NPR News Now: Detailed Summary of May 23, 2025, 6AM EDT Episode

On the May 23, 2025, episode of NPR News Now, host Korva Coleman and various correspondents delivered comprehensive coverage of significant national and international developments. This summary encapsulates the key topics discussed, complete with notable quotes and clear section headings for ease of navigation.

DHS Revokes Harvard's Ability to Enroll International Students

[00:14] Korva Coleman introduced a major escalation in the White House's ongoing conflict with Harvard University. According to Kurt Carapezza from GBH in Boston, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has taken the unprecedented step of revoking Harvard's authorization to enroll international students.

[00:30] Kurt Carapezza reported that DHS informed Harvard's president that the university failed to provide necessary student disciplinary records. Consequently, international students are being instructed to transfer out or face the loss of their visa status. Harvard has strongly opposed this move, labeling it unlawful and reaffirming its commitment to hosting global students and scholars.

[00:53] Historian Alison Frank Johnson weighed in on the issue, stating, "We're talking here about students who've worked their whole lives to be able to attend a college of this caliber, and now they don't know if they can continue their educations. We're also talking about graduate students who are working in labs to cure cancer."

Harvard has responded by initiating a lawsuit against the administration, accusing DHS of government overreach. The legal battle underscores the tension between federal authorities and academic institutions regarding immigration and educational policies.

Federal Watchdog Criticizes Trump Administration's Handling of EV Funding

Transitioning to economic policy, [01:15] Korva Coleman reported on a ruling by an independent federal watchdog agency concerning the Trump administration's management of funds allocated for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure.

[01:34] Chris Arnold from NPR explained that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) identified at least 39 investigations into potential violations of the Impoundment Control Act by the administration. Specifically, a $5 billion allocation intended for building EV charging stations was improperly frozen. Arnold emphasized, "The GAO finds that the administration has been improperly freezing the money and must continue to carry out the program."

The GAO highlighted the constitutional mandate that grants Congress the power of the purse, countering the White House's argument that the Impoundment Control Act is unconstitutional. With the GAO having the authority to file lawsuits, this ruling could have significant implications for future federal budgeting and executive actions.

Supreme Court's Landmark Decision on Presidential Authority

In a pivotal legal development, [02:17] Korva Coleman announced a Supreme Court ruling that significantly alters the balance of power between the executive branch and federal agencies.

The Court, in a 6-3 decision, overturned a 90-year-old precedent, affirming that President Trump holds the authority to dismiss key federal agency staffers at will. However, the ruling maintained that the president does not have the power to fire the head of the Federal Reserve, who can only be dismissed for cause. This decision marks a substantial shift in governmental power dynamics and has sparked widespread discussion on its implications for agency independence and executive authority.

Tragic Attack on Israeli Embassy Staffers in Washington, D.C.

A distressing event unfolded as [02:17] Korva Coleman detailed a shooting incident targeting two Israeli embassy staffers in Washington, D.C. A Chicago man has been charged with two federal counts of first-degree murder for the killings, which occurred after the victims left a reception at a Jewish museum.

Investigators reported that the suspect, who confessed at the scene, exclaimed, "free Palestine" during the attack. The tragic event prompted mourners in Washington to hold a vigil in honor of the victims. The incident has heightened concerns over security and anti-Israel sentiments in the region.

U.S. and Iran Resume Nuclear Program Negotiations

In international affairs, [02:17] Korva Coleman shared that negotiators from the U.S. and Iran are set to commence the fifth round of talks in Rome regarding Iran's nuclear program. Iran maintains that its nuclear activities are solely for peaceful purposes, whereas the U.S. and its allies express apprehension that Iran may develop nuclear weapons.

Both parties have indicated a preference for diplomatic solutions; however, disagreements persist over the extent and oversight of Iran's nuclear capabilities. The outcome of these negotiations is crucial for regional stability and non-proliferation efforts.

Plane Crash in San Diego Claims Lives of Music Agency Employees

A tragic aviation accident was reported in San Diego, where a private plane crashed into a military neighborhood just before dawn. [04:05] Scott Wall, San Diego's police chief, confirmed that one home was severely damaged and several vehicles were destroyed by the ensuing fire.

[04:10] Katie Anastas from NPR detailed the scene, noting, "With the jet fuel going down the street and everything on fire all at once, it was pretty horrific to see." The crash resulted in the deaths of three employees from the music agency Sound Talent Group, with three other individuals on board unaccounted for and no survivors found. The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the cause of the crash.

Unusual Late-May Nor'easter Brings Heavy Rain to New England

Weather patterns took an unexpected turn as [04:36] Korva Coleman reported on a rare nor'easter affecting parts of New England. This storm, characterized by heavy rainfall, is uncommon in late May and has led to numerous fallen trees across the region.

The severe weather is gradually moving into the Atlantic Ocean, but the immediate impact includes significant disruptions and potential hazards for residents. Residents are advised to stay vigilant as authorities assess and address the storm's effects.

Note: Advertisements and non-content segments from the podcast episode have been intentionally excluded to focus solely on the informative aspects of the broadcast.