Join left-right and center host Bob Shear for his new podcast, Shear Intelligence. The twice-monthly

podcast features thinkers and trendsetters in conversation with one of political journalism's leading voices.

Through the show's unique and sometimes surprising perspectives, you'll get up to speed

on the current issues shaping the Beltway and the world. Find sheer

intelligence on KCRW's iTunes page. From KCRW in Santa Monica and PRI Public Radio International,

this is To the Point. Presidential Politics and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Hello again, I'm Aran Alney, and this is To the Point from Public Radio International,

a daily look at the issues of Americans care about most.

President Obama today named a distinguished judge to fill the vacancy on the U.S. Supreme

Court.

I have fulfilled my constitutional duty.

Now it's time for the Senate to do theirs.

But Republicans were ready to just say no, not to the judge himself, but to his nomination

by an outgoing president.

They accuse Obama of politicizing the court.

The same charge Democrats have leveled against Republicans under similar circumstances.

That's intensifying this year's race for the White House.

Just one day after another round of primary elections,

we'll hear how the field of candidates has been narrowed

and about the challenges facing those who are still standing.

First, here's the news.

Check out KCRW's All News Channel, News 24.

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