Friday, February 5, 2010

President Obama unveiled his $3.8 trillion budget this week that includes a plan to pour more money into job creation programs while boosting taxes on the wealthy. But will Congress approve a budget that spends $1.6 trillion more than the government expects to take in? Jackie Calmes of The New York Times will examine the tough balancing act the Obama administration is facing in deciding which government programs will get additional funding and which face a spending freeze or serious cuts.

There has been a lot of talk about the lack of bipartisanship in Washington lately with both Democrats and Republicans pointing the finger of blame at the other party. Even President Obama has gotten into the debate accusing Republicans of snubbing his party’s overtures, saying “We extend a hand and get a fist in return.” Can anything be done to bridge the political gap and find common ground to pass needed legislation? Michael Duffy of TIME will have analysis of the partisan divide and President Obama's efforts to get his agenda—including healthcare and financial reforms--back on track in 2010.

According to administration officials, the alleged terror suspect, Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab--accused of trying to down an airliner on Christmas Day--has broken his silence and is providing “useful, actionable and current intelligence” about his plot and links to al-Qaeda-linked militants in Yemen. Pete Williams of NBC News will have the latest on the growing controversy over how intelligence officials handled the arrest and interrogation of the so-called “underwear bomber” and whether he should be tried by a civilian criminal court or face a military tribunal.

Plus, Martha Raddatz of ABC News will report on discussions to repeal the "don't ask, don't tell" policy and allow those who are openly gay to serve in the U.S. military.

Join Gwen and the rest of the reporters’ roundtable for this week’s WASHINGTON WEEK.