NPR News Now – January 19, 2026, 11PM EST

Episode Overview

This episode delivers a rapid-fire update of major national and international news stories as of January 19, 2026. Key topics include President Trump’s controversial foreign policy moves, immigration restrictions, an FDA drug import for autism, a Michigan snowpile crash, and political turmoil in Japan.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. President Trump’s Actions and Controversies

• Trump attends the college football national championship in Florida amid growing international tensions over his foreign policy, specifically Greenland.
• Norway’s prime minister reveals a text exchange where Trump claims he “no longer feels an obligation to think purely of peace.”
• Trump administration faces criticism for aggressive intervention in Venezuela to control oil resources, contradicting Trump’s self-portrayal as a president of peace.
• Trump ends his text to Norway’s leader by stating the U.S. “should control Greenland.”
• The White House maintains that securing Greenland is strategically important.
• Thousands protest in Greenland against potential U.S. efforts to take control of the island.

Notable Quotes:

• [00:46] Danielle Kurtzleben: “Trump recently attacked Venezuela and deposed its leader in order to take control of its oil. So that kind of undermines that he’s always thinking of peace.”
• [01:03] Danielle Kurtzleben: “Trump also ended his text message to the Norwegian prime minister by saying that the US should control Greenland.”

Timestamps:

• Trump’s comments on peace and Greenland: [00:18]–[01:10]

2. Immigration Policy Changes

• New policy suspends immigrant visas for 75 countries (e.g., Colombia, Iran, Russia, Somalia).
• The administration cites potential public assistance burdens, despite evidence of immigrants’ positive economic impact.
• The policy could bar about 315,000 legal immigrants in the coming year, nearly half of total immigrants.
• Cited expert: David Beer, director of immigration studies, Cato Institute.

Notable Quotes:

• [01:34] Franco Ordonez: “The Trump administration is suspending immigrant visas for people from 75 countries… The move is part of the administration’s efforts to block people who would potentially require public assistance while living in the US.”

Timestamps:

• Visa pause coverage: [01:10]–[02:20]

3. FDA Drug Action for Autism

• Due to shortage concerns, the FDA allows imports of leucovorin (a form of vitamin B) used for cancer patients, now sought for children with autism.
• FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary believes “hundreds of thousands of kids” may benefit, though the official label has not yet changed.
• The decision follows increased demand after Makary’s public statements.
• The FDA is importing leucovorin from Spain (sold in Canada, not FDA-approved in the U.S.).

Notable Quotes:

• [02:49] Dr. Marty Makary: “We are going to change the label to make it available. Hundreds of thousands of kids, in my opinion, will benefit.”

Timestamps:

• Leucovorin import approval: [02:20]–[03:15]

4. Michigan Snowpile Crash

• Over 100 vehicles involved in collisions on I-196 southwest of Grand Rapids due to heavy lake-effect snow.
• No fatalities, but many injuries reported.
• More than a foot of snow expected in the Great Lakes through Tuesday.

Timestamps:

• Crash and weather impact: [03:15]–[03:50]

5. Japanese Political Upheaval

• Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolves parliament, calling for snap elections next month.
• She seeks public endorsement of a new coalition with the right-wing Japan Innovation Party, tax cuts, and increased defense spending.
• Despite high approval ratings and being Japan’s first female prime minister, her party is now a minority in both houses due to recent electoral losses.
• Takaichi is “embroiled in a bitter dispute with China” over Taiwan.

Notable Quotes:

• [03:50] Anthony Kuhn: “She seeks voters approval of a new coalition with the right wing populist Japan Innovation Party and for her policies, including a consumption tax cut and increased defense spending.”

Timestamps:

• Japan snap election & context: [03:50]–[04:34]

6. Market Reactions

• Asian markets drop in response to Trump’s threats against European countries opposing U.S. action on Greenland.
• Japan’s Nikkei index falls 1.2%.

Timestamps:

• Market response to U.S. policy: [04:34]–[04:58]

Memorable Moments & Quotes

• “[Trump] said he no longer feels an obligation to think purely of peace.” — Gael Snyder, [00:18]
• “Trump recently attacked Venezuela and deposed its leader in order to take control of its oil. So that kind of undermines that he’s always thinking of peace.” — Danielle Kurtzleben, [00:46]
• “We are going to change the label to make it available. Hundreds of thousands of kids, in my opinion, will benefit.” — Dr. Marty Makary, [02:49]
• “Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi says she wants to ask the public directly whether they will entrust the nation’s governance to her.” — Anthony Kuhn, [03:50]

Conclusion

In a concise five minutes, this episode encapsulates escalating global political tensions, domestic policy changes, healthcare concerns, and dire weather events. Each story highlights the interconnectedness of U.S. policy with international consequences and domestic impact, providing listeners with rapid, relevant, and in-depth news updates.