NPR News Now Summary
Episode: NPR News: 05-18-2025 9PM EDT
Release Date: May 19, 2025
Host: Jeanine Herbst
Source: NPR
1. Former President Joe Biden Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer
Timestamp: [00:17]
Jeanine Herbst reported that former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. According to NPR's Luke Garrett, a small nodule discovered on Biden's prostate led to the diagnosis of an aggressive form of the disease, which has metastasized to his bones. The former president's personal office described the cancer as hormone-sensitive, potentially allowing for effective management. Biden and his family are currently evaluating treatment options.
Luke Garrett emphasized the significance of this diagnosis, noting, "Prostate cancer is the second most common form of cancer, according to the CDC, and is treatable" ([00:32]). The timing of this announcement is critical, arriving days before the release of a forthcoming exposé book on Biden and amidst ongoing debates regarding his mental fitness during his presidency's final years.
2. Bombing at Palm Springs Fertility Clinic Identified as Terrorism
Timestamp: [01:13]
In a shocking development, law enforcement officials have identified a suspect in the bombing of the American Reproductive Center's clinic in Palm Springs, California. Akil Davis, Assistant Director of the FBI's Los Angeles office, stated, "The subject had nihilistic ideations and this was a targeted attack against the IVF facility" ([01:36]). The FBI is treating the incident as an intentional act of terrorism.
The explosion caused extensive damage, blowing out windows in neighboring buildings and scattering debris across the surrounding area. Davis added, "The blast was powerful. It blew out windows in neighboring buildings" ([01:48]). Investigators are actively searching the vicinity for additional evidence related to the case.
3. Devastating Tornado Strikes Kentucky, Claiming 19 Lives
Timestamp: [02:08]
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear reported a tragic tornado event that resulted in at least 19 fatalities, primarily in the city of London. Speaking at [02:08], Beshear confirmed, "At least 19 people were killed when what's believed to have been a tornado swept through the southern part of the state," with 17 of the deceased in London ([02:15]).
Survivor Mamie Cottle shared her harrowing experience, recounting, "The house started shaking and then the next thing I heard was like rumbling. Next thing was just like glass breaking everywhere and wood breaking" ([02:38]). Despite the destruction, Cottle and her grandson were unharmed. Governor Beshear mentioned ongoing efforts to secure emergency housing for those affected ([02:52]).
4. Combatting Air Pollution in Bangladesh’s Brick Industry
Timestamp: [03:13]
Jeanine Herbst highlighted severe air pollution issues in Bangladesh, attributing a significant portion to the brick-making industry. NPR's Jonathan Lambert reported on research indicating that modifications in brick kiln operations could substantially reduce pollution. Samir Mathil, an energy systems engineer, explained, "Bangladesh produces nearly 30 billion bricks a year. Most of these are made in coal-fired brick kilns, which spew thick clouds of black smoke" ([03:27]).
A study published in the journal Science revealed that "tweaking this process can make the kilns much more efficient," with measures such as increasing the space between bricks cutting pollution by about 20% ([03:55]).
5. Coinbase to Join the S&P 500 Index
Timestamp: [04:13]
In financial news, Coinbase is set to become the latest addition to the S&P 500, replacing Discover Financial Services due to Discover's acquisition by Capital One. Andy Beshear announced, "The S&P 500 is getting a new company in its mix, Coinbase, where people trade all kinds of cryptocurrency like Bitcoin" ([04:17]). This move marks a significant moment for the cryptocurrency industry, signaling increased mainstream acceptance and integration into traditional financial indices.
6. Weekend Box Office Highlights
Timestamp: [04:31]
The latest weekend box office figures reveal strong performances:
- Final Destination: Bloodlines secured the top spot with an estimated $51 million in ticket sales domestically and $102 million globally on its debut ([04:31]).
- Thunderbolt followed in second place, earning $16 million.
- Sinners rounded out the top three with $15 million, bringing its global total to $316 million ([04:36]).
Jeanine Herbst concluded the segment by summarizing these achievements, underscoring the varied interests of moviegoers this weekend ([04:31]-[04:42]).
7. Market Update
Timestamp: [03:06]
Andy Beshear provided a brief overview of the financial markets, noting that U.S. futures contracts are trading lower. Dow futures are down just over half a percent, while Nasdaq futures have dipped by nearly 1% ([03:06]).
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the major stories covered in the NPR News Now episode released on May 19, 2025, providing listeners with detailed insights into political developments, public safety incidents, environmental issues, financial updates, and entertainment news.