Fox News Hourly Update – 2PM ET, July 9, 2025
Hosted by Fox News Radio, this episode provides comprehensive coverage of national and international news, including political developments, natural disasters, public health concerns, and environmental issues. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics discussed.
1. President Trump's Shift from Aid to Trade in Africa
Host: Lisa Brady
President Donald Trump announced a strategic pivot from traditional aid to enhancing trade relationships in Africa. Speaking during a White House meeting with several African leaders, Trump emphasized the administration's commitment to fostering economic development that benefits both the United States and its African partners.
Donald Trump [00:10]: "My administration is committed to strengthening our friendships in Africa through economic development efforts that benefit both the United States and our partners."
Lisa Brady highlighted Trump's remarks about leveraging trade to address and resolve regional differences in Africa. A significant development in this strategy is the impending peace agreement between the leaders of Congo and Rwanda, scheduled to be signed in the United States.
However, this approach has not been without controversy. The Trump administration has faced criticism for its decision to close the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). While President Trump contends that shutting down USAID has "eliminated waste, fraud, and abuse," supporters of the agency argue that it has been instrumental in saving millions of lives globally.
2. Middle East and Defense Updates
President Trump addressed additional international concerns during the broadcast. He indicated a "good chance of a settlement this week on a Gaza cease-fire deal," signaling potential progress in the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Furthermore, Trump considered augmenting U.S. military support to Ukraine by sending another Patriot air defense system, amidst escalating tensions with Russia.
Lisa Brady [00:50]: "Taking questions from reporters, the president also says there's a good chance of a settlement this week on a Gaza cease-fire deal. President Trump also says he's considering sending another Patriot air defense system to Ukraine."
3. Russian Aerial Assaults and Texas Floods
The episode reported on Russia's ongoing military aggression, noting the launch of another major aerial assault—the largest since the 2022 invasion—heightening international concerns.
Domestically, the United States continues to grapple with natural disasters, particularly severe flooding in Texas. Over five days have passed since the catastrophic floods struck, resulting in the tragic loss of more than 110 lives.
Texas Floods and Rescue Efforts
Reporter: Captain Jason Waldrip, Kerr County Sheriff's Office [01:00]
Captain Waldrip detailed the challenges faced by search and rescue teams as they navigate debris-laden areas near the Guadalupe River in Kerrville, Texas.
Captain Jason Waldrip [01:15]: "We are using very heavy equipment, excavators, skid loaders to remove this material and do a deep impact search of..."
Despite the difficulties, responders remain hopeful of locating survivors. The search operations have expanded to include both helicopters and drones to enhance efficiency.
Further Impact in New Mexico
Reporter: Lynn Crawford [03:35]
The devastation extends beyond Texas, with New Mexico experiencing significant flooding in regions previously affected by wildfires. Currently, more than 170 individuals remain unaccounted for, and at least three have lost their lives.
Lynn Crawford [01:43]: "Our emergency responders conducted approximately 65 swift water rescues during yesterday's event."
The mayor of Ruidoso, New Mexico, cautioned that the risk of additional flooding persists, urging ongoing vigilance and preparedness among residents.
Lisa Brady [01:50]: "The mayor of Ruidoso, Lynn Crawford says there's still a risk of more flooding."
4. Investigations into Government Officials and the 2016 Trump-Russia Probe
Host: Lisa Brady
The episode delved into the ongoing investigations surrounding high-ranking government officials linked to the 2016 Trump-Russia probe. Two key figures under scrutiny are former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey.
Reporter: David Spunt [02:38]
David Spunt provided insights into the scope of these investigations, noting that while details remain limited, significant developments have emerged, particularly concerning Brennan.
David Spunt [02:38]: "The scope of the two probes into former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey not crystal clear, but we do have some details to share for the Brennan probe."
The current CIA Director, John Ratcliffe, has recently provided the FBI with information suggesting that John Brennan may have lied during his testimony to Congress. Additionally, FBI Director Kash Patel is fully involved in the Brennan investigation.
Regarding James Comey, the former FBI director dismissed by Trump in 2017, Spunt indicated that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is actively investigating, though specifics remain undisclosed.
5. Public Health Alert: Measles Outbreak
A significant public health concern was addressed, highlighting the worst measles outbreak in the United States in over three decades.
- Total Cases: More than 1,280 nationwide.
- Deaths: At least three fatalities reported.
- Origins: Outbreaks initiated in Texas, spreading to under-vaccinated communities, as well as extending to Mexico and Canada.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) attributes the resurgence to decreased vaccination rates, emphasizing the critical need for increased public health measures and vaccination campaigns to curb the spread.
6. Environmental Concerns: Pathogen Risks at Maine Beaches
Reporter: CJ Papa [03:44]
Environmental data revealed alarming levels of pathogen contamination at Maine's beaches, posing significant health risks to swimmers.
A report from the Environment Maine Research and Policy Center identified that 78% of beaches tested in 2024 were at risk due to pathogens. Specifically, 51 beaches were deemed unsafe for swimming on at least one day in the past year.
Brooke Singman [03:44]: "A new report shows a pathogen risk was found at 78% of Maine beaches tested in 2024."
The contamination primarily stems from sewer overflows and stormwater runoff, leading to the release of over 745 million gallons of sewage and polluted stormwater into Maine's waterways in 2023 alone.
Brooke Singman [03:44]: "Common sources of pathogens and waterways include sewer overflows and runoff pollution."
Recommendations and Nationwide Implications
The report advocates for significant infrastructure improvements to mitigate pollution sources and enhance water quality. It was noted that Maine's challenges are reflective of a broader national issue, with scientists estimating that approximately 57 million people fall ill annually from polluted water during swimming activities.
CJ Papa [04:11]: "The report recommends infrastructure improvements and Maine is not alone."
7. Closing Remarks and Additional Information
The broadcast concluded with mentions of podcast availability and promotional information, which have been omitted as per the summary guidelines.
Conclusion
The July 9, 2025, edition of the Fox News Hourly Update covered a wide array of pressing issues, from international diplomacy and military support to domestic crises such as natural disasters and public health emergencies. Environmental concerns and ongoing political investigations also featured prominently, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of current events shaping the national and global landscape.
For more detailed analyses and updates, listeners are encouraged to tune in to future broadcasts or visit Fox News Radio’s online platforms.