To the Point
Shell's Risky Return to the Arctic
President Obama has advocated alternatives to fossil fuels, but when it comes to US sources of energy, he's also been careful to consider "all of the above." Now he's approved exploratory oil drilling in parts of the Arctic Ocean — to the outrage of environmentalists concerned about polluting pristine waters and about climate change.
By Warren Olney • • 52m ListenPresident Obama has advocated alternatives to fossil fuels, but when it comes to US sources of energy, he's also been careful to consider "all of the above." Now he's approved exploratory oil drilling in parts of the Arctic Ocean — to the outrage of environmentalists concerned about polluting pristine waters and about climate change.
Also, the coming Senate showdown over phone records collection. On today's Talking Point, state lotteries, a $70 billion tax paid mostly by the poorest Americans.
Photo: Shell's Polar Pioneer being towed into place in the Salish Sea (Backbone Campaign)
In this episode
3 storiesComing Senate Showdown over Phone Records Collection
Yesterday the House voted to end the National Security Agency's bulk collection of American telephone records. The vote was overwhelming: 338 to 88. But Senators are divided and they're under pressure, because the Patriot Act, which allows bulk collection, expires very soon. Brandon Sasso reports on technology policy for National Journal .
Read the story7 minAmerica's Rejoining the Race for Arctic Oil
President Obama has protected some parts of the Arctic Ocean from oil and gas development — but he's permitted exploration in other parts . Royal Dutch Shell will be towing massive rigs back and forth from Seattle to far Northern waters for drilling during brief summer respites from icy storms.
Read the story34 minThe Lure of the Lotto and Its Impact on the Poor
States establish lotteries as a means of funding public services, including education, environmental protection and crime control. Best of all, of course, they're voluntary. But it turns out that most of the money they take in every year comes from the poorest Americans.
Read the story9 min
