PBS Newshour Season 2019 Episode 51 March 12, 2019

On March 12, 2019, PBS Newshour presented its 51st episode of the 2019 season. This episode covered a wide variety of topics, including the abrupt grounding of the Boeing 737 Max 8 following two fatal crashes; the presidential bid of Beto O'Rourke; and the ongoing conflict in Yemen.

The show began with a segment on the aftermath of the crashes of Lion Air Flight 610 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, both of which involved the Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft. Correspondent Miles O'Brien reported on the international response to the incidents, including the decision by several countries to suspend use of the Max 8 pending the outcome of investigations. O'Brien also discussed the role of software known as the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) in the crashes, and the questions it raises about the safety of automated systems in aircraft.

The next segment focused on former Texas congressman Beto O'Rourke, who had recently announced his candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination. Correspondent Lisa Desjardins examined O'Rourke's political record and style, as well as his appeal to younger voters and progressives. The segment also included interviews with voters in Iowa, where O'Rourke was making his first campaign stops.

The third segment of the episode covered the ongoing conflict in Yemen, where a coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been fighting Houthi rebels since 2015. Correspondent Jane Ferguson reported from the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah, which has been a center of the conflict and the site of recent peace talks. Ferguson spoke with residents and humanitarian workers about the toll of the war on civilians, as well as the challenges of delivering aid and negotiating a ceasefire.

Another segment focused on the use of facial recognition technology by law enforcement agencies in the United States. Correspondent Amna Nawaz spoke with privacy and civil rights advocates who argue that the technology is inherently flawed and can lead to false accusations and biased policing. Nawaz also spoke with police officials who defend the use of the technology as a tool for solving crimes.

The show also included reports on the Trump administration's efforts to block lawsuits against gun manufacturers and the use of artificial intelligence in hiring practices. Additionally, the "Brief But Spectacular" segment featured an interview with singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile, who discussed her creative process and the importance of collaboration.

Overall, PBS Newshour's March 12, 2019 episode offered a comprehensive mix of news and analysis on a range of domestic and international issues. From the grounding of an aircraft model to the launch of a presidential campaign, the show provided viewers with in-depth coverage and diverse perspectives on the day's top stories.