With the 2004 Republican National Convention just a week away, protesters and police are gearing up for a showdown in New York. A quarter of a million people are expected to march on opening day alone.

City officials have yet to offer a final ruling on the use of Central Park for protests. Some groups, including civil libertarians, have expressed that they plan to use the public space with or without city approval.

Also at issue is the lively debate within the protest community over the appropriate level of disruption. Moderates fear that more radical participants will taint the process and cause a political backlash.

Click one of the “Listen” links to hear how police and protesters are preparing for a face off in the streets of Manhattan.

Guests:

Michael Powell, New York City Bureau Chief for the Washington Post

Michael Wilson, New York Times reporter

Michelle Goldberg, writer for Salon.com

Liza Featherstone, Contributing Editor for The Nation

Bill Dobbs, spokesmen for coalition group United For Peace and Justice.