NPR News Now: April 27, 2025

Host: NPR
Episode Release Date: April 27, 2025
Duration: Approximately 5 minutes

1. Vatican Enters Mourning Period for Pope Francis and Prepares for Conclave

Reporter: Silvia Poggioli
Timestamp: [00:18] - [01:19]

Following the passing of Pope Francis, the Vatican has initiated a nine-day period of mourning. Pope Francis was laid to rest in Rome on Saturday after his funeral services. During this period, the College of Cardinals will convene to commence the conclave, tasked with selecting his successor. This conclave is mandated to begin within 15 to 20 days following the pope’s death.

Silvia Poggioli highlights the significant influence Pope Francis had on the composition of the current College of Cardinals. "Francis appointed some 80% of the voting age cardinals. He selected some from areas of the world where there never had been any cardinals before in history,” Poggioli explains ([00:43]). This diverse and geographically expansive group of cardinals brings fresh perspectives, as many hail from regions that have rarely, if ever, been represented in Vatican circles. Poggioli emphasizes the importance of this period for the cardinals: “This is going to be a very important time for all of them to exchange views and to discuss the state of the Catholic Church, what they think should be its future direction, its primary focus, and so forth." The interactions during these nine days are critical as cardinals assess alliances, promote their preferred candidates, and lay the groundwork for the future leadership of the Catholic Church.

2. Texas Legislation Advances Statewide Private School Voucher Program

Reporter: Blaise Gainey
Timestamp: [01:19] - [02:27]

In Texas, significant progress has been made in the realm of education reform. After years of stalled efforts, a new bill establishing a statewide private school voucher program is now on the governor's desk. Blaise Gainey reports that since 2013, the Texas Senate had repeatedly passed voucher-like initiatives, but these efforts were consistently thwarted by the House.

The current bill's passage follows a contentious primary that eliminated several Republican legislators opposed to the voucher approach. Senator Brandon Creighton expressed his enthusiasm upon the bill’s approval: “Here we are with a bigger bill serving more students, focusing on income vulnerable and special needs” ([02:00]). The expanded legislation allocates $1 billion initially, making it the largest upfront investment of its kind, and is projected to reach nearly $4 billion by 2030. This program will provide families with education savings accounts, enabling them to choose private schooling for their children. Gainey notes, “Texas getting it done is a good sign for proponents who hope to push a similar effort on the federal level” ([02:08]). The successful passage in Texas is seen as a potential blueprint for nationwide adoption of private school voucher programs.

3. Devastating Explosion in Southern Iran Leaves 14 Dead and Hundreds Injured

Reporter: Mike Thompson
Timestamp: [02:27] - [03:10]

A catastrophic explosion has struck a port city in southern Iran, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals and injuring approximately 750 others. The BBC's Mike Thompson provides a detailed account of the incident. Footage reveals massive columns of black smoke emanating from the port, with the explosion’s force shattering windows over a wide radius and audible up to 25 kilometers away.

Authorities have indicated that multiple shipping containers on the wharf detonated, with state TV reporting that negligence in handling flammable materials may have been a contributing factor. Some of the affected containers were reportedly carrying dangerous chemicals. However, related infrastructure, including the port's extensive oil facilities, appear to have remained unharmed. Mike Thompson elaborates, “The huge explosion shattered windows all around and could be heard from more than 25 km away” ([02:38]). The incident underscores ongoing safety concerns within Iran’s industrial and shipping sectors.

4. President Trump Casts Doubt on Russia’s Commitment to Ending the War in Ukraine

Reporter: Dan Ronan
Timestamp: [03:10] - [03:57]

President Donald Trump has publicly expressed skepticism regarding Russia’s genuine interest in ceasing hostilities in Ukraine. In a series of posts on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump questioned the sincerity of Russia’s peace overtures. This stance comes shortly after he remarked that Ukraine and Russia were "very close to a deal."

During the funeral services for Pope Francis at the Vatican, President Trump had a brief 15-minute meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The two leaders sat face-to-face inside the church, marking a significant moment of diplomatic engagement amidst ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe.

In a separate development, the woman who accused Prince Andrew of inappropriate behavior in connection with the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking scandal, Virginia Giuffre, has tragically taken her own life in Australia. Scott Maiman reports that Giuffre, 41, was recovering from a serious car accident at a remote farm property in Western Australia when she died ([03:57]). Her family released a statement mourning her loss, emphasizing her role as a courageous voice for abuse survivors.

5. Passing of Alexis Herman, Trailblazing Former Labor Secretary

Reporter: Dan Ronan
Timestamp: [04:34] - [04:56]

The United States mourns the loss of Alexis Herman, former Labor Secretary under President Bill Clinton. At age 77, Herman was renowned as the first African American woman to serve in this pivotal role. Her groundbreaking career paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in government.

Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton issued statements expressing their deep sorrow over Herman’s passing. "She was a trailblazer and a dedicated public servant whose contributions have left an indelible mark on our nation," they stated. Herman's legacy includes her efforts in advancing labor rights, economic development, and educational opportunities, making her a respected figure in both political and social arenas.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now delivered a comprehensive overview of pivotal events spanning international affairs, national policy changes, and significant social issues. From the Vatican's solemn mourning and the strategic maneuvers within the Catholic Church's leadership to groundbreaking educational reforms in Texas, the news covered pressing and diverse topics. The tragic explosion in Iran highlights ongoing global safety concerns, while President Trump's diplomatic activities and the heartbreaking death of Virginia Giuffre shed light on complex geopolitical and social dynamics. Finally, the passing of Alexis Herman marks the end of an era for a key figure in American politics. This summary encapsulates the essence of the latest developments, providing listeners with insightful and detailed information on the day's most critical news stories.