NPR News Now: January 29, 2025, 11AM EST

Hosted by Kristen Wright

1. Health and Government Hearings: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Testifies

Timestamp: [00:18 - 01:01]

Kristen Wright opens the episode by reporting on the Senate committee hearing where Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the nominee for Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, is testifying. The hearing has been notably interrupted by protesters, reflecting the contentious nature of Kennedy's nomination.

Kennedy addressed his stance on vaccines, clarifying his position amidst ongoing debates:

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. [00:40]: "I believe that vaccines play a critical role in health care. All of my kids are vaccinated. I've written many books on vaccines. My first book in 2014, the first line of it is I am not anti vaccine, and the last line is I am not anti vaccine."

Despite the interruptions, Kennedy emphasized his support for vaccines, aiming to reassure both the Senate and the public of his commitment to public health.

2. Federal Government Employment Changes Under the Trump Administration

Timestamp: [01:01 - 02:28]

Kristen Wright reports significant changes within the federal government initiated by the Trump administration. Employees are being offered "deferred resignations" which come with full pay and benefits, provided they agree to leave their positions by the end of September. The Office of Personnel Management indicates that these employees would be placed on administrative leave until their departure, with a decision deadline set for a week from the following day.

Additionally, the administration's plan to freeze federal payments for grants, loans, and other programs faces uncertainty as a federal judge has temporarily blocked the measure.

In related news, retired General and former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley has lost his security clearance and personal security detail. NPR's Giles Snyder provides details:

Giles Snyder [01:50]: "A Pentagon spokesman confirmed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has informed General Milley of the decision and that Hegseth has directed the Defense Department's acting inspector general to open an inquiry into Milley's conduct, conduct which could lead to demotion in retirement."

Milley's strained relationship with former President Trump dates back to 2018, and his recent loss of security details marks a notable development among former officials. Notably, Milley was among those pardoned by former President Joe Biden on his last day in office.

3. Climate Change Linked to Los Angeles Wildfires

Timestamp: [02:28 - 03:13]

Lauren Sommer reports on a new analysis that connects the severe wildfires in the Los Angeles area to climate change. The prolonged hot and dry conditions, exacerbated by high temperatures and reduced rainfall, created an environment ripe for devastating fires.

Lauren Sommer [02:39]: "That high heat is linked to climate change and the heat-trapping gases that come from burning fossil fuels."

The analysis from World Weather Attribution highlights that while seasonal high winds and lack of rain also contributed to the wildfires, determining the precise influence of climate change on these factors remains scientifically challenging. Climate scientists are actively developing advanced computer models to better assess the complex impacts of climate change on such events.

4. Russian Delegation Visits Interim Syrian Government

Timestamp: [03:13 - 04:18]

In international news, a Russian delegation has visited Syria's new interim government for the first time since President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia. This marks a significant development given Russia's longstanding support of the Assad regime during the Syrian civil war.

NPR's Greg Dixon reports:

Greg Dixon [03:33]: "Russia was a key ally of the ousted regime."

During the meeting, Russia sent a deputy foreign minister with extensive experience in Syrian affairs to engage with key Syrian officials. The interim Syrian government emphasized the need for Russia to rebuild trust with the Syrian populace, stating:

Interim Government Statement: "Restoring relations must address past mistakes, and that should include, compensation, reconstruction and recovery."

However, the Russian side did not acknowledge these demands, instead asserting their readiness to assist Syria's recovery without addressing past grievances.

5. Israel’s Engagement with the White House and Federal Reserve Update

Timestamp: [04:18 - 04:58]

Kristen Wright continues with updates on international diplomacy and economic policy:

• Israel-White House Relations: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been invited to the White House for a meeting with President Trump scheduled for Tuesday. The Trump administration is actively encouraging Israel to extend the ceasefire in Gaza, which is currently being upheld. Additionally, there is optimism as three more Israeli hostages are expected to be released the following day.

• Federal Reserve Announcement: The Federal Reserve is anticipated to maintain current interest rates during their afternoon meeting. Despite a cooling in inflation rates, prices continue to rise at a pace that the central bank finds concerning.

Kristen Wright [04:18]: "Inflation was running at an annual rate of 2.9% last month."

This steady inflation rate underscores the ongoing challenges the Federal Reserve faces in balancing economic growth with price stability.

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This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the January 29, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, providing listeners with a detailed overview of the latest national and international developments.