To the Point
Does the Growing Income Gap Threaten the Middle Class?
The income gap between the rich and the poor makes America comparable to some banana republics. What are the causes? What needs to be done? Also, Iran releases one of three imprisoned US hikers; and France, the Roma and outrage in Europe.
By Warren Olney • • 50m ListenThe income gap between the rich and the poor makes America comparable to some banana republics. What are the causes? What needs to be done? Also, Iran releases one of three imprisoned American hikers, and as President Sarkozy continues to deport the Roma from France, the European Commission is asked to retaliate with legal action.
Banner image: People hold signs as they participate in a 'Rebuild America-Jobs, Justice and Peace' march in the downtown area August 28, 2010 in Detroit, Michigan. Photo: Bill Pugliano/Getty Images
In this episode
3 storiesIran Frees One of Three Imprisoned US Hikers
Iran has released one of three American hikers, held for more than a year and accused of spying after they strayed across the Iraq-Iran border. Sarah Shourd is now free on $500,000 bail. Borzou Daragahi reports from the Middle East for the Los Angeles Times .
Read the story8 minIs Income Inequality a Threat to the Middle Class?
One hundred years ago, in the era of Robber Barons, the richest 1% of Americans had 18% of the nation's income. The income tax, labor unions and the New Deal leveled things out but, since the 1970's, the income gap has been growing again and now it's wider than ever.
Read the story37 minEU Threatens France over Roma Deportations
Since July, France has deported more than 1000 Roma to Romania and Bulgaria. Today, it deported another 230. The European Commission is being urged to take legal action against the government in Paris, and today the EU Justice Commissioner used very strong language to denounce the expulsions . Who are the Roma?
Read the story6 min
