NPR News Now – February 12, 2026, 4PM EST

Host: Lakshmi Singh
Episode Theme:
A rapid update on breaking U.S. and international news of the day, economic developments, and public health insights, with a focus on significant policy shifts, law enforcement scrutiny, international diplomacy, market movements, and Olympic health perspectives.

1. Environmental Regulation Rollback & Immigration Enforcement

[00:25-01:06]

• Greenhouse Gas Policy Overturned:
  • The Trump administration has rescinded the 17-year-old "endangerment finding," a core ruling that classified greenhouse gases as a danger to public health and underpinned major emissions regulations on vehicles and power plants.
  • President Trump called this move "the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history."
• Winding Down Immigration Surge in Minnesota:
  • The federal government intends to end its recent spike in immigration enforcement activity in Minnesota within a week.
  • Governor Tim Walz’s Response: He is seeking federal compensation for disruptions and damages in the Twin Cities, citing business closures, employee absenteeism, and schools losing aid due to low attendance.

Notable Quote:

• “[The federal government] doesn’t get to break things and just leave.” – Gov. Tim Walz (paraphrased by Brian Baxt) [01:06]

2. Senate Scrutiny of Immigration Enforcement Tactics

[01:27-02:25]

• Senate Committee Testimony:
  • Top immigration officials, including from ICE and Customs and Border Protection, answered questions on recent enforcement actions and their consequences.
  • Minneapolis Shooting Incident:
    • Chairman Rand Paul presented video evidence relating to two fatal police shootings, focusing on Alex Preddy’s death.
    • Discussion centered on whether Preddy’s actions justified the use of force.

Notable Quotes:

• “I see nothing here. I mean, not even a hint of something that was aggressive on his part. Everything was retreat.” – Sen. Rand Paul [01:59]
• “CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott told the committee he never described Preddy in those terms to Noem, nor was he aware of anyone in his agency doing so.” – Barbara Sprunt [02:06]

3. U.S.-Israel Diplomatic Meeting; Iran Nuclear Talks

[02:25-03:20]

• President Trump Meets PM Netanyahu:
  • The two leaders discussed U.S. efforts to pursue a nuclear deal with Iran.
  • Netanyahu’s Skepticism:
    • Expressed doubt: “I will not hide from you that I expressed general skepticism regarding the nature of any agreement with Iran.”
    • Emphasized any deal must address Iran’s missiles and regional proxies.
  • U.S. Plans for Gaza:
    • Trump expected to announce a multinational stabilization force for Gaza and efforts to raise funds for reconstruction.

4. Market Overview & Consumer Trends

[03:20-04:07]

• Tech Stocks Decline:
  • Tech sector downturn drags the broader market lower.
  • Inflation Watch:
    • Labor Department to release January inflation data; a 2.5% annual increase expected.
    • Despite a slight drop from December, inflation remains above Federal Reserve targets and rates are expected to stay steady.
  • Consumer Habits:
    • McDonald’s attributes recent sales growth to its value menu, reflecting consumer cost consciousness.

5. Health Segment: Olympic Athletes vs. Everyday Fitness

[04:07-05:00]

• Pain and Performance at the Olympics:
  • Coverage takes inspiration from the Winter Olympics, noting athletes push physical boundaries for achievement.
• Advice for Regular Exercisers:
  • Dr. Andrew Mock’s Guidance:
    • Key distinction: “There’s a big difference between soreness and pain. Soreness is normal when you start an activity or especially when you’re increasing it.” [04:36]
    • Warning: Severe, lingering pain is a red flag; mild, short-term soreness is expected and can signal muscle strengthening.
    • Consistency and moderation yield lasting health benefits.

6. Memorable Moments & Key Timestamps

• [00:25] President Trump’s rollback of environmental regulations
• [01:06] Gov. Walz’s demand for federal accountability in Minnesota
• [01:59] Sen. Rand Paul challenges narrative on Minneapolis police shooting
• [02:36] Netanyahu voices skepticism on Iran negotiations
• [03:34] Inflation expectations and market impact
• [04:36] Dr. Andrew Mock on exercise pain vs. soreness

This NPR News Now episode delivers concise, impactful updates on fast-moving stories across politics, economy, and health, reflecting on national debates and global events with insightful expert commentary and firsthand reporting.