Episode 48

3:38 VICE News meets with American Marines stationed in Afghanistan as they assess what role they will play in the future of the country. Facing a mounting Taliban threat, the Marines must decide whether or not local forces are ready to handle the security situation on their own. 14:36 McConnell says the Senate will vote on the tax reform bill later this evening. Trump has touted the plan as a Christmas present to the middle class. But many CEOs are dubious that corporate tax reform will raise wages or create jobs. 18:13 On Monday, Idaho's Sawtooth National Forest was finally designated as the country's first Dark Sky Reserve. To get the honor, local homes and businesses had to abide by local ordinances limiting light pollution by changing the bulbs of outdoor lights and aiming them downwards to get a better view of the night sky. 23:23 In this week’s Music Critic, new guest Regina Spektor reviews holiday music in this special edition of Music Critic: Gwen Stefani’s “My Gift is You,” Hanson’s “Finally It’s Christmas,” DMX’s “Rudolph the Rednose Reindeer,” and Sia’s “Puppies are Forever.”