NPR News Now: May 22, 2025, 7 PM EDT – Comprehensive Episode Summary
On the May 22, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, listeners were presented with a variety of significant national and economic news stories, ranging from higher education policy changes to tragic incidents and market updates. This summary encapsulates the key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn during the episode, providing a coherent overview for those who did not tune in.
Harvard's International Student Enrollment Revoked
The episode opened with a startling development in higher education policy. Jack Spear reported from Washington at [00:18], highlighting that the Trump administration has taken decisive action against Harvard University by revoking its ability to enroll international students. This move was formalized through a letter from the Department of Homeland Security, signed by Secretary Kristi Noem at [00:32].
Alyssa Nadworney provided further details, explaining that the termination of Harvard's student exchange certification not only halts the admission of new international students but also disrupts the status of nearly 7,000 currently enrolled international students, constituting about a quarter of Harvard's student body. Nadworney emphasized the broader impact by noting, "More than a million international students study at U.S. colleges and universities, contributing more than $43 billion to the U.S. economy."
Secretary Noem justified the administration's action by accusing Harvard of fostering violence, anti-Semitism, and collaborating with the Chinese Communist Party. In response, Harvard has declared the government's actions unlawful, setting the stage for potential legal confrontations. This policy shift underscores the administration's broader stance on immigration and educational institutions' roles in societal issues.
Tragic Shooting in Washington, D.C. Impacts Kansas Community
A tragic event unfolded in Washington, D.C., as Jack Spear reported at [01:11] on a fatal shooting that claimed the lives of Sarah Milgram and Yaron Lisciski outside the Capitol Jewish Museum. Salisa Kalakkal from Kansas City provided a poignant narrative at [01:23], revealing that Sarah Milgram, 26, hailed from Prairie Village, Kansas, and was an active member of her Jewish community. The couple, who met at the Israeli embassy where they worked, were on the verge of getting engaged at the time of the incident.
Sarah's father, Robert Milgram, shared a powerful message with KCUR at [01:47], stating, "I think education is important to stopping these acts of violence," highlighting the personal and communal loss felt by their Kansas suburb. The local synagogue mourned Sarah, describing her "commitment to Judaism as deeply personal" and lauding her as a "radiant presence." This heartbreaking incident not only affects the immediate families but also resonates within the broader Jewish and local communities, emphasizing the ongoing challenges of violence and hate.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Stock Surge Amid Potential IPO Plans
In economic news, Jack Spear reported at [02:06] that shares of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac surged to their highest levels since the 2008 financial crisis. This spike follows President Trump's announcement about the possibility of taking these entities public, a move that could significantly benefit major investors aligned with the administration.
NPR's Chris Arnold provided an in-depth analysis at [02:20], explaining that Fannie and Freddie are pivotal players in the U.S. mortgage market, a multi-trillion-dollar industry. Since their government bailout in 2008, they have been under the control of the Treasury Department. President Trump's potential privatization of these institutions presents a lucrative opportunity for current investors holding old stock, including prominent figures like Bill Ackman, a known Trump supporter.
Arnold cautioned that the process of taking Fannie and Freddie public is fraught with complexities. Different approaches could either wipe out existing investors or reward them with billions, depending on how the IPO is structured. Moreover, a poorly executed public offering could destabilize both the stock and bond markets, underscoring the high stakes involved in this financial maneuver.
Archdiocese of New Orleans Settlement on Clergy Sex Abuse Faces Scrutiny
Jack Spear shifted focus to the legal and social repercussions surrounding the Archdiocese of New Orleans. At [03:04], he reported that the Archdiocese has agreed to pay nearly $180 million to survivors of clergy sex abuse. However, this settlement is met with skepticism from survivors, who argue that it falls short of true accountability.
Drew Hawkins from the Gulf State Newsroom elaborated at [03:30], revealing that survivors and their legal representatives deem the $180 million payout a "backroom deal" that is approximately $100 million short of what they seek. Additionally, the settlement reportedly includes provisions that prevent the release of abuse records, further fueling criticism. Lawyer Rick Trahant expressed deep dissatisfaction, stating, "One of our goals was to expose all of this stuff," highlighting the survivors' desire for transparency and justice beyond financial compensation.
The agreement requires approval by a two-thirds majority, which Trahant doubts will be achieved, casting uncertainty over the settlement's future. Archbishop Gregory Amand's call for healing underscores the ongoing tension between institutional resolution and the demands of abuse survivors for genuine accountability and systemic change.
Eco-Friendly Lawn Trends Gain Popularity in New Orleans
Shifting to lifestyle and environmental trends, Jack Spear reported at [04:07] on the growing movement among New Orleans homeowners to adopt eco-friendly lawn practices. Frustrated with the constant maintenance of traditional manicured lawns, many are embracing "no mow" lawns, allowing grass and wildflowers to grow naturally.
Supporters of this trend advocate for its environmental benefits, such as reducing fertilizer use—which can contaminate rivers and streams—and creating habitats for essential insects and pollinators during spring. Brandon Griffith, a Nashville homeowner featured at [04:20], shared his enthusiasm, saying, "I'm simply sick of mowing. My flower and grass-filled front yard is now home to insects, lizards, birds, and butterflies."
This shift not only reflects a growing awareness of environmental stewardship but also signifies a cultural change towards more sustainable and wildlife-friendly residential practices. The movement highlights how individual choices in landscaping can contribute to broader ecological health and biodiversity.
Crude Oil Prices Decline Amid OPEC Production Increase Talks
Concluding the episode, Jack Spear provided an update on the energy markets at [04:30]. Crude oil futures prices settled lower as investors digested reports that OPEC is considering a production increase for July. This potential surge in oil supply could lead to an oversupply in the global market, exerting downward pressure on prices.
Specifically, oil prices dropped by 37 cents a barrel to $61.20 a barrel. This decline reflects investor concerns about a possible oil glut, which could impact both market stability and the profitability of oil-producing entities. The anticipation of increased production underscores the delicate balance between supply and demand that governs commodity markets, with significant implications for the global economy.
Market Performance Overview
In addition to specific sector news, Jack Spear provided a brief overview of the stock market performance, noting that [03:04]:
- The Dow ended the session slightly down by one point.
- The Nasdaq closed up, reflecting gains in the technology sector.
- The S&P 500 rose by two points, indicating a modest overall market improvement.
This mixed performance illustrates the current volatility and uncertainty in financial markets, influenced by both domestic policies and international economic factors.
Overall, the May 22, 2025, episode of NPR News Now delivered a comprehensive roundup of pressing issues, from controversial government actions affecting higher education to tragic violence impacting local communities, significant economic developments, and evolving lifestyle trends. Each story was presented with depth and context, enriched by direct quotes and on-the-ground reporting, ensuring that listeners received a well-rounded understanding of the day's most important news.