NPR News Now: March 29, 2025, 12 PM EDT
On this episode of NPR News Now, listeners are updated on significant global and national events shaping the current landscape. From natural disasters and political tensions to institutional shake-ups and public health developments, the latest news is covered comprehensively.
1. Devastating Earthquake Strikes Myanmar
At midday yesterday, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, causing widespread devastation. Rescue operations continued into today, with workers extracting more bodies from the rubble. The initial quake was followed by several aftershocks, including a significant 6.4 magnitude tremor.
Nora Ramm reported:
"Rescue workers pulled more bodies from the rubble in Myanmar today after a powerful earthquake yesterday. Officials say more than 1600 people have died. Thousands of others were injured. Dozens are still missing."
[00:13]
2. Mass Firings at the US Institute of Peace
In a surprising move, the Trump administration's government efficiency team has initiated mass layoffs at the US Institute of Peace (USIP), a non-profit think tank. Employees received termination notices via private emails, as access to official accounts was revoked following the administration's takeover of the institute's building.
Michelle Kellerman reports:
"Starting late Friday night, the USIP HR department told most employees their jobs have been terminated. Employees have until early April to turn in their badges and computers."
[00:58]
Legal battles ensue as board members fired by Trump are now suing the administration, highlighting tensions between governmental control and independent think tanks.
3. Trump Administration's Diversity Program Ban Affects French Companies
The Trump administration has reportedly sent letters to French companies holding U.S. government contracts, directing them to comply with a presidential order that bans diversity programs. This directive argues that measures intended to counter discrimination are themselves discriminatory.
Danny Eberhardt of the BBC explains:
"It's not clear how many French companies have received the letter. Defence and construction firms with US Government contracts could be among them. It's raising concerns about extraterritorial overreach."
[02:02]
A French official emphasized that such practices differ between the two nations, signaling potential diplomatic strains over employment policies.
4. Judicial Pushback Against Trump's Executive Order Targeting Jenner & Block
A federal judge in Washington has temporarily blocked an executive order issued by President Trump aimed at the law firm Jenner & Block. The order was perceived as retaliation against the firm's pro bono work, particularly its involvement in investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election.
Carrie Johnson reports:
"Judge John Bates said the idea that the Trump administration may have tried to retaliate against the big law firm because of its pro bono work is troubling. Bates issued a temporary pause on Trump's executive order against Jenner and Block after the firm argued the order violated its rights to free speech and due process."
[02:21]
This legal intervention underscores the judiciary's role in checking executive actions perceived as overreaching or punitive.
5. US Criticizes Denmark Over Greenland's Security
Tensions escalate as Danish officials respond defensively to U.S. claims that Denmark is insufficiently protecting Greenland. President Trump has expressed strong interest in acquiring Greenland, a move met with displeasure from Denmark.
Nora Ramm reports:
"Danish officials are taking offense at US claims that Denmark is not doing enough to protect Greenland. President Trump has said repeatedly he wants to acquire the Danish territory."
[03:09]
Vice President J.D. Vance's recent visit to Greenland highlighted concerns about underinvestment in the island's security, prompting Denmark to reaffirm its commitment to the region's defense.
6. Leadership Turmoil at Columbia University Amid Federal Aid Cuts
Columbia University faces significant leadership changes as Claire Shipman steps in as the new interim president, marking the institution's third president in less than a year. This follows the Trump administration's withdrawal of $400 million in federal aid, accusing the university of fostering anti-Semitism during student protests related to Israel's actions in Gaza.
Bruce Konweiser from New York reports:
"The interim president of Columbia University has stepped down at a fraught time for the school... The changes called for closer scrutiny of Columbia's Middle East curriculum. Many see the move as an attack on academic freedom."
[03:41]
These developments reflect broader conflicts between academic institutions and federal oversight concerning curriculum and free speech.
7. Resignation of Top FDA Vaccine Expert Amid Controversy
Dr. Peter Marks, the leading vaccine expert at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has resigned amidst growing tensions within the Health and Human Services (HHS) department. Marks cited a lack of commitment to truth and transparency by the current HHS secretary and criticized Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for spreading misinformation.
Nora Ramm reports:
"Dr. Peter Marks says it had become clear that the current secretary of Health and Human Services does not desire truth and transparency. He accused Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of wanting subservient confirmation of his misinformation and lies."
[04:21]
Marks, who played a crucial role in developing COVID-19 vaccines during the Trump administration, highlighted concerns over the politicization of public health expertise.
Conclusion
Today's NPR News Now episode delivered a comprehensive overview of critical events ranging from natural disasters in Myanmar and political maneuvers affecting international relations, to internal conflicts within think tanks and academia. The resignation of a key FDA figure underscores ongoing challenges in maintaining transparency within public health institutions. Stay informed with NPR for updates on these and other pressing issues.