NPR News Now: March 4, 2025, 11AM EST

Released on March 4, 2025

Trade Turmoil: Trump's Tariffs Trigger Global Responses

Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump's latest trade policies have set off a chain reaction among North American and Asian neighbors. Overnight, tariffs imposed by the Trump administration have taken effect:

• Canada and Mexico: Faced with a 25% tariff, these nations have swiftly retaliated. Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, criticized the measures, stating, "There is no motive, reason or justification that supports this decision, which will affect our people and nations, allowing time for dialogue" (00:49). Sheinbaum announced plans to unveil Mexico's countermeasures during a public event this weekend.

• China: Tariffs against Chinese goods have doubled, now standing at 20%. In response, China has promptly imposed high tariffs on select U.S. products, escalating the trade tensions further.

President Trump justified these tariffs as necessary steps to combat "illegal immigration and drug trafficking" (00:16). Despite these actions, Mexico's response has been more measured compared to Canada's immediate and stringent retaliations.

Mexico's Strategic Countermeasures

Mexico has bolstered its stance against the new tariffs by taking significant domestic and international actions:

• Border Security Enhancements: Mexico has deployed thousands of additional troops to its border regions to strengthen security.

• Counter-Narcotics Operations: The government has intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking, including the relocation of 29 of its largest drug dealers to the United States (00:49).

These measures have coincided with a historic low in migrant border crossings and a noticeable slowdown in the flow of fentanyl into the United States. Nonetheless, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum remains critical of the tariffs, emphasizing the need for dialogue and cooperation.

President Trump's Upcoming Congressional Address

President Trump is slated to address a joint session of Congress tonight, where he is expected to advocate for his key policy priorities:

• Tax Cuts: Seeking further reductions to stimulate economic growth.

• Increased Border Security Spending: Aiming to bolster national security measures.

NPR's Danielle Kurtzleben highlights an "unusual dynamic" over the speech, noting that the Republican-controlled Congress has shown remarkable acquiescence to Trump's unconventional approaches. Kurtzleben remarks, "They have been remarkably acquiescent to Trump's norm-shattering moves," pointing out the consolidation of governmental powers within the executive branch that traditionally resided with Congress (01:51).

EU's Ambitious Defense Budget Proposal

Brussels – In a bold move to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities, European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has unveiled an $840 billion plan titled "Rearm Europe". This initiative includes:

• Relaxation of Debt Rules: Allowing EU member states more fiscal flexibility, potentially freeing up over $680 billion in the next four years (02:30).

• Defense Spending Incentives: Introducing a new fund exceeding $150 billion to support member states in enhancing their defense infrastructures.

Von der Leyen emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating, "This is Europe's moment and that we must live up to it," underscoring the EU's commitment to bolster its military presence amidst global uncertainties (02:30). This proposal follows President Trump’s announcement of pausing U.S. military aid to Ukraine, signaling a significant shift in international defense strategies.

Wall Street Dips Amid Federal Workforce Changes

New York City – Wall Street experienced a substantial decline, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping over 700 points initially and further decreasing to 760 points by the end of the update (03:10).

In related news, the National Science Foundation (NSF) is set to reinstate approximately half of the staff it previously terminated. This decision comes after a federal court ruled the mass layoffs of probationary employees—and the broader reduction of the federal workforce—were unlawful (03:10).

NPR's Jonathan Lambert reports that the NSF had fired about 10% of its workforce in response to President Trump's executive orders aimed at reducing federal employment. A federal judge's ruling mandates that NSF rehired 86 probationary staff with full back pay, although non-probationary and temporary employees will not be brought back. This move aims to mitigate concerns among the scientific community about potential delays or halts in federally funded research projects (03:10).

Environmental and Cultural Updates: Wildfires and Mardi Gras Adjustments

South Carolina & New Orleans – A wildfire near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has expanded to over 2,000 acres and remains less than a third contained (04:12). Fire officials have issued warnings about heavy smoke affecting surrounding forest areas, urging residents to take precautionary measures.

Meanwhile, New Orleans is celebrating Fat Tuesday with traditional Mardi Gras festivities, including parades, costumes, dancing, and bead-throwing. However, due to forecasts predicting damaging winds from a powerful line of thunderstorms moving eastward, authorities have preemptively cut short or canceled several parades to ensure public safety (04:12).

This summary encapsulates the key moments and discussions from the NPR News Now episode aired on March 4, 2025, providing a comprehensive overview for listeners seeking to stay informed on current events.

Timestamps for Notable Quotes

• Trade Turmoil: Korva Coleman at 00:16

• Mexico's Response: Claudia Sheinbaum at 00:49

• Congressional Address Dynamics: Danielle Kurtzleben at 01:51

• EU Defense Proposal Quote: Ursula von der Leyen at 02:30

• NSF Reinstatement Details: Jonathan Lambert at 03:10

For more detailed coverage, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode of NPR News Now.