NPR News Now: May 9, 2025, 4AM EDT – Detailed Summary
Live from Washington, NPR News Now brings you a comprehensive overview of the latest developments across global events, politics, health, business, and entertainment. This summary captures all key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions from the May 9, 2025, episode.
1. Papal Succession: Election of Pope Leo XIV
Host: Shea Stevens
Timestamp: [00:15]
In a momentous event at St. Peter's Square, thousands gathered to witness the election of the new Pope. After a two-day voting process, American missionary Robert Prevost was chosen by the 130 cardinal electors to succeed Pope Francis. The atmosphere was jubilant as white smoke signaled the successful selection.
Notable Quote:
Robert Prevost:
"Us and all others to build bridges with dialogue, with meeting to be one common people living always in peace. Thank you to Pope Francis."
[00:42]
Prevost, adopting the papal name Pope Leo XIV, emphasized unity and peace, calling upon the faithful to foster dialogue and understanding among all people.
2. Modernizing U.S. Air Traffic Control
Hosts: Shea Stevens & Scott Newman
Timestamps: [01:01] - [01:40]
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy unveiled an ambitious plan aimed at overhauling the United States' air traffic control system. The proposal includes a revamped flight management system designed to enhance safety and efficiency in response to recent aviation incidents.
Key Points:
- The initiative was announced during a news conference attended by airline CEOs, and leaders from the FAA and NTSB.
- Duffy highlighted the urgency of the plan, citing a deadly midair collision in Washington D.C. in January and operational issues at Newark Airport.
Notable Quotes:
Sean Duffy:
"President Trump is committed to solving the problem once and for all."
[01:18]
Scott Newman:
"He doesn't want to take this problem and pass it to the next administration."
[01:36]
Duffy assured that with full funding from Congress, the modernization could be completed within three to four years, ensuring that the issues would not burden future administrations.
3. Firing of Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden
Host: Shea Stevens
Timestamp: [01:53]
In a surprising development, President Trump has dismissed Dr. Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress. The termination, communicated via an email obtained by the Associated Press and NPR, occurs before the expiration of Hayden's ten-year term scheduled for next year.
Political Response:
Hakeem Jeffries, House Democratic Leader, praised Hayden as "accomplished, principled, and distinguished," denouncing her dismissal as a continuation of efforts to ban books.
4. Funding Cuts Impacting HIV/AIDS Services in the Deep South
Hosts: Shea Stevens & Scott Newman
Timestamps: [01:53] - [02:57]
KFF Health News reports significant funding reductions to health agencies providing HIV/AIDS outreach and care in the Deep South. These cuts jeopardize efforts to combat the epidemic, which predominantly affects the Southern states.
Key Points:
- The federal government funds critical services, including testing and support for at-risk communities.
- Dafina Ward, Executive Director of the Southern AIDS Coalition, expressed concern that reduced funding hampers prevention efforts.
Notable Quote:
Dafina Ward:
"Prevention we're seeing this about phase of what it means to truly work towards ending HIV in this country."
[02:48]
Ward warned that sustained cuts could lead to fewer individuals being diagnosed and treated, thereby increasing the risk of further HIV transmission.
5. Market Update
Host: Shea Stevens
Timestamp: [03:08]
US futures remain stable in after-hours trading on Wall Street, reflecting a period of market consolidation. Additionally, the Asia Pacific market displays mixed performance, indicating varied investor sentiment globally.
6. Harvey Weinstein Retrial: Second Accusation Heard
Reporter: Ilya Maritz
Timestamp: [03:51] - [04:26]
In Manhattan, a jury has heard from the second of three women accusing Harvey Weinstein of sexual assault during his retrial. This marks a significant development in the case following the overturning of Weinstein's previous conviction on procedural grounds.
Victim Testimony:
Kaya Sokola testified about her encounters with Weinstein in 2002 and four years later, detailing instances of sexual assault during her early modeling career in the United States.
Notable Quotes:
Kaya Sokola:
"He told me she needed to work on her stubbornness. She assaulted me a second time almost four years later in a hotel room, saying afterwards, you see, that wasn't so difficult."
[03:51]
Weinstein continues to maintain his innocence amidst these allegations.
7. Entertainment Spotlight: Lainey Wilson Named Entertainer of the Year
Host: Shea Stevens
Timestamp: [04:26]
At the 60th Annual Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, Lainey Wilson was honored for the second consecutive year as Entertainer of the Year. The event, hosted by country music icon Reba McEntire, featured performances from artists like Jelly Roll and Shabuzzi, underscoring the vibrant landscape of the country music scene.
Closing Notes
The episode concluded with a brief market update and reminders of ongoing stories, ensuring listeners remained informed on critical issues shaping the world today.
This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the May 9, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, providing an informative overview for those who haven't tuned in.