NPR News Now: March 21, 2025, 9PM EDT Summary
On the March 21, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, host Jeanine Herbst delivers a comprehensive overview of the day's most pressing news stories. This summary encapsulates the key topics discussed, complete with notable quotes and timestamps for reference.
1. Justice Department Launches Investigation into Leaked Climate Intelligence
Timestamp: [00:17]
Jeanine Herbst opens the episode by reporting that the Justice Department is initiating a criminal investigation into the alleged leak of classified climate intelligence related to the Venezuelan prison gang, Tren de Aragua. This action follows President Trump's recent invocation of a wartime statute to deport suspected gang members.
Ryan Lucas, NPR reporter, provides further details:
"Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the criminal investigation into what he calls, 'the selective leak of inaccurate but nevertheless classified information from U.S. intelligence agencies about Tren de Aragua.'” [00:40]
Blanche criticized the leak as a politically motivated attempt by the "deep state" to undermine Trump's agenda by disseminating false information to the New York Times, which had reported that Tren de Aragua is not directed by the Venezuelan government—a stance contradicting Trump’s assertions.
2. Trump Administration Halts Funding for Attorneys Representing Unaccompanied Minors
Timestamp: [01:19]
Jeanine Herbst transitions to immigration issues, highlighting that the Trump administration has ceased payments to attorneys who represent unaccompanied minors in immigration courts. This marks the second termination within a little over a month, affecting legal support for more than 20,000 children.
Paul Flapp from Texas Public Radio elaborates:
"What happened is just like taking the parachute away from children before you push them off the airplane." [01:47]
Jonathan Ryan, managing attorney for the legal nonprofit Advocato, adds:
"Most attorneys with current child clients will continue their work, but the move cuts them off from future children in immigration detention." [01:53]
This policy change has sparked concern over the diminished legal assistance available to vulnerable minors entering the U.S. immigration system.
3. Pentagon's Removal of DEI Content Raises Recruitment Concerns
Timestamp: [02:02]
Jeanine Herbst reports on the Pentagon's recent decision to remove digital content related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Military experts express worry that this move may deter young women and minorities from joining the armed forces.
Bill Chappell provides context:
"From 2005 to 2023, the number of active duty women in the military rose by 12%, while the number of men fell by more than 10%. According to Pentagon data, minorities are one third of the active duty enlisted ranks." [02:17]
However, Bobby Jones, president of Veterans for Responsible Leadership, voices concerns:
"The new agenda is sending a message to potential recruits who aren't white and male." [02:40]
Jones further states:
"In the black community, I know for a fact conversations now are about should we let our kids serve in the military, which is a very big problem." [02:40]
The Pentagon has yet to directly address these recruitment concerns, stating only pride in America's heroes and heritage.
4. Boeing Selected to Develop the Air Force's Sixth-Generation Fighter Jets
Timestamp: [02:56]
Jeanine Herbst announces that President Trump has chosen Boeing to develop the Air Force's sixth-generation fighter jets, designated as the F47. Trump claims that an experimental version of the aircraft has been secretly operational for approximately five years. The Pentagon asserts that the F47 will feature advanced stealth and penetration capabilities, significantly surpassing the current fleet's performance.
5. U.S. Imposes Visa Bans on Argentina's Former President and Official Over Corruption
Timestamp: [03:36]
Jeanine Herbst covers the U.S. State Department's decision to bar Argentina’s former president, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, and her former planning minister from entering the country. This action is in response to allegations of abuse of power and corruption.
Carrie Kahn, NPR reporter in Rio de Janeiro, details:
"Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner and her former planning minister were involved in significant corruption and bribery schemes that netted them millions of dollars. Kirchner is a polarizing and leading figure in Argentina's leftist opposition. She was convicted of corruption and sentenced to six years in prison. She denies any wrongdoing and is not in prison." [03:36]
Additionally, Javier Milei, the current president of the far-right libertarian movement and a close ally of President Trump, faces tough midterm elections. His party, being new, requires more legislative support to advance his proposals aimed at reducing governmental costs.
6. Pharmaceutical Companies Increase U.S. Investments Amid Potential Tariff Threats
Timestamp: [04:16]
Amid the Trump administration's threats of imposing tariffs on drug imports, Johnson & Johnson has announced plans to significantly boost its U.S. investments. The company commits to a 25% increase, equating to over $55 billion, through the establishment of four new factories in the United States over the next four years. This expansion is projected to contribute approximately $100 billion annually to the U.S. economy.
Similarly, Eli Lilly revealed plans for new U.S. production facilities, with an investment of $27 billion slated over the coming five years. These moves indicate a strategic shift by major pharmaceutical firms to bolster domestic manufacturing in response to potential trade barriers.
This episode of NPR News Now provides listeners with a succinct yet thorough examination of significant national and international developments, ranging from governmental investigations and immigration policies to defense advancements and major corporate investments.