NPR News Now: Episode Summary – February 7, 2025
Release Date: February 7, 2025
Host: Lakshmi Singh
Duration: Approximately 5 minutes
Employment and Economic Updates
U.S. Job Market Shows Steady Growth
In January, the U.S. labor market maintained its momentum with employers adding 143,000 jobs. While this figure reflects ongoing economic strength, it indicates a slower hiring pace compared to the previous two months. Notably, job creation was revised upward by 100,000 positions for November and December combined.
Key Sectors Driving Employment:
- Health Care
- Retail
- Government
Conversely, sectors such as manufacturing and construction saw limited job growth, and there were job cuts in temporary health services. Wage growth remains robust, with average wages increasing by 4.1% year-over-year, which is expected to surpass inflation rates. The unemployment rate edged down to 4%, bolstered by a larger workforce estimate that accounts for increased immigration over the past two years.
"U.S. employers added 143,000 jobs in January, a solid pace, but slower than the two previous months."
— Scott Horsley (00:29)
Corporate DEI Practices Under Scrutiny
Big Companies Diminish Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
A significant shift is occurring within major corporations as they erase references to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) from their annual investor reports. An analysis by NPR's Maria Aspen reveals that at least a dozen major U.S. companies, including General Motors, Pepsi, and Disney, have deleted or softened DEI language compared to the previous year.
This trend reflects mounting pressure from critics and was intensified following President Trump's executive orders aimed at ending DEI initiatives. Additionally, the federal government has threatened private companies with sanctions or civil investigations should they continue such programs.
"Big companies have been backing away from their DEI programs for months."
— Maria Aspen (01:27)
Political Developments
House Speaker Praises Israel-Hamas Ceasefire
House Speaker Mike Johnson met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to commend the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Johnson highlighted the importance of decisive leadership in addressing national security priorities, especially with Republican control of Congress and the return of President Trump to the White House.
"This is what decisive leadership looks like. And with President Trump back in the White House, in Republican control of Congress, America will not turn its back on our national security priorities."
— Mike Johnson (02:20)
Johnson did not comment on President Trump's recent remarks regarding a proposed U.S. takeover of the Gaza Strip and the relocation of the Palestinian people, leaving that debate open.
Public Health: Avian Flu Outbreak
New York Battles Bird Flu with Market Shutdowns
In response to an outbreak of the H5N1 avian flu virus, New York City and three surrounding counties have temporarily closed live poultry markets. Governor Kathy Hochul announced a five-day closure period to allow for thorough cleaning and disinfection. Hochul assured the public that the avian flu does not pose an immediate threat to health.
This outbreak has contributed to a nationwide increase in prices for eggs and other poultry products as multiple states grapple with similar issues.
Wall Street and Utah Legislation
Dow Jones Experiences Decline Amid Economic Concerns
At the time of the report, the Dow Jones Industrial Average had fallen by 324 points, reflecting investor concerns amidst fluctuating job numbers and public health issues.
Utah Passes Ban on Collective Bargaining for Public Sector Workers
In a significant policy shift, Utah lawmakers approved a Republican-backed bill (HB 267) that prohibits collective bargaining for the state's public sector employees, including educators, police officers, and public transportation workers. The Salt Lake Tribune reported that hundreds of teachers, firefighters, and public transit workers rallied at the state capitol to oppose the legislation. The state Senate's 16 to 13 vote cleared the final legislative hurdle, sending the bill to Governor Spencer Cox for his signature.
Cultural Moments: Super Bowl and Superb Owl Meme
Super Bowl Sunday Spawns 'Superb Owl' Internet Frenzy
As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, a playful misspelling has given rise to the 'Superb Owl' meme, capturing the attention of sports fans and internet users alike. The joke originated from a category on the trivia show Jeopardy and has since expanded, boasting a dedicated subreddit with over 400,000 members.
Director Tate Mason of the World Center for Birds of Prey attributes the meme's popularity to the deep cultural connection people have with owls:
"People are attracted to owls for their large, forward-facing eyes and their sit-and-wait approach to ambushing prey, which gives them a reputation for being wise."
— Tate Mason (04:31)
Joe Hernandez notes the longevity and fascination with both the Super Bowl and owls:
"The Super Bowl has been around since 1967. Owls have been on planet Earth for over 52 million years."
— Joe Hernandez (04:07)
This lighthearted twist offers a moment of levity amidst the week's serious news, highlighting the internet's capacity for humor and cultural interplay.
For more updates, visit NPR News Now.