Apple News Today: Episode Summary – "DOGE set out to save trillions. Here are the results"
Release Date: April 30, 2025
Host: Shemitah Basu
1. Elon Musk and the "Doge" Government Efficiency Initiative
Shemitah Basu opens the episode by discussing Elon Musk's ambitious attempt to streamline federal spending through his initiative, Doge, established during President Trump's second term. Initially promising to uncover $2 trillion in savings, Musk progressively scaled back this target to $1 trillion and then to $150 billion. However, Doge has struggled to meet even the revised goal, claiming to have saved $160 billion—a figure critics argue is "inflated and riddled with miscalculations and errors" (00:00).
Impact on Federal Workforce and Agencies
McKenna Kelly from Wired provides an in-depth analysis of Doge's tangible impacts over the past 100 days:
- Workforce Reduction: Doge has reduced the federal workforce to 1960s levels by either firing or pushing out nearly a quarter of a million workers.
- Agency Shutdowns: Eleven federal agencies have been either hollowed out or completely shut down.
- Contract and Grant Cuts: More than 8,500 contracts and 10,000 grants have been terminated.
Kelly remarks, “Elon Musk got on stage at CPAC holding this chainsaw, and really, that's emblematic of what Doge has done to the federal government” (02:41). This metaphor underscores the aggressive and, according to critics, reckless approach Doge has taken in its restructuring efforts.
Public Backlash and Future of Doge
The public's sentiment towards Musk and Doge has soured significantly. Nationwide protests against Tesla reflect this backlash, with the company’s profits plummeting by over 70%. Polls indicate that only 35% of Americans approve of Doge's government work, while 57% disapprove (03:28).
As Doge approaches the 130-day limit for Musk's involvement as a special government employee, his departure is imminent. However, sources reveal that Musk is already strategizing for the upcoming midterms, planning to leverage his influence as a Republican mega donor (03:35).
2. United Nations Court Hearings on Israel’s Humanitarian Blockade
The episode transitions to the United Nations International Court of Justice (ICJ), where oral arguments have commenced regarding Israel's blockade of Gaza and the West Bank. Since March 2, Israel has halted all food, medicine, and supplies into Gaza to pressure Hamas into releasing Israeli hostages. This blockade has led to catastrophic conditions for over 2 million Palestinians.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Testimonies highlight the dire situation:
- Water Shortage: Amar Hijazi, the Palestinian ambassador to the Netherlands, stated, "today 9 out of 10 Palestinians don't have access to safe drinking water" (05:20).
- Healthcare Collapse: Dr. Mohamed Mustafa from Australia described the overwhelmed Gaza hospitals: “We've run out of ketamine, we've run out of propofol, we've run out of all painkillers... It is insane” (06:05).
Israel’s Stance and Accusations Against UNRWA
Israeli Foreign Minister Gidan Saar criticized the ICJ proceedings as politicized, stating, “Israel decided not to take part in this circus. It is another attempt to politicize and abuse the legal process in order to persecute Israel” (06:54). Israel accuses the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) of being infiltrated by Hamas but has not provided evidence to support these claims. Consequently, Israel has banned UN and UNRWA operations within its borders.
Potential Implications of the ICJ Ruling
While a binding ruling is not anticipated soon, the ICJ's opinions carry substantial legal influence. The New York Times notes that a negative ruling against Israel could "reshape how governments across the world navigate their relationships and policymaking with the country" (07:09).
3. Families Coping with Deportations under the Trump Administration
Shemitah Basu delves into the human stories behind deportations orchestrated by the Trump administration, highlighting the emotional and legal battles families endure.
Jennifer Vazquez Sura and Kilmar Abrego Garcia
Jennifer Vazquez Sura recounts the traumatic experience of her husband's deportation to El Salvador, where he was sent to the notorious Secot prison despite being falsely accused of gang affiliation. “I was very scared” (08:58) Vazquez Sura expressed to CBS, emphasizing the unjust separation and ongoing fear for her family’s safety.
Heidi Sanchez’s Separation from Her Baby
Heidi Sanchez, a Cuban mother, shared her heartbreaking ordeal of being deported and separated from her one-year-old daughter. Through an interpreter, she described begging for her child to breastfeed but failing to reunite with her. The Department of Homeland Security contested her account, asserting that deportees are given the opportunity to take their children, though Reuters could not verify her claims.
Dr. Noor Abdullah and Mahmoud Khalil’s Story
Dr. Noor Abdullah narrated the ordeal of her husband, Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder detained by ICE for participating in protests. Abdullah, eight months pregnant during Khalil’s arrest, was denied the ability to be present during her childbirth, highlighting systemic injustices. “My pregnancy and our story has been on every single news channel,” she told Al Jazeera, drawing parallels to past family separation policies under Trump that resulted in thousands of children being orphaned.
4. Other Notable News
Trump’s Tariff Adjustments on Imported Cars
President Trump announced a 25% reduction in tariffs on imported cars and auto parts, aimed at mitigating the financial strain on car manufacturers. Automakers can apply for price offsets of 15% in the first year and 10% in the second, with offsets expiring in the third year as the supply chain shifts towards the U.S. (07:35).
Columbia University Student’s Detention for Pro-Palestinian Advocacy
Mahsayan Mahdawi, a lawful permanent U.S. resident and Columbia University student, has been detained since April 14 for his pro-Palestinian advocacy efforts. Despite claims by the federal government that Mahdawi’s presence could undermine anti-antisemitism policies and Middle East peace negotiations, no evidence has been provided. In an exclusive interview with NPR, Mahdawi remains optimistic: “I am centered internally. I am at peace... I have faith that justice will prevail” (13:07).
5. Bob Ross Exhibition Opens in Indiana
In a lighter segment, Basu announces the upcoming exhibition honoring Bob Ross at the Minotrista Museum and Gardens in Muncie, Indiana. Featuring approximately 200 works from "The Joy of Painting," including his last televised painting and several private pieces, fans are encouraged to visit and enjoy the iconic "happy little trees and clouds" (13:21).
6. Upcoming Stories and Announcements
Basu concludes by promoting additional content available through the Apple News app:
- Featured Article: An emergency physician's firsthand account of Gaza’s devastated healthcare system.
- Podcast Highlight: Follow Apple News Plus Narrated for exclusive stories.
Conclusion
This episode of Apple News Today provides a comprehensive overview of significant political and humanitarian issues, from Elon Musk's governmental overhaul efforts to the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the personal stories of those affected by deportations. Additionally, it touches on policy changes affecting the auto industry and a heartwarming tribute to Bob Ross. With detailed reporting and poignant testimonies, the episode offers listeners a thorough understanding of complex and emotive topics shaping the current global landscape.