NPR News Now: May 8, 2025, 11 PM EDT – Comprehensive Summary

Released on May 9, 2025

1. Historic Appointment: American-Born Pope Leo XIV Takes the Helm of the Catholic Church

Shea Stevens opened the episode by announcing a historic milestone for the Catholic Church. For the first time, an American has been elected as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church. Cardinal Robert Prevost from Chicago has succeeded Pope Francis, adopting the name Pope Leo XIV.

Ruth Sherlock, reporting from St. Peter's Square, captured the global diversity present at the announcement:

“Just incredible variety. It's amazing walking through the crowd because you hear languages from all over the world. It's such an international scene.” (00:41)

Pope Leo XIV, originally an American, is also a naturalized Peruvian citizen. He spent two decades in Peru, serving first as a missionary and later as the archbishop of Chiclayo, the country's fourth-largest city.

Carrie Kann provided deeper insights into Pope Leo XIV’s background and the public’s reception:

“I screamed when I heard his name, she says. God is great to have given us such a humble man as pope.” (01:25)

The Peruvian community has embraced the new pope with enthusiasm, creating numerous memes depicting Pope Leo XIV in national attire, enjoying local dishes like ceviche, and sporting an Inca Cola.

2. Leadership Shake-Up at FEMA Amidst Policy Disagreements

In a significant development ahead of the Atlantic hurricane season, the acting head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Cameron Hamilton, has been dismissed. This follows his apparent disagreement with the Trump administration's proposal to dissolve FEMA in favor of increased state control over emergency management.

Jeff Brady reported:

“No details were offered on why he's gone, but earlier this week, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said on Capitol Hill...” (02:23)

Kristi Noem stated:

“The president has indicated he wants to eliminate FEMA as it exists today and to have states have more control over their emergency management response.” (02:40)

During a subsequent congressional hearing, Cameron Hamilton expressed his opposition:

“I do not believe it is in the best interest of the American people to eliminate the Federal Emergency Management Agency.” (02:52)

Following his departure, Homeland Security Assistant Secretary David Richardson has been appointed as the new acting administrator of FEMA.

3. Economic Updates: Stock Market Gains and US-UK Trade Deal Announcement

Shea Stevens highlighted positive movements in the stock market, noting that the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 254 points and the NASDAQ Composite Index increased by 189 points.

In international trade news, President Trump announced a new trade deal with Britain aimed at reducing tariffs on vehicle steel and aluminum imports from the UK. In exchange, the US will see increased beef and other agricultural exports to Britain. Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the deal, emphasizing its role in protecting UK businesses and jobs. The final terms of the agreement are still being negotiated.

4. Advocacy for Medicaid: Pro-Medicaid Rally in Washington D.C.

Advocates for the disabled and their paid caregivers organized a pro-Medicaid rally at the base of the U.S. Capitol. This demonstration comes as House Republicans contemplate cutting Medicaid to fund President Trump's domestic initiatives.

Elena Hung, representing a group called Little Lobbyists, shared personal stories highlighting the importance of Medicaid:

“Some Republican lawmakers are balking at the prospect of slashing Medicaid to pay for the president's tax and spending cuts.” (04:27)

Joseph Shapiro emphasized the critical role Medicaid plays in supporting families:

“It is the reason why children like mine, children with complex medical needs and disabilities, are able to live at home instead of an institution or a hospital or facility or whatever you want to call it. That's not home.” (04:13)

The protest underscored the program's significance for 72 million low-income and disabled Americans, advocating against potential cuts that threaten their access to essential long-term care.

5. Leadership in Justice: Jeanine Pirro Named Interim U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C.

In a notable appointment, Jeanine Pirro has been selected to serve as the interim U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. Her predecessor, the president's initial nominee, withdrew due to insufficient support in the Senate. Pirro brings a wealth of experience as a former judge and a two-decade tenure as a prosecutor in New York's Westchester County.

Shea Stevens reported:

“Pirro is a former judge who also served two decades as a prosecutor for New York's Westchester County.” (04:37)

This episode of NPR News Now provided listeners with a comprehensive overview of significant global and domestic events, from historic religious leadership changes to critical policy debates shaping the United States.