NPR News Now - Episode: January 4, 2025, 7 PM EST

Release Date: January 5, 2025
Host: Windsor Johnston
Description: The latest news in five minutes. Updated hourly.

Farewell to Former President Jimmy Carter

[00:19] Windsor Johnston opens the episode with solemn news regarding former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. Carter's body is currently lying in repose in Atlanta, marking a significant moment of respect and remembrance.

[00:39] Marlon Hyde reports that Georgia lawmakers witnessed a poignant ceremony as Carter's motorcade paused at the Georgia State Capitol. The event was marked by a moment of silence, emphasizing the nation's respect for Carter's legacy.

Notable Quote:

"Members of the state Legislature gathered to pay their respects, including former Georgia State Representative Calvin Smyry."
— Marlon Hyde [00:39]

[01:11] Hyde adds that Carter's remains will remain at the Carta Center for viewing until Tuesday, after which they will be transported to Washington, D.C., ensuring that the nation has ample opportunity to honor the former president.

Impending Winter Storm Threatens 62 Million Americans

[01:20] Transitioning to weather news, Windsor Johnston highlights a severe winter storm predicted to impact over two dozen states across the U.S. The National Weather Service warns of heavy snowfall, icy conditions, sleet, and rain affecting the Central Plains, Mid-Atlantic, and southern regions in the coming days.

[01:43] Mansi Khurana provides detailed insights into the storm's trajectory and potential impacts:

• Snowfall: At least 8 inches expected from central Kansas to Indiana.
• Timing: Storm to reach the East Coast by Sunday night.
• Risks: Travel delays due to freezing rain, hazardous road conditions, and possible power outages.
• Additional Threats: Severe thunderstorms anticipated in the southern states on Sunday.

Notable Quote:

"This year's first major winter storm is predicted to bring blizzard-like conditions to the Central Plains on Sunday."
— Mansi Khurana [01:43]

Khurana advises listeners to stay informed by checking alerts from the National Weather Service to navigate the storm safely.

New Orleans Tragedy Linked to ISIS Inspiration

[02:19] Windsor Johnston reports on a tragic incident from New Year's Day, where a man drove a pickup truck into a crowd in New Orleans, resulting in at least 14 fatalities. The driver, a Texas-born U.S. Army veteran, was apprehended and subsequently shot dead by police.

[02:44] Ryan Lucas delves deeper into the motives behind the attack, revealing that the FBI has linked the perpetrator's actions to inspiration from the Islamic State terrorist group.

Notable Quote:

"An individual can say, watch or read ISIS propaganda online, come to sympathize with the group's ideology or its worldview, and then decide to carry out violence to act in the group's name on their own."
— Ryan Lucas [02:44]

Lucas explains the concept of "inspired attacks," where direct contact with terrorist organizations isn't necessary for individuals to undertake violent acts influenced by extremist ideologies.

Heightened Security Measures Ahead of Election Certification in Washington, D.C.

[03:11] As the nation approaches the certification of the November election results, Windsor Johnston outlines the increased security presence in Washington, D.C. This move comes in the wake of recent violent incidents and aims to ensure the safety of the certification process.

[03:36] Dave Sundberg, Assistant Director of the FBI's Washington Field Office, provides further clarity:

• Threat Assessment: "We are certainly operating in a heightened threat environment, especially given the incidents in both New Orleans and in Las Vegas on January 1st."
• Current Status: "At this time, we have no information indicating a local threat associated with either of those incidents."

Notable Quote:

"At this time, we have no information indicating a local threat associated with either of those incidents."
— Dave Sundberg [03:36]

Sundberg emphasizes the proactive measures being taken to monitor and mitigate any potential threats, ensuring a secure environment for the election certification.

Historic Achievement in the World of Darts

[03:56] Shifting to lighter news, Windsor Johnston celebrates a remarkable achievement in sports. A 17-year-old has become the youngest-ever world champion in darts, signaling a new generation's rise in the sport.

[04:14] Lauren Frayer introduces the young champion, highlighting that darts is more than just a bar game—it is a serious sport with a dedicated annual World Championship tournament.

[04:18] Luke Littler, the prodigious darts talent and former junior world champion, shares his excitement:

"I just can't believe it. Walking around backstage with it, I can tell myself I've won it and it's mine. But it's not sunk in."
— Luke Littler [04:29]

[04:40] Littler also remarks on the growing popularity of darts:

"He's helped popularize the Sport of Darts. 90,000 tickets for this year's championship sold out in 15 minutes, and many fans attended the final in festive costumes."
— Luke Littler [04:40]

Lauren Frayer concludes by acknowledging Littler's contribution to the sport, noting the enthusiastic fan support that underscores darts' vibrant community.

This episode of NPR News Now encapsulates a range of significant events, from the respectful farewell to a former president and impending natural disasters to tragic incidents linked to terrorism, heightened political security measures, and inspiring achievements in sports. Each segment provides listeners with concise yet comprehensive insights into pressing national and international matters.