NPR News Now: April 19, 2025, 11 AM EDT Summary

Nora Ramm hosts the latest episode of NPR News Now, delivering a comprehensive overview of the day's most pressing issues. This summary captures the key discussions, insights, and developments reported across various segments.

Supreme Court Temporarily Halts Deportation of Venezuelan Men

At [00:16], host Nora Ramm introduces a significant Supreme Court decision blocking the Trump administration from deporting a group of Venezuelan men under an outdated wartime statute. This statute permits expedited deportations for foreigners classified as threats. NPR's Juliana Kim provides an in-depth report:

“The Supreme Court brief came early Saturday morning. It ordered the Trump administration to halt deportations for Venezuelans held in a detention center in northern Texas.” ([00:37])

Juliana outlines that the Trump administration had labeled these individuals as gang members, prompting the intervention after the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) raised concerns about the rapid preparation for removals under the Alien Enemies Act. Despite Supreme Court restrictions on the statute's application, approximately one hundred migrants have already been deported, including a case where a man was sent to a prison in El Salvador.

Senator Chris Van Hollen Advocates for Due Process in Deportation Cases

Returning at [01:20], Nora Ramm reports on Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen's visit to El Salvador to meet Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was illegally deported to a Salvadoran prison. While unable to visit the facility directly, Garcia was transported to Van Hollen's hotel for their meeting. The Senator emphasizes the broader implications for the rule of law:

“As I said, and the courts have said, from the Supreme Court to the Fourth Circuit to the district court, what this is about is adhering to the Constitution, to the right of due process.” ([01:41])

Van Hollen highlights that Garcia was mistakenly deported and has since been moved to a detention center with improved conditions. A federal appeals court confirmed last week that Garcia is entitled to due process, underscoring the importance of constitutional rights in immigration enforcement.

US and Iran Resume Indirect Nuclear Talks in Rome

At [02:03], the focus shifts to international relations as the United States and Iran embark on the second round of indirect negotiations concerning Iran's nuclear program. NPR's Adil El Shalchi reports from Rome:

“The Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Arakchi, met with the Italian Foreign Minister ahead of indirect talks with US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.” ([02:33])

These discussions, mediated by Omani Foreign Minister, follow the initial talks held in Muscat last weekend. Topics include the potential lifting of American sanctions on Iran and the ongoing concerns regarding Iran's nuclear capabilities. President Trump has expressed a preference for a diplomatic resolution but has also threatened military action if negotiations fail. The talks are a continuation of efforts following Trump's withdrawal from the Obama-era nuclear agreement aimed at limiting Iran's nuclear scope.

Tragic Plane Crash in Nebraska Claims Three Lives

Nora Ramm updates listeners at [03:11] on a tragic incident involving a small plane crash in Nebraska. Federal authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident near Fremont, approximately 37 miles west of Omaha. The sheriff's office confirmed the recovery of three bodies, highlighting the ongoing efforts to understand the cause of the crash.

Nationwide Protests Mobilize Against President Trump's Policies

At [03:45], NPR's Bruce Konfeiser reports on the surge of rallies, protests, and civic events scheduled across the United States. Organized under the banner of the "50:51 Movement"—standing for "50 States, 50 Protest, 1 Movement"—these grassroots events aim to challenge President Trump's policy agenda. Key focuses include:

• Immigration: Demonstrators oppose federal ICE raids and deportations, advocating for immigrant rights.

• Climate Change: With Earth Day approaching, activists are intensifying calls to combat climate change, opposing Trump's executive orders aimed at revitalizing the coal industry.

• Democracy: Reflecting on recent events, including the "Hands Off" rally, thousands have protested what they perceive as President Trump's assault on democratic institutions.

Bruce Konfeiser notes the decentralized nature of the movement, with each state tailoring events to local issues while maintaining a unified stance against the current administration's policies.

Commemorating 250 Years of the American Revolution

Marking a significant historical milestone, at [04:26], Nora Ramm shares that April 19, 2025, marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution's inception. Thousands have gathered in Massachusetts to witness reenactments of the pivotal battles of Lexington and Concord. Reenactors armed with 18th-century muskets have faithfully recreated the "shot heard round the world," bringing history to life for attendees.

Organizers anticipate hundreds of thousands of visitors participating in events throughout the weekend, celebrating the enduring legacy of the Revolution and its impact on contemporary American society.

NPR News Now continues to provide timely updates and in-depth coverage of major events shaping the nation and the world.