NPR News Now: April 5, 2025, 6PM EDT
Host: Jeanine Herbst
Release Date: April 5, 2025
International Trade Turmoil: Trump's Tariffs Spark Market Decline and Global Retaliation
Financial Markets and Trump's Tariffs
World financial markets experienced a significant downturn this week, marking Wall Street's worst performance in five years. The decline follows President Trump's announcement of a new 10% tariff on products from nearly all countries, effective immediately.
Notable Quote:
"Trump thinks it will be worth it in the long run."
— Jeanine Herbst [00:25]
China's Retaliatory Measures
In response to the U.S. tariffs, China announced a 34% tax on U.S. goods starting next week. Additionally, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on automobiles, escalating the trade tensions further.
Ron Elving's Analysis:
"They say the retaliation we're seeing from China and elsewhere will be transitory. They believe our trading partners will eventually lower their tariffs, and American companies will bring back jobs previously offshore."
— Ron Elving [00:59]
Congressional Battle: Senate Approves Trillion-Dollar Spending Blueprint Amid Political Divides
Senate Approval and House Considerations
The Republican-controlled Senate has approved a comprehensive blueprint for trillions in spending, targeting tax, defense, and immigration policies. NPR's Claudia Grisales reports that the House will next debate the measure, though significant political obstacles remain.
Claudia Grisales on Legislative Challenges:
"Senate and House lawmakers face major divides on the final structure of this multi-trillion dollar package, which reimagines defense, energy, immigration, and tax spending. House Republicans are pushing back, arguing that the Senate's blueprint doesn't sufficiently address the federal deficit."
— Claudia Grisales [01:22]
Fiscal Hawks' Concerns:
Some House Republicans are advocating for deeper cuts into federal spending areas like Medicaid, emphasizing the need to reduce the national debt and address budgetary inefficiencies.
Nationwide Protests Erupt Against Trump Administration and Elon Musk
Protests in Cincinnati and Beyond
Thousands gathered in cities nationwide today to protest actions taken by President Trump and his White House adviser, Elon Musk. In Cincinnati, demonstrators braved the rain, carrying signs and chanting slogans against the administration's policies.
Retired Federal Worker Speaks Out:
"There is waste and inefficiency in the government, but severe cuts are not the solution."
— Randy Warpol, Alexandria, Kentucky [02:38]
Ron Elving Highlights Public Sentiment:
"I worked for 30 years in the military and federal service, and I did not ever meet anyone who wasn't committed to serving the public."
— Ron Elving [02:57]
Bill Reinhart on Protest Motivations:
"The Hands Off movement is addressing a wide range of concerns, from federal department layoffs to mass deportations, advocating for surgical and thoughtful cuts rather than broad, ineffective measures."
— Bill Reinhart, Cincinnati [02:57]
Local Highlight: Historic Ski Lift in Colorado Retired, New Era Begins
The Segundo Ski Lift's Farewell
Colorado bids farewell to the Segundo ski lift, one of the state's oldest, first installed in Aspen in 1954 and relocated to near Glenwood Springs in the 1970s. The two-seater lift, a favorite among movie stars like John Wayne and Gary Cooper, is set to retire tomorrow.
Transition to a New Lift:
A modern triple-seater lift will replace the Segundo this fall, promising enhanced efficiency and better service for skiers.
Culinary Expansion: Michelin to Launch Southern U.S. Regional Guide
Southern Flavors Gain Recognition
Michelin is set to introduce its first regional dining guide for the Southern United States, encompassing Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, the Carolinas, Georgia, and Tennessee. This marks a significant acknowledgment of the region's rich culinary landscape.
Matt Bloom on Michelin’s Initiative:
"Inspectors are already scouting for culinary gems in a region renowned for its hearty soul food. A list of finalists in the U.S. South is expected later this year."
— Matt Bloom, New Orleans [04:04]
Sports Update: College Basketball Championships on the Horizon
Women's Championship Preview
Tomorrow afternoon will feature the women's college basketball championship between the Connecticut Huskies and the South Carolina Gamecocks.
Men's Final Four Action Tonight
Tonight's matchups include Florida versus Auburn, followed by Houston taking on Duke at 8:49 PM Eastern. These games will determine which teams advance to the men's championship game scheduled for Monday.
Jeanine Herbst’s Sports Roundup:
"Be sure to tune in for an exciting finish to the college basketball season."
— Jeanine Herbst [04:42]
Stay informed with NPR News Now for the latest updates on national and international events.