Senator Chris Dodd’s Reelection Bid

This discussion will focus on whether or not Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT) will be or ought to be relected to the U.S. Senate. Much has been made of Dodd’s role in the banking crisis and his past support of the AIG bonuses. Recently, his apporval ratings have dropped to 33 percent. For the first time in a long time he faces a tough battle against Republican candidates. The questions: Do you tihnk his nearly 30 years of service in the Senate will and/or should come to an end? What are the reasons you can give for your responses?

Is the Media Giving President Obama a Free Pass?

In this discussion, particularly for my American Government students, I’d like you to think about the role of the media and Barack Obama’s presidency. Has the media been fair in its coverage of the President? Has it asked the tough questions of him or has it not reported on his first few months in office with the proper level of scrutiny? Are there some elements of the media that have been more fair than others?