Charlie Rose Season 11 Episode 18 Charlie Rose Obama Review / Joseph Kearns Goodwin & Doris Kearns Goodwin (November 25, 2009)

In this episode of Charlie Rose, the host begins by reviewing President Obama's first year in office, examining the progress made in his economic policy and the controversy surrounding healthcare reform. The discussion is insightful, featuring guest appearances by political analysts and policy experts who offer their various perspectives and opinions on Obama's performance so far.

The second half of the episode features an interview with historians Joseph Kearns Goodwin and Doris Kearns Goodwin. The couple, who have both written extensively on American history, discuss their work and offer some reflections on the US political landscape in the present day.

Throughout the episode, Charlie Rose's characteristic interviewing style comes to the fore, as he engages his guests in thoughtful and meaningful dialogue. The atmosphere is reflective and serious, as the panelists delve into the complexities of politics and history.

The first segment of the show focuses on President Obama's first year in office, and Rose kicks things off by asking his guests to assess the administration's record so far. The guests point out some of the key challenges faced by the president, including the economic recession and the ongoing war in Afghanistan. They also examine some of the key accomplishments of Obama's first year, such as the passage of the stimulus package and the appointment of Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court.

The discussion then turns to the controversial healthcare reform bill, which was met with vocal opposition from some quarters. The guests offer their perspectives on the debate, examining both the positives and negatives of the bill and weighing its significance for Obama's presidency.

Throughout the segment, Rose proves to be an expert moderator, skillfully steering the conversation and eliciting insightful commentary from his guests. The analysis is measured and thoughtful, with the guests offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges faced by the Obama administration.

In the second half of the episode, Rose welcomes historians Joseph Kearns Goodwin and Doris Kearns Goodwin to the show. The couple are known for their extensive research into US political history, and their insights prove invaluable as they reflect on the current state of American politics.

The conversation begins by looking at the role of the presidency and the importance of leadership in times of crisis. The Goodwins offer some comparisons with other presidents who have faced challenging circumstances, and reflect on the qualities that make a great leader.

The conversation then turns to the Goodwins' own work, as they discuss their research into various US presidents. Doris Kearns Goodwin, for example, has written extensively on Abraham Lincoln, while Joseph Kearns Goodwin has studied Lyndon B. Johnson. The couple offer some interesting insights into the motivations and characteristics of these leaders, and how their legacies have endured over time.

Throughout the segment, Rose proves to be a sensitive and perceptive interviewer, engaging the Goodwins in a deep and meaningful conversation about US history and politics. The atmosphere is both reflective and contemplative, with the guests offering their unique perspective on some of the most significant moments in US history.

Overall, this episode of Charlie Rose offers a thought-provoking exploration of politics, leadership, and history in the United States. With insightful commentary and expert analysis, it is sure to engage viewers with an interest in politics, history, and current events.