NPR News Now: January 1, 2025, 3 PM EST
Host: Louise Schiavone
Release Date: January 1, 2025
Duration: Approximately 5 minutes
1. Deadly Truck Attack in New Orleans' French Quarter Declared Terrorism
Reporter: Louise Schiavone
The FBI has classified the recent deadly truck attack in New Orleans' French Quarter as an act of terrorism. The incident occurred around 3:00 AM when 42-year-old Shamsu Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen from Texas, drove his Ford pickup into pedestrians at high speed, resulting in the deaths of at least 10 individuals and injuries to 35 others. Jabbar died in a shootout with police shortly after the attack.
FBI Response:
Aletha Duncan, FBI Special Agent in Charge [01:01]:
"We do not believe that Jabbar was solely responsible. We are aggressively running down every lead, including those of his known associates. That's why we need the public's help."
The FBI is urging the public to assist in the investigation, seeking information, videos, or pictures related to Jabbar’s activities in the 72 hours preceding the attack. Evidence recovered from the truck includes an ISIS flag, weapons, and a potential explosive device, indicating possible extremist affiliations. Additionally, other improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were discovered in the French Quarter. In response to the attack, authorities have postponed the Sugar Bowl college football game between the University of Georgia and Notre Dame, which was scheduled to take place at the nearby Superdome.
2. Minimum Wage Increases Implemented in 21 States
Reporter: Andrea Hsu
On January 1, minimum wage hikes took effect in 21 U.S. states, including Delaware, Illinois, and Rhode Island, aiming to elevate the living standards of millions of workers. According to the Economic Policy Institute, these increases are projected to benefit over 9 million workers nationwide. Notably, women constitute nearly 60% of those receiving wage hikes, and Hispanic workers represent more than one-third of full-time minimum wage earners. The adjustments are expected to provide an average annual increase of approximately $400 for these workers, helping them keep pace with rising living costs.
However, in states adhering to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, workers do not receive these protections, potentially leaving them vulnerable to economic pressures.
3. Texas Eliminates Annual Vehicle Safety Inspections
Reporter: Pablo Aroz Pena, KERA
Effective today, Texas drivers are no longer required to undergo annual vehicle safety inspections. This change stems from new legislation signed into law by the governor. Instead of state-mandated inspections, the responsibility of maintaining vehicle safety now falls on individual drivers.
Public Safety Advisory:
Sergeant Billy Ray, Texas Department of Public Safety [02:56]:
"We urge people to still take care of their vehicles, still check your tires, make sure your brakes are working. Headlights, tail lights and mirrors are still safe before you drive."
While safety inspections are no longer mandatory statewide, emissions tests remain required in Texas's most populous and rapidly growing counties. This measure ensures that air quality standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continue to be met in these regions.
4. Russian Drone Attack Targets Kyiv Amid Ongoing Conflict
Reporter: Brian Mann, NPR News
Early today, Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, was struck by a Russian drone attack that resulted in one fatality and six injuries. An apartment building was set ablaze during the assault, as Ukrainian anti-aircraft defenses engaged the incoming drones just before dawn.
Impact on Civilians:
Yaroslav Meshkov, Kyiv Resident [03:57]:
"I think I don't have a lot of hopes maybe that Ukraine will be existing next year and that will be great and that my friends will be alive."
The attack underscores the persistent threat faced by Ukrainian civilians amidst nearly three years of ongoing conflict. In response to dwindling military personnel, Ukraine is increasingly recruiting young citizens to bolster its defense capabilities. Concurrently, Russian forces continue to make strategic advances along the eastern front, intensifying the strain on Ukraine's infrastructure and populace.
5. Poland Assumes Presidency of the European Union; U.S. Congress Dynamics
Reporter: Louise Schiavone
Poland has assumed the rotating presidency of the European Union (EU) for a six-month term, prioritizing security issues. The Polish leadership is advocating for the imposition of additional sanctions aimed at heightening economic pressure on Russia to compel an end to its war against Ukraine.
U.S. Political Landscape:
The newly convened U.S. Congress witnesses a closely contested race for the position of Speaker of the House. Incumbent Speaker Mike Johnson is seeking re-election for another term amidst a narrow GOP majority that requires cohesion to secure his position. President Elect Donald Trump has endorsed Johnson for the speakership in the 119th Congress. One of the Congress's initial responsibilities will be to certify the results of the 2024 presidential election, setting the stage for significant legislative and political developments in the coming months.
This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the key topics discussed in the NPR News Now episode released on January 1, 2025. For more detailed coverage, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode.