a professor who has argued numerous cases before the court to consider the chief justice's legacy and how Roberts at the helm may change the high court.

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Sept. 4, 2005
In-depth Coverage
In Memoriam: Chief Justice William Rehnquist
Chief Justice William Rehnquist, whose conservative judicial philosophy guided the high court for nearly 20 years, succumbed to thyroid cancer Saturday evening. He was 80 years old.


Sept. 4, 2005
Update
Chief Justice William Rehnquist Dies at 80
Chief Justice William Rehnquist, whose conservative judicial philosophy guided the high court for nearly 20 years, succumbed to thyroid cancer Saturday evening. He was 80 years old.


Sept. 4, 2005
Update
Biography: Chief Justice William Rehnquist
Chief Justice William Rehnquist, who steered the high court through groundbreaking legal and political disputes as well as guided it through a docket-full of potentially pivotal and controversial cases in recent court terms, died on Sept. 3, 2005.


Sept. 2, 2005
Update
Evacuated New Orleans Residents Face More Troubles
Survivors of Hurricane Katrina continued to flee New Orleans on Friday seeking shelter in Texas as emergency convoys reached the city to assist remaining residents and try to halt criminal activity.


Sept. 1, 2005
Analysis
Looting in New Orleans
Two experts discuss the violence and chaos that erupted in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina flooded the city and left many residents without food or shelter.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video

AUGUST
Aug. 29, 2005
Analysis
Senator Patrick Leahy
Senate Judiciary Committee ranking Democrat Patrick Leahy of Vermont expressed concern over lost documents from John Roberts' Reagan years and discussed his views of the candidate.

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Aug. 29, 2005
Analysis
Constitution Fight in Iraq
Although Iraqi officials approved a draft constitution, many factions around the country are still not satisfied. Following a background report, three experts discuss the fight ahead for lawmakers.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 26, 2005
Analysis
Iraq's Constitution Struggle
Negotiators announced late Friday that they had reached a "deal in principle" to bring a draft constitution to the parliament. A Shiite and Sunni representative discuss the last minute offer and the chances of the compromise charter passing a public referendum in October.

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Aug. 25, 2005
Analysis
Iraq's Constitution Struggle
The Iraqi National Assembly failed to meet a self-imposed midnight deadline to present a draft constitution. Talks reached an impasse after Shiite and Sunni leaders could not resolve differences, particularly over the issue of federalism. A New York Times reporter gives an update from Baghdad.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 24, 2005
Newsmaker Interview
Senator Arlen Specter
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Arlen Specter, R-Pa., says he will ask Supreme Court justice nominee John Roberts dignified, appropriate and probing questions about such topics as the role of precedent, the separation of governmental powers and the abortion issue.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 24, 2005
Analysis
Connecticut Sues Over NCLB
Connecticut sued the U.S government over funding problems for standardized tests required as part of the No Child Left Behind law. After a background report, a former presidential adviser on the legislation and the commissioner of education from Connecticut discuss the case.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 22, 2005
Analysis
The Vioxx Verdict
Experts discuss the verdict of a Texas jury that found pharmaceutical giant Merck and Co. liable in the death of a man who took the painkiller Vioxx.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 22, 2005
Analysis
Iraqi Constitution Struggle
After struggling for weeks and missing one major deadline, Iraqi leaders put off a final vote today on the new constitution. Three experts discuss the ramifications.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 19, 2005
Analysis
John Roberts: In His Own Words
The most recent documents released by the National Archives on Supreme Court nominee John Roberts shed more light on his work during the Reagan era. A Supreme Court reporter analyzes the newly-released documents.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 19, 2005
Analysis
Oliphant and Kristol
Tom Oliphant and Bill Kristol analyze what the newly released writings of Supreme Court justice nominee John Roberts reveal, and the ongoing campaign in Texas by mothers of U.S. soldiers killed in Iraq.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 18, 2005
Analysis
Lethal Force
Following two background reports, a reporter discusses the controversy surrounding the investigation of last month's fatal shooting of an innocent Brazilian man by London police following the bombings of the transit system.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 18, 2005
Analysis
U.S.-Mexico Border Disputes
The governors of New Mexico and Arizona have declared states of emergency in response to continued gang violence and drug smuggling associated with the flow of Mexicans illegally entering the United States. Two key players in the debate discuss the conflict and possible solutions.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 17, 2005
Analysis
Busting Crime
Chicago was once the U.S. murder capital, but recent efforts to increase police presence on the streets and the implementation of new technologies to target criminals have resulted in a sharp drop in crime.

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Aug. 16, 2005
Analysis
Iraq's Constitutional Process
Iraqi officials delayed the drafting of their inaugural constitution until next week. Following a background report, a former State Department lawyer, who has been a legal adviser in Iraq, discusses the decision to extend the deadline.

