NPR News Now: April 8, 2025, 9 PM EDT

Released on April 9, 2025

1. President Trump’s Trade Negotiations and Tariff Plans

Host: Jack Speer

In a significant move ahead of imposing potential double-digit tariffs, President Donald Trump addressed the nation regarding his administration's strategy on trade negotiations. Speaking at an event focused on reviving the coal industry, Trump emphasized the personalized approach his administration is taking with international trade agreements.

Notable Quote:

“We're doing very well in making, I call them tailored deals, not off the rack. These are tailored, highly tailored deals. Right now, Japan is flying here to make a deal, South Korea is flying here to make a deal, and others are flying here.”
— Donald Trump [00:42]

Trump highlighted that the administration is crafting “bespoke trade agreements” with any country willing to negotiate, signaling a departure from standardized trade policies. This approach aims to strengthen economic ties and protect American industries, particularly coal, amidst rising global competition.

2. IRS and ICE Collaboration on Immigrant Tax Information

Host: Joel Rose

A groundbreaking memorandum of understanding between the IRS and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has stirred controversy and concern among immigrant advocacy groups. The agreement allows ICE officers to request tax information from the IRS about immigrants facing removal or under criminal investigation.

Notable Quote:

“Instead of uplifting this work in the national interest, this administration has cut federal funding for research and fired science staff.”
— Luce Rivas, California Democrat [02:29]

Joel Rose explains that this collaboration marks a significant shift in data sharing, potentially undermining the trust immigrants have in the IRS. Tax experts warn that fearing scrutiny, undocumented immigrants may increasingly seek under-the-table employment, thereby impacting the economy and tax revenues.

3. House Hearing on U.S. Competitiveness and Artificial Intelligence

Host: Emily Fang

House Democrats convened to discuss the United States' standing in the realm of artificial intelligence and semiconductor technology. The hearing served as a platform for lawmakers to critique the Trump administration's recent budget cuts to federal science and health grants, which have resulted in the layoffs of thousands of government scientists.

Notable Quote:

“Instead of uplifting this work in the national interest, this administration has cut federal funding for research and fired science staff.”
— Luce Rivas, California Democrat [02:29]

Democratic representatives, including Luce Rivas, stressed the importance of sustaining research and innovation to remain competitive globally, especially against rapid advancements from Chinese tech companies. There was a bipartisan agreement on the need to increase incentives for innovation and AI development in the United States.

4. Severe Flooding in Kentucky Amidst Storms Across the U.S.

Host: Jack Speer

Recent days of intense rainfall have led to swollen rivers that continue to threaten communities in Kentucky. In Frankfort, floodwaters are gradually receding, with residents anticipating the possibility of returning to their homes by the following day. These floods are part of a broader series of storms that have tragically resulted in at least 23 fatalities across the southern and Midwestern United States.

5. Repatriation of Americans Convicted in the Democratic Republic of Congo Coup Attempt

Host: Manuel Okinwodo

In a notable diplomatic development, three U.S. citizens convicted for their involvement in a failed coup attempt in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have had their death sentences commuted to life imprisonment. These individuals are now being returned to the United States amidst ongoing negotiations between the DRC and the U.S. for a minerals deal.

Notable Quote:

“With the U.S., the three Americans convicted of a failed coup attempt last May will serve out their life sentences in the U.S. according to the DRC president's office.”
— Manuel Okinwodo [03:35]

Among the convicted is Marcel Malanga, the son of the DRC opposition figure Christian Malanga, who was killed during the coup attempt. The repatriation is part of broader efforts to improve bilateral relations and secure assistance from the U.S. in combating Rwanda-backed rebels in eastern Congo.

6. New Crew Arrives at the International Space Station

Host: Jack Speer

A new trio comprising a NASA astronaut and two Russian cosmonauts successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft. The crew's eight-month mission focuses on conducting scientific research and technology demonstrations crucial for future deep-space missions.

7. Crude Oil Prices Hit Four-Year Lows Amid U.S.-China Tensions

Host: Jack Speer

Crude oil futures have plunged to four-year lows, dropping by $1.12 per barrel in New York trading. This decline is attributed to mounting inflation fears and the potential for escalating conflict between the United States and China, the world’s two largest economies. The drop in oil prices reflects investor anxiety over global economic stability and the impact of geopolitical tensions on energy markets.

This summary provides an overview of the key discussions and developments covered in the NPR News Now episode from April 8, 2025. For detailed information, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full podcast.