NPR News Now – 01-01-2026 9AM EST

Date: January 1, 2026
Host: Windsor Johnston (with field reports from NPR correspondents)
Duration: 5 minutes

Overview

This episode delivers the latest headlines from around the world, focusing on a deadly fire at a Swiss ski resort, new SNAP restrictions in several U.S. states, Ukrainian President Zelensky’s New Year address, revelations from the January 6th investigation, college football playoffs, and global market closures for the New Year. The tone is urgent and informative, providing concise updates.

Key News Stories & Discussion Points

1. Deadly Fire at Swiss Ski Resort

[00:14-01:17]

• Summary:
  A catastrophic fire broke out at La Constellation Bar in the Crans-Montana resort during a packed New Year's Eve celebration. Dozens are presumed dead, with over 100 seriously injured.
• Details:
  • The cause of the fire remains unknown.
  • Witnesses recalled chaos and people on fire fleeing the club.
  • Local hospitals are over-capacity, and identification of victims may take time.
• Notable Quotes:
  • Ruth Sherlock: “Witnesses describe a crush of panicked people trying to climb the stairs to escape the basement nightclub. Another witness saw people on the street outside with their clothes on fire.” [00:50]
  • “Officials say there are so many injured that the intensive care unit and operating theatre at the regional hospital are full.” [01:06]
• Context: This tragic fire has international ramifications, as patrons were visiting from multiple countries.

2. New SNAP Restrictions in Five States

[01:17-02:09]

• Summary:
  Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia have implemented new restrictions on SNAP benefits, banning the purchase of sodas, caffeinated drinks, and candy.
• Details:
  • Iowa, in particular, imposes the strictest rules, including some prepared foods like granola bars.
  • Nebraska was the first state to seek USDA approval; these changes align with the Trump administration's "Make America Healthy Again" initiative.
• Notable Quote:
  • Maci Byers: “Nebraska was the first state to seek USDA approval for their restrictions. The restrictions align with the Trump administration’s Make America Healthy Again initiative, which has sought to restrict processed foods, lower drug prices and overturn existing vaccine recommendations.” [01:44]
• Context: This policy signals a national shift in public health priorities and food assistance norms.

3. Zelensky's Defiant New Year Address

[02:09-03:10]

• Summary:
  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation, vowing not to accept a “weak peace” that would only prolong war with Russia.
• Details:
  • Zelensky drew parallels to World War II, asserting the resilience of Ukrainians who have endured over 1,400 days of war.
  • A peace proposal is reportedly "90% finished," though rejected by Russia.
  • Key meetings in Paris are impending, with high stakes for Ukraine’s future.
• Notable Quote:
  • Joanna Kakis: “Zelensky said Ukraine wants peace, but not at any cost. It wants an end to the war, but not an end to Ukraine.” [02:46]
• Context: Zelensky’s remarks underscore Ukraine’s resolve heading into a critical diplomatic phase.

4. Jack Smith on January 6th: Trump’s Culpability

[03:10-03:50]

• Summary:
  Former special counsel Jack Smith, in a newly released transcript, told Congress the January 6th Capitol attack wouldn’t have happened without President Trump, describing him as the “most culpable figure” in efforts to overturn the 2020 election.
• Details:
  • The remarks were made during a closed-door interview; transcript and video have now gone public.
  • Represents a rare insight into ongoing Justice Department probes with historic significance.
• Notable Quote:
  • Windsor Johnston: “A newly released transcript shows Smith called Trump the most culpable figure in efforts to overturn the 2020 election.” [03:19]
• Context: This is a major development in the political and legal fallout from the 2020 election and the Capitol attack.

5. College Football Playoff Quarterfinals

[03:50-04:34]

• Summary:
  The first quarterfinal saw defending champions Ohio State fall to Miami, with three upcoming games scheduled for New Year’s Day.
• Details:
  • Miami defeated Ohio State 24-14, after an early lead and a late pull-away.
  • Today's games: Indiana vs. Alabama (Rose Bowl), Oregon vs. Texas Tech (Orange Bowl), Georgia vs. Mississippi (Sugar Bowl).
• Notable Quotes:
  • Steve Futterman: “Miami jumped out to a 14-nothing lead. The Buckeyes were able at one point to cut the margin to three, but Miami pulled away at the end.” [03:53]
• Context: Sets the stage for an exciting New Year’s Day in collegiate sports.

6. Stock Market Holiday Closures

[04:34-04:54]

• Summary:
  All major stock markets in Asia and the U.S. are closed for the New Year’s holiday.
• Details:
  • U.S. markets will reopen Friday.
  • The Dow Jones lost 303 points in the last session of the previous year.

Memorable Moments & Quotes

• “There are so many injured that the intensive care unit and operating theatre at the regional hospital are full.” – Ruth Sherlock [01:06]
• “Ukraine wants peace, but not at any cost. It wants an end to the war, but not an end to Ukraine.” – Joanna Kakis reporting Zelensky [02:46]
• “Smith called Trump the most culpable figure in efforts to overturn the 2020 election.” – Windsor Johnston [03:19]
• “Miami jumped out to a 14-nothing lead. The Buckeyes were able at one point to cut the margin to three, but Miami pulled away at the end.” – Steve Futterman [03:53]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Swiss Ski Resort Fire: 00:14 – 01:17
• SNAP Benefit Restrictions: 01:17 – 02:09
• Zelensky’s New Year Address: 02:09 – 03:10
• Jack Smith & January 6th: 03:10 – 03:50
• College Football Playoffs: 03:50 – 04:34
• Stock Market Closures: 04:34 – 04:54

This concise episode quickly orients listeners to major breaking news and public affairs to start 2026, with on-the-ground reporting and critical analysis of ongoing global events.