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Back to To the Point

To the Point

In American Politics, Is Corruption Business as Usual?

Is politics for public service or personal gain? That’s one of the many questions raised when a US Senate seat is put up for sale. We talk about what constitutes corruption in a political system based on trading favors. Also, the latest on the Big Three bailout, and Bush, Obama and closing Guantánamo Bay.

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By Warren Olney • Dec 12, 2008 • 1h 0m Listen

Is politics for public service or personal gain? That’s one of the many questions raised when a US Senate seat is put up for sale. We talk about what constitutes corruption in a political system based on trading favors. Also, the White House may tap TARP to bailout the auto industry. On Reporter's notebook, will new trials before "military commissions" make it harder for Barack Obama to close Guantánamo Bay?

Banner image: Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich leaves his home on December 11, 2008 in Chicago. Photo: Brian Kersey/Getty Images

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Warren Olney

    former KCRW broadcaster

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Frances Anderton

    architecture critic and author

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    Katie Cooper

    Producer, 'One year Later'

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