To the Point
Climate Change, Immigration Reform and California
After a disappointing conference last year in Copenhagen, this was billed the year for the US to get tough about global warming. But a US Senate compromise may be on the rocks, and the nation's breakthrough state law is under challenge in California. Also, a massive oil slick in the Gulf of Mexico, and for the first time since the 1930's Britain may see coalition government.
By Warren Olney • • 50m ListenAfter a disappointing conference last year in Copenhagen, this was billed the year for the US to get tough about global warming. But a US Senate compromise may be on the rocks, and the nation's breakthrough state law is under challenge in California. Also, a sunken oil rig causes a massive oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico, and for the past 70 years, either Labor or the Conservatives have ruled Britain. This year might see a historic change.
Banner image: California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32) takes major steps toward cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Photo: David McNew/Getty Images
In this episode
3 storiesOil Rig Explosion Pours 1,000 Barrels a Day into the Gulf
Last week, a drilling rig sank in the Gulf of Mexico after a deadly explosion and fire. The Coast Guard was initially optimistic about the chance of a leak from the well. Now it turns out that 1000 barrels a day are gushing out of the sea floor. Russell Gold reports for the Wall Street Journal .
Read the story8 minSenate Republican Goes Cold on Climate Bill
Fallout from Arizona's new immigration law has already reached the US Senate, where Harry Reid now say it's time to deal with what is, after all, a federal issue. Republican Lindsay Graham calls that a “ cynical ploy ” to appeal to Hispanic voters, and he's backing away from a bipartisan compromise on climate change.
Read the story35 minIs Great Britain Headed for Coalition Government?
For the first time since the 1930's, Great Britain's two-party government may be in for a change. If neither the Labour nor Conservative party wins enough votes to govern, Nick Clegg , leader of the Liberal Democrats , will be the power broker.
Read the story8 min
