NPR News Now: March 22, 2025, 2 AM EDT

Host: NPR
Release Date: March 22, 2025
Description: The latest news in five minutes. Updated hourly.

1. Trump Administration's Use of the Alien Enemies Act to Deport Venezuelans

In a significant legal controversy, the Trump administration invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport over 100 Venezuelan nationals to El Salvador. This move has sparked intense debate regarding the breadth of presidential powers under this outdated law.

Key Details:

• Federal Hearing: Federal Judge James Boasberg expressed deep skepticism about the administration's interpretation of the Alien Enemies Act during a hearing in Washington, D.C.
• Administration's Argument: Represented by a Trump administration lawyer, it was argued that the Act grants the President expansive authority to detain and deport individuals without due process, particularly targeting members of Venezuela's Trenderagua gang, deemed as invaders.
• Opposition Stance: The ACLU contended that the U.S. is not at war with Venezuela, making the administration's application of the law inappropriate. They also emphasized the necessity for due process, allowing those targeted to contest their deportation.

Notable Quote:

"I agree the president's use of the law is unprecedented and concerning."
— Judge James Boasberg (00:35)

2. Republican Efforts to Roll Back Black Lung Compensation Protections

House Republicans are challenging policies put in place during the Biden administration that safeguard a compensation fund for workers afflicted with black lung disease, particularly those employed by bankrupt coal companies.

Key Details:

• Protective Measures: The Biden-era rule was designed to prevent bankrupt coal companies from offloading the financial burden of black lung treatments onto a taxpayer-backed trust fund, which is currently in $30 billion debt.
• Republican Opposition: Republicans, led by the Trump-appointed Secretary of Labor, are advocating for the removal of these protections, arguing for economic benefits and reducing government intervention.
• Advocates' Concerns: Rebecca Shelton from the Appalachian Citizens Law Center warned that eliminating the rule could exacerbate the fund's debt, potentially forcing Congress to reduce monthly disability payments to miners.

Notable Quotes:

"Miners really feel that these companies that they gave so much for, now they need to get back when they're sick."
— Rebecca Shelton (01:54)

"The secretary of labor is eager to, quote, find common sense solutions that will boost our economy and put American workers first."
— Labor Department Spokesperson (02:01)

3. Senator Bernie Sanders' Opposition to Federal Workforce Cuts

Senator Bernie Sanders recently toured Colorado, criticizing the Trump administration's reductions to the federal workforce and proposed changes to essential government programs that support vulnerable populations.

Key Details:

• Fighting Oligarchy Tour: Sanders highlighted the administration's efforts to dismantle safety net programs, including those providing food support to at-risk children.
• Policy Advocacy: He emphasized the importance of strengthening, rather than weakening, social support systems to protect the most disadvantaged.

Notable Quote:

"In what world, in what universe, in what religion is taking food away from hungry children and giving tax breaks to the rich."
— Senator Bernie Sanders (02:27)

4. Measles Outbreak Continues in Texas and New Mexico

Health officials in Texas and neighboring New Mexico are grappling with an ongoing measles outbreak, which is expected to persist for several months.

Key Details:

• Current Statistics: As of the report, there are 309 confirmed cases in Texas and 42 in New Mexico, including one death and 42 hospitalizations across both states.
• Public Health Response: Authorities are intensifying vaccination efforts and public awareness campaigns to control the spread.

5. U.S. Bans Former Argentine President and Official Over Corruption

The United States has imposed visa bans on Argentina's former President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner and her former Planning Minister, citing significant corruption and abuse of power.

Key Details:

• Corruption Charges: Kirchner and her former minister were implicated in extensive bribery schemes that generated millions of dollars. Kirchner was convicted and sentenced to six years in prison, a conviction she denies.
• Political Context: Cristina Kirchner remains a prominent and polarizing figure in Argentina's leftist opposition. Her ally, current President Javier Milei, a far-right libertarian, is facing challenging midterm elections and seeks Congressional support for his agenda.

Notable Quote:

"Kirchner is a polarizing and leading figure in Argentina's leftist opposition."
— Carrie Kahn, NPR News (03:27)

6. Columbia University and Major League Baseball Respond to Trump Administration Policies

Facing pressure from the Trump administration, both Columbia University and Major League Baseball (MLB) have made significant policy adjustments related to academic freedom and diversity initiatives.

Key Details:

• Columbia University: The institution agreed to overhaul its protest rules following an ultimatum from the Trump administration threatening to revoke federal funding, which was perceived as an attack on academic freedom.
• MLB Diversity Efforts: MLB has removed all references to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs from its careers homepage. This move aligns with a Trump executive order that views DEI initiatives as conflicting with its interpretation of civil rights law.

7. Market Update: Stocks Rise on Wall Street

The stock market closed the week on a positive note, with the S&P 500 experiencing a modest gain of four points amidst a dynamic economic landscape.

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