NPR News Now — 2PM EST, January 26, 2026

Episode Overview

This concise five-minute news update delivers the day’s top headlines, focusing on the Trump administration’s immigration policies and recent events in Minneapolis, a breakthrough in the Gaza ceasefire process, violence in central Mexico, the upcoming Super Bowl matchup, and financial news from Wall Street, with a brief look ahead to Federal Reserve policy.

Key Stories and Discussion Points

1. Breaking News: Second Fatal Shooting by Federal Agents in Minneapolis

• [00:15–01:36]
• The Trump administration faces mounting outrage after a second fatal shooting this month of a Minneapolis resident by federal immigration agents. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt reiterates the administration’s hardline stance on removing “the worst criminal illegal aliens.”
• Levitt expresses condolences, stating no one desires violence on American streets, while naming both federal agents and victims, emphasizing law enforcement’s bravery.
• The latest fatality is 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Preddy, shot and killed by an ICE agent. The incident is under investigation by the Department of Homeland Security and FBI.
• Levitt also blames Minnesota's Democratic leadership for obstructing federal efforts.
• President Trump comments on a phone call with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, signaling cooperation, and announces the deployment of border czar Tom Holman to manage ICE operations on the ground.
• Minnesota’s Attorney General and city leaders in Minneapolis and St. Paul are suing the federal government to halt this immigration surge.

Notable Quotes:

• Caroline Levitt ([00:48]):
  “This includes Renee Good, Alex Preddy, the brave men and women of federal law enforcement and the many Americans who have been victimized as at the hands of illegal alien criminals.”
• Donald Trump ([01:36]):
  “It was a very good call and we actually seem to be on a similar wavelength.”

2. Gaza Ceasefire Advances After Hostage Remains Recovered

• [02:06–03:05]
• Israel’s military has found and repatriated the body of the last Israeli hostage taken by Hamas during the October 7, 2023 attacks: Ron Gvili, a 24-year-old special forces policeman. His remains were located in a cemetery in northern Gaza after an intelligence-led search.
• This development marks the end of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire, paving the way for reopening Gaza’s border crossing with Egypt.

Notable Quotes:

• Daniel Estrin ([02:19]):
  “Now the last one has been returned. He is Ron Gvili, a 24 year old special forces policeman who was killed while fighting Hamas militants the day of the attack. His body was taken to Gaza... This marks the end of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire.”

3. Deadly Attack at Mexican Soccer Match

• [03:05–03:27]
• Following a soccer game in Salamanca, Mexico, gunmen opened fire, killing at least 11 and injuring 12.
• The mayor of Salamanca calls this incident part of a larger crime wave and is asking the Mexican president to intervene. The state has recorded Mexico’s highest homicide rate.

4. Super Bowl Matchup Set: Seahawks vs Patriots

• [03:27–04:40]
• The Seattle Seahawks return to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2015 after defeating the Los Angeles Rams, led by new coach Mike McDonald and quarterback Sam Darnold.
• The New England Patriots advance after beating the Denver Broncos in harsh, snowy conditions, with rookie quarterback Drake Maye under center.

Notable Quotes:

• Becky Sullivan ([04:01]):
  “The Seahawks went 14–3 and now have a chance at their second ever Super Bowl title. The Patriots will be playing for their seventh.”

5. Economy & Federal Reserve

• [04:40–04:58]
• The Federal Reserve is expected to keep interest rates unchanged at its upcoming meeting after three rate cuts last year. Economists anticipate a pause in policy moves.
• Stock markets are up: the Dow rises by 292 points.

Memorable Moments & Quotes

• Caroline Levitt on law enforcement and victims:
  “The brave men and women of federal law enforcement and the many Americans who have been victimized at the hands of illegal alien criminals.” ([00:48])

• Donald Trump describes his conversation with Minnesota’s governor:
  “It was a very good call and we actually seem to be on a similar wavelength.” ([01:36])

• Daniel Estrin on the return of Israeli hostage remains:
  “This marks the end of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire. It paves the way for another big step.” ([02:19])

• Becky Sullivan on football turnaround:
  “Now they’ve cashed in. The Seahawks went 14–3 and now have a chance at their second ever Super Bowl title. The Patriots will be playing for their seventh.” ([04:01])

Timestamps for Major Segments

• [00:15] Minneapolis shooting and White House response
• [01:36] President Trump and Minnesota Governor call; ICE leadership change
• [02:06] Gaza ceasefire and Israeli hostages
• [03:05] Mexico soccer shooting
• [03:27] Super Bowl matchup details
• [04:40] Federal Reserve and stock market update