Hamid Karzai agrees to a runoff election, a new poll shows that most Americans support the public option, LAX terminal upgrade approved, medical marijuana moratorium goes up in smoke, and the discovery of 32 new planets outside the solar system.
Karzai agrees to runoff election
Following an investigation of Afghanistan's disputed August presidential election, President Hamid Karzai has agreed to take part in a runoff contest. Earlier, an U.N.-backed panel investigating fraud allegations determined that Karzai won only 48% of the vote, requiring a runoff election. Karzai will face former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah in a November 7 vote.
Guest:
Corey Flintoff, NPR’s Foreign Desk correspondent
Public option has public support
According to an ABC News/Washington Post survey published today, 57% of Americans support a government-run health insurance program that would compete with private insurance. Will the poll encourage lawmakers to reconsider reform legislation moving through the House and Senate? Do you agree with the survey's findings?
Guest:
Noam Levey, reporter covering health care legislation for the Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune
LAX terminal upgrade approved
In LA's largest single building contract ever, LAX has been awarded $1.3 billion for a complete renovation of its international terminal. Will the jobs created and presumed bump to tourism and provide the economic boost we need?
Guests:
Janice Hahn, District 15, LA City Council
Gina Marie Lindsay, executive director of LA World Airports
Medical marijuana moratorium up in smoke?
Nationally, the federal government will step back and let states with medical marijuana laws determine who is and is not violating drug laws. Meanwhile, the battle over pot in California rages on—an LA Superior Court judge has overturned the City's moratorium on medical marijuana dispensaries. Will a profitable pot trade flourish?
Guest:
David Berger, Special Assistant to LA District Attorney Carmen Trutanich
Europeans find extra solar planets
Scientists at the European Southern Observatory have discovered 32 new planets outside the solar system, supporting the theory that planet formation is common. It also provides more evidence that there the universe has many places where life could develop. Larry Mantle finds out more about the discovery.
Guest:
Miles O'Brien, broadcast news journalist specializing in space, aviation and technology