NPR News Now: January 9, 2025, 6PM EST
Host: Jack Spear
1. Devastating Wildfires Ravage Los Angeles
Timestamp: [00:12]
Los Angeles is grappling with a severe wildfire crisis, with officials reporting that over 2,000 structures have been damaged or destroyed in a series of relentless fires striking the nation's second-largest city. The recent easement of Santa Ana winds provided a much-needed respite, allowing fire crews to mount a more effective offensive against the blazes both on the ground and from the air.
Reporter Steve Futterman detailed the intense firefighting efforts:
"Fire crews went on the attack going after the destructive fires both on the ground and from the air. Helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft spent the day dropping water and retardant on hot spots amidst the damage and destruction."
[00:31]
Despite these efforts, containment remains a challenge as the fires continue to burn. Additionally, the crisis has led to 20 arrests on suspicion of looting. LA Sheriff Robert Luna emphasized the administration's firm stance on maintaining order:
"If you are in one of these areas and you do not belong there, you are going to be subject to arrest. I hope that is as clear as I can make it."
[00:40]
2. Honoring Former President Jimmy Carter
Timestamp: [01:16]
The nation bid farewell to former President Jimmy Carter at a solemn state funeral held at the National Cathedral. Carter, who passed away on December 29 at the age of 100, was commemorated in a service filled with heartfelt tributes from political leaders, friends, and family.
NPR's Elena Moore reported on the event:
"Political leaders, friends, and family described Carter as both a powerful president and politician and a thoughtful and giving man."
[01:30]
President Joe Biden, a longtime friend and colleague of Carter, delivered a poignant eulogy that not only lauded Carter's character and legacy but also conveyed a message of hope for the future:
"Many think he was from a bygone era, but in reality, he saw well into the future."
[01:49]
Notably, all four living former presidents, including President-elect Donald Trump, attended the funeral, marking a significant moment of unity and reflection as Trump prepares to assume office in less than two weeks.
3. Pennsylvania Senators Engage with President-Elect Donald Trump
Timestamp: [02:10]
In a historic move, Pennsylvania senators, including the first Democrat, have accepted invitations to meet with President-elect Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence. NPR's Deidre Walsh provided insights into these meetings:
"John Fetterman says he's the senator for all Pennsylvanians, not just Democrats, and will meet with and have a conversation with if it helps me deliver for Pennsylvania and the nation. He's met with some of Trump's Cabinet nominees and expressed support for some already."
[02:20]
House Budget Chairman Jody Arrington is also scheduled to join groups of House GOP lawmakers to strategize the advancement of Trump's extensive agenda through Congress.
Steve Futterman shared highlights from these discussions:
"I think he said already he's open to whatever process we end up with and wherever we land one or two bills. What he cares about is the outcomes."
[02:47]
Deidre Walsh added that Congressional Republicans are actively crafting legislation on border security, tax cuts, and energy, utilizing mechanisms designed to circumvent potential Democratic filibusters.
4. Kentucky Settles Opioid Prescription Lawsuit with Kroger
Timestamp: [03:07]
The state of Kentucky has reached a $110 million settlement with the grocery store giant Kroger concerning opioid prescriptions dispensed at its pharmacies. Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman announced the settlement, which aims to address the widespread opioid crisis that has devastated the state, contributing to some of the highest overdose death rates in the nation.
Kroger has yet to issue an official statement regarding the settlement.
5. Lebanon Appoints New President Amidst National Challenges
Timestamp: [03:07]
After more than two years without a president, Lebanon has finally selected Josef Aoun as its new leader, a critical step towards stabilizing a country beleaguered by economic turmoil, financial system collapse, and the devastation wrought by conflict with Israel.
NPR's Emily Fang reported from Beirut:
"The to-do list for the new president is extensive, addressing a decimated economy, financial system, and the destruction from a war with Israel."
[03:07]
In a celebratory ceremony, Aoun, who also serves as the commander of Lebanon's military, was declared president by the Speaker of Parliament. His election, supported by a diverse coalition of Lebanon's sectarian groups, is pivotal for implementing a ceasefire with Israel and moving the nation towards recovery. Notably, Aoun had to navigate constitutional restrictions that typically prevent holding multiple offices simultaneously, a challenge he overcame due to broad political support.
6. European Space Agency's Beppo Colombo Captures Close-Up Images of Mercury's North Pole
Timestamp: [04:34]
The European Space Agency (ESA), in collaboration with Japanese partners, has successfully launched the Beppo Colombo spacecraft. During its sixth flyby of Mercury, the mission has transmitted some of the closest and most detailed photos ever captured of the planet's North Pole. These stunning images promise to enhance our understanding of Mercury's geology and magnetic field.
Jack Spear highlighted the achievement:
"A spacecraft launched by the European Space Agency in Japan has beamed back some of the closest photos ever of the planet Mercury's North Pole pictures released today by the European Space Agency."
[04:34]
This summary encapsulates the key developments reported in the NPR News Now episode from January 9, 2025. For those seeking a comprehensive overview of the day's major news stories, these sections provide detailed insights and direct quotations from the broadcast.