To the Point
America's Financial Crisis and the Global Economy
As the Senate prepares to vote tonight on the Wall Street rescue, leaders in Europe are saying the United States must show "statesmanship" for "the good of the world." With financial system facing a loss of confidence, is the rest of the world losing confidence in the United States? Also, the NATO commander in Afghanistan calls for more troops--ASAP, and new rules for American citizenship.
By Warren Olney • • 1h 0m ListenAs the Senate prepares to vote tonight on the Wall Street rescue, leaders in Europe are saying the United States must show "statesmanship" for "the good of the world." With financial system facing a loss of confidence, is the rest of the world losing confidence in the United States? Also, the NATO commander in Afghanistan calls for more troops "as quickly as possible," and immigrants will be getting a different kind of test starting today. Will it be harder to qualify for American citizenship than it was yesterday?
Banner image: A man walks past a share prices board in front of a securities office in Tokyo on September 30. Japanese share prices plummeted almost five percent in early trade after US lawmakers rejected a massive financial bailout plan. Photo: Kazuhiro Nogi/AFP/Getty Images
In this episode
3 storiesCommander in Afghanistan Calls for More Troops Quickly
The head of NATO forces in Afghanistan told reporters today at the Pentagon he needs more troops and other assistance " as quickly as possibl e."
Read the story6 minThe Global Consequences of America's Financial Crisis
The Wall Street rescue failed in the House. Now the Senate will take up a similar bill tonight, with support from John McCain , Barack Obama and Joe Biden . Some advocates are saying the pros and cons of specific provisions are not what matters. The real issue is restoration of confidence in the financial system.
Read the story34 minNew Citizenship Test Launched Today
Today's the day that a new citizenship test goes into effect. Instead of rote memory of facts about the United States, it emphasizes concepts and values. There's been a lot of advance notice, but many immigrants are worried that it's going to be harder.
Read the story9 min