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Aug. 15, 2005
Analysis
Iraqi Constitution
Iraqi lawmakers missed the Monday deadline to submit a new draft constitution, but parliament voted unanimously to extend the deadline by a week to Aug. 22. A New York Times reporter provides an update.

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Aug. 12, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks discuss the declining support of the war in Iraq and whether the United States has a plan to defeat the insurgency.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 11, 2005
Analysis
In John Roberts' Own Words
Opponents of Supreme Court nominee John Roberts began airing a television ad Wednesday which focused on an abortion-related case Roberts argued before the Supreme Court during his tenure with the first Bush administration.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 11, 2005
Analysis
Britain Detains Foreign Radicals
British authorities may deport 10 foreign nationals considered security threats Thursday, following Prime Minister Blair's proposed anti-terrorism measures that critics say violate human rights. After an update from Independent Television News, two experts discuss Britain's new anti-terror laws.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 8, 2005
Analysis
Profile: Patrick Fitzgerald
Before he became the U.S. Attorney in Chicago, Patrick Fitzgerald was involved in cases against John Gambino, the Word Trade Center bombers and Osama bin Laden. Now, Fitzgerald is tackling another high profile case, the federal investigation into the leak of CIA agent Valerie Plame's identity.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 5, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks discuss the recess appointment of John Bolton as the U.S. envoy to the United Nations, mounting casualties in Iraq and other developments in the political arena.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Aug. 2, 2005
Analysis
Gang Violence
Both government and police officials in the U.S. and Central America are attempingt to curb the violent activity of growing transnational street gang MS-13.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video

JULY
July 27, 2005
Analysis
Senate Gun Industry Debate
The Senate on Wednesday began debating a bill to protect the gun industry from potential lawsuits arising from the misuse of its weapons.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 27, 2005
Essay
Jobs Nobody Wants
Essayist Clarence Page considers if there really are jobs no one wants.


July 27, 2005
Analysis
Iraq's Constitutional Challenge
Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld visited Baghdad and urged Iraqi lawmakers to meet an Aug. 15 deadline for finishing their constitution. Middle East experts assess the problems the country faces when drafting a new constitution.

videoStreaming Video


July 26, 2005
Newsmaker Interview
Alberto Gonzales
Attorney General Alberto Gonzales discusses John Roberts' Supreme Court nomination process, grand jury proceedings over the leak of CIA operative Valerie Plame's name, the impact terrorist bombings in London and Egypt are having on the U.S. and drug problems in the U.S.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 22, 2005
Analysis
Judge Roberts' Legal Record
As Judge John Roberts and U.S. Senators prepare for confirmation hearings in September, three legal experts examine the judge's legal record on issues that may come before the Supreme Court.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 22, 2005
Essay
Richard Rodriguez Considers the North American Free Trade Agreement
Essayist Richard Rodriguez considers the NAFTA.

audioRealAudio  


July 22, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks discuss the nomination of federal appeals court judge John Roberts Jr. to the Supreme Court and Senate Democrats' reaction to the nomination.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 21, 2005
Analysis
Renewing the Patriot Act
The House of Representative met Thursday to vote on renewing the Patriot Act with some minor changes designed to increase judicial and political oversight of some of its most controversial provisions.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 20, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court Choice
Supreme Court nominee John Roberts Jr. began meeting senators from both parties Wednesday as the Senate floor begins talking about the nominee.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 20, 2005
Analysis
President Bush's Selection
Jan Crawford Greenburg of the Chicago Tribune talks about Supreme Court nominee John Roberts' legal ideology and why President Bush selected him for the nomination.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 20, 2005
Newsmaker Interview
Newsmaker: Charles Schumer
Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, speaks about Supreme Court nominee John Roberts Jr.'s legal record, possible questions during the confirmation hearings and the potential of a filibuster.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 20, 2005
Newsmaker Interview
Newsmaker: Andrew Card
White House chief of staff Andrew Card speaks about President Bush's choice of Appellate Judge John Roberts Jr. to serve on the Supreme Court and the timing of his announcement.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 20, 2005
Update
Republicans Hail Supreme Court Nominee; Democrats Cautious
The Supreme Court handed down two Internet-related decisions on its last day of the session Monday, one dealing a blow to companies that encourage file-sharing and the other impacting high-speed Internet access over cable lines.


July 19, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court Pick
President Bush will introduce his choice to replace Justice Sandra Day O'Connor on the Supreme Court Tuesday evening in a speech to the nation.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 19, 2005
Report
President Names John Roberts
In his first Supreme Court nominee selection, President Bush picked federal appeals Judge John Roberts, Jr., a former deputy solicitor general who is considered a solid conservative. The president announced his decision Tuesday evening from the White House.

audioRealAudio  


July 19, 2005
Analysis
Mr. Bush's High Court Nominee
President Bush nominated solidly conservative judge John Roberts Jr. of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit to the first vacancy on the Supreme Court in more than a decade. Sens. Ben Nelson, D-Neb., Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., and John Cornyn, R-Texas, discuss the president's selection.


