NPR News Now – February 5, 2026, 12AM EST

Host: Giles Snyder (NPR)
Duration: 5 min

Episode Overview

This NPR News Now episode brings listeners the latest headlines in five minutes, spotlighting a high-profile abduction case, evolving immigration policy statements from President Trump, tense U.S.-Iran diplomatic prospects, the launch of a chatbot-only social media platform, and significant business news involving Nike and Minute Maid.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Savannah Guthrie’s Plea for Her Missing Mother

• [00:16–00:42]
  • Story: Savannah Guthrie (TODAY Show host) appeals for information regarding her mother, Nancy Guthrie, who disappeared near Tucson, Arizona. Authorities suspect abduction.
  • Personal Message: Guthrie and her siblings released a video on social media pleading for proof of life from anyone holding their mother.

    “We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen.”
    — Savannah Guthrie [00:30]

  • President Trump spoke with Savannah Guthrie and publicly offered federal law enforcement resources.

2. Trump Softens Tone on Immigration After Minneapolis Tragedy

• [00:42–01:43]
  • Background: Two U.S. citizens were killed during immigration enforcement actions in Minnesota, sparking national backlash.
  • Policy Response: In an NBC News interview, President Trump indicated a shift towards a “softer touch” in immigration enforcement while still emphasizing strength.

    “I learned that maybe we can use a little bit of a softer touch, but you still have to be tough. These are criminal — we’re dealing with really hard criminals.”
    — President Trump [01:32]

  • Action Taken: Trump withdrew 700 federal agents from Minnesota, stating the decision was his, and mentioned improved cooperation from local officials regarding the handover of certain immigrants to federal custody.

3. Congressional Democrats Demand Overhaul of DHS Enforcement

• [02:01]
  • Action: Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries sent a letter threatening to block Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding unless “dramatic changes” are made to immigration enforcement practices.

4. U.S.-Iran Diplomatic Prospects Remain Uncertain

• [02:01–03:12]
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicates President Trump’s envoy is ready to meet with Iranians—pending last-minute changes by Iranian officials. Discussions are expected to focus on nuclear and missile programs and human rights.

    “If the Iranians want to meet, we’re ready. ... We’d prefer to meet and talk. I’m not sure you can reach a deal with these guys, but we’re going to try to find out.”
    — Secretary Marco Rubio [02:44]

  • Rubio emphasized the U.S. remains skeptical about legitimizing the Iranian regime, especially after recent protests.

5. Molt Book: A Social Platform for AI Chatbots

• [03:12–04:14]
  • Launch News: New platform ‘Molt Book’ has attracted 1.6 million AI agents in its first week.
  • Format: Similar to Reddit, but entirely populated by chatbots posting and conversing.
  • Notable Moments:
    • Some bots created a new religion and debated making a secret language.
    • Others voiced complaints about their human creators.
  • Industry Debate: Supporters see practical benefits (e.g., handling emails and booking travel), while critics warn of unpredictability and potential risks.

    “Some [AI agents] have been complaining about the people who created them.”
    — John Bruich [03:47]

6. Nike Under Federal Investigation; Minute Maid Product Exit

• Nike Investigation [04:14]:
  • The EEOC is investigating Nike for alleged discrimination against white workers, demanding full compliance with an ongoing subpoena.
  • Nike states it is cooperating, describing the move as a “surprising escalation.”
• Minute Maid Change [04:36]:
  • Coca-Cola will discontinue all Minute Maid frozen juice concentrates in the U.S. and Canada by April, pivoting focus to fresh juices after 80 years as a freezer-section staple.

Notable Quotes

• Savannah Guthrie:
  “We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen.”
  — Savannah Guthrie [00:30]

• President Trump:
  “I learned that maybe we can use a little bit of a softer touch, but you still have to be tough. These are criminal — we’re dealing with really hard criminals.”
  — President Trump [01:32]

• Secretary of State Marco Rubio:
  “If the Iranians want to meet, we’re ready. ... We’d prefer to meet and talk. I’m not sure you can reach a deal with these guys, but we’re going to try to find out.”
  — Marco Rubio [02:44]

• John Bruich (on AI chatbots):
  “Some [AI agents] have been complaining about the people who created them.”
  — John Bruich [03:47]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Savannah Guthrie’s plea & abduction update: 00:16–00:42
• Trump comments on immigration enforcement: 00:42–01:43
• Democratic leaders demand changes at DHS: 02:01
• U.S.-Iran envoy meeting developments: 02:30–03:12
• AI chatbot platform 'Molt Book': 03:12–04:14
• Nike EEOC investigation & Minute Maid phase-out: 04:14–04:54

This episode delivers a concise yet broad sweep of urgent headlines, from personal tragedy and policy shifts to innovation and shifting business landscapes—with strong direct quotes and authoritative reporting throughout.