NPR News Now: January 6, 2025
Host: Dale Willman | Release Date: January 6, 2025
New Year's Day Attack in New Orleans
Details of the Incident
On New Year's Day, a tragic attack occurred in New Orleans, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals and injuring dozens more. The attacker, Shamsuddin Jabbar, rammed a truck into revelers on Bourbon Street, an event that has shaken the city. President Biden is scheduled to visit New Orleans on January 7 to honor the victims and support the community.
Attacker's Background
The FBI has provided more insights into Jabbar's activities leading up to the attack. Shamsuddin Jabbar had previously visited New Orleans in October and November 2024, suggesting he may have been scouting his target during these trips.
"Jabbar made trips to the city in October and November, seemingly scouting his target during that time." — Lionel Merthal, FBI Special Agent in Charge (00:36)
Further investigation revealed that Jabbar used Meta glasses to record his activities while preparing for the attack. These high-tech glasses allowed him to capture videos and photos hands-free as he navigated the French Quarter on a bicycle.
"Using Meta glasses, recorded a video as he rode through the French Quarter on a bicycle." — Debbie Elliott, NPR News (00:53)
Despite detailed investigations, authorities believe Jabbar acted alone and remain uncertain about his specific motives for targeting New Orleans.
"Agents say the evidence still indicates that Jabbar acted alone, but they're unsure why he targeted New Orleans." — Lionel Merthal, FBI Special Agent in Charge (01:10)
Mayor Cantrell Requests Enhanced Security Ahead of Major Events
In the wake of the attack, New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell has appealed to the White House for increased federal security measures to safeguard the city during the upcoming Super Bowl and Mardi Gras season.
Federal Assistance and Security Measures
Mayor Cantrell is seeking federal expertise to map out vulnerable security areas and address concerns related to the proposed street barrier system, which has faced public scrutiny.
"What we're wanting to do is to ensure that that boots are on the ground with that expert advice to determine whether or not these ballards that you're talking about are sufficient." — Latoya Cantrell, Mayor of New Orleans (01:47)
Additionally, Cantrell is advocating for permanent federal protection during Mardi Gras to ensure the safety of both residents and visitors. Anticipating the need for ongoing security, federal ATF officials are expected to remain in New Orleans through major events, including Mardi Gras Day on March 4th.
"She also wants permanent federal protection for Mardi Gras." — Aidan McCahill, NPR News (01:30)
President Biden is scheduled to meet with Mayor Cantrell and Governor on Monday to discuss these security enhancements.
Winter Weather Impacting Election Certification and National Activities
Election Certification Assurance
House Speaker Mike Johnson, recently reelected, has assured that the severe winter weather sweeping through the central United States will not impede the certification of the November presidential election results.
"Winter weather will not delay the certification of the November presidential election results this week." — Mike Johnson, House Speaker (02:11)
National Guard Activation in Indiana
In Indiana, heavy snowfall, ice, wind, and cold have created hazardous conditions, prompting the activation of the National Guard to assist stranded motorists amid various legal challenges exacerbated by the weather.
New York City's Congestion Pricing System Launch
New York City has officially implemented its congestion pricing program, which imposes a $9 charge on most vehicles entering Manhattan's busiest areas. The initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion and generate funds for the city's mass transit system.
"This is a toll system like has never been tried before in terms of complexity." — Jano Lieber, NYC Transportation Official (02:57)
Lieber emphasized the program's complexity compared to traditional toll systems, highlighting the comprehensive process of identifying entry times, vehicle types, and applicable exemptions.
"We've got to go through a whole process where we identify when you came in, what type of vehicle do you have an exemption." — Jano Lieber (03:13)
Winter Weather Disruptions Across Europe
Europe is experiencing significant weather-related disruptions, including heavy snow and freezing rain that have led to widespread transportation challenges. In the UK, several airports were closed on Saturday night, and numerous roads remain impassable. Similarly, Germany's Frankfurt Airport canceled 120 flights on Sunday, leaving only one runway operational at Munich Airport.
Senator Blumenthal Pushes for Kids Online Safety Act
Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut announced plans to reintroduce the Kids Online Safety Act this legislative session. The bill aims to protect children on social media by imposing stricter regulations on platforms.
Legislative Background and Provisions
Initially introduced in 2022 alongside Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn, the Kids Online Safety Act gained significant support, passing the Senate in the previous summer. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson previously stalled the bill over free speech concerns.
"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." — Jano Lieber (04:14)
Senator Blumenthal's reintroduced legislation seeks to:
- Impose a Duty of Care: Social media companies would be required to take proactive measures to protect children from harmful content.
- Opt-Out of Algorithms: Users would have the ability to opt out of algorithm-driven content feeds.
- Enhance Privacy Settings: Strengthening privacy controls to safeguard user data.
Biden Signs Social Security Fairness Act
President Joe Biden has signed the Social Security Fairness Act, a significant legislative move aimed at increasing Social Security retirement benefits for retirees who also receive public pensions. This marks the first expansion of such benefits in two decades.
Impact and Benefits
The act repeals existing provisions that previously reduced Social Security benefits for individuals receiving pensions from public service roles, including police officers, postal workers, and firefighters. The White House emphasizes that this legislation enhances financial security for dedicated public servants.
"The Social Security Fairness act repeals provisions that can reduce benefits for people who also receive a pension, including police officers, postal workers and firefighters." — Dale Willman, NPR News (04:31)
For more updates, stay tuned to NPR News Now.