NPR News Now: January 22, 2025, 11 AM EST

Hosted by NPR, this episode of NPR News Now delivers the latest news updates in five minutes, covering significant national and international events.

President Trump Defends Mass Pardons Related to Capitol Riot

In a controversial move, President Donald Trump has issued pardons to approximately 1,500 individuals convicted or accused of participating in the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol. Korva Coleman reports on the unfolding debate surrounding this decision.

Trump justified the pardons by stating at [00:29]:

"He was given many years in jail. I thought it was very excessive and at least the cases that we looked at, these were people that actually love our country. So we thought a pardon would be appropriate."

However, the move has faced strong opposition from law enforcement and victims of the riot. Tim Hafee, the lead investigator for the House committee on the attack, criticized the pardons, stating at [00:53]:

"If you accept the premise that criminal sanctions determine criminal conduct, then it's a short step that the excuse of criminal behavior through these pardons actually encourages criminal behavior."

Additionally, a former D.C. police officer injured during the riots is reportedly seeking protective orders against five men who have pleaded guilty to attacking him on January 6th, highlighting the ongoing tensions and repercussions of the event.

Trump Announces Major Investment in Artificial Intelligence with 'Stargate' Initiative

President Trump hosted three major technology executives at the White House yesterday to unveil a new venture named Stargate, aiming to bolster the United States' position in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure. Tamara Keith covers this development, emphasizing its potential impact on the tech industry.

Keith reports at [01:31]:

"The CEOs of SoftBank, OpenAI, and Oracle said 10 massive data centers that will be used to run AI technology are already under construction in Texas and more could be possible. They praised Trump, and he in turn praised the multibillion-dollar investment."

Trump echoed their sentiments, proclaiming at [01:47]:

"This monumental undertaking is a resounding declaration of confidence in America's potential under a new president."

While Trump did not directly lead the announcement, he acknowledged the significance of the investment. Tamara Keith notes that Trump has a history of facilitating high-profile tech announcements at the White House, though not all have met expectations.

Mexico Launches App to Assist Nationals Facing U.S. Deportation or Detention

In response to increasing deportation and detention concerns, Mexico has introduced a new mobile application designed to aid Mexican nationals in the United States. Paola Rodriguez from Arizona Public Media reports on this initiative.

The app provides critical information on legal rights and emergency procedures. At [02:25], Rafael Barcelo Doraso, head of the Mexican consulate in Tucson, Arizona, explained:

"The app is making easier the access to communicate with the consulates anytime, but particularly now that so many people are concerned about what is going to mean all the migratory changes that the new administration has announced?"

The app features an emergency button that allows users to contact their emergency contacts and consulate officials if detained. The consulate received over 1,500 calls on a single Monday amid fears of widespread deportations, underscoring the app's timely relevance.

Market and Weather Updates

Korva Coleman provides a brief overview of current market trends and weather conditions:

• Wall Street: The Dow Jones Industrial Average is up nearly 50 points, while the Nasdaq has surged by almost 250 points, indicating positive market movements.

• Weather: Winter storm warnings have been lifted across the southeastern United States following a week of snow, ice, and freezing rain. Notably, New Orleans experienced an unexpected snowfall of at least eight inches, and the Louisiana Gulf Coast was under a blizzard warning earlier in the week.

Oxfam Warns of Growing Wealth Inequality: Prediction of Five Trillionaires by 2035

Maria Aspen reports on a concerning trend highlighted by Oxfam International, which warns that wealth inequality is reaching unprecedented levels. The organization predicts the emergence of five trillionaires within the next decade.

At [03:48], Aspen elaborates:

"Billionaire wealth and power is growing faster than ever, and Oxfam is raising the alarm about what this income inequality could mean for our society. Billionaires saw their wealth grow three times faster in 2024 than the year before. Meanwhile, the number of people living in poverty has barely changed since 1990."

Oxfam's report coincides with observations of increasing billionaire influence in U.S. politics. Several tech CEOs and other billionaires attended President Trump's inauguration, and he is advised by Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest individual. This concentration of wealth and power raises critical questions about its impact on democratic processes and societal equity.

Netflix Announces Price Increases for Subscription Plans

In the latest move to adjust its revenue streams, Netflix has announced hikes in its subscription prices. Korva Coleman details the changes affecting consumers:

• Ad-Supported Plan: The monthly fee will increase by one dollar, bringing the total to nearly $8 per month.

• Ad-Free Standard Plan: Subscriptions will rise by approximately $2.50, resulting in a new price of nearly $18 per month.

These adjustments come as Netflix continues to navigate the competitive streaming landscape, striving to balance subscriber growth with profitability.

For comprehensive coverage and more updates, stay tuned to NPR News Now.