To the Point

North Korea said today that it would use nuclear weapons in a "merciless offensive" if provoked, just two days after sentencing two American journalists to twelve years in a gulag-type prison labor camp. Guest host Sara Terry explores the motives behind North Korea's recent aggressive actions and whether the US should re-start negotiations or take a hard-line stance with the secretive communist power. Also, the first Guantanamo detainee is transferred to the US, and a victory for human rights activists in the Niger Delta.

For the first time since Bill Clinton's first term as president, healthcare reform is at the top the White House agenda. We hear what Barack Obama is doing to seize the moment on universal coverage, cost control and the debate between private and public insurance. Also, Obama announces stimulus money for summer jobs, and Hezbollah defeated in Lebanon.

President Obama addressed women's rights during his speech in Cairo yesterday, but did he speak loudly enough? Muslim women still face brutal repression in many countries, but in others they are breaking new ground. Guest host Sara Terry looks at the view from the Muslim world, the role the US should play and the impact of Michelle Obama might have. Also, President Obama's historic visit to Buchenwald, and six-figure salaries for elementary school teachers.

President Obama today called for "a new beginning" for the US and Muslims around the world.  Was there a call for actions to back up his words? Also, Judge Sonia Sotomayor, Newt Gingrich and the claims of "racism."

On his first trip to the Middle East since taking office, President Obama met with Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah today.  What can each do for the other when it comes to Iran, Israeli-Palestinian peace talks and the price of oil? Also, Britain's expense account scandal claims a fourth minister, and the Chinese government tries to re-write the history of Tiananmen Square.   

Sunday's shooting death of Dr. George Tiller has the abortion battle back in the news.  We get the latest from Wichita, Kansas and talk with right-to-life and right-to-choose advocates about the impact of violence and shifts in public opinion. Also, Sonia Sotomayor kicks off Senate visits today, and the Hummer may be on its way to China.

President Obama said today he expects a new General Motors to emerge from the ashes of its historic filing for bankruptcy. Guest host Sara Terry considers a restructured GM, the government's involvement as major stakeholder, and the impact of the failure for auto workers, parts suppliers and dealers? Also, the battle for Minnesota’s still-contested US Senate seat, and a Kansas doctor who provided abortions is murdered at a Sunday church service.

The Obama White House has created an energy "czar," an urban affairs "czar," an economic "czar" and a health "czar."  There's been talk of a car "czar." Today, the President said he's appointing a "czar" to deal with cyber-security. We look at the problem and ask if a new "czar" is the best way to find a solution. Also, GM's possible deal with Canadian auto parts maker Magna, and politics and potatoes in Ahmadinejad's Iran.

President Obama turned community organizer once again today, trying to rev-up last year's grassroots army of volunteers. Will they use email, Facebook, phone calls and local meetings to help him govern the way they helped him campaign? Also, GM bondholders accept a government deal to help ease the company into bankruptcy, and North Korea's grievances against the US and neighboring countries in Asia. 

A committee of Congress has laid down the gauntlet for the fight to slow global warming. We hear the pros and cons of a bill that would revolutionize energy use and change the lives of Americans. Also, GM on a collision course with bankruptcy, and Sonia Sotomayor, Nancy Drew and Perry Mason.