NPR News Now: May 17, 2025, 10 PM EDT Summary

NPR News Now delivered a comprehensive update on significant national and international events in their latest episode released on May 18, 2025. The summary below encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented during the broadcast.

Deliberate Explosion Near Palm Springs Clinic

Reporter: Jeanine Herbst
Timestamp: [00:20]

The FBI confirmed that an explosion occurred this morning near a reproductive clinic in Palm Springs, California, labeling it a deliberate act of terrorism. Akil Davis, Assistant Director of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office, stated, “This was an intentional act of terrorism. As our investigation unfolds, we will determine if it's international or domestic terrorism” (00:31).

• Casualties and Damage: One person died, while several others sustained injuries. Davis mentioned, “It's one of the largest bombings in Southern California,” highlighting the extensive damage to multiple buildings and the scattering of debris across several city blocks.

• Investigation Efforts: Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills described the scene as “a massive crime scene” (00:41). Additionally, Dr. Maher Abdallah from the clinic reassured that despite the structural damage, the IVF lab's eggs and embryos remained intact.

The FBI, along with the ATF and local police, are collaboratively investigating the incident. As of the broadcast, no clear motive for the bombing has been identified.

Devastating Storms Hit Central United States

Reporter: Karen Zahra, WUKY
Timestamp: [01:38]

Severe storms and tornadoes swept through the central United States yesterday, resulting in tragic losses and widespread destruction.

• Casualties: Over two dozen fatalities were reported, with 18 of them in Kentucky alone. Numerous others sustained injuries, some critical.

• Governor's Response: Governor Andy Beshear conducted aerial and ground assessments of the damage. Expressing his concerns, Beshear shared, “I worry there might be a block, a whole block out there. Everybody's dead, and I hope that's not the case” (01:49). He emphasized that all efforts are currently focused on search and rescue operations.

• Federal Support: Beshear has requested an official federal disaster declaration. Additionally, members of the Kentucky General Assembly have pledged state funding to aid in the recovery process.

Karen Zahra concluded her report by highlighting the urgent need for assistance and the ongoing efforts to mitigate the disaster's impact (02:00).

Controversy Over Selling Federal Public Lands

Reporter: Jeanine Herbst
Timestamp: [02:15]

A contentious proposal by House Republicans to sell nearly half a million acres of federal public land in Nevada and southern Utah has sparked significant debate.

• Key Figure: Ryan Zinke, former Secretary of the Interior under President Trump and a Montana Republican, has been vocal against the plan. He remarked on NPR's Here and Now, “The fundamental idea that you're going to sell public land and somehow that's going to pay off our $36 trillion debt is folly” (02:33).

• Supporters' Argument: Proponents argue that the land sales would provide counties with increased flexibility for developments, including housing projects.

• Political Backing: Celeste Malloy, a Utah Republican and member of the House budget bill sponsors, supports the amendments. Malloy's district encompasses the rapidly growing city of St. George, Utah. Notably, she is related to Cliven Bundy, whose family is known for armed standoffs over federal land control in the Western United States.

The proposal has ignited debates over environmental conservation, federal land management, and fiscal strategies, with Ryan Zinke leading the opposition against the measure (02:56).

Progress in Maternal Mental Health Care

Reporter: Ritu Chatterjee, NPR News
Timestamp: [03:18]

A new report has shed light on the progress and ongoing challenges in addressing maternal mental health across the United States.

• Prevalence of Postpartum Depression: Approximately one in five mothers experiences postpartum depression each year, yet about three-quarters do not receive treatment.

• Report Findings: The Policy Center on Maternal Mental Health released a report card evaluating states based on their access to mental health care for pregnant women and new mothers. While the nation continues to fall short in adequately addressing these needs, there have been notable improvements since the previous year.

  • Top Performers: Five states—California, Colorado, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Washington—earned the highest grade of B for the first time. Michigan demonstrated the most significant improvement, advancing from a D to a B by implementing comprehensive measures, including mandatory screening for maternal mental health conditions.

  • States Needing Improvement: Alabama and Mississippi received failing grades, indicating a dire need for enhanced mental health services for mothers.

Ritu Chatterjee emphasized the critical nature of these findings and the necessity for continued efforts to support maternal mental health across all states (03:40).

Preakness Stakes and Triple Crown Update

Reporter: Jeanine Herbst
Timestamp: [04:24]

The 150th running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Racetrack in Baltimore concluded today without a Triple Crown winner.

• Race Results: Gosker finished in second place, while Sandman secured third. The Kentucky Derby winner, Sovereignty, did not participate in today’s race, thereby eliminating the possibility of a Triple Crown victory this year.

• Future of the Preakness: This edition marks the final Preakness held at Pimlico Racetrack before extensive renovations commence, anticipated to last at least two years. During the renovation period, the Preakness will relocate to Laurel Park in Maryland.

Jeanine Herbst wrapped up the news segment by highlighting the historical significance of the event and its upcoming transition (04:24).

Conclusion

The episode of NPR News Now provided listeners with urgent updates on significant events, including a terrorist bombing in Palm Springs, devastating storms in Kentucky, political debates over federal land sales, advancements and challenges in maternal mental health care, and updates from the world of horse racing. Through detailed reporting and expert insights, the program ensured a comprehensive understanding of the day's most pressing news.

This summary aims to provide a detailed overview of the NPR News Now episode for those who were unable to listen. For the full broadcast, please refer to NPR's official channels.