NPR News Now
Episode: NPR News: 04-19-2025 4PM EDT
Release Date: April 19, 2025
Host: Nora Ramm
Supreme Court Blocks Deportation of Venezuelans Under Alien Enemies Act
Timestamp: [00:20]
In a significant ruling early Thursday morning, the Supreme Court ordered the Trump administration to halt the deportation of Venezuelan nationals detained at a Texas facility. This injunction is based on the 1798 Alien Enemies Act, which permits the government to deport foreigners deemed threats during wartime. However, the administration had previously transferred hundreds of migrants to a prison in El Salvador without confirming their threat level.
Meg Anderson elaborated, stating, “U.S. Courts have said that the people taken to El Salvador got limited or no due process before they were sent there, something they are legally entitled to. And now that they're in El Salvador, the administration is saying they no longer have control over what happens to them.” [00:55]
Widespread Protests Against President Trump's Policies
Timestamp: [01:11]
Across the United States, hundreds rallied to oppose President Trump's recent policies. Bruce Konweiser reported from New York, highlighting that while the crowd size had diminished compared to earlier protests, the fervor and concern remained palpable.
Jennifer Fisher, a protester, voiced her apprehensions: “I am worried for our democracy, so I have read that the best way to bring down attentive authoritarians is to take to the streets.” [01:32]
The demonstrators brandished American flags and placards, some targeting President Trump and his advisor, Elon Musk, with chants demanding Trump's incarceration and Musk's deportation. [01:43]
Commemoration of the Oklahoma City Bombing Anniversary
Timestamp: [01:56]
April 19 marks the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing, the deadliest domestic terrorist attack in U.S. history that claimed 168 lives. President Bill Clinton addressed the Remembrance Service, reflecting on the motives behind the attack.
Bill Clinton remarked, “The domestic terrorists who did this awful thing believed that it would spark a nationwide upheaval against the American government.” [02:11]
He further emphasized the resilience of the community: “Instead, the people of Oklahoma City came together.” [02:26]
Renewed Iran-US Nuclear Negotiations
Timestamp: [02:26]
In a diplomatic development, Iran and the United States are set to engage in another round of nuclear talks next week. These discussions follow an indirect negotiation framework, utilizing an Omani official as an intermediary, similar to the recent talks in Muscat that both parties described as constructive.
Megan Williams reported from Rome, stating, “The US wants Iran to scale back uranium enrichment and allow tougher international inspections. Iran wants sanctions relief in return.” The negotiations revive direct engagement not seen since 2015 under President Barack Obama, despite internal pressures within the U.S. administration, particularly from Israel, urging a cessation of dialogue.
Putin Announces Temporary Easter Ceasefire in Ukraine
Timestamp: [03:21]
Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine during the Easter period, effective from the evening through midnight the following day. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the announcement, characterizing it as another manipulative tactic by Putin.
Zelensky asserted, “Air raid alerts continue to sound across my country,” underscoring the ongoing volatility and scepticism surrounding the ceasefire. [03:21]
Measles Outbreak Confirmed in Montana After 35 Years
Timestamp: [03:21]
Montana has reported its first measles cases in 35 years, with five confirmed infections in Gallatin County. Erin Bolton from Montana Public Radio detailed that the affected individuals had recently traveled and were either unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination statuses. All cases have been isolated, but there is potential exposure within the community.
The state faces challenges in tracking vaccination rates due to a 2021 law that ceased the reporting of such data in schools. Attempts to reinstate data collection have stalled in the legislature, complicating public health responses. [03:56]
Celebrations Kick Off National Park Week
Timestamp: [04:37]
April 19 also marks the beginning of National Park Week, a month-long celebration by the National Park Service to honor over 400 national parks across the United States. This year, entrance fees are waived to encourage more visitors, especially those unable to travel extensively. The Park Service is encouraging enthusiasts to share their experiences on social media to foster a sense of community and appreciation for these natural treasures.
Note: This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the NPR News Now episode released on April 19, 2025. For detailed coverage, listeners are encouraged to access the full episode through NPR's platforms.