July 19, 2005
Analysis
Padilla Case
The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments Tuesday in the case of Jose Padilla, an alleged al-Qaida operative who is accused of being involved in a 2002 dirty bomb plot.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 19, 2005
Analysis
Renewing the Patriot Act
President Bush is urging lawmakers to renew 16 surveillance provisions of the Patriot Act set to expire at the end of the year, while critics continue to charge the provisions violate civil liberties. Following a background report, two legal analysts discuss the debate that has begun in Congress.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 15, 2005
Analysis
Under Pressure
The Karl Rove controversy heats up as the Senate proposed amendments to the homeland security spending bill Friday as to who has access to classified information.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 15, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court Battle
President Bush has yet to name a replacement for retiring Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, but Capitol Hill is already speculating who the nominee will be. Following a report on political maneuvering in Washington, Mark Shields and David Brooks assess the state of play.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 14, 2005
Analysis
Corporate Crime
Former Qwest Communications chief financial officer Robin Szeliga pleaded guilty to insider trading Thursday, the latest in a long string of business leaders, including WorldCom CEO Bernard Ebbers, to be successfully prosecuted. Experts discuss the affect of corporate crime cases on the business world.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 14, 2005
Analysis
London Investigation Update
British police on Thursday raised the death toll from the London bombings to 53 and released the names of two of the suspected suicide bombers. Two Independent Television News reports by Simon Israel from London about the investigation and Adrian Britton from the city of Leeds, home to one of the alleged bombers.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 13, 2005
Analysis
London Investigation Update
British authorities continue their investigation into last week's attacks on the London transit system. They have identified four, possibly five bombers involved in the attacks who are Britons.

videoStreaming Video


July 12, 2005
Analysis
London Bombing Investigation
British authorities said Tuesday that they arrested a suspect in the July 7 London bus and subway bombings and are investigating whether four bombers died in the attacks. Following a background report, Newsweek's London Bureau chief speaks about the investigation.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 8, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Columnists Mark Shields and David Brooks discuss the political impact of the London bombings, the controversy surrounding presidential advisor Karl Rove and rumors of a second, or third, Supreme Court vacancy.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 7, 2005
Analysis
Public Transportation on Guard
After the London train and bus attacks, the Bush administration raised the terror alert to "orange," or high risk, for all U.S. mass transit systems, which now face major tests to protect their riders. Transportation experts assess the current mass transit system situation and the problems they face to protect the public.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 6, 2005
Analysis
The Next Supreme Court Nominee
Sens. Arlen Specter, R-Pa., and Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., the chairman and ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, discuss the upcoming confirmation battle over who should replace retiring Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 6, 2005
Analysis
Protecting Anonymous Sources
A federal judge sentenced New York Times reporter Judith Miller to jail Wednesday for refusing to divulge her source to a grand jury investigating the administration's leak of a CIA operative's identity. Two media experts analyze the sentencing and what this ruling means for journalists and their anonymous sources.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 5, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court History
In a prelude to the expected battle over the next Supreme Court justice nomination, an historian explains the selection and confirmation process and the past battles between Congress and the president.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 1, 2005
Analysis
Pivotal Justice
Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor resigned Friday after 24 years on the bench. Margaret Warner and Jan Crawford Greenburg of the Chicago Tribune talk about O'Connor's role on the Court.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 1, 2005
Analysis
Justice O'Connor's Legacy
Justice Sandra Day O'Connor resigned from the U.S. Supreme Court Friday after a 24-year term. Law analysts discuss her legacy and the view of O'Connor as the "swing" vote.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


July 1, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Ponnuru
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and National Review Senior Editor Ramesh Ponnuru discuss Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's retirement and the other political news of the week.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video

JUNE
June 29, 2005
Analysis
Experts Discuss Journalists' Right to Reporter
Two journalists are facing jail time and four more could be held in contempt of court for refusing to reveal anonymous sources in grand jury testimony. Experts discuss the cases and the effect it'll have on reporter-source confidentiality.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 28, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court Decisions
The Supreme Court's term came to an end after the justices ruled on a number of controversial matters, saying local governments can take private property for the purpose of economic development, federal agents may prosecute users of marijuana for medical purposes, and companies that encourage Internet file-sharing can be sued.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 28, 2005
Analysis
Ex-HealthSouth CEO Richard Scrushy Found Not Guilty on All 36 Charges
Former HealthSouth CEO and founder Richard Scrushy was found not guilty on 36 charges of fraud, false corporate reporting and making false statements related to the $2.7 billion accounting fraud at HealthSouth.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 27, 2005
Analysis
Ruling on Ten Commandments
In two 5-4 votes, the Supreme Court ruled Monday it is constitutional to display the Ten Commandments on public property as long as the intent of the exhibit isn't pushing a religious agenda. After a report from The Chicago Tribune's Jan Crawford Greenburg, two advocates debate the rulings and their fallout.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 27, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court Rules on Internet File
On the Supreme Court's last day before a three-month break, the justices made a series of decisions, including a ruling against file-sharing networks, the rejection of two reporters' appeal in a CIA leak case and the other impacting high-speed Internet access over cable lines. Two lawyers debate the court's ruling.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 27, 2005
Update
Supreme Court Hands Down Mixed Rulings on Ten Commandments
In two 5-4 votes, the Supreme Court ruled Monday it is not unconstitutional to display the Ten Commandments on public property as long as the intent of the display isn't pushing a religious agenda.


