Power Outage

A decade into the 21st century, the United States is operating with an energy in the model of the second half of the 20th. Old-style power grids and power sources still keep the lights on in the U.S. And fossil fuels still keep our commerce moving on the road, rails and air.

Spencer Abraham was America's longest serving Secretary of Energy, holding the post from 2001-2005. As a cabinet member Abraham saw looming problems for the nation's energy future but also saw limited progress.

With growing industrial powers in Asia creating an increased demand for power, Abraham says that it is time to get moving on solving our long term energy needs. But the former Republican senator doesn't think there is a "silver bullet" alternative energy solution.

LISTEN: SPENCER ABRAHAM - LIGHTS OUT

New Iranian Power

CIA veteran Robert Baer sees rationality and a calculated reasonableness in the leadership of Iran. The former CIA career officer takes a look at the state of Iran following the election protests and a growing degree of brinkmanship over nuclear capability. All of Iran's actions (if not words), are based upon what is a significantly changed region following the U.S. involvement in Iraq.

Baer's books SEE NO EVIL and SLEEPING WITH THE DEVIL were the basis for the Academy Award-winning film SYRIANA.

LISTEN: ROBERT BAER

Change in Iran

A growing youth population and the volatile state of the world's economy are factors which present potential for change in Iran. Former Washington Post journalist Robin Wright, who may have visited Iran more times than any other working journalist, sees the potential for a shift in the role Iran holds in the region.

Wright, author of the new book DREAMS AND SHADOWS, discusses the challenges facing the makers of of U.S. foreign policy when dealing with Iran.

LISTEN: ROBIN WRIGHT