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Iraq and the War on Terror: Politics and Reality

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President Bush says the November election should focus on Iraq as part of the war on terror.  But a majority of Americans don't buy the connection. We look at the implications of "staying the course"--on American politics and the realities on the ground.  Plus, 2500 Marines recalled to active duty, and the Tom Cruise-Paramount break-up.

Making News

Marine Corps Recalls Reservists Back to Duty ()


As many as 2500 Marines who've returned to civilian life will be called back to active duty because of a shortage of troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Army already has conducted what critics call a "back door draft," but this is the first time for the Marines since the Iraq invasion. Bryan Bender is National Security Reporter for The Boston Globe.

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Main Topic

Iraq and the War on Terror: Politics and Reality ()

This year's elections are crucial to President Bush, and he wants fellow Republicans to focus on the war in Iraq as part of the war on terror. He says Democrats who want a timetable for pulling out of Iraq are wrong not to recognize the connection. But a poll released today by CBS and the New York Times says 51% of Americans don't see the connection, either. Democrats hope that means national security will be their issue for the first time in decades. We look at the political consequences of the President's determination to "stay the course" in Iraq. We'll also look at the reality on the ground. Will the current strategy accomplish the mission? Is the war in Iraq making it harder to fight the war on terror?

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Reporter's Notebook

Redstone Drops Cruise, Says Public Antics a Problem ()


Paula Wagner claims that her producing partner has made more money for Paramount Pictures than any actor has ever made for any Hollywood studio; his last seven films grossed more than $100 million apiece. So why has Tom Cruise suddenly been let go after 14 years of success? Sumner Redstone, who runs Paramount's parent company, Viacom, has told reporters that Cruise's "recent conduct has not been acceptable." Anne Thompson is deputy film editor for The Hollywood Reporter.

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Transcripts of To the Point are available from The Transcription Company, (818) 848-6500, or www.transcripts.net. A CD copy is available by calling 1.888.600.5279

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