NPR News Now: Detailed Summary for May 5, 2025, 10AM EDT Episode

Released on May 5, 2025

1. President Trump's Controversial Stance on the U.S. Constitution and Immigration

Host: Korva Coleman
Reporting by: Asma Khalid
Notable Quote:

• Trump: "I didn't know if I am required to uphold the U.S. Constitution." ([00:21])

In a surprising turn during a recent NBC interview, President Donald Trump questioned his obligation to uphold the U.S. Constitution, particularly concerning immigration policies. Responding to inquiries about whether non-citizens in the United States deserve due process, Trump asserted his belief in having a clear mandate on immigration matters. He stated that extending due process to millions of individuals residing illegally would necessitate an overwhelming number of trials.

This stance comes amidst a high-profile case involving a man from Maryland who was deported to El Salvador despite a court order preventing his return there. The Supreme Court has since urged the U.S. government to facilitate his repatriation, but as of the episode's release, he remains in El Salvador. The administration's hardline approach has sparked debates about constitutional obligations and the rights of non-citizens within the U.S.

2. Removal of Gun Violence Memorial by the Trump Administration

Host: Korva Coleman
Reporting by: Kristen Wright
Notable Quotes:

• Brenda Joyner: "Should there have been some notification to us? Absolutely. But do I want my picture sitting at the bottom of a dumpster? Hell no. No." ([01:45])
• Justice Department Statement: "The ATF will continue to honor the memory of all victims of violent crime while at the same time preserving the rights of law-abiding Americans." ([01:55])

The Trump administration has dismantled a memorial honoring victims of gun violence that was established by the Department of Justice under President Biden. The removal involved taking down all 120 portraits from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), including that of Robert Godwin Sr. This decision has left families devastated, particularly Brenda Joyner, whose father’s portrait was part of the exhibit. Joyner expressed her anger and disappointment over the lack of prior notification and the insensitive handling of her father's legacy.

In response, the Justice Department released a statement claiming that the ATF remains committed to honoring victims of violent crimes while upholding the rights of law-abiding citizens. However, a spokesperson did not provide further details on the current whereabouts of the removed portraits, leaving many families seeking answers and closure.

3. President Trump’s Proposed 100% Tax on Imported Movies and Its Economic Impact

Host: Korva Coleman
Reporting by: Scott Horsley
Notable Quote:

• President Trump: "I'm directing the Commerce Department to begin the process of imposing a tax on foreign films." ([02:26])

In an unexpected policy move, President Trump announced on social media his intention to impose a 100% tax on imported movies. Citing concerns over international incentives that other countries offer to attract filmmakers, Trump believes this measure will protect and promote the domestic entertainment industry. The announcement had an immediate negative effect on the stock market, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping approximately 70 points in early trading.

The entertainment sector, including major players like Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery, experienced significant declines. Additionally, the International Oil Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies plan to boost oil production next month, contributing to a decline in crude oil prices. The West Texas Intermediate benchmark fell below $60 a barrel, a level many U.S. oil producers deem unsustainable for new drilling projects. Meanwhile, retail gasoline prices remained relatively stable overnight at around $3.16 per gallon, showing minor fluctuations compared to previous weeks and months.

4. Ongoing Stock Market Declines Amid Economic Turbulence

Host: Korva Coleman
Reporting by: Scott Horsley

The stock market continued its downward trend in the morning session, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling by over 85 points to stand at 41,232 and the NASDAQ dropping approximately 100 points. This decline is attributed to multiple factors, including President Trump’s aggressive tax policies on imported media, concerns over global oil production increases by OPEC, and the overall economic uncertainty affecting investor confidence.

5. Transportation Woes: High-Speed Train Delays in Spain and United Airlines Flight Cancellations

a. High-Speed Train Delays in Spain

Host: Korva Coleman

Spanish officials have reported significant delays in the country’s high-speed train services due to the theft of critical cabling from the signaling system at four different sites. The timing coincides with the post-holiday surge of travelers heading home, exacerbating the situation. Thousands of passengers experienced overnight stays on rail cars, contributing to widespread frustration and disruption.

b. United Airlines Flight Cancellations at Newark Airport

Host: Korva Coleman
Reporting by: Odette Fortier

United Airlines has canceled approximately thirty-five round-trip flights daily from Newark Airport, one of the nation’s busiest hubs. The cancellations are attributed to the failure of the technology that air traffic controllers depend on, which relies on outdated components like floppy disks and upgrades from World War II-era radar systems. This technological shortfall has overwhelmed the airport’s capacity to handle the scheduled flights, leading to significant delays and stranded passengers.

Notable Quotes:

• Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy: "It's really awful." ([04:10])
• Passenger Odette Fortier: "We can't go another day, not just Newark." ([04:19])

Odette Fortier, a passenger affected by the cancellations, shared her distressing experience of being stuck on the tarmac while attempting to join her tour group. The Transportation Secretary, Sean Duffy, emphasized the urgent need for a complete overhaul of the air traffic control system, warning that without substantial upgrades, the safety of air travel is at risk. Funding for such technological advancements is currently under consideration by Congress, highlighting the critical intersection of infrastructure and national security.

6. Conclave of Roman Catholic Cardinals to Select the Next Pope

Host: Korva Coleman

In Vatican City, Roman Catholic cardinals are convening for their conclave, scheduled to begin on Wednesday, to elect the next pope. The traditional process involves burning ballots after each vote; black smoke signifies the need for another round of voting, while white smoke announces a successful election of the new pontiff. Preparations for the conclave include the installation of a chimney atop the Sistine Chapel by the Vatican fire brigade to ensure clear communication of the election results. The global Catholic community eagerly awaits the outcome of this pivotal event within the Church.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and developments covered in the May 5, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, providing listeners with an in-depth understanding of the day's most pressing news stories.