NPR News Now: February 9, 2025, 10 PM EST

Hosted by NPR, this episode of NPR News Now delivers the latest national and international news in a concise, engaging format. Below is a detailed summary of the key stories covered in this edition.

1. Federal Judge Blocks Elon Musk's Access to Treasury Data

[00:19]
NPR's Jeanine Herbst reports a significant legal decision impacting Elon Musk and his team. A federal judge has blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing sensitive personal data held by the Treasury Department. This data includes Social Security benefits and bank account information for millions of Americans. Jeanine Herbst notes, “The order also bars political appointees or special government employees detailed to the treasury, the designation given to Musk's allies” (00:19).

NPR's Juliana Kim provides further context, stating, “The emergency order was issued early Saturday. It prohibited the Doge entity from accessing personal data kept at the Treasury Department's payment system” (00:43). The judge's ruling is a response to a lawsuit filed by Democratic attorneys general from 19 states, who argue that Musk and his team lack the authority to access Treasury records. This legal action aims to permanently prevent Musk's team from accessing the data, marking a critical development in the ongoing dispute over government data security and oversight.

2. Temporary Block on Trump's Actions Affecting USAID Employees

[01:22]
In another significant legal setback for the Trump administration, NPR's Jeanine Herbst reports that a federal judge has temporarily blocked President Trump's efforts to place thousands of workers at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) on leave.

NPR's Fat Montanis elaborates, “Last night, a federal judge issued a temporary pause on the administration's move to put 2,200 people on administrative leave” (01:34). Additionally, the judge reinstated 500 individuals who had already been placed on leave and postponed the accelerated return of overseas staff scheduled for the weekend to next Friday. Fatinas emphasizes, “There will be a hearing next week on the legality of the administration's overall moves to dismantle the agency” (01:41). This decision halts the administration's plans temporarily and sets the stage for a judicial review of the actions against USAID employees.

3. California Allocates $50 Million to Challenge Federal Policies

[02:04]
Jeanine Herbst highlights a major legislative move by California Governor Gavin Newsom, who has signed legislation allocating $50 million to support lawsuits against the Trump administration. This funding aims to bolster state and nonprofit efforts in challenging federal policies that clash with California’s progressive positions.

Megan Mykovsky provides detailed coverage, stating, “The funding will support the state and nonprofits in lawsuits over federal policies that conflict with California's more progressive stances, including related to the environment, access to abortion and LGBTQ rights” (02:25). Of the $50 million, $25 million is designated for legal services assisting immigrants, particularly in deportation cases. However, Newsom clarifies that this allocation is “not intended to support non-citizens who have been convicted of serious or violent felonies”.

The legislation has faced criticism from Republicans in the California Assembly, who argue that the funds should address pressing issues like wildfires and the high cost of living in the state. Mykovsky concludes, “Newsom signed the bills after meeting with President Trump in Washington, D.C. where they discussed aid for recent wildfires in California” (02:25), underscoring the political tensions surrounding the funding.

4. Enhanced Security Measures for the Super Bowl in New Orleans

[03:13]
As Super Bowl fans converge on New Orleans, Jeanine Herbst reports on the heightened security measures being implemented to ensure a safe and smooth event. With over 100,000 visitors expected, the city has ramped up its security presence significantly.

Matt Bloom from WWNO details the specific measures, noting, “The state has installed new metal barricades to block cars at every intersection. No coolers or large bags are allowed” (03:36). These changes mark a substantial increase from previous years, aimed at preventing incidents and ensuring public safety. Danae Moreno from Philadelphia comments on the visible security upgrades, saying, “It definitely seems like there's more of a presence” (03:50).

The decision to bolster security comes in response to a tragic event early last year when a driver intentionally caused a fatal accident on Bourbon Street, resulting in 14 deaths and numerous injuries. In response, more than 2,000 officers from various agencies have been deployed, providing a strong and reassuring presence throughout the city (03:59).

5. Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show Returns to Madison Square Garden

[04:19]
Shifting gears to lighter news, Jeanine Herbst announces the commencement of the 149th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City. This prestigious event, known as the Super Bowl of canine competitions, returns to Madison Square Garden for the first time since 2020.

The show features an impressive lineup of 2,500 dogs spanning 201 breeds and varieties, including new events like an agility and obedience competition and the club's inaugural demonstration of a team sport called Flyball. The traditional purebred-specific judging is scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, culminating in the Best in Show announcement on Tuesday night (04:19). This return signifies a revival of longstanding traditions and celebrates the diversity and excellence of canine participants in one of the most esteemed dog shows globally.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the key stories covered in the February 9, 2025, episode of NPR News Now. For more detailed coverage, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full podcast.