As the markets and the public look on nervously, the clock continues to tick on negotiations to raise the federal debt ceiling. As leaders from both parties develop separate plans, one of the contested issues is the length of any extension. President Obama and the Democrats want to put the issue to rest till after the 2012 election, while the Republicans want to keep the government on a shorter leash. Also, more details on the Oslo shooter's mentality, and wedding bells ring in gay Manhattan. Terrence McNally guest hosts.
Banner image: Vice President Joe Biden (C) and Congresswoman Nacy Pelosi (L) listen as President Barack Obama (R) speaks with Speaker of the House John Boehner (C-rear) during a meeting in the Cabinet Room at the White House in Washington, DC, on July 23, 2011. Photo by Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty Images