NPR News Now: May 21, 2025, 8 PM EDT Summary
Hosted by NPR’s Jack Spear, this episode covers a range of pivotal news stories from international relations to domestic policy shifts, economic updates, social trends, and environmental concerns.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa Confronts President Trump’s Accusations
Timestamp: [00:17]
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa engaged in a high-stakes meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in the Oval Office. Trump leveled accusations against South Africa, alleging without evidence that the nation is permitting a genocide of white farmers. Presenting a video as purported proof, Trump aimed to substantiate his claims.
Timestamp: [00:33] Ramaphosa firmly rebutted these allegations, stating, “the majority of crime victims in South Africa are black, not white.” To reinforce his position, he introduced white South African associates who could attest to the country’s diverse experiences with crime.
Timestamp: [00:47] – Scott Horsley “If there was Africana farmer genocide, I can bet you these three gentlemen would not be here, including my minister of Agriculture. He would not be with me.”
Ramaphosa also highlighted connections with prominent figures like golfer Ernie Els and billionaire Johan Rupert. Acknowledging South Africa’s ongoing crime challenges, Ramaphosa sought Trump’s assistance, proposing deals that include selling drones and other security technologies to bolster national security.
Trump Administration Ends Investigations into Six Law Enforcement Agencies
Timestamp: [01:19]
The Trump administration has decided to terminate investigations into six law enforcement agencies, notably including the Oklahoma City Police Department (OKCPD). Grayson Wheeler of KOSU details the implications of this decision.
Timestamp: [01:32] – Grayson Wheeler "The Justice Department announced its investigation into the Oklahoma City Police Department in 2022. Earlier this year, initial findings found the department violated federal laws in its treatment of people with behavioral health disabilities. Now the Trump administration is rescinding those findings and shuttering the investigation."
Teacheria Moore Dickerson, executive director of Oklahoma City’s Black Lives Matter chapter, expressed concern over the abrupt closure of the investigation. Nevertheless, a spokesperson for the OKCPD assured the public, “the city will continue working to improve its practices.”
Target Reports Disappointing Earnings Amid Policy Backlash
Timestamp: [02:14]
Retail giant Target unveiled its first-quarter earnings, revealing sales that fell short of expectations. Additionally, the company has revised its annual forecast downward. Target attributes these financial setbacks to consumer boycotts sparked by the company’s decision to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.
Timestamp: [02:36] – Scott Horsley “Investors are getting jumpy as House lawmakers move closer to passing a tax cut and spending bill that threatens to add trillions of dollars to the federal debt over the next decade. Policymakers indifference to rising debt levels have already cost the government its triple A bond rating.”
The market reacted negatively, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping more than 800 points and the Nasdaq falling by 270 points. Rising bond yields and cautious consumer spending further contributed to the stock market slump.
Rising Interest in Non-Traditional Spiritual Practices Among Americans
Timestamp: [03:07]
A recent survey from PE Research Center reveals a significant trend: a growing number of Americans are turning to non-traditional spiritual practices.
Timestamp: [03:27] – Kathryn Post “According to a new survey from PE Research Center, 3 in 10 American adults consult a fortune teller, tarot cards or astrology at least once a year. Those practices are especially popular among younger adults and women. And the survey finds nearly half of LGBTQ Americans consult astrology at least once a year.”
Chip Rotolo of Pew Research comments, “These practices sometimes emphasize things like fluidity and openness,” appealing particularly to demographics seeking flexible and inclusive spiritual expressions.
However, Kathryn Post notes, “just 6% of U.S. adults say they rely on these practices when making major life choices. For many, it’s just for fun.”
Controversy Over the Relocation of Aging Elephants from Los Angeles Zoo
Timestamp: [04:08]
Animal rights activists are voicing strong opposition to the recent transfer of two elderly elephants, Billy and Tina, from the Los Angeles Zoo to the Tulsa Zoo. At 40 and 59 years old respectively, both elephants have outgrown their enclosures, leading to debates over their welfare.
Despite numerous lawsuits advocating for their move to a sanctuary where they could have more spacious living conditions, zoo officials proceeded with the relocation quietly. Activists argue that the elephants deserve to spend their final years in environments that better cater to their physical needs and natural behaviors.
Crude Oil Prices Dip Amid Global Uncertainties
Timestamp: [04:08]
In the energy markets, crude oil prices experienced a decline, trading at $61.57 per barrel, down by 47 cents. This drop is attributed to ongoing global uncertainties, including diplomatic talks with Iran regarding its disputed nuclear program.
This episode of NPR News Now provides a comprehensive overview of significant global and domestic issues, economic indicators, social trends, and environmental concerns, delivering insightful analysis and diverse perspectives to keep listeners informed.