June 27, 2005
Update
Court Rules on Internet File-Sharing, High-Speed Lines
The Supreme Court handed down two Internet-related decisions on its last day of the session Monday, one dealing a blow to companies that encourage file-sharing and the other impacting high-speed Internet access over cable lines.


June 24, 2005
Analysis
Seizing Property
A narrowly divided Supreme Court ruled Thursday that local governments may take possession of people's homes and businesses against their will for private development. Experts debate the court's ruling.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 23, 2005
Analysis
Seizing Private Property
A narrowly divided Supreme Court ruled Thursday that local governments may take possession of people's homes and businesses against their will for private development. Jan Crawford Greenburg of the Chicago Tribune analyzes the court ruling.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 21, 2005
Analysis
Former Ku Klux Klan Member Found Guilty of Manslaughter in 1964 Murders
Former Ku Klux Klan member Edgar Ray Killen, 80, was found guilty of manslaughter Tuesday in the 1964 killing of three civil rights workers. Killen will be sentenced this Thursday and faces up 60 years in prison.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 20, 2005
Analysis
'Mississippi Burning' Trial of former KKK Member Comes to a Close
The defense rested its case Monday in the trial of Edgar Ray Killen, a former Ku Klux Klan member, allegedly responsible for the the murder of three civil rights workers in 1964.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 17, 2005
Analysis
Tyco Trial Guilty Verdict
A jury found former Tyco International executives Dennis Kozlowski and Mark Swartz guilty of fraud and grand larceny for stealing $150 million from the company and making $430 million more by manipulating stock prices.

videoStreaming Video


June 17, 2005
Analysis
California Town Reacts to Father-Son Terror Indictments
Lodi, a central California town home to a burgeoning Muslim community, is coping with terrorism-related accusations against a father and son.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 17, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks Discuss the War in Iraq, Guantanamo Bay
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks discuss the public's reaction to the war in Iraq, President Bush's domestic policy and Democratic Senator Dick Durbin's comments regarding Guantanamo Bay.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 16, 2005
Analysis
House Vote Drops Patriot Act Provision
A number of the Patriot Act's provisions expire at the end of 2005, including one allowing the FBI to search records, such as library and bookstore records, without probable cause. Despite a veto threat from the White House, the House of Representatives voted Wednesday to remove that provision.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 15, 2005
Analysis
Senate Holds Hearings on Guantanamo Bay
The Senate Judiciary Committee held hearings Wednesday to determine the future of the U.S. military detention center at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, following a searing report by Amnesty International and calls by activists and politicians to close the facility.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 14, 2005
Analysis
Trials Continue at The Hague for Bosian Serb War Crimes
As the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia continues at The Hague, the U.N. war crimes tribunal president discusses the trial and the push to arrest former Bosnian Serb leaders such as Ratko Mladic.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 13, 2005
Analysis
Guantanamo Bay Log Detailing Treatment, Interrogation of Prisoner Revealed
As international groups continue to call for the closure of the U.S. camp at Guantanamo Bay, Time magazine obtained a log detailing the interrogation and treatment of the so-called "20th hijacker" at the facility.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 10, 2005
Analysis
Analysts Discuss Blair Visit, Dean Comments
Analysts Mark Shields and Rich Lowry discuss President Bush's meeting with British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Democratic Party Chairman Howard Dean's controversial comments about Republicans and other political news.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 8, 2005
Analysis
Big Tobacco Trial
A federal judge Wednesday questioned the Justice Department's decision to require tobacco companies to fund a five-year, $10 billion nationwide stop-smoking program, rather than a recommended 25-year, $130 billion plan.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 6, 2005
Analysis
Medical Marijuana Decision
The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 Monday that federal authorities may prosecute patients whose doctors prescribe medical marijuana despite state laws that allow its use. Following a background report on the ruling, Gwen Ifill hosts a debate on the consequences of the high court's decision.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


June 3, 2005
Analysis
Amnesty International Alleges Detainee Abuse at Guantanamo Prisons
Amnesty International last week compared the U.S. prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba to Soviet gulags where detainees are held at length without facing formal charges. Members of the Bush administration have criticized the charges.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video

