To the Point

With US troops now on the ground in Iraq for a period longer than World War II, what do we have to show for their efforts? Guest host Lawrence O'Donnell explores progress in Iraq and American response to our efforts there. Also, the Bear Stearns collapse: how a crisis on Wall Street affects the economy.

Democrats are increasingly worried that the nasty campaign between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton is destroying what's supposed to be their race to win in November. Is it just them or is the party itself divided on race, gender, age and social class?  What does it all mean for November? Also, a bailout for Bear Stearns, and the Vatican adds to the list of sins.

US energy demands are rising as the price of oil goes through the roof and foreign sources are increasingly uncertain. Canadian tar sands and domestic coal would provide energy security, but at the risk of increased global warming. Can renewables be developed in time? How high is the price of economic growth? Also, the Secretary of the Treasury wants to rein in mortgage markets, and Florida Democrats and the presidential nomination.  What a mess!

Boeing is challenging the Air Force over a $40 billion contract to a team led by European manufacturers. How many jobs will go overseas? Is it a threat to national security? What was the role of John McCain and lobbyists in his campaign? Also, ethics crusader Eliot Spitzer is driven from office by long-time association with expensive prostitutes, and one of the Pentagon's top commanders resigns.

Since yesterday's brief public apology, New York Governor Elliot Spitzer has been holed up in his 5th Avenue apartment. Will he resign or face impeachment?  Then, will UN sanctions persuade Iran to slow down its nuclear program? Is Iran more interested in Iraq?  Has Iran's long-running confrontation with the US turned into a new Cold War?

Obama and Clinton are focused on tomorrow's vote in Mississippi, but the hangover from last week's NAFTA flap in Ohio is not over yet. We hear about the role of the Canadian government.  Does renegotiating NAFA make sense? Also, pharmaceuticals in America's water supply, and the latest update on the oldest story of all: the age of the universe. 

After losing 11 straight primaries and caucuses, Hillary Clinton defeated Barack Obama in Ohio and Texas. What was the role of popular culture? We hear what happened on Saturday Night Live. Also, Israelis are mourning eight students killed in a suicide bombing in Jerusalem, and the US and Russia may stage a tug of war over arms dealer Viktor Bout.

The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan may cost America $3 trillion, a far cry from the $50 billion estimated when combat began.  How did the expenses get so high? How long will it take to pay them off? Will the benefits be worth the money?  Also, Florida and Michigan lobby to seat Democratic delegates, and saber rattling and diplomacy in South America.

Hillary Clinton has bounced back again with a big win in Ohio and a squeaker in Texas, enough to make sure that she and Barack Obama will be campaigning for weeks to come.  We analyze the results and look to the future.  Also, Mike Huckabee calls it quits, and another fake memoir.

Ohio and Texas might settle the Democratic nomination today -- and then they might not.  Can Secretary Rice get the Annapolis peace process back on track?  Will the contest between Obama and Clinton come to an end or continue for weeks to come?