Topic: Proficiency

The Department of Transportation executed an emergency shutdown of 110 driving schools and 160 additional training facilities for widespread fraud. Investigations revealed that schools were certifying thousands of drivers who lacked basic English proficiency, a legal requirement for operating commercial vehicles in the U.S. Some schools lacked actual classrooms or training lots, with one facility reportedly using an old bus in a backyard as its primary instruction site.

Senator Al Franken's attempt to grill Rick Perry during his confirmation hearing resulted in a humorous exchange. After Franken asked an "asshole question" about whether Perry enjoyed meeting him, Perry's witty response was noted as a potential "Saturday Night Live" soundbite.

A PBS NewsHour report on low reading proficiency standards in Ohio is interpreted as a political hit piece against Governor John Kasich. The report claims Ohio promotes third graders even if they lag behind 85% of their peers. The hosts argue the story is designed to make the Republican presidential hopeful look like a "scammer."