MAY
May 31, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court Watch
The Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned the conviction of now defunct accounting firm Arthur Andersen for destroying Enron Corp.-related documents because of flawed jury instructions.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 27, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks Discuss John Bolton, the Senate Judicial Compromise and
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks join Jim Lehrer to discuss the Senate vote to delay John Bolton's nomination to the United Nations, the Senate compromise on judicial nominations and the House bill that would allow federal funding of stem cell research using human embryos.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 26, 2005
Analysis
Guantanamo Bay Prisoners Allege Abuse, Desecration of Quran
New documents have emerged detailing detainee allegations of abuse and the desecration of the Quran at a U.S. prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 25, 2005
Analysis
Senate Votes to Confirm Judicial Nominee Priscilla Owen
The Senate on Wednesday voted 56-43 mostly along party lines to confirm Priscilla Owen as a judge on the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans following Monday's compromise in which Democrats retained the right to future filibusters.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 25, 2005
Essay
Essayist Richard Rodriguez Looks at Arizona Minutemen
Essayist Richard Rodriguez that looks at the Arizona Minutemen patrolling the Mexico-Arizona border.


May 24, 2005
Analysis
Senate Agrees to Filibuster Compromise
After years of contentious debate and deadlocks, the Senate agreed to vote on the nomination of Priscilla Owen to the U.S. appeals court. This action followed Monday's compromise in which Democrats retained the right to filibuster under "extraordinary circumstances." Four senators discuss the decision.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 23, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court on Abortion
The Supreme Court said Monday it would review a decision striking down a New Hampshire law that requires parental notification when a minor seeks an abortion.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 20, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks Discuss Nuclear Option that Looms in the Senate
Mark Shields and David Brooks assess the impending Senate confrontation over the use of the filibuster to oppose judicial nominee Priscilla Owen and other judicial nominations.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 19, 2005
Analysis
Senate Debate Over Judicial Nominees Continues
Senate debate over controversial judicial nominee Priscilla Owen entered a second day Thursday. Three analysts discuss public opinion across the country over the filibuster debate.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 18, 2005
Analysis
Plans Shift for World Trade Center Site
Designers and government leaders have decided to rework the plans for new buildings and memorials on the World Trade Center site in downtown Manhattan after the New York City Police Department outlined their concerns about security.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 18, 2005
Analysis
Senate Begins Debate over Judicial Nominees
The Senate began debate Wednesday over controversial judicial nominee Priscilla Owen, bringing closer the potential showdown over the use of the filibuster.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 17, 2005
Analysis
Senate Braces for Potential Showdown Over Judicial Nominees
Talks between Senate Democrats and Republicans over President Bush's judicial nominees broke off late Monday after party leaders failed to reach a compromise for voting on the controversial nominees. An update on the potential Senate showdown.

videoStreaming Video


May 16, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court on Wine Sales
The Supreme Court on Monday struck down state laws banning consumers from buying wine from out-of-state vineyards. The 5-4 ruling called bans on interstate wine shipments discriminatory.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 13, 2005
Analysis
The Senate Standoff Over President Bush's Judicial Nominees
Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Arlen Specter, R-Pa., urged Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., to come to a compromise with Democrats over President Bush's judicial nominees so a "nuclear option" to terminate filibusters can be avoided. A report on the buildup to the Senate showdown over judicial nominations.

videoStreaming Video


May 13, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks Discuss the Fight Over Judicial Nominees, John Bolton
Columnists Mark Shields and David Brooks discuss the Senate Foreign Relations Committee's decision to send John Bolton's nomination as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations to the Senate floor for a vote without an endorsement and the Senate's heated standoff over judicial nominees.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 11, 2005
Analysis
Two Federal Judges Describe Their Confirmation Hearing Experiences
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., has announced plans to bring the first of President Bush's judicial nominations to the Senate floor for a vote. Two judges describe their own confirmation hearing experiences and weigh in on the current nomination battle.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 5, 2005
Analysis
Pentagon Analyst Arrested for Intelligence Leaks
Federal agents allege Pentagon analyst Lawrence Franklin illegally disclosed classified information to a pro-Israel lobbying group.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


May 3, 2005
Analysis
Congress Moves to Standardize Driver's Licenses
Congress voted to set strict national standards on requirements for receiving a driver's license after the 9/11 Commission found that all 19 hijackers used valid state-issued licenses.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video

APRIL
April 27, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court Watch
The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday in a case stemming from the collapse of Enron. Several justices expressed their dismay with the way a jury was instructed before convicting accounting firm Arthur Andersen of obstructing justice.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


April 25, 2005
Analysis
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist Criticizes Blocking Judicial Nominees
On Sunday, Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., delivered a taped speech to a nationwide broadcast in which Christian conservatives, during other segments, attacked Democratic senators for blocking judicial nominees described in the program as "people of faith."

