NPR News Now: May 14, 2025 – Comprehensive Summary

U.S. Sanctions on Syria: President Trump's Policy Shift

Host: Shea Stevens opens the episode with significant updates on international relations. President Donald Trump announced plans to ease U.S. sanctions on Syria, labeling the restrictions as "brutal and crippling" while acknowledging their initial purpose.

Shea Stevens [00:18]: "President Trump says he'll ease US sanctions on Syria, calling the restrictions brutal and crippling, but says that they had served an important function."

An unnamed analyst provides context on the potential impact of this policy change:

Unnamed Analyst [00:33]: "There is a new government that will hopefully succeed in stabilizing the country and keeping peace. That's what we want to see in Syria. They've had their share of travesty, war killing many years."

Trump's decision comes as he prepares for a diplomatic visit:

Shea Stevens [00:49]: "Trump speaking in Saudi Arabia Tuesday. He plans to meet with Syria's new leader there briefly today. It is the first stop of Trump's four-day trip to the Gulf region and the first overseas trip of his second term in office."

Protests Erupt in California Over Medicaid Budget Cuts

Shifting focus to domestic issues, Shea Stevens reports on widespread demonstrations against proposed Republican budget cuts to Medicaid.

Shea Stevens [00:49]: "Thousands of demonstrators gathered at hospitals across California Tuesday to denounce a House Republican plan to cut Medicaid's budget by at least $600 billion."

From Bakersfield, Joshua Yeager provides on-the-ground reporting:

Joshua Yeager [01:22]: "Nurses and doctors join a large crowd of protesters outside Kern Medical in California's Central Valley. Staff at the Safety Net hospital say some 90% of their patients rely on Medicaid for life-saving care."

Patients express their fears about the impending cuts:

Unnamed Patient [01:40]: "If these cuts were to come into effect, we would have to make a choice. Do we need a roof for our head or do we need medical insurance?"

The Congressional Budget Office counters Republican claims by highlighting the potential impact:

Shea Stevens [01:49]: "Republicans in Congress argue their legislation is targeting waste, fraud and abuse. But the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office says more than 7 million Americans would go without health insurance under the GOP's Medicaid bill."

Newark Airport Struggles with Air Traffic Control Shortages

In transportation news, Newark Liberty International Airport continues to experience significant delays and cancellations.

Shea Stevens [02:08]: "Headaches continue at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey, which has been plagued by technical problems and ongoing construction."

NPR's Joe Hernandez explains the root of the problem:

Joe Hernandez [02:25]: "The FAA confirmed that at least three controllers were scheduled each hour at the Philadelphia radar facility that directs traffic in Newark's airspace. The New York Times said an agreement between the FAA and the air traffic controllers Union dictates that 14 controllers should have been working during most of that time. Neither the FAA nor the union responded to questions about that agreement."

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced plans to address the issue:

Shea Stevens [02:25]: "Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a plan last week to overhaul the national air traffic control system, which some estimates say could cost."

Microsoft Announces Major Layoffs Amid Economic Shifts

As the economy grapples with various challenges, Microsoft has initiated significant layoffs affecting approximately 6,000 employees.

Shea Stevens [03:08]: "Microsoft has begun sending out notices to roughly 6,000 employees facing layoffs. Microsoft says its largest job cuts in over two years will be made across the board with an aim toward reducing the size of the company's managerial staff."

The 78th Cannes Film Festival: Robert De Niro Honored

The cultural spotlight shifts to the 78th Cannes Film Festival, where esteemed actor Robert De Niro received a top honorary award.

Mandalit del Barco [03:44]: "Actor Leonardo DiCaprio presented his hero Robert De Niro with a prestigious Palme d'Or. The two-time Academy Award winner was honored for his iconic roles in such films as The Godfather Part II, Taxi Driver, and Raging Bull."

An analyst highlights De Niro's contributions to the arts:

Unnamed Analyst [04:00]: "Messi Infiniment to the Festival de Cannes for creating a community, a home, if you will, for those of us who love the art of telling stories on screen."

During his acceptance speech, De Niro made a bold political statement:

Mandalit del Barco [04:11]: "During his acceptance speech, De Niro slammed President Trump, who he called an enemy of the arts."

The festival also introduced new regulations to streamline events:

Mandalit del Barco [04:11]: "This year's festival goers faced an updated dress code, no nudity on the red carpet and other events, and no voluminous outfits such as gowns with large trains that hinder traffic and complicate seating."

MLB Reinstates Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson

In a controversial move, Major League Baseball has lifted the lifetime bans on Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson, reopening their eligibility for Hall of Fame induction.

Shea Stevens [04:32]: "Major League Baseball has removed its lifetime bans on Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson. The legacies of the late star sluggers had been tarnished by gambling scandals. MLB's reinstatement makes them eligible for induction into the league's hall of Fame."

The Cincinnati Reds are set to honor Pete Rose:

Shea Stevens [04:32]: "Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Reds plan to honor Pete Rose today for most career hits."

Market and Economy Snapshot

Lastly, a brief update on the financial markets indicates stability:

Shea Stevens [03:08]: "U.S. futures are flat in after-hours trading on Wall Street."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights shared in the May 14, 2025 episode of NPR News Now, providing listeners with a clear overview of international policies, domestic protests, transportation challenges, corporate layoffs, cultural accolades, and changes in Major League Baseball.