NPR News Now: January 15, 2025, 10 PM EST Summary

Host: Jeanine Herbst
Producer: NPR

1. Defense Secretary Nominee Faces Fierce Confirmation Hearing

[00:19]
Jeanine Herbst opens the episode with coverage of Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth's contentious Senate confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill. Hegseth acknowledged his imperfections but maintained a defiant stance amidst aggressive questioning by Democratic senators. The hearing was marked by heightened partisanship, a departure from previous sessions for Pentagon nominees.

[00:42]
Deirdre Walsh elaborates, stating, “This was a really partisan confirmation hearing” and notes the combative atmosphere as Hegseth often interrupted Democratic senators. The session attracted significant attention, leading to the use of a larger hearing room to accommodate the influx of supporters, some of whom applauded Hegseth’s responses.

2. Devastating Los Angeles Wildfires and Community Response

[01:12]
The episode shifts to the tragic wildfires in Los Angeles, where the death toll has risen to at least 25. Fierce Santa Ana winds exacerbated the fires, leading to the displacement of over 100,000 people and the destruction of thousands of homes. FEMA has initiated disaster relief efforts, opening sites for housing assistance and federal grants.

[01:45]
Robyn Estrin reports on the inspiring efforts of teenager Avery Culvert, whose own home survived the Eaton fire despite her school burning down. Culvert initiated a campaign to collect donations of clothes and beauty supplies for affected teens, collaborating with professional stylists, Hollywood producers, and celebrities. As Culvert explains, “My clothes and the way I do my hair and my makeup is so important to my identity and my confidence,” highlighting her motivation to help peers regain a sense of normalcy.

3. President Biden Designates New National Monuments on the West Coast

[02:26]
Jeanine Herbst covers President Biden’s announcement of two new national monuments on the West Coast, following delays caused by the wildfires.

[02:35]
Deepa Shivaram reports from the White House ceremony where President Biden declared the Chuckwalla and Satitla national monuments. President Biden remarked, “For generations, this place of wonder has attracted outdoor enthusiasts from hikers, horseback riders exploring these vast lands, as well as scientists and geologists who are studying how the earth evolves.” These designations aim to preserve lands significant to tribal nations and their ecological and environmental value, ensuring special protections and conservation efforts.

4. Administration Eases Sanctions on Cuba Amid Political Shifts

[03:11]
Jeanine Herbst reports on a significant move by the Biden administration to remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism. This decision is part of a trio of steps aimed at easing sanctions on Cuba and supporting the Catholic Church in securing the release of numerous political prisoners. The administration anticipates swift Cuban compliance, but the outlook remains uncertain with the impending transition to President Donald Trump, who historically reinstated the terrorism designation early in his term. Secretary of State designate Marco Rubio, whose family emigrated from Cuba, has been a long-time proponent of maintaining sanctions against the island nation.

5. Neil Gaiman Responds to Sexual Misconduct Allegations

[04:04]
Elizabeth Blair reports on bestselling author Neil Gaiman facing allegations of sexual misconduct. Gaiman, known for works like Coraline, The Sandman, and Good Omens, has been accused by five women of sexual abuse spanning decades. Responding to these claims, Gaiman stated on his website, “I watched the stories about me on the Internet with horror and dismay. I never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone ever.” The fallout includes Amazon and Disney suspending screen adaptations of his novels, casting a shadow over his acclaimed career.

6. Brief Market Update

[04:46]
Jeanine Herbst provides a quick update on the financial markets, noting that U.S. futures contracts are trading slightly higher following a mixed close on Wall Street.

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