NPR News Now – February 21, 2026, 11PM EST

Host: Dale Willman

Episode Overview

This five-minute NPR News Now update delivers the latest national and international headlines. Topics include President Trump’s push for new tariffs following a Supreme Court setback, a massive winter storm poised to hit the Mid-Atlantic, ongoing investigation into Prince Andrew in the UK, a Ukrainian missile strike deep inside Russia, recovery operations after a deadly California avalanche, the passing of baseball legend Bill Mazeroski, and updates from the PGA Invitational in Los Angeles.

Key News Highlights & Insights

1. President Trump Pursues New Global Tariffs Despite Supreme Court Ruling

[00:18–01:13]

• Tariff Policy Setback:
  The Supreme Court ruled against President Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act for imposing certain tariffs—a "major blow" to his economic agenda.
• New Executive Action:
  Trump, reacting on Truth Social, criticized the Court’s opinion as “ridiculous, poorly written and extraordinarily anti American,” and announced a new 15% tariff on global imports.
  • Quote (Kristen Wright, NPR):

    "...the president signed a proclamation hours after the ruling imposing a new 10% tariff on global imports to revive his tariffs. He cited the Trade Act of 1974 as authorization, but they can only be in place for 150 days unless Congress acts."

• Implications:
  The move signals Trump’s determination to sustain his tariff policy despite legal hurdles, but legislative support will be necessary to make the new tariffs permanent.

2. Major Snowstorm Threatens the Mid-Atlantic

[01:13–01:35]

• Blizzard Warnings:
  Fifty million people are preparing as heavy snow and high winds are expected, with blizzard warnings spanning New Jersey, New York City, Long Island, Boston, and more.
  • Governor Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey declared a state of emergency beginning at noon Sunday.
• Preparation Advice:
  • Quote (Gov. Mikie Sherrill, New Jersey, [01:27]):

    "We need to be prepared. We need to be safe. Get water, get all of your charging done with your devices. Stay off the roads."

• Forecast:
  Some regions could receive up to two feet of snow by Monday.

3. Investigation of Prince Andrew Sparks Debate on UK Monarchy

[01:35–02:48]

• Ongoing Investigation:
  Police are searching Andrew Mountbatten, Windsor's former residence, as part of a misconduct investigation.
• Calls for Reform:
  The case reignites discussion over the monarchy's role and need for reform, with legendary broadcaster David Dimbleby weighing in after decades covering royal events.
  • Quote (David Dimbleby, [02:26]):

    "We live in a parliamentary democracy. We have a monarchy. And in my view, the monarchy needs to adapt."

• Possible Legislative Changes:
  Removal from the line of succession and new requirements for financial transparency for working royals are being considered.

4. Ukrainian Missile Hits Deep Inside Russia

[02:48–03:16]

• Significant Strike:
  A Ukrainian cruise missile hit a Russian missile factory 870 miles inside Russia, injuring 11 and damaging a facility producing Iskander and intercontinental ballistic missiles.
• Aftermath:
  Airports in the area were closed following the attack.
• Context:
  The factory’s outputs are directly linked to ongoing aggression against Ukraine.

5. Avalanche Victims Recovered in California

[03:16–03:38]

• Tragedy:
  The bodies of nine backcountry skiers killed in Tuesday’s avalanche have now been recovered. Initial efforts were delayed due to the threat of another avalanche.

6. Remembering Bill Mazeroski

[03:38–04:27]

• Baseball Legend Passes:
  Bill Mazeroski, Hall of Famer and hero of the 1960 World Series, has died at 89.
  • Quote (Jeremy Scott, NPR):

    “His walk off homer in the bottom of the ninth during the final game of the 1960 World Series put the Pirates over the New York Yankees to win the championship.” ([03:51])

  • Fan tribute (Patty Petrush, [04:23]):

    “I hope he’s up in heaven. We’re going to have good spirit, hopefully this year.”

7. PGA Invitational—Jacob Bridgman Takes the Lead

[04:35–04:57]

• Round Highlight:
  Jacob Bridgman shot a 64, including eagle, birdie, eagle in three holes, giving him a six-shot lead ahead of Sunday's final in Los Angeles.
• Rory McIlroy and Aldrich Poltgeiter hold second and third, respectively.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “A thorough, detailed and complete review of the ridiculous, poorly written and extraordinarily anti American decision on tariffs." – President Trump (cited by Kristen Wright, [00:32])
• “We live in a parliamentary democracy. We have a monarchy. And in my view, the monarchy needs to adapt.” – David Dimbleby ([02:26])
• “His walk off homer … put the Pirates over the New York Yankees to win the championship.” – Jeremy Scott ([03:51])
• “I hope he’s up in heaven. We’re going to have good spirit, hopefully this year.” – Patty Petrush ([04:23])

Timestamps for Important Segments

• [00:18] Trump tariff response to Supreme Court setback
• [01:13] Major Mid-Atlantic blizzard warnings
• [01:35] UK: Prince Andrew investigation, monarchy reforms
• [02:48] Ukrainian missile strikes Russian factory
• [03:16] California avalanche recovery
• [03:38] Death of Bill Mazeroski
• [04:35] PGA Invitational update

This episode efficiently captures the day’s top headlines with concise reporting, direct quotes from key figures, and an eye towards both national and international implications.