On today’s show: Robert Kane helps us understand the causes of police misconduct and bad cops. Then, we’ll examine a $430 million boondoggle at the Department of Homeland Security, where employees were given radios they don’t know how to use. Mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard discusses singing in the new English-language production of "The Barber of Seville" at the Metropolitan Opera. And we’ll look at how Staten Island’s political system may have contributed to the disaster there following hurricane Sandy.

Morning Edition is your perfect morning companion: gentle, but straightforward, explaining the vagaries of international diplomacy, reporting weather and even recommending the best film in town.

On the heels of his announcement that he will explore a Senate run in 2014, Newark Mayor Cory Booker explains his decision. Plus: Robin Hood Foundation President Deborah Winshel describes how the organization will distribute their Sandy benefit proceeds; NJ DEP Commissioner Bob Martin on how the state is handling garbage and debris post-Sandy; and Slate's Dana Stevens reviews this season's holiday movies.

Science Friday is a weekly science talk show from NPR, broadcast Fridays at 3PM on 93.9 FM. Each week, Science Friday's host Ira Flatow, a veteran science journalist, looks at science topics that are in the news brings an educated, balanced discussion to bear on the scientific issues at hand. Panels of expert guests join Flatow, a veteran science journalist, to discuss science -- to take questions from listeners during the call-in portion of the program.

Reporters scour the globe for the most direct and compelling information, from the spread of AIDS in India to the inexplicable fluctuations of the Brazilian economy.

Reporters scour the globe for the most direct and compelling information, from the spread of AIDS in India to the inexplicable fluctuations of the Brazilian economy.

On the darkest night of the year, NPR presents the Illuminating Tradition from New York's Cathedral of St. John the Divine. The 32nd annual Paul Winter Solstice Celebration, featuring gospel singer Theresa Thomason, Mbira Master Chris Berry and The Paul Winter Consort with Paul McCandless, Eugene Friesen, Paul Sullivan, Eliot ...