NPR News Now: April 13, 2025, 8 PM EDT
Host: Jeanine Herbst
Reporter: Luke Garrett, Joanna Kakisis, David Folkenflick
Release Date: April 14, 2025
U.S. Tariffs on Imported Electronics and Semiconductors
[00:18] Jeanine Herbst opens the episode by addressing recent developments in U.S. trade policy under the Trump administration. Initially, the administration announced that imported electronics, including computers and smartphones, would not face additional tariffs. However, a shift in strategy has emerged as top economic leaders signal impending changes.
[00:36] Reporter Luke Garrett elaborates on the situation, highlighting that major tech companies like Apple, Nvidia, and Microsoft currently benefit from exemption from steep reciprocal tariff rates. Despite this, Kevin Hassett, Trump's Director of the National Economic Council, disclosed to CNN that new tariffs targeting semiconductors—a critical component in electronics—are imminent. Hassett emphasizes the national security implications, stating:
“Semiconductors are the key important part of a lot of defense equipment.”
[00:52]
[01:02] Howard Lutnick, Commerce Secretary, informed ABC News that these semiconductor tariffs are expected to be implemented within the next couple of months. Lutnick clarified:
“So what he's doing is he's saying they're exempt from the reciprocal tariffs, but they're included in the semiconductor tariffs, which are coming in probably a month or two.”
[01:02]
[01:13] In a subsequent social media post on Sunday, President Trump clarified that all Chinese technology remains subject to a 20% fentanyl tariff, reinforcing the administration's tough stance on trade with China.
Arson Attack on Pennsylvania Governor's Mansion
[01:22] Jeanine Herbst reports a concerning incident in Pennsylvania involving Cody Ballmer, a 38-year-old man apprehended in connection with an arson attack on the governor's mansion early that morning.
[01:33] Howard Lutnick provides additional details, outlining the severe charges Ballmer faces:
“The charges will include attempted murder, terrorism, aggravated arson and aggravated assault against an enumerated person. These are all very serious charges.”
[01:33]
[01:45] Ballmer reportedly bypassed security by jumping a fence and evaded state troopers before forcibly entering the residence. He set the mansion ablaze using homemade incendiary devices and fled the scene. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, though the mansion sustained significant damage. Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were inside, asleep during the attack. The FBI is conducting a security review, and investigators are still probing Ballmer's motive.
Russian Missile Strikes in Ukraine
[02:30] Joanna Kakisis covers the escalating conflict in Ukraine, where President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned recent Russian ballistic missile attacks on a populous northeastern city. The strikes resulted in at least 34 fatalities and over 100 injuries.
[02:45] Zelensky, in his nightly video address, called for accountability, stating:
“Wars end when war crimes are not forgotten, and when enough pressure is put on the aggressor. That's not the case now.”
[02:45]
He urged the international community to hold Russia accountable, highlighting that continued aggression only prolongs the war. The attacks followed a fragile ceasefire brokered by the U.S. a month prior, which Russia has since violated. Visual footage from the aftermath depicted widespread destruction, including burning vehicles, collapsed buildings, and numerous casualties. World leaders, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have condemned the assault.
Rory McIlroy's Historic Victory at the Masters
[03:07] In sports news, Rory McIlroy made history by winning his first green jacket at the Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia. This victory cements his status among golf's all-time greats, making him only the sixth golfer to achieve a Grand Slam, having won the Masters, the U.S. Open, the British Open, and the PGA Championship.
Sarah Palin's Defamation Suit Against The New York Times
[03:07] Jeanine Herbst transitions to a legal battle involving former Alaska Governor and Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin. Palin is set to resume jury selection in her defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, with proceedings beginning the following day.
[03:50] Reporter David Folkenflick details the lawsuit's background:
“Palin filed the suit more than seven years ago after the Times published an editorial against heated rhetoric. It linked her political action committee's online ad to a mass shooting in Tucson, Arizona, that gravely wounded then Representative Gabby Giffords.”
[03:50]
Despite extensive deliberations, no concrete evidence emerged linking the online advertisement to the shooter's motivations. During jury deliberations, the presiding judge remarked:
“He would rule against Palin regardless, saying she hadn't proved she had a credible case.”
[03:50]
The jury previously found The New York Times not liable, although procedural irregularities arose when jurors received push alerts about the judge's stance before reaching a verdict. An appellate court has now sent the case back, prompting another round of legal proceedings. The New York Times has committed to vigorously defending itself in the renewed trial, amidst a backdrop of recent settlements by major media outlets in similar cases.
Pope Francis Makes Public Appearance
[04:36] In religious news, Pope Francis made a heartfelt appearance in St. Peter's Square today, greeting the faithful from his wheelchair at the conclusion of the Palm Sunday service. This marks his second public appearance following his discharge from the hospital three weeks prior, where he was treated for a respiratory tract infection. The 88-year-old pontiff's resilience continues to inspire millions around the globe.
Market Update and Additional Headlines
[03:07] U.S. futures showed positive movement, with Dow futures up approximately 0.4%, reflecting investor optimism amid the day's news.
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