NPR News Now: January 17, 2025, 10 PM EST

Host: Jack Spear
Produced by: NPR
Release Date: January 18, 2025

1. Governor Kristi Noem Advances Toward Homeland Security Secretary Confirmation

Reported by Amanda Bastille

In a significant development, Governor Kristi Noem faced intense questioning from lawmakers during her confirmation hearing for the position of Secretary of Homeland Security. Hosted by Jack Spear at [00:17], the hearing highlighted Noem's commitment to bolstering border security and limiting immigration, aligning closely with President-elect Donald Trump's agenda.

Amanda Bastille reported that Noem articulated her strategies to "increase border security measures and limit immigration" ([00:33]). She emphasized the revocation of several Biden-era programs, including the CPB1 app, which allows migrants to apply for asylum, and a parole program specific to Haitians, Cubans, Venezuelans, and Nicaraguans ([00:55]). Notably, Noem has maintained a relatively cordial relationship with Democrats, with expectations that she will secure the necessary votes to assume the role without significant opposition ([00:55]).

Notable Quote:

"Noem testified before Congress about her goals to help President-elect Donald Trump increase border security measures and limit immigration." – Amanda Bastille, [00:33]

2. Controversy Surrounding Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Nomination for HHS Secretary

Reported by Will Stone

Jack Spear introduced the contentious nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the head of the Department of Health and Human Services ([01:18]). Kennedy has faced substantial pushback due to his promotion of inaccurate and misleading information regarding vaccines. Documents reveal that in May 2021, Kennedy and his advocacy group filed a petition with the FDA to revoke authorization for COVID-19 vaccines across all demographics ([01:33]).

Will Stone detailed that the FDA denied this request, noting that a successful revocation would have made the vaccines unavailable, potentially endangering public health ([01:33]). Dr. Paul Offit from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia commented on the gravity of such an action:

"If the petition had been successful, the move would have made the vaccines unavailable." – Dr. Paul Offit, [01:33]

Kennedy's efforts to block vaccine distribution have raised concerns about his suitability for a role that would grant him broad powers over vaccine regulation and recommendations ([02:02]). The Trump transition team has not yet responded to inquiries about Kennedy’s nomination ([02:02]).

Notable Quote:

"She was putting people in harm's way for hospitalization and death." – Jack Spear, [01:58]

3. Progress on Los Angeles Wildfires and Rebuilding Efforts

Reported by Steve Futterman

Los Angeles firefighters have made significant strides in containing the Palisades Fire, achieving 39% containment as of [02:20]. Mayor Karen Bass has responded by appointing Steve Soboroth, a local businessman and former mayoral candidate, as the city’s chief recovery officer ([02:30]). Soboroth is tasked with "expediting the safe return of residents, businesses, schools," and overseeing reconstruction plans ([02:30]).

Soboroth announced that detailed reconstruction plans would be unveiled within the week, facilitating the issuance of permits necessary for rebuilding. Additionally, fast-track measures are being implemented to help residents bypass standard bureaucratic procedures, allowing for quicker restoration of affected areas ([02:30]). The community remains eager for clarity and support as they navigate the aftermath of the fires ([02:30]).

Notable Quote:

"People in LA are hurting. They're frustrated. They're confused. They want to know what they can do." – Steve Soboroth, [02:30]

4. Bitcoin Surpasses $100,000 Amid Crypto-Friendly Trump Administration Expectations

Reported by Jack Spear

Bitcoin reached a milestone by surpassing $100,000, a surge attributed to anticipation of a more crypto-friendly Trump administration ([03:14]). President-elect Trump has reiterated his campaign promises to position the United States as the "crypto capital of the world," which includes establishing a national crypto stockpile, enacting favorable regulations, and appointing a "crypto czar" ([03:14]).

This bullish movement in cryptocurrency markets reflects investor optimism regarding forthcoming policies that could enhance the crypto industry’s growth and stability in the U.S. ([03:14]).

5. CNN Settles Defamation Lawsuit Over Afghanistan Black Market Rescues

Reported by David Folkenflick

CNN has agreed to settle a defamation lawsuit filed by U.S. Navy veteran Zachary Young, who claims the network defamed him in a 2021 story about black market rescues following the fall of Afghanistan ([03:14]). The Florida jury awarded Young $5 million for lost earnings and personal suffering, acknowledging that the story had adverse effects on his business and family life ([04:00]).

David Folkenflick explained that the original CNN report did not allege any illegal activities by Young but highlighted concerns about the high costs Afghans faced in securing safe passage for relatives ([04:00]). Despite lacking allegations of illegality, Young suffered significant reputational damage, leading to the substantial settlement ([04:00]).

Notable Quote:

"During the hearing, she vowed to revoke several Biden era programs..." – Amanda Bastille, [00:55]

6. Planetary Parade Visible in Night Sky This Month

Reported by Jack Spear

Astronomy enthusiasts can look forward to a spectacular celestial event this month— a planetary parade where six planets, including Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn, will align visibly in the night sky ([04:36]). While Uranus and Neptune may require binoculars or a telescope for observation, the main planets will be easily visible to the naked eye. Observers are advised to look south several hours after sunset on a clear night to enjoy this rare astronomical display ([04:36]).

Notable Quote:

"While you might need binoculars or a telescope to see Uranus and Neptune, picture a clear night and look south several hours after sunset." – Jack Spear, [04:36]

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and developments presented in the January 17, 2025, episode of "NPR News Now," providing listeners with a detailed overview of the latest news updates.