Welcome to Arena Live. It's kind of an Open Mic day. The president outlined his new Afghanistan strategy. People are still talking about the latest Giethner plan for re-regulating Wall Street--with divided opinion on whether it's half-baked or fully baked. The auto companies are due in, hat in hand, soon. There's a controversy at Notre Dame about whether the President delivering the commencement address--on account of his pro-choice position. The Republicans appear to have botched their "alternative budget" put out by John Boehner yesterday to some pretty bad reviews. And my favorite team, Duke, got crushed in the NCAA tournament.

So what's on your mind today?

On the Republican budget: Politico reported that there was quite a fight in the GOP house ranks between Boehner and company, who felt they had to respond quickly to Obama's challenge--"where's your plan"--and thoughtful members like Wisconsin's Paul Ryan, who felt they ought to get their act together before raising the curtain. Seems like Ryan was right.

I think you're correct on that Aaron.

Trouble on the left as well...see this story: "Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said Friday that liberal groups targeting moderate Democrats with ads should back off, saying pressure from the left wing of his party won't be helpful to enacting legislation."

Could you elaborate Jerry?