videoStreaming Video


April 25, 2005
Analysis
Majority Leader Bill Frist Threatens to Change Senate Filibuster Rules
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist spoke to a conservative Christian coalition in Kentucky in an effort to get an up or down vote on President Bush's judicial nominees. Sens. Jon Kyl, R-Ariz., and Richard Durbin, D-Ill., discuss the Republicans' plan to cut off the Democratic filibuster and a potential Senate shutdown.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


April 22, 2005
Analysis
Zacarias Moussaoui Pleads Guilty with Helping Plan the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks
Zacarias Moussaoui pleaded guilty Friday to conspiring with the 9/11 attackers, saying he was trained to fly a plane into the White House in a later attack.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


April 21, 2005
Analysis
Senate Judiciary Committee Approves Two of President Bush's Nominees
The Senate Judiciary Committee Thursday approved two of President Bush's controversial judicial nominees, setting up a confrontation between the Republican majority and Democrats who can use filibusters to block nominations.

videoStreaming Video


April 18, 2005
Analysis
Republican Senators Lobby to End Filibuster on Judicial Nominees
Republican senators are lobbying to end the practice of filibustering, saying Democrats will use the tactic to defeat President Bush's judicial nominations. Kwame Holman reports on the Senate debate.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


April 14, 2005
Analysis
Oregon's Supreme Court Nullifies Over 3,000 Gay Marriages
The Oregon Supreme Court on Thursday nullified 3,000 gay marriage licenses, while the Connecticut state legislature moved toward approving a same-sex civil union bill. Following a background report, two analysts debate the recent actions and what they suggest about America's opinion on same-sex marriage.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


April 12, 2005
Analysis
Three Men Indicted on Allegations of Terror Plot
The U.S. Justice Department announced Tuesday that three men have been indicted in connection to an alleged plot to attack financial institutions in New York, northern New Jersey and Washington, D.C.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


April 6, 2005
Analysis
Patriot Act
Appearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and FBI Director Robert Mueller urged lawmakers to renew the anti-terror Patriot Act. Most of the law is permanent, but there are 15 provisions set to expire this December.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


April 5, 2005
Analysis
Senate Judiciary Committee Hearings Convene on the Patriot Act
Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and FBI Director Robert Mueller urged Congress to renew key provisions of the Patriot Act Tuesday during Senate Judiciary Committee hearings on the controversial anti-terrorism law.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


April 5, 2005
Analysis
Senate Judiciary Committee Hearings Convene on the Patriot Act
Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and FBI Director Robert Mueller urged Congress to renew key provisions of the Patriot Act Tuesday during Senate Judiciary Committee hearings on the controversial anti-terrorism law.

audioRealAudio  


April 1, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Lowry
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and National Review editor Rich Lowry discuss the political troubles surrounding House Republican Leader Tom Delay and the presidential commission's report on pre-war Iraq intelligence regarding weapons of mass destruction.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video

MARCH
March 31, 2005
Analysis
Terri Schiavo Dies After 13 Days off Feeding Tube
Thirteen days after her feeding tube was removed, brain-damaged Florida woman Terri Schiavo died Thursday morning at her Pinellas Park hospice. A discussion about some of the issues raised by the life and death of Terri Schiavo.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 30, 2005
Analysis
Age Discrimination
The Supreme Court Wednesday ruled that workers as young as 40 can sue employers for age discrimination. A Supreme Court reporter explains the ruling.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 29, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court Watch
The Supreme Court Tuesday ruled that whistleblowers are protected under Title IX, a law baring gender discrimination in federally funded educational programs.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 29, 2005
Analysis
File Sharing
The Supreme Court Tuesday heard arguments in a copyright case brought against file-sharing networks by members of the entertainment industry. Media Correspondent Terence Smith looks at the ongoing debate over file sharing on the Internet. Then, Jan Crawford Greenburg discusses the arguments heard at the High Court.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


