NPR News Now: Episode Summary – April 12, 2025
Host: Dale Willman
Release Date: April 12, 2025
Duration: 5 Minutes
Justice Department Faces Scrutiny Over Deportation Case
The episode begins with a tense legal battle involving the Justice Department and the deportation of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident mistakenly sent to a prison in El Salvador. NPR’s Jasmine Garst reports that federal Judge Paula Zini reprimanded Justice Department lawyers during a recent hearing. This follows a Supreme Court decision that upheld Judge Zini's original order to facilitate Garcia's return to the United States. The Department has sought additional time, asserting the need for "a meaningful opportunity to review the Supreme Court's decision" ([00:35]). Judge Zini emphasized that the government was "prohibited from sending Abrego Garcia to El Salvador in the first place" and has mandated daily updates on efforts to rectify the situation ([00:35]).
Trade War Negatively Impacts American Consumer Sentiment
In an analysis of economic trends, NPR’s Scott Horsley discusses the deteriorating consumer sentiment linked to President Trump’s ongoing trade war with China. Referencing a University of Michigan survey, Horsley highlights that consumer confidence has plummeted by 30% since the end of the previous year. Individuals across the political spectrum are expressing increased pessimism regarding business conditions, personal finances, and inflation. Notably, concerns about the job market have more than doubled since November, reaching levels not seen since 2009 when the U.S. economy faced significant job losses ([01:33]). The survey coincided with Trump’s announcement of sweeping tariffs on global imports, although it does not reflect his partial policy reversals later that week ([01:33]).
Trump Administration Proposes Significant Cuts to NOAA's Budget
Alejandra Barunda reports on the Trump administration's draft budget, which includes substantial reductions to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The proposed cuts align closely with the Heritage Foundation’s "The Conservative Project 2025," advocating for the dismantling of NOAA’s research wing, the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, and the elimination of all climate-focused research ([02:27]). Additionally, the budget aims to slash the National Marine Fisheries Service’s budget by approximately 30%. Critics from the energy sector and former NOAA leaders argue that these measures would "gut the agency and hurt its ability to keep Americans safe" ([02:27]). NPR has reached out to the Commerce Department for a response but has not yet received a comment ([02:27]).
Escalation in US-China Trade War with New Tariffs
The episode continues with developments in the trade war between the United States and China. China has announced an increase in tariffs on U.S. goods, raising them from 84% to 125%. This move is a direct response to President Trump's earlier decision to impose tariffs of up to 145% on Chinese imports ([03:11]). China has condemned the U.S. actions as "economic bullying," escalating tensions between the world's two largest economies. The newly announced tariffs are scheduled to take effect later that day, further intensifying the trade conflict ([03:11]).
Oscars to Honor Stunt Work Starting in 2027
In cultural news, Mandalit Del Barco reports that the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will introduce a new competitive award category for stunt design beginning in 2027. This decision comes after years of advocacy by stunt performers seeking recognition for their contributions to cinema. Actor Ryan Gosling, who portrayed a stuntman in the 2024 film The Fall Guy, honored stunt performers at last year's Academy Awards with the statement: "From the depths of space to the battlefields of earth and beyond, stunt performers and the action they design continue to create some of the most memorable moments in the history of cinema" ([04:06]). The new category aims to formally acknowledge the artistry and risk involved in stunt coordination ([04:20]).
Masters Golf Tournament: Justin Rose Leads
Shifting to sports, Dale Willman provides an update on the Masters Golf Tournament in Augusta. Justin Rose is currently leading the competition after shooting a 71 on Friday, holding a one-stroke advantage over Bryson DeChambeau. Rory McIlroy is in second place, trailing Rose by two shots ([04:37]). As the tournament progresses, observers are keenly watching Rose's performance in hopes of securing his position as the champion ([04:37]).
This episode of NPR News Now delivers a comprehensive overview of significant national and international issues, spanning legal battles, economic concerns, governmental budget proposals, international trade tensions, cultural recognitions, and major sports events. Each segment is presented with insightful reporting and authoritative quotes, ensuring listeners are well-informed on the latest developments.