Current news events and political issues were examined through reviews of the morning newspapers; interviews with journalists, newsmakers and legislators; and viewer telephone calls, faxes, and electronic mail. In the first segment, Mr. Benedetto talked about current events including welfare reform and and the budget impasse. In the newspaper roundtable, Mr. Nethercutt and Ms. Slaughter discussed current issues including the budget negotiations. Remote interviews were conducted on the history of cities named after President Madison. Mr. Gardener discussed his book, Leading Minds: An Anatomy of Leadership. In the final segment, Mr. Smock and Mr. Ritchie discussed the history of Congresses, and the present Congress.