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NPR's John Greenberg reports on a spat between democrats and republicans over a little-known provision of the nation's gun laws. At issue: whether convicted felons may legally own firearms.

Host Daniel Zwerdling talks with Lyman Kellstedt, professor of political science at Wheaton College, and Diane Winston, from the Center for the Study of American Religion at Princeton University, about President Clinton's recent remarks about religion, and about how an increasingly religious electorate may affect the outcome of future political contests.

Recently, columnist Meg Greenfield proposed that we use the "Bob Newhart Test" when considering government proposals. Newhart's famous comedy routine, when he pretends to be listeing to someone explain what a cigarette is, points out the ludicrousness of the idea of putting a buringing leaf in your mouth... we asked Bob Newhart to apply the "Bob Newhart Test" so a government program, and he chose the defense budget.

Daniel talks to Israeli superstar Danny Sanderson, a comedian and singer who recently toured the East coast, packing auditoriums with Israeli audiences. His CDs have been best sellers in Israel for nearly two decades and his on-stage stand-up routines have the hebrew-speaking audience rolling in the aisles.

Daniel speaks with NPR's David Welna, who's in Port au Prince, Haiti. Haitians voted today in local and parliamentary elections designed to makeup for a tainted vote in June. Welna says voter turnout was very low, largely because opposition parties boycotted the balloting.

Michael talks to British Memeber of Parliament George Walden, a member of the Conservative party, about Tuesday's vote for party leader. Walden says that the issue of Britian's integration into Europe is a red herring in the current political situation and that most of his constituents are more concerned about the economy and taxes.

Danny gets an update on Bosnia developments from NPR reporters Andy Bowers (in Zagreb) and Michael Goldfarb (in London). They talk about the Serb assault on Zepa and about a meeting of US, French and British military chiefs in London.

The famous blues singer Bessie Smith had a torturous and wonderful life... one of passion mixed with tragedy complimented by tremendous talent. Danny talks with actress and singer Bernardine Mitchell who is currently performing in the musical 'Bessie's Blues' in Washington D.C. The play weaves together the lives of Smith and Mitchell - illustrating the challenges and hurdles both have faced in their lives.

NPR's Jim Zarolli reports on the U.S. media operations of Rupert Murdoch. Australian-born Murdoch runs Fox TV, and this week the Federal Communications Commission said Murdoch's News Corporation would not have to give up any of the eight t.v. stations that make up the core of Fox TV, even though that violates foreign-ownership rules. Murdoch supporters say his US operations have brought competition to the airwaves. His opponents say he's brought shlock.

Michael talks with Martin Walker, Washington bureau chief of the British newspaper The Guardian, about America's image in Europe. Europe wants to be led, says Walker, and America is dropping the ball.