Washington Week Season 2010 Episode 18 May 21, 2010

Washington Week is a weekly political talk show that airs on PBS affiliates across the US. Each episode features a panel of seasoned journalists and experts who come together to discuss the week's top political news. In this particular episode from May 21, 2010, the panel focuses on a range of pressing issues, from the Gulf oil spill to the financial reform bill making its way through Congress.

The episode begins with a discussion of the BP oil spill, which had been ongoing for over a month at this point and was continuing to wreak havoc on the Gulf Coast. The panelists discuss the government's response to the disaster, which many felt was slow and inadequate, and debate the various proposals being put forward to address the spill and prevent future ones from occurring.

The conversation then shifts to financial reform, with the panelists dissecting the various components of the bill that was then working its way through Congress. They discuss the controversial provision that would create a new agency to regulate consumer financial products, as well as the proposed regulation of derivatives and credit rating agencies. The panelists also weigh in on the political implications of the bill, with some predicting that it could be a major issue in the upcoming midterm elections.

The episode then turns to a discussion of the Supreme Court, which at the time was still deliberating on several high-profile cases. The panelists analyze the court's ruling in the Citizens United case, which had struck down limits on corporate spending in federal elections, and debate the potential impact of the decision on the political landscape going forward.

The panelists also devote some time to the political turmoil in Arizona, where a controversial new immigration law had recently been passed. They discuss the polarizing effects of the law, with some arguing that it was necessary to secure the border and others contending that it was unconstitutional and could lead to racial profiling.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a discussion of the upcoming midterm elections, with the panelists offering their predictions for how the races would shake out. They also reflect on the broader political climate, with many noting the deep partisan divisions in Washington and the challenges facing President Obama as he sought to push his agenda forward.

Overall, the May 21, 2010 episode of Washington Week was a lively and informative discussion of the major political issues of the day. From the Gulf oil spill to financial reform to immigration and the Supreme Court, the panelists tackled a wide range of topics with insight and expertise. For anyone with an interest in US politics and current events, this episode is not to be missed.