NPR News Now: January 12, 2025, 6 PM EST

Released January 12, 2025

1. California Wildfires and Emergency Response

Governor Gavin Newsom has ramped up efforts to combat the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles by deploying an additional thousand National Guard troops, bringing the total number of mobilized service members to approximately 2,500. These troops are tasked with assisting communities devastated by the fires and preparing for the imminent threat posed by the Santa Ana winds.

Steve Futterman reports that the primary concern lies in the forecasted strong winds expected to persist through Wednesday. L.A. County Fire Chief Anthony Maroney emphasized the severity of the situation:

“These winds will keep the fire threat in Los Angeles county very high.” [00:51]

Fire crews are proactively preparing for potential new outbreaks. Ryan Wimmer from Cal Fire has been meticulously inspecting fire hydrants to ensure readiness:

“I was just double-checking, making sure that that hydrant here along the main road is in service and available for use. I want to make sure our people have the resources they need to be successful.” [01:04]

The most intense winds are anticipated on Tuesday, heightening the urgency for fire departments to stay vigilant. The proactive measures aim to mitigate the impact of the fires and safeguard the affected communities.

2. Federal Assistance and Mental Health Support for Fire Victims

FEMA Administrator Dan Criswell announced that over 24,000 residents affected by the Los Angeles wildfires have registered for federal financial assistance, with expectations of the number rising. In addition to financial aid, mental health support remains a critical resource for those impacted by the disasters.

Miriam Brown, Deputy Director of the LA Department of Mental Health, highlighted the establishment of crisis centers to provide essential mental health care:

“We probably touch over 300 individuals who were at the Pasadena Center. We do whatever it takes to provide them that support.” [01:56]

Brown emphasized the importance of addressing basic needs in the aftermath of such disasters to prevent long-term trauma:

“Experts say most people who endure a mass disaster like this will not develop post-traumatic stress disorder, but it's still important to meet people's basic needs in these early days and weeks. It can help prevent later trauma.” [02:04]

These efforts underscore the comprehensive approach being taken to support both the physical and psychological well-being of those affected by the wildfires.

3. Political Developments: Pardons for January 6th Protesters

In a significant political development, President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to pardon individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riot on his first day in office. However, his running mate, Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, has expressed a more nuanced stance, asserting that only nonviolent protesters should receive pardons.

During an interview with FOX News, Vance clarified:

“If you committed violence on that day, obviously you shouldn't be pardoned. And there's a little bit of a gray area there.” [02:40]

Vance further elaborated that while federal prosecutors have charged over 1,500 individuals in connection with the attack, he supports pardoning those who participated without violent actions:

“There are a lot of people we think in the wake of January 6th who were prosecuted unfairly. We need to rectify that.” [02:54]

This divergence within the incoming administration highlights potential complexities in addressing the fallout from the Capitol riot. Luke Garrett reports that approximately 140 police officers sustained injuries during the event, and efforts to overturn Trump's loss in the 2020 election continue, with Trump maintaining his claims of election fraud as he prepares for a second term.

4. International Relations: US-Canada Tariffs and South Korean Impeachment

US-Canada Relations:

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded sharply to President-elect Trump's remarks about annexing Canada as a 51st state, labeling them a distraction from the threats posed by steep tariffs. Trudeau indicated that Canada would consider retaliatory tariffs on various US goods, including orange juice, toilets, and certain steel products, if the incoming administration follows through on its tariff threats.

South Korea's Political Turmoil:

South Korean President Yoon Sung Yol faces an impeachment trial following his brief declaration of martial law last month. Despite the scheduled first formal hearing on Tuesday, Yoon's attorney announced that the president will not attend due to ongoing criminal charges of insurrection against him. This absence may lead to the hearing being rescheduled or proceeding without Yoon if he fails to appear.

Anthony Kuhn reports that Yoon remains protected by his presidential security detail, which has obstructed police and investigators from executing an arrest warrant. Should Yoon not attend the hearing on Tuesday, it will either be moved to Thursday or continue in his absence.

“South Korea's parliament voted to impeach Yoon for his brief declaration of martial law last month. Now it's up to the constitutional court to uphold or overturn the impeachment.” [03:57]

Yoon's legal team argues that attending the hearing could compromise his safety, adding another layer of complexity to the political crisis in South Korea.

5. NFL Playoffs: Buffalo Bills Advance to Divisional Round

In sports news, the Buffalo Bills secured a decisive 31-7 victory over the Denver Broncos in a wild card playoff game. This triumph propels the five-time AFC East defending champions into the divisional round for a fifth consecutive postseason. The Bills will now face the third-seeded Baltimore Ravens, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the NFL playoffs.

Louise Schiavone reported:

“The Buffalo Bills scored a 31-7 win over the Denver Broncos in a wild card playoff game. The five-time AFC East defending champions advance to the divisional round for a fifth straight playoff season and they'll face the third seeded Baltimore Ravens.” [04:38]

This victory not only solidifies the Bills' dominance in the AFC East but also keeps their championship aspirations alive as the playoffs intensify.

Conclusion

The January 12, 2025, episode of NPR News Now provided comprehensive coverage of critical issues ranging from natural disasters and emergency responses in Los Angeles to significant political developments in the US and internationally. Additionally, the episode touched on the latest in NFL playoffs, offering listeners a well-rounded update on current events.