NPR News Now: January 5, 2025, 3 PM EST – Detailed Summary

Published on January 5, 2025

Terrorist Attack Investigation in New Orleans

Host: Nora Ramm
Timestamp: [00:24]

In the wake of a tragic terrorist attack on New Year's Day, federal, state, and local officials in New Orleans convened for a press conference to discuss ongoing investigations. Sham Sadeen Jabbar, the perpetrator, drove a pickup truck into a crowd, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals before being fatally shot by police. FBI Special Agent in Charge, Lyle Merthal, provided insights into Jabbar's activities prior to the attack, revealing that Jabbar had visited New Orleans in October.

Timestamp: [00:51]
Merthal stated, "He was in town at least two days. During that time, Jabbar, using Meta glasses, recorded a video as he rode through the French Quarter on a bicycle."

Jabbar utilized Meta glasses—a device resembling regular eyewear that enables hands-free video and photo recording—to document his movements. This revelation opens new avenues for understanding the attacker's intentions and planning.

Senate Pushes for Rapid Confirmation of Trump's FBI Nominee

Host: Nora Ramm
Timestamp: [01:03]

In the aftermath of the New Orleans terrorist incident, Senate Majority Leader John Thune has called for an expedited confirmation process for President-elect Donald Trump's Cabinet nominees, particularly focusing on the leadership of the FBI. Despite advocating for swift action, Thune has refrained from publicly endorsing Trump's security team members.

Timestamp: [01:34]
Thune emphasized, "We're going to get the president, his people, as quickly as possible."

Trump has nominated Cash Patel to head the FBI, an agency pivotal in addressing domestic terrorism. Patel has indicated his intention to make immediate changes upon confirmation, including relocating the FBI headquarters and redistributing agents nationwide.

Timestamp: [02:01]
Thune commented on Patel's suitability, stating, "I think that he understands what his mission would be if he is successful in getting confirmed to that position at the FBI."

While confident in Patel's potential to restore trust within the FBI, Thune has withheld a formal endorsement pending further developments.

Upcoming Congressional Certification and South Korean Political Tensions

Host: Nora Ramm
Timestamp: [02:08]

As Congress prepares to convene on January 6th to certify the November election results, officials anticipate a smooth process, contrasting sharply with the violent disruption that occurred four years ago when supporters of then-President Trump stormed the Capitol.

Simultaneously, in South Korea, tensions escalate as supporters and opponents of the impeached President Yoon Sung Yol engage in overnight vigils outside his residence amid a political stalemate. NPR's Anthony Kuhn reports that Yoon's security detail successfully prevented attempts to apprehend him.

Timestamp: [02:39]
Kuhn detailed, "Friday, police separated the two opposing camps of protesters who braved snow and freezing temperatures and shut down a major north-south artery in Seoul on Sunday."

Yoon faces a week-long arrest warrant valid through Monday for charges related to insurrection following his brief imposition of martial law on December 3. Despite three summonses to appear for questioning, Yoon has defied attempts to bring him in. His legal efforts, including seeking a court injunction against the warrant, have been unsuccessful.

Timestamp: [02:39]
Kuhn added, "Yoon has defied three summonses to appear for questioning on charges of insurrection related to his brief imposition of martial law on December 3."

The situation remains fluid, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken scheduled to address the crisis during his visit to Seoul on Sunday and Monday.

Reopening of Santa Cruz Wharf Amid Climate Challenges

Host: Nora Ramm
Timestamp: [03:19]

Despite recent severe weather events that caused significant damage, residents of Santa Cruz are celebrating the reopening of their beloved wharf two weeks after record swells devastated the California coast. Nick Altenberg from KQED reports on the community's resilience and the economic importance of the nearly half-mile pier.

Timestamp: [03:39]
Altenberg highlighted, "The wharf was bustling with people just hours after reopening Saturday. The nearly half-mile pier is important for the local economy and beloved by locals."

The damaged section, which broke off during repairs from last winter's storms, underscores the growing challenges posed by climate change. Norm Daly, one of the workers present during the incident, expressed concerns over future impacts.

Timestamp: [04:06]
A city official remarked, "I think the WRF is well suited to survive most impacts. It's hard to tell exactly what those impacts are going to be, but in the moment, the wharf is 100% safe."

City leaders are considering reimagining the wharf's design with climate resilience as a priority to safeguard against increasingly severe weather patterns.

Honoring Jimmy Carter at the Carter Presidential Center

Host: Nora Ramm
Timestamp: [04:27]

The Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta has opened its doors around the clock to allow the public to pay their last respects to former President Jimmy Carter, who is lying in repose. Jason Carter, Jimmy Carter's grandson, shared heartfelt sentiments about his grandfather's enduring legacy.

Timestamp: [04:44]
Jason Carter stated, "And to the people at the Carter center, you continue the vibrant living legacy of what is my grandfather's life's work really."

President Carter is scheduled to travel to Lyon State this week for ceremonies at the Capitol Rotunda in Washington, culminating in his funeral on Thursday morning. This period marks a significant moment for those who wish to honor his contributions and legacy.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now provided a comprehensive overview of key national and international events, from the investigation of a New Year's Day terrorist attack in New Orleans and political maneuvering in the U.S. Senate, to political tensions in South Korea and climate-related challenges in Santa Cruz. Additionally, the nation prepares to honor the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter. Through timely reporting and insightful commentary, NPR continues to keep the public informed on pressing issues.

For more updates, visit NPR News Now.