NPR News Now: January 27, 2026, 10AM EST

Host: Korva Coleman (NPR)
Episode Theme: Rapid Coverage of Key U.S. and Global News Events

Episode Overview

This concise NPR News Now episode, anchored by Korva Coleman, delivers the day’s major headlines within five minutes. Topics include the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota, looming government shutdown threats, stock market developments, severe winter weather, a major tennis upset at the Australian Open, and a call for a World Cup boycott from former FIFA President Sepp Blatter.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Trump Administration Shakes Up Immigration Leadership in Minnesota

[00:16–01:12]

• Leadership Changes:
  • The Trump administration is removing the top border patrol officer in Minneapolis, Greg Bovino.
  • "President Trump is sending border czar Tom Homan to Minneapolis instead. This comes as furor grows over the Trump administration's immigration crackdown in Minnesota.”
    — Korva Coleman [00:28]
• Judicial Intervention:
  • A Minnesota federal judge, Patrick Schultz, ordered acting ICE Director Todd Lyons to personally appear in court.
  • The judge is frustrated over ICE’s refusal to comply with an order requiring bond hearings for detainees:
    • Quote: “The court’s patience is at an end.” — Judge Schultz (via Matt Sepik, NPR) [01:04]

2. Looming Partial Federal Shutdown Over DHS Funding

[01:12–02:16]

• Spending Bill Stalemate:
  • The House passed a spending bill; the Senate is debating the inclusion of Homeland Security funding.
  • Democrats, led by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, criticize the DHS funding for not holding ICE accountable—especially after the killing of protester Alex Preddy in Minneapolis.
    • Quote: “Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the DHS funding plan is woefully inadequate and fails to keep ICE agents in check.” — Claudia Grizales, NPR [01:45]
  • While Democrats push to pull DHS funding, Republicans argue for a full investigation into Preddy’s death.

3. Financial Markets Respond to Strong Earnings and Trade Deal

[02:16–03:09]

• Corporate Earnings:
  • Boeing reports its strongest quarter in seven years, tripling jet deliveries year-over-year and returning to profitability.
  • General Motors surpasses profit expectations but misses sales forecasts; announces a $6 billion stock buyback.
• Major Trade Agreement:
  • India and Europe finalize a landmark trade deal covering 2 billion people and a quarter of global GDP, after 20 years of negotiation.
    • “News of the deal comes after nearly two decades of negotiation.” — Scott Horsley, NPR [03:04]
• Stock Market Reaction:
  • The Dow drops 420 points in early trading.

4. Aftermath of a Severe Winter Storm

[03:09–03:49]

• Over half a million are without power in the southern U.S. due to heavy ice and frigid temperatures.
• The National Weather Service warns temperatures will remain low, with more cold air moving in over the weekend.

5. Australian Open Shocker: Gauff Eliminated

[03:49–04:32]

• Quarterfinal Upset:
  • Ukrainian 12th seed Alina Svitolina dominates against American Coco Gauff (world number three), winning in just 59 minutes (6-2, 6-1).
    • “Yeah, very, very pleased with the tournament so far.” — Alina Svitolina [04:14]
  • Gauff struggled with her serve; the match was played under a closed roof due to extreme heat.
  • Svitolina advances to face world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-final.
  • Americans Iva Jovic and Lerner Thiern were also eliminated.

6. Former FIFA President Advocates Boycott of US World Cup Games

[04:32–04:53]

• Sepp Blatter’s Stand:
  • Calls for a boycott of 2026 World Cup matches held in the U.S., citing the Trump administration’s actions.
  • “Blatter suggests the Trump administration's actions show the US is not a suitable host country.” — Korva Coleman [04:45]

Notable Quotes and Memorable Moments

• Judicial Frustration with ICE:
  • “The court’s patience is at an end.” — Judge Patrick Schultz (via Matt Sepik) [01:04]
• Political Standoff:
  • “Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the DHS funding plan is woefully inadequate and fails to keep ICE agents in check.” — Claudia Grizales [01:45]
• Sporting Triumph:
  • “Yeah, very, very pleased with the tournament so far.” — Alina Svitolina [04:14]

Timestamps for Important Segments

• [00:16] — Immigration leadership changes and court actions in Minnesota
• [01:12] — Spending bill and DHS funding debate in Congress
• [02:16] — Boeing, GM earnings, and global trade deal news
• [03:09] — Aftereffects of a winter storm and power outages
• [03:49] — Australian Open women’s quarterfinal results
• [04:32] — FIFA’s Sepp Blatter calls for a World Cup boycott

This episode delivers a tightly packed summary of ongoing political, economic, meteorological, and sports developments with a clear, objective tone, offering listeners up-to-the-minute insights into major events shaping the day.