NPR News Now: April 15, 2025, 1 PM EDT

NPR News Now delivers the latest updates in just five minutes, covering a broad spectrum of national and international news. This episode, hosted by Windsor Johnston, delves into pressing issues ranging from immigration and international trade tensions to high-profile legal trials and public health policies. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key topics discussed, complete with notable quotes and timestamps for reference.

1. Immigration and Legal Proceedings: The Case of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia

[00:18 - 01:13]

The episode opens with a critical look at the ongoing legal battle surrounding Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, who was erroneously deported from Maryland to El Salvador. NPR's Jimena Bustillo reports on the Trump administration's refusal to comply with federal court orders aimed at facilitating Garcia's return.

• Jimena Bustillo highlights the gravity of the situation: “Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia was deported by mistake to El Salvador. Last month, a Maryland judge ordered the Trump administration to take steps to facilitate his return, a decision later supported by all nine Supreme Court justices.” [00:44]

Despite the unanimous support from the Supreme Court, both former President Trump and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele have declared no intentions to repatriate Garcia. The episode underscores the administration's reluctance, with a federal judge set to question the adequacy of efforts made to resolve the matter. This case exemplifies the broader challenges within the U.S. immigration system and the complexities of intergovernmental cooperation.

2. U.S.-China Trade Tensions and the Boeing Impact

[01:13 - 01:51]

The discussion shifts to the escalating trade war between the United States and China, particularly focusing on the aviation sector. NPR's Scott Horsley reports significant developments impacting U.S. exporters.

• Scott Horsley details the retaliatory measures: “Bloomberg reports that China's government has ordered airlines in that country not to accept any more jets from Boeing. That's the latest move in the U.S.-China trade war.” [01:25]

This downturn has tangible consequences for Boeing, with its stock experiencing a decline following the Chinese government's directive. In contrast, Bank of America has seen a rise in its shares, bolstered by better-than-expected quarterly profits. [01:40] Bank CEO Brian Moynihan comments on the economic outlook, noting, “We are not projecting a U.S. recession this year, although I acknowledge what I called a changing economy in the future.” [01:40]

The episode examines how these trade tensions are reshaping market dynamics and the broader implications for international trade relationships.

3. Harvey Weinstein’s Resurgence in the Courtroom

[01:51 - 02:47]

A major highlight is the continuation of Harvey Weinstein's legal battles. Windsor Johnston informs listeners that jury selection is underway for Weinstein’s second trial in Manhattan, where he faces multiple charges of rape and sexual assault.

• Ilia Maritz provides background: “Weinstein was convicted in 2020 on felony sex crimes charges and sentenced to 23 years, but an appeals court overturned that verdict last year, ruling that the trial judge allowed some testimony, which the jury should not have heard.” [02:09]

In this renewed trial, three women are expected to testify against Weinstein, who remains steadfast in his plea of not guilty. The coverage reflects on Weinstein's influential yet controversial legacy in Hollywood, with credits like Pulp Fiction and Good Will Hunting juxtaposed against his criminal convictions. The episode underscores the perseverance of victims seeking justice and the legal system's role in addressing high-profile sexual misconduct cases.

4. Tax Day Deadlines and IRS Guidance

[02:47 - 03:52]

As Tax Day approaches, the episode provides crucial information for millions of Americans facing the April 15, 2025, filing deadline.

• Windsor Johnston advises: “If you can't file your information by today, the IRS says you should apply for an automatic six-month extension.” **[02:47]

Additionally, residents in Maine, Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C., may receive a brief extension of an extra day or two due to observed holidays. The segment also touches on Wall Street movements, noting that “The Dow was up 32 points. The Nasdaq composite up.” [02:57]

This segment serves as a timely guide for taxpayers, ensuring they are aware of their options to avoid penalties and stay compliant with federal tax obligations.

5. Public Health and Social Services: Arkansas SNAP Program Changes

[03:52 - 04:33]

The episode examines recent policy shifts in Arkansas concerning the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced initiatives to ban soft drinks and candy from SNAP benefits, aiming to enhance the health standards of program participants.

• Windsor Johnston explains: “Officials in Arkansas are taking steps to ban soft drinks and candy from the program that helps low-income families pay for groceries. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders says the request is aimed at improving the health of residents who participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.” **[02:47]

However, this move has sparked controversy among Democratic lawmakers, who argue that such restrictions could disproportionately affect families relying on SNAP for nutritious food options.

6. Medicaid Cuts and the Fight Against Fentanyl Addiction

[03:52 - 04:33]

Continuing on public health, NPR's Ryan Mann discusses the Republican push for substantial budget cuts targeting Medicaid, which currently serves as the primary insurance source for individuals seeking treatment for fentanyl addiction and other substance abuses.

• Ryan Mann underscores the impact: “Republicans are pushing for deep budget cuts that many experts say will shrink Medicaid, the biggest source of insurance coverage in the US for people seeking treatment for fentanyl and other forms of addiction.” [04:10]

Democratic members of Congress's Joint Economic Committee have highlighted that such cuts could disenfranchise hundreds of thousands already dependent on Medicaid for drug treatment. A Brookings Institution study further warns that reduced Medicaid funding could severely impact hospitals and clinics in low-income, rural, and urban areas. Despite a decline in drug overdose deaths, attributed partly to increased access to affordable treatment, the proposed cuts threaten to reverse these gains, critically endangering public health initiatives.

7. Natural Events: Elephants' Behavior During the San Diego Earthquake

[04:33 - 05:02]

In a unique and heartwarming story, the episode concludes with footage and analysis of elephants at the San Diego Zoo reacting to a recent earthquake.

• Windsor Johnston narrates: “Elephants at the San Diego Zoo turned to each other for support during yesterday's magnitude 5.2 earthquake. A video shows five African elephant moms racing to protect their calves shortly after the ground began shaking. They remain huddled and on alert for several minutes even after the tremors passed.” **[04:33]

This segment highlights animal behavior in response to natural disasters, showcasing the empathy and protective instincts of elephants, and serving as a metaphor for community and resilience in times of crisis.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now provides a thorough overview of significant events shaping the socio-political landscape in April 2025. From legal battles and international trade disputes to public health policies and remarkable animal behavior, the summary encapsulates the essence of each story, offering listeners a well-rounded perspective on current affairs.

For those who missed the broadcast, this detailed account ensures you stay informed on the pivotal issues affecting communities both domestically and globally.