NPR News Now: Detailed Summary of November 19, 2024 Episode

Release Date: November 19, 2024
Host: Korva Coleman

1. Former Congressman Matt Gaetz Under Scrutiny for Attorney General Nomination

[00:18]
NPR host Korva Coleman opens the episode by addressing the controversy surrounding former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz, who is being considered for the position of U.S. Attorney General.

[00:32]
Ryan Lucas reports on the House Ethics Committee's ongoing investigation into Gaetz, highlighting serious allegations that include sexual misconduct and illicit drug use. According to Joel Leopard, Gaetz's attorney, two women testified before the committee with claims that Gaetz engaged in sexual activities with a minor in July 2017 and paid them for sex. Leopard is urging the committee to release its findings publicly. Gaetz has consistently denied all allegations. A spokesperson for the Trump transition labeled these accusations as "baseless" and suggested they are part of an effort to derail the second Trump administration, affirming that Gaetz is the "right man for the job" and will serve as the next Attorney General.

2. Russia Alters Nuclear Doctrine Amidst Ukraine Conflict

[01:18]
Korva Coleman shifts focus to international affairs, reporting that the Kremlin has announced a significant change in Russia's nuclear doctrine. According to the Kremlin, President Vladimir Putin's amendment allows Russia to consider the use of nuclear weapons if subjected to a massive air attack. This policy shift coincides with President Biden's authorization for Ukraine to utilize U.S.-made long-range conventional missiles targeting areas in Western Russia.

[01:50]
Linda Thomas Greenfield, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, marks the 1,000-day anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. She stated, "For 1,000 days, the people of Ukraine have not broken or bent. But while today is an important marker, there's nothing special about this summer occasion." Greenfield emphasizes the ongoing resilience of Ukraine amid persistent Russian attacks on its infrastructure, especially as winter approaches.

3. U.S. Seeks $100 Billion in Emergency Disaster Aid

[02:02]
President Biden is requesting nearly $100 billion in emergency disaster aid from Congress. This substantial funding aims to support individuals and communities facing various crises, including the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

[02:02]
Laura Hackett of Blue Ridge Public Radio reports on the recovery efforts in Asheville, North Carolina. The city struggled for over 50 days to restore clean drinking water after Hurricane Helene severely damaged its water system and polluted the reservoir. Innovative solutions, such as using chemicals and industrial curtains, were employed to cleanse the water supply.

[02:57]
Dina Larson, an Asheville resident, shares her relief: "There are definitely tears of happiness much sooner than anyone expected." Larson expresses hope that the return of clean water will propel Asheville into its next phase of recovery and economic revitalization.

4. Impending Strong Storm Targets West Coast

[03:13]
The National Weather Service warns of a powerful storm heading toward the U.S. West Coast, expected to make landfall by tonight. This atmospheric river is projected to bring wind gusts approaching hurricane strength to Northern California, Oregon, and Washington State. Residents can anticipate heavy rainfall, potential storm damage, and widespread power outages as weather forecasters brace for the impact.

5. Rise of Social Media Influencers as News Sources

[03:13]
Bobby Allen reports on a recent Pew Research Center survey revealing that 1 in 5 Americans now obtain their news from social media influencers. This trend is particularly significant among adults aged 18 to 29, with nearly 40% relying on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram to stay informed.

Influencers, who typically lack formal journalism training, have amassed audiences rivaling traditional news outlets. The survey indicates a noticeable ideological tilt, with more right-leaning influencers present on platforms such as Facebook and YouTube. Additionally, news influencers are predominantly male. Despite these biases, there is a growing demand across all parties and genders for influencers to deliver and explain news content effectively.

6. Lizzie Borden Trademark Dispute Resolved in Favor of Coffee Shop

[04:28]
Korva Coleman reports on a trademark case involving the infamous figure Lizzie Borden, known for her acquittal in the 19th-century axe murders of her father and stepmother. A ghost tour group that operates a bed and breakfast and museum at the Lizzie Borden house filed a lawsuit against Ms. Lizzie's Coffee, alleging trademark infringement. However, a federal appeals court ruled in favor of the coffee shop, allowing them to retain the "Ms. Lizzie" name.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the key topics discussed in the November 19, 2024 episode of NPR News Now, offering listeners who missed the broadcast a detailed and organized account of the day's major news stories.