NPR News Now: April 2, 2025 Edition – Comprehensive Summary
Released April 2, 2025 | Host: Shea Stevens
1. Historic Wisconsin Supreme Court Election
Shea Stevens opens the episode with groundbreaking news from Wisconsin, where Democratic-backed candidate Susan Crawford has triumphed over former President Donald Trump in a closely contested race for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. This election set a new record in U.S. judicial races, with combined spending by candidates and their supporters exceeding $200 million.
In her victory speech, Crawford reflected on her unexpected journey:
Susan Crawford [00:43]: "But I've got to tell you, as a little girl growing up in Chippewa Falls, I never could have imagined that I'd be taking on the richest man in the world."
Crawford, a Dane County judge renowned for her leadership in legal battles protecting abortion rights and collective bargaining in Florida, highlighted the significance of this financial milestone in her campaign.
Conversely, Republican candidates secured wins in two Florida open house seats. Shea Stevens reports that Trump-endorsed candidate Jimmy Petronas will occupy the first District seat vacated by Matt Gaetz. An unnamed Republican candidate emphasized the region's enduring political alignment:
Unnamed Republican Candidate [01:11]: "Let it be known that this election is a reminder that the Florida panhandle will forever be red and it will be forever Trump country."
Additionally, Randy Fine is set to fill the open seat in Florida's 6th congressional district, succeeding Mike Walsh, who has transitioned to become the White House National Security Adviser.
2. Controversy Over Soda Purchases with Federal Food Assistance
U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has sparked debate by advocating for states to prohibit the use of federal food assistance funds to purchase soda. NPR's Katia Riddle delves into the discourse surrounding this proposal, highlighting differing expert opinions.
Experts widely agree that excessive sugary soda consumption adversely affects public health, contributing to chronic conditions across America. However, opinions diverge on the efficacy of a blanket ban on soda:
Joel Berg, CEO of Hunger Free America [01:57]: "I think it's fair to say there are people who are well meaning who are truly concerned about public health who support this. And it's also true that there are people who are not well meaning that just want to punish poor people."
Berg emphasizes that a more impactful approach would involve making nutritious food both accessible and affordable, rather than solely targeting soda sales.
3. Escalating Tensions: China’s Military Drills Around Taiwan
China has embarked on the second day of extensive air and sea military exercises surrounding Taiwan, in an apparent display of military might aimed at deterring the island's move toward formal independence. NPR's John Ruich provides an in-depth report on these maneuvers:
John Ruich [02:28]: "China's military says day two of the exercises involves a range of activities designed to test Chinese troops' abilities to control and regulate areas, engage in blockades, and conduct precision strikes."
These drills, initiated in response to perceived provocations by Taiwan's President Lai Ching Te, who has taken steps to counter Beijing's influence, underscore the fragile security dynamic in the region. The U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce condemned China's actions:
Tammy Bruce [03:12]: "The Chinese exercises and rhetoric only serve to exacerbate tensions and put the region's security and the world's prosperity at risk."
Taiwan's Defense Ministry reported the detection of numerous Chinese military vessels and aircraft over the past 24 hours, signaling a sustained show of force.
4. Senate Filibuster: Cory Booker’s Record-Setting Speech
In a historic display of legislative endurance, New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker delivered a marathon 25-hour speech on the U.S. Senate floor from Monday night into Tuesday morning. This feat surpasses the previous record set in 1957 by Senator Strom Thurmond, who conducted a 24-hour filibuster against civil rights legislation.
Booker's prolonged address aimed to vocally oppose specific Trump administration policies, highlighting his commitment to advocacy within the Senate.
5. Innovation in Baseball: The Rise of Torpedo Bats
Major League Baseball is abuzz with the introduction of torpedo bats, notable for their unique design resembling a bowling pin with a swollen barrel that tapers toward the handle. These bats gained prominence when the New York Yankees hit nine home runs in a single game during the opening weekend.
NPR's Bill Chappell explores the science and reception behind these high-tech bats:
Lloyd Smith, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Washington State University [04:06]: "If they're literally taking mass that was at the end and they're moving it in, then these bats would have a lower swing weight, which would give them better control over the bat."
Smith adds that while torpedo bats may not directly increase power, they could enhance a batter's confidence at the plate by improving control. The design leverages analytics to distribute mass strategically, aiming to optimize performance without altering the fundamental dynamics of the game.
6. Remembering Val Kilmer: Beloved Actor Passes Away
Tragic news emerges with the passing of acclaimed actor Val Kilmer at the age of 65. The New York Times and various media outlets report that Kilmer succumbed to pneumonia following treatment for throat cancer, a battle he had been fighting for several years. Kilmer's illustrious career spanned over four decades, featuring iconic roles in films such as:
- "Top Gun" (1986)
- "The Doors" (1991)
- "Batman Forever" (1995)
He continued to grace both big and small screens, with his most recent appearance in the 2022 film "Top Maverick." Kilmer's contribution to the entertainment industry leaves a lasting legacy cherished by fans worldwide.
This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the April 2, 2025 episode of NPR News Now, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the day's most pressing news.