NPR News Now

Episode: NPR News: 05-08-2025 6PM EDT
Release Date: May 8, 2025
Host: NPR

1. Global Reactions to the Election of Pope Leo XIV

Catholics worldwide are celebrating the election of the new Pope, Leo XIV, with particular enthusiasm in the United States. The newly elected pope, hailing from south suburban Chicago and with a background as a missionary, has resonated deeply with American Catholics.

Father Gregory Sakowitz, Director of the Holy Name Cathedral in downtown Chicago, shared his excitement: “Father Gregory Sakowitz is director of the Holy Name Cathedral in downtown Chicago, and he was given communion when he learned from the congregation that Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected pope" [00:46]. Sakowitz emphasized that Pope Leo XIV's American nationality does not define him, stating, “he's a child of God" [01:13].

An unnamed Catholic commentator highlighted the pope’s commitment to social issues: “I think he's going to be very strong on the immigrant, human rights and the earth. They care for the earth" [01:01]. This sentiment was echoed in Lagos, Nigeria, where parishioners at Holy Cross Cathedral celebrated the new pope’s selection. Emmanuel Akonwodel, present at the cathedral, remarked, “What really matters to many of them is that the new pope embodies the humility and an example that Pope Francis set" [01:37].

2. President Trump Withdraws Nomination of Ed Martin as U.S. Attorney

In a significant political development, President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal of his nominee, Ed Martin, for the position of U.S. Attorney in Washington, D.C. The decision comes amid growing controversy surrounding Martin's appointment.

Trump addressed reporters, stating, “It is clear that Ed Martin does not have the support in the US Senate to win confirmation and that he plans to nominate a new candidate soon" [02:13]. He also expressed hope that Martin could serve in another capacity within his administration.

Ed Martin's nomination has been contentious due to his lack of prosecutorial experience and his involvement in advancing false claims about the 2020 election fraud. As the interim U.S. Attorney, Martin has been criticized for defending Capitol rioters and for actions against prosecutorial staff handling January 6th cases, including firing prosecutors and threatening investigations into Trump's political opponents [02:13].

3. European Union’s Trade Actions and Market Reaction

The European Union has announced a comprehensive list of U.S. imports totaling $107 billion that will be targeted for retaliatory tariffs should President Trump fail to resolve the ongoing tariff dispute. This move coincides with the U.S. and the U.K. reaching a broad trade agreement, intensifying the EU’s stance.

The EU Commission has also declared plans to initiate legal action at the World Trade Organization against the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the U.S. last month [02:59]. In response to these developments, Wall Street saw a positive reaction, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising by 254 points [02:59].

4. Bill Gates’ Philanthropic Pledge and Health Concerns in Los Angeles

Bill Gates has made headlines by announcing his intention to donate 99% of his tech fortune to the Gates Foundation, marking one of the largest philanthropic gifts in history. Additionally, Gates revealed that the foundation will cease operations by 2045, an earlier date than previously planned [03:24].

In related news, Los Angeles health officials are raising alarms over a surge in hepatitis A cases, which have tripled in 2024. The outbreak does not follow the typical pattern, affecting individuals without the usual risk factors such as travelers, the homeless, or drug users. Dr. Sharon Balter of the LA County Department of Public Health explained, “Beginning this year, we're seeing that many, if not most of the people don't have the risk factors that we would expect" [04:17]. Authorities are encouraging the public to receive the hepatitis A vaccine, as most adults over 25 have not been vaccinated against the virus [04:24].

5. First Violent Incident at Yellowstone National Park and Oil Price Surge

Yellowstone National Park officials reported the first violent incident of the year involving a visitor and a bison. A 47-year-old man from Florida was attacked by a bison at Lake Village, an area known for its cabin accommodations within the park. Park authorities have repeatedly warned visitors to maintain a safe distance from wildlife, which appears to have been a contributing factor in this unfortunate event. The man sustained minor injuries and is undergoing treatment [04:35–04:40].

In the energy sector, crude oil futures saw a significant increase, closing 3% higher at $59.91 per barrel. This surge was likely influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic responses to trade disputes [04:40–05:03].

This episode of NPR News Now covered a wide array of topics, from significant religious developments and high-stakes political appointments to international trade tensions, major philanthropic commitments, public health crises, and noteworthy incidents in national parks, all underscored by notable economic movements in the oil market.

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