NPR News Now: March 30, 2025, 6 PM EDT

Hosted by NPR

In today’s episode of NPR News Now, a variety of critical issues dominate the headlines, ranging from political maneuvers in Wisconsin to international diplomacy in the Middle East, significant policy changes in the United States, and tragic natural disasters affecting Myanmar. This comprehensive summary delves into each of these topics, providing key insights, notable quotes, and essential context to keep you informed.

Elon Musk’s Controversial Rally in Wisconsin

[00:14] The episode opens with a significant political move by billionaire Elon Musk. Musk, a prominent White House advisor, is scheduled to distribute $1 million checks to two voters at a rally in Green Bay, Wisconsin. This gesture has sparked legal challenges, with Wisconsin's Attorney General Josh Call seeking to halt the event. Despite these efforts, two lower courts have already dismissed Call's argument that Musk's offer violates state laws against exchanging anything of value for votes.

Jeanine Herbst reports, “This is ahead of Wisconsin's highly contested Supreme Court election on Tuesday. Liberals currently hold a 4:3 majority. Musk and groups he supports have spent more than $20 million to help judge Brad Schimmel get elected.”

This political maneuver is part of a broader strategy to influence the upcoming Supreme Court election, emphasizing the high stakes involved as both parties vie for control.

Republican Demand for Investigation into Signal Chat Leak

[00:14 - 01:55] A significant security breach has emerged within the U.S. government’s communication channels. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth found himself at the center of controversy when military attack plans on the Houthi were leaked via a Signal chat group that included administration officials and a journalist.

Senator James Lankford, a Republican from Oklahoma and member of the Intelligence Committee, expressed support for an investigation into the leak. At [01:18], Lankford stated to CNN, “I support an investigation.”

Defense Secretary Hegseth defended the communication practices, asserting, “This is normal communication on it. What's not normal is having a reporter in the middle of it” [01:44]. Despite calls for accountability, Lankford considered demands for Hegseth’s resignation “overkill” [01:48].

Senator Roger Wicker, chair of the Armed Services Committee, has also pushed for an inspector general review to address the security lapse. This incident underscores the ongoing tensions and challenges within the military’s communication protocols and the broader implications for national security.

Israel-Hamas Hostage Negotiations Amidst Ongoing Conflict

[01:55 - 02:54] In international news, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel is engaged in indirect talks with Hamas aimed at securing the release of hostages. While this development signals a potential diplomatic avenue, it does not indicate an imminent end to the conflict in Gaza.

At [02:10], Netanyahu emphasized, “A combination of military and diplomatic pressure has been the only way to bring back the hostages held in Gaza.” He highlighted the effectiveness of negotiating during a military campaign and stated, “Israel is prepared to talk about the final stages of the ceasefire deal only if Hamas lays down its arms and its leaders leave Gaza.”

Despite Hamas claiming agreement with international mediators, Netanyahu's office revealed that Israel has proposed its own terms in coordination with the United States. The specifics of these negotiations remain undisclosed, but they focus on the number of hostages to be released in exchange for a ceasefire, reflecting the fragile and complex nature of peace efforts in the region.

Implementation of 25% U.S. Tariffs on Autos and Parts

[02:54 - 03:50] Domestic economic policies are poised for a significant shift as President Trump prepares to announce a 25% tariff on automobiles and parts manufactured outside the United States. This move is expected to impact both imported and domestic vehicle prices.

Auto industry experts caution that consumers may face higher costs when purchasing vehicles, regardless of their origin. The tariffs aim to bolster the U.S. automotive industry by protecting it from foreign competition, but they also raise concerns about potential inflation and increased expenses for American consumers.

This policy change underscores the ongoing debate over trade practices and economic protectionism, highlighting the administration's commitment to supporting domestic manufacturing sectors.

Devastating Earthquake in Myanmar

[03:50 - 04:29] Tragedy strikes in Myanmar as a magnitude 7.7 earthquake wreaks havoc, resulting in at least 1,600 fatalities and thousands of injuries. Search and rescue operations are underway, with survivors desperately seeking hope amidst the rubble of collapsed buildings and bridges.

Jeanine Herbst reports, “Officials worry many people are buried under the rubble and that the death toll is expected to rise. Spotty communications and the civil war complicate those relief efforts.”

The combination of the natural disaster and the ongoing civil conflict presents formidable challenges for emergency responders, delaying aid and increasing the humanitarian crisis's severity. The international community watches closely, hoping for effective relief measures to mitigate the disaster's impact.

Upcoming Enforcement of REAL ID Requirements for U.S. Travelers

[04:09 - 04:29] U.S. travelers are reminded to prepare for the enforcement of REAL ID requirements, set to take effect on May 7th. Without a compliant REAL ID, individuals may be denied access at airport checkpoints.

Patricia Mancha, a spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration, advises, “After years of delays, airport security checkpoints will begin enforcing real ID compliance on May 7th.”

Pablo Araupena of KERA emphasizes the urgency, stating, “Start working to get your Real ID today, because when you get to the airport, you may not be allowed access to the checkpoint and onto your flight” [04:09].

For those without a REAL ID, alternative documents such as a passport can be used. The Transportation Security Administration urges travelers to verify their identification status to ensure seamless travel experiences.

Passing of Actor Richard Chamberlain

[04:29 - 04:53] The entertainment world mourns the loss of Richard Chamberlain, a beloved actor renowned for his roles in classic television series. Chamberlain, who passed away at the age of 90 in Hawaii, gained fame through his portrayal of Dr. Kildare in the 1960s and earned Emmy nominations for his performances in the 1980s miniseries "The Thorn Birds" and "Shogun."

Jeanine Herbst concludes, “Actor Richard Chamberlain has died. He rose to fame as the TV heartthrob in the 1960s show Dr. Kildare and in the miniseries the Thornbirds and Where Shogun, both airing in the 1980s. Both those roles earned Emmy nominations. He died yesterday in Hawaii at the age of 90.”

Chamberlain's legacy in television and film leaves an enduring impact on audiences and the industry alike.

This summary captures the essence of the March 30, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, providing listeners with a detailed overview of the day's most pressing news stories. Whether it's political strategies, international diplomacy, economic policies, or tragic events, NPR News Now ensures you remain informed and engaged.