NPR News Now: May 4, 2025, 8 PM EDT
Host: Jeanine Herbst
Release Date: May 5, 2025
Source: NPR
1. President Trump Questions Due Process and Emphasizes Deportations
Timestamp: [00:21]
In a significant departure from traditional stances, President Donald Trump expressed uncertainty about the universal application of due process under the Constitution. Addressing his administration's priorities, Trump stated, "I don't know if every person in the US is entitled to due process under the Constitution." He emphasized that the administration's focus remains on deporting individuals residing in the United States illegally.
During a comprehensive interview on NBC's Meet the Press, Trump addressed economic concerns, notably his trade policies. "I'm not worried about a recession," he asserted, despite ongoing trade wars with multiple countries. NPR's Asma Khalid provided further analysis on these developments.
Timestamp: [00:46]
Asma Khalid explained that Trump's administration has implemented and subsequently adjusted sweeping tariffs across various nations. Currently, a 10% tariff remains on many global imports, aiming to leverage better trade agreements. Despite recent economic advisers hinting at imminent deals, no formal agreements have materialized yet. Khalid noted, "Trade deals take a really long time to figure out in terms of the nitty-gritty details," underscoring the complexity of international negotiations.
2. Delays in Veterans Affairs Health Care Raise Concerns
Timestamp: [01:14]
Military veterans are increasingly experiencing delays in receiving health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Chuck Kuernbach from WUWM reported on a roundtable hosted by Wisconsin Democratic Senator Tammy Baldwin.
Timestamp: [01:32]
Ryan McCants, an Army veteran wounded in Afghanistan, shared his struggles with accessing VA health services. "I just called three days ago to try and schedule a new appointment with my therapist. I can't get in until mid-August to see my therapist," McCants recounted, highlighting the growing wait times for both physical and mental health care.
Timestamp: [02:02]
VA Secretary Doug Collins is set to testify before a Senate committee this week. He has proposed a reduction of up to 15% in the VA's workforce, assuring that this cut will not compromise the quality of veterans' healthcare services. The proposal has sparked debate among veterans and policymakers alike.
3. Missile Attack Near Israel's Main Airport by Houthi Rebels
Timestamp: [02:20]
Israel faces heightened tensions after a missile, launched by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen, landed near its main airport. Carrie Khan reported that the missile debris fell near Ben Gurion Airport, causing widespread alarm.
Timestamp: [02:31]
Sirens sounded across central Israel, including in Tel Aviv, forcing residents into bomb shelters and temporarily halting flights. While most missiles from Yemen are intercepted, this incident marks a breach of Israeli airspace, resulting in damage and heightened security measures.
A Yemeni official indicated that the attack serves as a warning to international airlines to refrain from using Israel's main airport since the onset of the Gaza conflict. In response, Israel's Defense Minister vowed decisive retaliation: "Whoever harms us, we will harm them sevenfold," signaling a firm stance against such attacks.
4. Brazil Foils Planned Bombing at Lady Gaga Concert
Timestamp: [03:15]
Authorities in Brazil successfully disrupted a planned bombing targeting a free outdoor Lady Gaga concert, arresting two individuals involved. The plot aimed to carry out attacks using improvised explosive devices against LGBTQ attendees.
The Brazilian Ministry of Justice and Public Security revealed that the conspiracy was orchestrated by an extremist network operating online, seeking to radicalize youth and incite hate crimes. This incident underscores the ongoing global challenges in combating online radicalization and protecting vulnerable communities.
Timestamp: [03:15 - 04:53]
In entertainment news, Marvel's latest film, Thunderbolts, has kicked off its box office run positively. NPR's Bob Mondello highlighted that despite focusing on lesser-known Marvel characters, the movie amassed approximately $162 million globally within its first three days. While not the highest earner for a Marvel franchise, Thunderbolts benefited from a modest production budget and is expected to perform steadily throughout the summer.
Additionally, Lady Gaga's free concert in Brazil attracted a record crowd of 2 million attendees, surpassing Madonna's previous record of 1.6 million at her concert in the same country last year. The massive turnout reflects Gaga's enduring popularity and the public's enthusiasm for accessible live performances.
5. Box Office Highlights: Thunderbolts and Sinners
Timestamp: [04:11]
Bob Mondello provided an update on the box office performance of Thunderbolts, Marvel's ensemble featuring minor characters. By the weekend's end, the film grossed $76 million in North America and $86 million internationally.
Timestamp: [04:19]
Mondello noted, "By the end of the weekend, it will have taken in about $76 million in North America and another $86 million overseas, for a total of $162 million in three days."
Despite modest earnings compared to other Marvel titles, Thunderbolts remains financially viable, given its lower production costs. The film's success is buoyed by strong summer attendance projections.
Furthermore, the vampire-themed film Sinners continues to perform robustly, having amassed nearly $180 million in North America alone. Its unique blend of blues-inflected horror elements has resonated with audiences, ensuring sustained box office traction.
Closing Remarks
Jeanine Herbst wrapped up the episode, emphasizing the diverse range of stories covered, from international conflicts and domestic policy challenges to significant cultural events and entertainment milestones.
Note: This summary excludes all sponsorship messages, introductions, and non-content sections to focus solely on the newsworthy content discussed during the episode.