Daily Political Wire

George Wenschhof

Information From Japan Government Questioned - as nuclear crisis continues to unfold. Conflicting reports on levels of radiation leaks coming from four reactors has added frustration to an already beleaguered nation beset by natural disaster. Efforts of dropping water from helicopters and using land based water cannons have failed as the prospects for a greater nuclear disater increases.

The Washington Post has more here.

A new poll released today shows only 44% of Americans support expansion of nuclear power plants.

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In Libya, Gaddafi Forces Gaining Control - pressure is mounting for the U.S. to intervene militarily. The U.N. still has not taken a vote on a no-fly zone and all indications are it would be vetoed by security council members China and Russia. Now, the U.S. is asking the U.N. to authorize air strikes. Stay tuned... The NY Times has more here.

Retired U.S. General Wesley Clark appearing on MSNBC this morning, said the first approach should be diplomatic, with a call for a cease fire and negotiations to take place to lead to a transition in the government. Makes sense.

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New Effort from Senate Republicans to Pass Amendment to Balance the Budget - what would be a constitutional amendment. Senator Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) is expected to make the announcement tomorrow. The deficit for this year alone is expected to hit a record 1.65 trillion. Reuters.com has more here.

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Palin Heads To Israel - in a futile attempt to add to a non existent foreign policy knowledge, the former governor of Alaska will visit Israel for two days with her husband Todd. Can anyone actually picture Sarah Palin, as president, negotiating peace between Palestine and Israel? TheHill.com has more here.

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House Vote on NPR Funding Today - this follows the secret video taken by ultra conservative activist James O'Keefe of a NPR executive saying they would be fine without federal funding. Tea Party Republican House freshman will introduce a bill today to end funding for National Public Radio. CNN.com has more here.

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