To the Point

Negotiators in Vienna have postponed today's deadline for reaching a deal with Iran until next Tuesday…as each side is beginning to blame the other in case of failure. If there's no agreement on limiting nuclear technology, will economic sanctions be lifted anyway?

Instead of being the predicted yawner, Supreme Court session ending today has produced its share of blockbuster decisions. We look at today's three, final 5-to 4-rulings and what this year's session might reveal about the future.

The US Supreme Court was divided today, but the majority made history by ruling that the 14th amendment to the Constitution guarantees the right of gays and lesbians to be married. President Obama called it a victory for all Americans.

President Obama celebrated a 6-to-3 majority led by Chief Justice John Roberts — over a blistering dissent by Justice Antonin Scalia. Conservative states will be spared from chaos in the insurance marketplace, but Republicans promise the fight will continue in the presidential campaign.

Last week’s murder of nine black people in their place of sanctuary has confronted America once again with the specter of racism — past and present.  What about the future?  Can the country move forward when we can’t agree on the past? 

More than 100 years ago, the US Supreme Court acknowledged the cruelty of solitary confinement. Recently, the suicide of a New York teenager isolated for two years without ever being charged has created an uproar. Why is solitary still used? What are the alternatives?

Around the world, more people have been forced from their homes than at any time in history. The number of refugees has doubled in just 10 years -- and 30 million are children. We hear about measures being taken to stem the tide and the consequences if they should fail. 

Another mass shooting has raised many issues, including the increase in gun violence — not just from mass shootings, but also from homicides, suicides and accidents. Advocates say "smart gun" technology can make weapons safer. So why isn't it available on the American gun market?

Nine people were shot to death last night during prayer at a historic black church in Charleston, South Carolina. A young, white suspect has been arrested. He's reported as saying he wanted to kill black people. We hear how the victims are being remembered and get President Obama's reaction.

The Trans-Pacific Trade Partnership has been delayed in Congress, while President Obama and Republican leaders try to keep it alive.  We hear about the long-term consequences for Japan, China and a multitude of American interests.