NPR News Now: January 5, 2025, 2 PM EST

Host: Nora Ramm | NPR

NPR News Now delivered its latest updates covering significant national and international events. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics discussed in the episode, complete with notable quotes and timestamps for reference.

1. Fatal Truck Attack in New Orleans

Timestamp: [00:24]

Nora Ramm reported on the tragic truck attack that occurred on New Year’s Day in New Orleans, resulting in 14 fatalities. The FBI confirmed that the suspect had previously visited the French Quarter twice before the attack and was recording videos using hands-free glasses. The incident concluded when law enforcement engaged in a shootout, leading to the suspect’s death.

• FBI Special Agent Joshua Jackson stated at [00:49]:
  “He also set a half gallon of accelerant gasoline in a plastic gasoline container in that hallway. He also poured accelerant in different rooms throughout the house. We believe he did this and his hope was to burn the entire house down and hide evidence of his crimes.”

Investigators believe the attacker acted alone and had attempted to burn down the residence to eliminate evidence, although these efforts were thwarted.

2. Congressional Certification and January 6th Security Concerns

Timestamp: [01:07]

As Congress prepares to certify the presidential election results on January 6th, four years after the Capitol riot, NPR’s Mara Liasson discusses the heightened security measures and the political climate surrounding the event.

• Mara Liasson at [01:26] emphasized:
  “Well, for one thing, the Capitol has been fortified like it was in 2021, and it's going to be very hard for any large numbers of people to make their way into the building.”

She further highlighted the diminished threat of unrest due to the lack of belief among Democrats that the election was stolen and the peaceful stance taken by current leadership.

• Vice President Kamala Harris, presiding over the joint session, has conceded defeat, contrasting with former President Trump’s actions four years prior.

3. Senator Richard Blumenthal’s Kids Online Safety Legislation

Timestamp: [01:54]

Senator Richard Blumenthal announced plans to reintroduce the Kids Online Safety Act, aiming to protect children on social media platforms. Initially introduced in 2022 alongside Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn, the bill saw significant support but stalled in the House due to free speech concerns raised by House Speaker Mike Johnson.

• Senator Blumenthal articulated at [02:31]:
  “We need to pass the Kids Online Safety Act to give parents tools and young people controls so that addictive, destructive content on bullying, eating disorders, self harm can be stopped.”

The legislation seeks to enforce a duty of care on social media companies, offering users the ability to opt out of algorithms and enhancing privacy settings.

Reporter Molly Ingram provided further details, noting the bill’s journey and current status in the legislative process.

4. Major Winter Storm Impacts Central and Eastern United States

Timestamp: [02:48]

A severe winter storm is currently sweeping across the central U.S., heading towards the East Coast with forecasts predicting the heaviest snowfall in decades for certain regions.

• Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has responded by declaring a state of emergency and activating the emergency operations center.

• Karen Zar from member station W K. Yes reported from Lexington at [02:58]:
  “Members of the Kentucky National Guard have also been activated and will initially be helping state transportation crews keep roadways clear and assisting stranded motorists.”

In Europe, heavy snow and freezing rain have disrupted flights at major airports in the United Kingdom and Germany, leading to road closures, rail service interruptions, and the cancellation of sporting events. The storm poses significant challenges for travelers returning from the holidays and students heading back to universities.

5. Resignation of Washington Post Cartoonist Ann Telnes

Timestamp: [03:16]

Ann Telnes, a Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist for the Washington Post, has resigned following the termination of her sketch depicting technology and media leaders bowing to President-elect Donald Trump.

• David Folkenflick reported at [04:07]:
  “Telnes tells NPR that she's used to editing, but has never had an editor say she cannot address a particular subject. At the Post editorial page, editor David Shipley says he values her contributions, but that two colleagues had written columns on the same subject. Too much repetition.”

The resignation highlights tensions within the newsroom, especially in the aftermath of Bezos' decision in October to withdraw the paper’s endorsement of Kamala Harris, which led to a significant number of subscription cancellations.

• Ann Telnes emphasized the importance of protecting the free press and the role of cartoonists in safeguarding these freedoms.

6. Introduction of Congestion Toll in New York City

Timestamp: [04:46]

New York City has implemented a new congestion toll, charging drivers $9 to enter the city’s busiest areas during peak times. The initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion and generate funds for public transit improvements.

• Nora Ramm concluded this segment at [04:46]:
  “The toll is designed to reduce congestion and to raise money to help improve public transit.”

This policy marks a significant shift in urban transportation strategy, aligning with broader efforts to enhance mobility and environmental sustainability in one of the nation’s largest cities.

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