© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Season 2012 Episode 50 | 55m 08s

Tonight on the program, we examine President Obama's pledge to shrink the United States military. We talk to Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta on cuts in defense spending and the future of a smaller yet more flexible military. Also: GOP candidates in New Hampshire, Super PAC funding, the rise of U.S. automakers in 2011, and author Karl Pillemer new book on the trials of life and aging.

Aired: 01/04/12 | Expires: 02/04/12
Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
Extras
February 6, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode
Christine Brennan discusses the Winter Olympics athletes to watch on ‘Settle In’
Atkins Stohr and Parker on political fallout from Trump’s call to ‘nationalize’ elections
News Wrap: Trump’s racist social media post about the Obamas draws backlash
One-on-one with Ambassador Huckabee on what’s next for Gaza and the Middle East
U.S. restarts nuclear diplomacy with Iran amid escalating threats. Here’s what to know
How effective will TrumpRX be at lowering prescription drug prices for Americans?
Trump administration’s visa freeze upends work and life for many U.S. families
How ‘zombie mortgages’ are coming back to haunt homeowners years later
Head of humanitarian group urges nations to step up Sudan aid to prevent ‘biblical’ famine