NPR News Now: March 5, 2025, 8 PM EST
NPR presents a comprehensive overview of the latest developments shaping our world today. From political maneuvers in Washington to public health concerns in Texas, and cultural revivals on Broadway, here's what you need to know.
1. President Trump's Joint Address to Congress
Speaker: Jack Spear, NPR News
Key Topics: Immigration, Border Security, Economy
As President Trump prepares to deliver his first joint address to Congress in his second term, the nation stands divided. In his upcoming speech, Trump is expected to tackle pressing issues such as immigration, border security, and the economy. However, economic concerns, particularly inflation, remain a significant challenge.
Economic Concerns and Voter Sentiment
Marliasson, an NPR analyst, provides insight into the economic discourse surrounding the President's address:
“People voted for him because they didn't like inflation. He promised to bring prices down, and he was very explicit about it. But since he's been in office, he has backed off from those promises. He's talked about how hard it is to bring down prices. And what I'm watching for tonight is how he talks about something that he hasn't prioritized but that we know voters are very concerned about because polling shows more than half of Americans think Trump is not doing enough to bring down prices.”
— Marliasson, [00:39]
This sentiment highlights a growing disconnect between Trump's initial promises and his administration's current actions, raising concerns among voters who continue to grapple with high living costs.
Democratic Response and Show of Solidarity
In response to Trump's address, some Democrats have signaled their intent not to attend, citing disagreements over his governmental policies. Conversely, other Democrats plan to don blue and yellow attire to show support for Ukraine amidst ongoing international tensions. Following Trump's speech, Michigan Senator Lissa Slotkin is slated to deliver the Democratic response.
Profile of Senator Lissa Slotkin
Don Gonyea reports on Senator Slotkin's background and political stance:
“Slotkin is new to the Senate after representing a Michigan U.S. house district that leans Republican for three terms. A centrist Democrat with a resume that includes time as a CIA intelligence analyst during both the George W. Bush and Barack Obama presidencies. She campaigned last year saying Americans are tired of divisive politics and said she's ready to reach across the aisle. Still, she has delivered pointed criticism of Trump administration policies, including the firings of federal workers, tariffs which she says will hurt US Automakers and the president's Oval Office berating of Ukrainian President Zelensky.”
— Don Gonyea, [01:24]
Senator Slotkin's balanced approach aims to bridge partisan divides while addressing key policy disagreements with the Trump administration.
2. Public Health Alert: Texas Measles Outbreak
Reporter: Gabriela Alcorta Solorio, Texas Public Radio
Location: West Texas
Texas is currently grappling with a measles outbreak that has seen a rise in confirmed cases this week. The latest figures indicate an increase from 146 to 159 cases, primarily concentrated in Gaines County.
Vaccination Status and Public Safety
Of the total cases, only five individuals have been vaccinated, while the vaccination status of the remaining cases is either unknown or unvaccinated. Tragically, the outbreak has claimed the life of a school-aged child in the affected area, underscoring the critical importance of vaccination.
“The number of confirmed cases has risen to 159 from last week's update of 146. The outbreak is still isolated to West Texas. Out of the total number of cases, five are vaccinated, the rest are not, or their status is unknown. The majority of the cases are in Gaines county, where the outbreak is centered. So far, one death has resulted from the outbreak, a school aged unvaccinated child who lived in the area of the outbreak.”
— Gabriela Alcorta Solorio, [02:17]
Public health officials are urging residents to adhere to vaccination schedules and remain vigilant to prevent further spread.
3. Global and Economic Updates
A. Health News: Pope Francis' Condition
Pope Francis remains in stable condition after facing severe respiratory challenges. According to the Vatican, the pontiff has been reliant on supplemental oxygen following a bout with double pneumonia. Medical professionals continue to monitor his recovery, with his prognosis remaining guarded.
“According to the Vatican, Pope Francis is in stable condition, has been breathing with just the help of supplemental oxygen after suffering more respiratory crises yesterday. According to doctors, the pontiff continues to try to recover from a case of double pneumonia. Francis will apparently wear a non invasive mechanical ventilation mask. Doctors say the pope's prognosis remains guarded.”
— Jack Spear, [02:51]
B. Financial Markets: Wall Street Plunge
Wall Street experienced a significant downturn today, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling by 670 points. This sharp decline reflects investor anxiety amid economic uncertainties and political tensions.
“Stocks plunged on Wall street today. The Dow fell 670 points.”
— Jack Spear, [02:51]
C. Cultural Revival: "Mamma Mia" Returns to Broadway
The beloved jukebox musical "Mamma Mia," featuring ABBA's timeless hits, is set to make a grand return to Broadway this August for a six-month run. Originally debuting in October 2001, the show captivated audiences with its vibrant music and heartwarming narrative set on a Greek island.
Behind the Revival
Jeff London provides an in-depth look into the production's legacy and its anticipated comeback:
“Mamma Mia. Opened on Broadway in October of 2001, a little over a month after the 911 terror attacks. And its mixture of pop tunes and an escapist story set on a Greek island proved irresistible to audiences. It ran for 5,773 performances, making it the ninth longest running show in Broadway history.”
— Jeff London, [03:32]
“Here I After 10 years away in numerous productions around the world and on cruise ships, it's coming back. Producer Judy Kramer told the New York Times. It celebrates women. It's about second chances, it's about hope. And it's not political. It brings audiences together.”
— Jeff London, [03:55]
The revival promises to rekindle the magic that made "Mamma Mia" a cultural phenomenon, celebrating themes of empowerment and unity.
4. Legislative Actions and Economic Shifts
A. Minnesota's Initiative Against Deepfake Pornography
The state of Minnesota is taking legislative action to combat the rise of deepfake pornography. A proposed bill targets websites and apps that enable users to create and distribute sexually explicit images or videos without consent. These so-called "notification websites" allow individuals to upload photos of others to generate fake explicit content, posing significant privacy and ethical concerns.
“The state of Minnesota says it intends to crack down on sites and apps that help people to create and distribute so called deepfake pornography. A bill making its way through the state legislature. There targets, so called notification websites allow people to upload photos of someone to generate a sexually explicit image or video. It's one of the ongoing strategies lawmakers are trying to crack down on. In many cases, there already are bans on dissemination of such sexually explicit images.”
— Jack Spear, [04:16]
This legislation aims to enhance protections against non-consensual image manipulation and uphold individual privacy rights.
B. Energy Market Dynamics: Oil Prices Drop
Crude oil futures have plummeted to multi-month lows, driven by market adjustments to the economic policies of the Trump administration, including imposed tariffs. Prices decreased by 11 cents per barrel, reaching $68.26, reflecting broader economic uncertainties and shifting trade dynamics.
“Crude oil futures prices fell to multi month lows today as markets try to adjust to the Trump tariffs. Oil down 11 cents a barrel to $68.26 a barrel.”
— Jack Spear, [04:16]
This decline in oil prices has significant implications for energy markets, consumers, and global trade relations.
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