FUNDED IN PART BY: The Pew Charitable Trusts


March 25, 2005
Analysis
Medical Ethics of Schiavo Case
The dispute over the life of Terri Schiavo has raised a series of difficult ethical questions about the proper diagnosis and treatment of people with severely incapacitating injuries or illnesses.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 25, 2005
Analysis
Shields and Brooks
Syndicated columnist Mark Shields and New York Times columnist David Brooks discuss the Terri Schiavo case, the president's Social Security plan and possible 2008 presidential candidates.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 24, 2005
Analysis
Schiavo Case: Supreme Court
The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday declined to intervene in the case of whether to reinsert the feeding tube of Terri Schiavo, a severely brain-damaged Florida woman. A discussion about the Supreme Court's decision.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 24, 2005
Analysis
The Schiavo Case Receives Strong Media Coverage
Media correspondent Terence Smith discusses the wall-to-wall media coverage the Terri Schiavo case has received from newspapers, broadcast television, cable news and the Internet.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 24, 2005
Analysis
Red Lake Community Searches For Warning Signs
Following the teen shootings in Minnesota, Fred de Sam Lazaro of Twin Cities Public Television visits the Red Lake Indian Reservation to see how the community is coping. Then, two school safety analysts discuss detecting warning signs of teen violence.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 22, 2005
Analysis
Schiavo Case Sparks Interest in Living Wills
The case of Terri Schiavo, currently being debated in the courts and society, has sparked a renewed interest in living wills. Two experts lead a discussion explaining the use of the document and whether it would have made a difference in the Schiavo case.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 22, 2005
Analysis
Teen Goes on Shooting Rampage at Minnesota High School
A high school student on an Indian reservation in northern Minnesota went on a shooting rampage Monday, killing nine people including five students, before turning the gun on himself in the worst U.S. school shooting since Columbine.

videoStreaming Video


March 21, 2005
Analysis
Supreme Court
The Supreme Court Monday heard arguments on enforcement of restraining orders. A Supreme Court reporter joins Gwen Ifill to discuss the case as well as the return of ailing Chief Justice William Rehnquist, who returned to the bench for the first time in five months.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 21, 2005
Analysis
Judge Weighs Reinserting Schiavo Feeding Tube
A federal judge in Florida delayed making a decision on whether to reinsert the feeding tube of Terri Schiavo, after hearing arguments from lawyers on both sides of the case. Experts debate the legal implications of the disabled Florida woman's case.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 21, 2005
Update
Chief Justice Returns; Supreme Court Rejects Moussaoui Appeal
Chief Justice William Rehnquist returned to the bench Monday for the first time since he was diagnosed with thyroid cancer.


March 18, 2005
Analysis
A Florida Judge Orders Terri Schiavo's Feeding Tube Removed
Despite efforts by Republicans on Capitol Hill Friday, a Florida judge ordered the removal of a feeding tube that was keeping Terri Schiavo, a severely brain-damaged woman whose case has made national headlines, alive. Experts discuss the legal arguments in the case.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 15, 2005
Analysis
Bernard Ebbers Guilty of Conspiracy and Fraud
Former WorldCom CEO Bernard Ebbers was convicted of conspiracy and fraud Tuesday. A reporter and a formal federal prosecutor who also worked for the Securities and Exchange Commission discuss the verdict and its possible impact.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 11, 2005
Update
Judge Cites Trade Secrets in Ruling Against Bloggers
A judge on Friday ordered three bloggers to reveal confidential sources in a lawsuit brought by Apple Computer Inc., ruling that they were not protected by the First Amendment because they published trade secrets.


FUNDED IN PART BY: The Pew Charitable Trusts


March 11, 2005
Analysis
Atlanta and Chicago Judge Killings Spark Concern over Judge Safety
In Atlanta, a judge and two people were killed in a courthouse shooting. The suspect fled in a stolen car. This slaying comes less than two weeks after a Chicago judge's family members were shot to death.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 7, 2005
Analysis
The Supreme Court to Hear Digital Copyright Case
Later this month, the Supreme Court will hear a much anticipated copyright case, MGM vs. Grokster, which pits the entertainment industry against the makers of software that allows people to exchange music and movies. Media correspondent Terence Smith provides a report.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 3, 2005
Analysis
Consumption Tax
Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan met with President Bush's Federal Advisory Panel on Fundamental Tax Reform on Thursday. He said a system that combines elements of consumption and income taxes might be the best way to overhaul the nation's tax system. A discussion on the pros and cons of a consumption tax.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 2, 2005
Analysis
Ten Commandments
The Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday about whether religious symbols like the Ten Commandments can be displayed on government property.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 2, 2005
Analysis
Senate Debates Changes to Bankruptcy Laws
A bill up for debate in the Senate will make it harder for people to walk away from personal debts such as credit cards after they have declared bankruptcy.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 1, 2005
Analysis
Juvenile Death Penalty
The Supreme Court ruled Tuesday by a 5-4 vote that the death penalty for convicted murderers under the age of 18 is unconstitutional. A discussion with a Supreme Court reporter about the landmark decision.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 1, 2005
Newsmaker Interview
Bill Frist Attacks Democrats Use of the Filibuster, Urges Social Security Reform
Sen. Bill Frist, R-Tenn., speaks with Jim Lehrer about President Bush's Social Security plan and the Democrats' use of the filibuster against the president's judicial nominees.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


March 1, 2005
Update
Supreme Court Strikes Down Death Penalty
The Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that applying the death penalty to offenders under the age of 18 is unconstitutionally cruel, ending the practice nationwide.

