Obama postpones sending troops to Afghanistan
The White House decided Sunday, Oct. 18 that President Obama would postpone sending more troops to Afghanistan. More troops will be sent when the country’s election is settled and it establishes a government that can work in compliance with the United States. Obama and his staff are hesitant to send more troops until they can be sure that the Afghan government can provide the appropriate security and services for their citizens.
Iranian officials broadcast threats
The U.S., along with Russia and France, have been talking with Iranian officials and working towards an anti-nuclear agreement. Iranian officials, however, may back off from an agreement. Iranian officials broadcasted threats on the country’s television network. Talks will continue and Obama hopes to reach an agreement.
Democrats to reverse Medicare payment cuts
Senate Democrats met Tuesday, Oct. 20 to gather enough votes to ensure that doctors experience no cut in Medicare reimbursement payments over the next decade. The bill would cost nearly $250 billion and is necessary to create more stability for health care providers in a time of economic uncertainty.
Justice Department to focus federal attention on illegal drug sales
The Justice Department said that those who use or distribute marijuana for medical reasons should not face federal prosecution. Attorney General Eric Holder said that the federal government will not focus its attention on prosecuting patients who need the substance for medical purposes as long as they comply with state regulations. This announcement shows a contrast between the Obama and Bush administration. The Bush Administration did focus its efforts on prosecuted distributors of “legal” marijuana. The Obama Administration, however, will make it a “core priority” to prosecute those that illegally sell drugs.
Balloon incident declared a hoax
Millions of Americans tuned in last week to watch what they thought was a 6-year-old boy floating in a balloon. Falcon Heene was supposedly stuck inside of a handcrafted helium balloon. Authorities rushed to save the boy. Colorado law enforcement, however, confirmed on Sunday that the story was a hoax. Heene was found hiding inside his attic. It has been reported that the boy’s parents Richard and Mayumi Heene created the story to gain publicity. Felony charges will be filed against them.
