NPR News Now: April 24, 2025, 4 PM EDT

NPR News Now delivered a comprehensive update on the latest national and international developments in its April 24, 2025 episode. Hosted by Lakshmi Singh, the episode covered a range of topics from education policy reforms and international trade tensions to significant milestones in space exploration and financial market movements. Below is a detailed summary of the key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented during the broadcast.

1. Federal Judges Block DEI Program Restrictions in Public Schools

[00:23 - 01:23]

Lakshmi Singh opened the episode by addressing a significant legal development affecting public education. She reported that two federal judges have temporarily halted the Trump administration's directive requiring public schools to certify that they do not promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. This move comes after the administration threatened to withhold federal funds, including Title I funds aimed at supporting low-income students, from schools that refuse to comply.

Janaki Mehta elaborated on the situation, explaining that the Trump administration had mandated school leaders across all 50 states to submit letters affirming their schools' non-promotion of DEI initiatives. While about a dozen Democratic state leaders resisted signing the certification, several Republican-led states complied. However, the federal judges' decision prevents the U.S. Department of Education from enforcing these DEI-related orders for the time being.

Janaki Mehta: "Two federal judges have ruled against the Trump administration, temporarily preventing the U.S. Department of Education from enforcing the DEI orders it has sent to K through 12 schools."
[00:39]

This ruling marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over the role of DEI programs in public education and the extent of federal influence on local schooling policies.

2. Escalating U.S.-China Trade War and Diplomatic Nuances

[01:23 - 02:00]

Lakshmi Singh transitioned to the escalating trade tensions between the United States and China, highlighting efforts by President Trump to recalibrate the strained relationship.

Asma Khalid reported that while Trump claims active engagement in trade discussions with Beijing, Chinese authorities have publicly denied any ongoing negotiations. The Chinese Foreign Ministry and Commerce Ministry stated, "there are no talks underway with the US about trade," directly contradicting Trump's assertions.

When pressed for clarification, Trump responded ambiguously:

Donald Trump: "Well, they had a meeting this morning, so I can't tell you it doesn't matter who they is. We may reveal it later, but they had meetings this morning and we've been meeting with China."
[01:49]

Khalid noted that Trump's comments coincide with a noticeable softening of his tone amid recent stock market volatility and economic uncertainties, suggesting a strategic shift in his approach to handling the trade war.

3. U.S.-Russia Relations Amid Ukraine Conflict

[02:11 - 02:40]

Shifting focus to international relations, Lakshmi Singh reported on President Trump's response to recent Russian airstrikes targeting Ukraine's capital.

Michelle Kellerman provided insights from an Oval Office meeting between Trump and Norway's Prime Minister. Trump expressed his discontent with Russia's actions but stopped short of categorizing Russia as an "obstacle to peace."

Donald Trump: "The war, stopping taking the whole country. Pretty big concession."
[02:34]

Kellerman added that despite Trump's willingness to consider concessions, Russia's control over annexed regions in Ukraine remains tenuous. European nations, committed to opposing Russia's territorial ambitions, are wary of any actions that might reward Russia for its military endeavors. Norway's Prime Minister acknowledged his discussions with Trump, appreciating the U.S. President's efforts to negotiate a ceasefire, though the path to peace remains complicated.

4. Legal Challenges to Voter Registration Reforms

[03:04 - 03:57]

Lakshmi Singh then addressed a critical legal challenge to an executive order influencing voter registration processes. A federal judge in Washington, D.C., has paused parts of an executive order that critics argue could disenfranchise millions of potential voters. Specifically, the order directed the Independent Election Assistance Commission to modify the National Mail Voter Registration form, a move met with significant opposition.

This judicial intervention underscores the ongoing debates over voting rights and the mechanisms to ensure broad and fair voter participation amidst changing electoral landscapes.

5. Financial Markets Update: Mortgage Rates and Stock Performance

[03:04 - 04:45]

In a brief financial segment, Singh highlighted positive trends in the mortgage market. According to Freddie Mac, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage has decreased to 6.81%, while the 15-year fixed rate has eased to 5.94%. These lower rates are beneficial for homebuyers and those looking to refinance, potentially stimulating the housing market.

Additionally, Singh reported on the stock market's performance, noting that the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed up by 486 points, or more than 1%, reflecting investor optimism amid economic fluctuations.

6. 35th Anniversary of the Hubble Space Telescope

[03:57 - 04:45]

Celebrating a milestone in astronomical research, Nell Greenfield Boyce recounted the 35th anniversary of the Hubble Space Telescope. Launched in 1990 aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery, Hubble has been instrumental in expanding our understanding of the universe despite initial setbacks, including a flawed primary mirror that required corrective optics from astronauts.

Boyce emphasized Hubble's enduring legacy, noting its iconic imagery that has permeated popular culture and its continued relevance in scientific research, even as it operates with limited gyroscopic functions. The telescope remains a vital asset for astronomers, providing invaluable data and stunning visuals that continue to inspire both the scientific community and the public alike.

Nell Greenfield Boyce: "Once astronauts installed corrective optics, Hubble's gorgeous images became part of popular culture on everything from lunchboxes to U Haul rental trucks."
[04:12]

7. Updates from China's Tiangong Space Station

[04:45 - 05:02]

Concluding the episode, Lakshmi Singh provided updates on China's space endeavors. A new craft successfully docked with the Tiangong Space Station, bringing three astronauts to the outpost while three others prepare to return home. This development signifies China's advancing capabilities in sustained human presence in low Earth orbit and its commitment to expanding its space exploration infrastructure.

Conclusion

The April 24, 2025 episode of NPR News Now encapsulated a diverse array of newsworthy topics, offering listeners a thorough overview of current events shaping education policy, international relations, financial markets, and scientific achievements. Through expert reporting and timely updates, NPR continues to inform and engage its audience with reliable information across multiple domains.