FIRST LOOK: AWOL soldier accused of Fort Hood plot asked for conscientious objector status

The Lookout

Welcome to First Look, our daily roundup of early-bird news:

• A new report says the 2010 health care law will increase health spending slightly. (Politico)

• The AWOL soldier accused of plotting an attack on Fort Hood asked the military to release him as a conscientious objector a year ago. The Pentagon agreed, but then delayed his release when child porn was allegedly found on his computer. (AP)

• Atlanta teachers and principals who admitted they cheated on tests have been put on paid leave. (AP)

• President Bush explains his slow reaction to the 9-11 attacks: "I didn't want to rattle the kids. I wanted to project a sense of calm." (Reuters)

• No one will adopt a six-week-old kitten in England who is nicknamed "Kitler" because of a Hitler-esque mustache marking. (Telegraph)

• Accused Tucson shooter Jared Loughner's lawyers are appealing the decision to give their client forced medication. (LA Times)

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