'10 Things to Know' for Tuesday

[April 24, 2012]   (AP) -- Your daily look at late-breaking news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today (times EDT):

1. James Murdoch defends his record at News of the World in Britain's media ethics inquiry

His father, Rupert Murdoch, chairman of News Corp., will appear before the inquiry Wednesday.

2. Obama on the stump with a student-loan saving pitch

His speech in North Carolina at 1:15 p.m. is expected to woo young voters and speak to middle-class America while trying to head off another drag on the economy.

3. Secret Service prostitution scandal puts some congressmen in a tough position

Some may hold off on pressing for juicy stories behind what happened because they risk reviving -- or having revealed -- some of their own exploits.

4. Romney likely to sweep primaries in Conn., N.Y., Del., R.I. and Pa.

With polls opening at 6 and 7 a.m., the former Massachusetts governor is set to fortify his position as the Republican presidential nominee by the time they close at 8 or 9 p.m.

5. More news expected on home sales

Standard & Poor's issues its index of home-price changes at 9 a.m., followed by a government report at 10 a.m. on the number of people who bought new homes in March.

6. Fed likely to repeat its plan to keep short-term interest rates at record lows

But it may also signal that it won't likely launch any new program to lower longer-term rates unless the economy weakens.

7. Looking at what's next if the Supreme Court strikes down Obamacare

Employers and insurance companies are likely to borrow some ideas from the program and push harder to cut medical costs.

8. Police chief in Martin case remains under scrutiny

George Zimmerman may remain in seclusion now that he is free on bail but Chief Bill Lee stays in the public eye.

9. High-tech tycoons hope to mine nearby asteroids

Several outside scientists call the plan daring, difficult -- and highly expensive.

10. First witness set to take the stand in Roger Clemens' trial

A jury with little awareness of the seven-time Cy Young Award-winning pitcher begins to hear testimony when the hearing resumes at 9 a.m.

[Associated Press]

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