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Former Senator John Ashcroft received big campaign donations from some companies that will have big cases pending before the Justice Department in the months to come. But if that bothers some people, it probably won't be an issue in Ashcroft's confirmation hearings. NPR's Steve Inskeep reports.

Noah talks with Deborah Caldwell, Religion Producer of the BeliefNet Website about how Pentacostal Christians might view a role in politics, and how that might relate to the approach of former senator John Ashcroft to the role of attorney general. (4:00) http://www.beliefnet.com or http://www.beliefnet.org

The audio diaries of Matthew and Judge Jeremiah continue.

There was a time when many potions and cures were mostly alcohol, and had names that claimed to do specific things, such as "Dr. Chaise's Nerve and Brain Pills" or "The Great Stomach Remedy." Now drug names are semi-scientific, like Paxil, Vivelle, Celebrex. Commentator Carol Selman wonders if the new secret to selling drugs may be using letters at the end of the alphabet.

NPR's Peter Kenyon reports on today's first day of hearings on former Senator John Ashcroft's nomination to be Attorney General. Senators promised a full and fair hearing. Several Democrats said they need reassurance that Ashcroft can put aside long and deeply held beliefs that conflict with the law. Republicans emphasized Ashcroft's extensive experience in law and public service, and the usual deference to a president in his cabinet choices.

Tom Chapin and John Forster put their view of the recent trends in the U.S. economy to music.

Commentator Ellen Charry says spirituality is "in" and religion seems to be "out" these days. But spirituality can fall short without the ritual, history and discipline religion provides.

NPR's Nina Totenberg reports on day one of the Senate confirmation hearings for Attorney General nominee John Ashcroft. The former US Senator underwent tough questioning from members of the Senate Judiciary Committee over his views on civil rights, abortion, and school desegregation.

Last week's kidnapping of "Doctors Without Borders" aid worker Kenny Gluck highlights the lawlessness that persists in Chechnya, even though Russian troops claim to have retaken the republic. There is evidence that both pro- and anti-Russian forces are active in the kidnapping business. Natasha Yefimova reports.

Linda talks with Mike Lanchin, a freelance reporter in El Salvador, about recovery efforts after Saturday's earthquake. Hundreds of people were killed and thousands injured.