Fiscal Cliff / Budget:
Read from Wikipedia about what the "fiscal cliff" means:
Fiscal Cliff

Here is a video on the effect of the negotiations made by government:
Financial Times Video

What are your thoughts and reaction?  What questions do you still have?

Gay Marriage:
The Supreme Court is hearing two cases re-examining gay marriage.  Check out these links and share your thoughts on the two cases and what you think/want the Court to decide.

PRO/CON Gay Marriage Timeline (scroll to the bottom for most recent)

PRO/CON Gay Marriage arguments

Instead of "Gun Control"--"Gun Sense"?
Check out the following video:
MSNBC  Morning Joe

What is your response?  Where do you stand on the issue of gun / gun control?
Here is another link on the issue:

PRO/CON Website

USA PATRIOT ACT
After studying your due process rights and civil liberties--Where do you stand on the USA Patriot Act?
Should we give the government more power to investigate possible terrorists.

Death Penalty:
Click here to get information on the death penalty. 
Where do you stand on the death penalty and why?

Dold v. Schneider Debate

Watch at least 20 minutes of the following debate between the two 10th district Congressional candidates.  ( you could watch any 20 minutes you want, so feel free to scroll to any part).
Blog an opinion or write a written analysis to turn in to Mrs. Bertola.  Do some additional homework to decide who you would vote for: 
Here are each of their websites:

Bob Dold

Brad Schneider

Federalism:  Gay Marriage
Where do you stand on the issue of gay marriage?  What does the U.S. Constitution say about it?  Explain your stance and try to back it up with constitutional arguments.