KCRW's To the Point

Despite warnings about a Zika virus epidemic, Congress has refused to break into its summer recess and appropriate $33 million needed by the end of this month. Money is running out for developing a possible vaccine, as a disease that causes birth defects is beginning to spread.

Donald Trump has shaken up America's foreign-policy establishment — praising Vladimir Putin and criticizing traditional US positions, including support for NATO. Would his election be good for Russia, or is he too unpredictable even for a long-time American rival?

Donald Trump's promise to "bring back" industries and blue-collar jobs lost to the global economy may be unrealistic.  But white male workers and their families are finally hearing a candidate who speaks to their fears and anxieties. We hear why the Donald's "political incorrectness" is a challenge to both political parties.

This year, for the first time, climate change will likely be an important issue in the Presidential Campaign. Hillary Clinton says it's time for action; Donald Trump says it's a hoax.

The Olympics are coming, whether Rio is ready or not. We get a progress report on completing new sports arenas by opening day Friday, the health risks posed by polluted water, the Russian doping scandal, and what's in store for the future.

America is desperately weak and failing — in need of drastic fixes before it's too late. Or, it's as great as ever — despite serious problems that are amenable to repair. We hear the opening themes of a campaign with Democrats stealing some traditional Republican ideas.

Hillary Clinton will make history tonight…becoming the first woman to accept the presidential nomination of a major political party.  Last night, the current White House incumbent told a cheering convention — and Clinton's husband -- she's ready. 

Last night in Philadelphia, Bill Clinton delivered a lengthy list of his wife's accomplishments and accused Trump and other Republicans of creating a false image.

Today, Hillary Clinton will become the first woman nominated for president by a major political party. But there are many protesters outside — and, inside the Democratic convention is far from unified. We hear a heart-to-heart between delegates still taking different sides. 

Before the opening gavel, the Democratic convention is looking as dis-unified as the Republicans.  We get a preview of what's to come.

Turkey's crucial role in the Middle East may be changing after the failed coup against President Erdogan. The team sent to assassinate him hasn't been found yet. We hear about potential repercussions for NATO and the United States.

Whatever Donald Trump himself says tonight in a bid for unity, disputes over the “Soul of the Party” are bound to continue — win or lose in November.  The management of the convention has raised questions about the potential staff in a Trump White House.

A divided convention nominated Donald Trump for president last night. There's two days left for Republicans to achieve a degree of unity and pronounce a formula for governing a changing America.   

It's Day Two of the Republican convention in Cleveland. We hear about yesterday's highlights and lowlights and hear what's likely in tonight's prime-time production. 

Against a background of police killings, terrorism and an attempted coup in Turkey, Republicans are gathered in Cleveland to nominate Donald Trump.