To the Point
President Obama on Oil in the Gulf; Gays in the Military
As scientists concluded today that the Gulf oil spill is the worst in the nation’s history, President Obama spoke to reporters who asked him again and again if federal response has been too little, too late. We have more on his news conference and a progress report on "Top Kill." Also, the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" compromise on Capitol Hill.
By Warren Olney • • 51m ListenAs scientists concluded today that the Gulf oil spill is the worst in the nation’s history, President Obama spoke to reporters who asked him again and again if federal response has been too little, too late. We have more on his news conference and a progress report on "Top Kill." Also, a White House compromise on repealing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" is now on Capitol Hill. It would not end the ban on gays in the military, so what's the rush?
Banner image: President Barack Obama speaks during a press conference today in the East Room of the White House. Photo: Tim Sloan/AFP/Getty Images
In this episode
2 storiesPresident Obama on the Oil Spill, Tougher Offshore Drilling Policy
At the White House today, President Obama conceded widespread frustration, but defended federal government actions since Day One. He said that BP has superior expertise and technology, but that the government must approve everything the company does. He also revised policies on offshore oil drilling and canceled some current operations.
Read the story23 minDeal to Repeal 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'
The law forbids gays and lesbians from the US military, but it's widely acknowledged that many serve their country anyway. In 1993, President Clinton signed " Don't Ask, Don't Tell ," which allows them to stay as long as they don't reveal their sexual orientation.
Read the story28 min
