NPR News Now: April 2, 2025, 12 PM EDT
Host: Lakshmi Singh
Producer: NPR
Release Date: April 2, 2025
1. President Trump to Announce New Tariffs
Timestamp: [00:23]
President Donald Trump is poised to unveil a significant new set of tariffs aimed at bolstering the U.S. economy. While the administration touts these tariffs as a means to strengthen domestic manufacturing, economists caution that American consumers will bear the brunt of the costs.
Tamara Keith reports, “President Trump has been hyping up this day for weeks, saying tariffs will boost the US Economy, even though most economists say the cost of tariffs will be paid by American consumers.”
Press Secretary Caroline Levitt elaborated on the administration's strategy: “If you make your product in America, you will pay no tariffs” (00:33). However, manufacturing domestically is typically more expensive, raising concerns about the overall economic impact.
While the tariffs are set to take effect immediately, Levitt indicated that President Trump remains open to negotiations, suggesting that the final details may evolve: “Whatever is announced today may not be where the tariffs ultimately land” (00:33).
2. Wisconsin Supreme Court Maintains Liberal Majority Amid Elon Musk’s Intervention
Timestamp: [01:13]
In a notable judicial decision, Wisconsin's Supreme Court has upheld its liberal majority despite efforts by Elon Musk to install a conservative judge through a multimillion-dollar campaign. Judge Susan Crawford successfully defeated Judge Brad Schimmel, maintaining the court's current ideological balance.
Chuck Kernbach of WUWM explains, “This race, even though it was the court is nonpartisan. It was definitely a win for Democrats, and they're claiming victory against the president, his administration, and Musk” (01:33). Voters indicated discomfort with Musk’s approach, describing it as “too fast, too broad,” and highlighted that issues like reproductive rights were pivotal in their decision-making, reflecting ongoing national political tensions.
3. Climate Scientists Criticize Western States’ Water Recycling Efforts
Timestamp: [01:59]
A recent study by UCLA climate scientists reveals that only Nevada and Arizona are effectively recycling and reusing water from the Colorado River, amidst increasing federal pressures on seven Western states to reduce water usage.
Kirk Sigler reports, “They found that Nevada is recycling 85% of its total wastewater. Las Vegas, after all, has been internationally recognized for this” (02:18). In stark contrast, California, the largest wastewater producer, recycles merely about a quarter of its water, and Colorado recycles less than 4%.
The study underscores a critical opportunity for enhanced water management before next year's federal deadline, beyond which mandatory cuts may be imposed if a new water-sharing agreement is not achieved.
4. Passing of Actor Val Kilmer
Timestamp: [03:00]
The acting community mourns the loss of Val Kilmer, who died at the age of 65 due to pneumonia. Kilmer, celebrated for his versatile roles, leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances in blockbusters such as Top Gun (as Iceman), Batman Forever (as Batman), Tombstone, and portraying Jim Morrison in The Doors.
5. Buena Vista Social Club Musical Shines on Broadway
Timestamp: [03:41]
Nearly three decades after captivating audiences worldwide, the Buena Vista Social Club story is now being brought to life on Broadway. This musical traces the journey of Cuban musicians from the 1950s Havana music scene to their resurgence in the 1990s, culminating in international fame.
Isabela Gomez Sarmiento details, “The Broadway musical takes creative liberties with the characters, but the music remains at the heart of their story” (03:41). Featuring legends like pianist Ruben Gonzalez, guitarist Compai Segundo, and singer Ibrahim Ferrer, the production celebrates their enduring legacy and cultural impact.
6. Severe Weather Alerts Issued Across Central United States
Timestamp: [04:25]
A significant weather outbreak has prompted tornado alerts from central Oklahoma to northwestern Arkansas, extending up to northern Missouri. The National Weather Service warns of multiple twisters, including potentially violent EF3 tornadoes with wind speeds between 136 and 165 mph, capable of causing severe damage.
Additionally, the region faces the threat of heavy rainfall leading to floods, with risks also extending to Kentucky, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. In the financial markets, the Dow Jones Industrial Average saw an increase of 61 points amidst these developments.
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