The Short List - March 31, 2011

• The CIA is on the ground in Libya, sizing up rebel groups and clearing the way for the implementation of President Obama's (briefly) secret directive to equip the rebels with arms.


• There is early agreement between Democrats and Republicans on the hill to cut approximately $33 billion from the federal budget in 2011.  Details remain to be worked out and the specter of riders (policy amendments "riding" the budget bill) remain contentious.


• Bureaucratic wrangling over the speed and scale of the planned withdraw of U.S. troops from Afghanistan is set to kick off.  Gen. Petraeus has yet to give a formal recommendation. 


• Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign (Oskee Wow Wow Illinois) have created a fast charging battery that will reach 90% charge in two minutes.  The breakthrough is expected to be a key technology if electric cars are to be viable alternatives to internal combustion.


• Republicans are going after AARP for its support of the Affordable Care Act.


• CNN conducted a poll and nearly half of those polled hold an unfavorable view of the Tea Party.


• A cricket match is more then a cricket match when India plays Pakistan.  The Economist talks about the event's significance.