FEBRUARY
Feb. 24, 2005
Analysis
Recent Court Decisions on Reporters' Privilege and News on Former Talon Reporter
Terence Smith discusses recent media controversies, including two contrasting court decisions on a reporters' privilege to protect confidential sources, and the latest on James Guckert/Jeff Gannon, the former White House reporter for Talon News and GOPUSA.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Feb. 22, 2005
Analysis
Land Grab
The Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday over an eminent domain case in New London, Conn. Homeowners are up in arms over a private developer's plan to seize their land for a development project that the local government says will benefit the community.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Feb. 17, 2005
Analysis
President Bush Names John Negroponte to National Director of Intelligence
President Bush Thursday nominated U.S. Ambassador to Iraq John Negroponte as national intelligence director.

videoStreaming Video


Feb. 17, 2005
Newsmaker Interview
Sen. Harry Reid Discusses Current Issues and the Political Climate
Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., talks about the current political climate, tensions overseas, his role as Senate minority leader and where the Democratic Party is headed.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Feb. 15, 2005
Analysis
President Bush Renominates Twenty Candidates for Federal Judgeships
President Bush Monday renominated 20 candidates for federal judgeships who had been previously blocked by Senate Democrats as being too controversial. A discussion with two members from the Senate Judiciary Committee about the president's nominees.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Feb. 11, 2005
Analysis
Senate Passes Limits on Class
A background report on legislation approved by the Senate that would send large, multi-state class action lawsuits from the state to federal courts. The bill is expected to go before the House for a vote next week.

videoStreaming Video

JANUARY
Jan. 26, 2005
Analysis
Senate Judiciary Committee Approves Alberto Gonzales for Attorney General
The Senate Judiciary Committee approved Alberto Gonzales for attorney general Wednesday. Two senators on the panel discuss Gonzales' approval.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Jan. 25, 2005
Analysis
Catholic Dioceses Seek Bankruptcy Protection Following Sex Scandals
Lee Hochberg of Oregon Public Broadcasting looks at the growing number of Catholic parishes seeking bankruptcy protection following the Church's sex abuse scandals.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Jan. 17, 2005
Analysis
Debate Brews over Splitting 9th Circuit Court
Spencer Michels profiles the controversial 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The court has ruled the words "under God" in the Pledge of Allegiance make it unconstitutional to compel children to recite it in public schools and has ruled to reinstate the indictments made under the terror financing law.

videoStreaming Video


Jan. 14, 2005
Analysis
Soldier Found Guilty in Abu Ghraib Abuse Case
Army Reserve Spc. Charles Graner was found guilty on Friday by a military jury in Fort Hood, Texas for abusing Iraqi detainees at the Abu Ghraib prison.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Jan. 12, 2005
Analysis
Sentencing Guidelines
The Supreme Court on Wednesday declared that federal judges are no longer obligated to abide by the controversial sentencing guidelines that were established by Congress in 1987.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Jan. 12, 2005
Analysis
Sentencing Guidelines
In a blow to the Justice Department, a divided Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that federal judges do not have to abide by the controversial federal criminal sentencing code adopted in 1987.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Jan. 12, 2005
Update
High Court Makes Sentencing Guidelines 'Advisory'
In a blow to the Justice Department, a divided Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that federal judges do not have to abide by the controversial federal criminal sentencing code adopted in 1987.


Jan. 7, 2005
Analysis
Political Analysts Mark Shields and David Brooks Discuss the Week's Events
Columnists Mark Shields and David Brooks discuss the week's political news, including the Alberto Gonzales Senate confirmation hearings, tax reform and House ethics changes.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Jan. 6, 2005
Analysis
U.S. Attorney General Nominee Alberto Gonzales' Faces Tough Senate Questions
Senate confirmation hearings for Alberto Gonzales, White House counsel and President Bush's nominee for U.S. attorney general, began Thursday. Ray Suarez discusses the proceedings and the questions about Gonzales' position on the torture of prisoners of war in Iraq and the war on terror.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


Jan. 6, 2005
Analysis
U.S. Attorney General Nominee Alberto Gonzales Faces Tough Senate Questions
Senate confirmation hearings for U.S. attorney general nominee Alberto Gonzales began Thursday. Kwame Holman reports on the first day of hearings.

videoStreaming Video


Jan. 5, 2005
Analysis
President Bush Proposes Medical Malpractice Reform
President Bush called on Congress to pass new legislation limiting the amount plaintiffs can receive in damages. Two medical liability experts discuss the president's plan and what is behind the soaring cost of healthcare.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video


FUNDED IN PART BY: The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation


Jan. 3, 2005
Analysis
U.S. Plan to Hold Suspected Terrorist Detainees Indefinitely
Pentagon and CIA officials have asked the Bush administration to explore more permanent ways to hold suspected terrorists in custody indefinitely. Two legal experts, including one former deputy assistant attorney general, discuss the proposed plan.

audioRealAudio  videoStreaming Video

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