Press Play with Madeleine Brand
Coastal Commission Shakeup, Kasich and Life in a Prison
Today we start with an update from Morro Bay, where the fate of the California Coastal Commission’s executive director, Charles Lester, is being decided. The future of the commission’s leadership has big implications for California’s coast.
By Madeleine Brand • • 52m ListenToday we start with an update from Morro Bay, where the fate of California Coastal Commission Executive Director Charles Lester is being decided. The future of the commission’s leadership has big implications for California’s coast.
Then, John Kasich took second place among Republicans in the New Hampshire primary yesterday. What’s his track record?
Also in politics, New Hampshire primary winner Donald Trump touts a message of American exceptionalism. How did this idea become entangled in the country’s politics?
Next, the new science of gene editing.
And finally, a look inside one of California’s most notoriously violent prisons.
Banner Image: Supporters of California Coastal Commission Executive Director Charles Lester handed out stickers and displayed signs at a hearing in Morro Bay; Photo Credit: Saul Gonzalez
In this episode
5 storiesDrama at the Coastal Commission
The fate of the embattled executive director of the California Coastal Commission, Charles Lester, was discussed today in a public hearing in Morro Bay. Lester was appointed in 2011. Some commissioners question his management and leadership. But environmentalists say the commissioners’ real motive is to make the board friendlier to developers.
Read the story9 minKasich's Record?
After a blistering defeat in Iowa, Ohio Gov. John Kasich took second place in the New Hampshire primary yesterday. Kasich appealed to New Hampshire’s more centrist voters with promises of reasonable, pragmatic leadership. He also spoke out against what he called the inflammatory rhetoric of Donald Trump. In short, he cast himself as a moderate.
Read the story7 minThe History of American Exceptionalism
If John Kasich won by coming in second place last night in New Hampshire, then Donald Trump really won when he took the top spot with Republican voters. He kicked off his victory speech with what is by now a familiar slogan: “Make America Great Again.”
Read the story8 minGene Editing
If we have the ability to make “designer babies,” should we? We might be able to overcome gene-related diseases, like Huntington’s disease, Down syndrome and even cancer. We could also potentially improve intelligence or make our baby taller or choose an eye color.
Read the story16 minInside High Desert State Prison
High Desert State Prison in Northern California is a notoriously violent place. It’s a maximum security prison, housing 3,500 dangerous criminals including murderers, rapists and sex offenders. Two months ago, the state inspector general released a report describing severe inmate abuse and misconduct by prison staff.
Read the story9 min
