NPR News Now: Episode Summary – May 27, 2025, 1PM EDT
Published on May 27, 2025
1. Trump Administration Seeks Cancellation of Harvard's Federal Contracts
Host: Lakshmi Singh introduces the segment.
Reporter: Alyssa Nadworny
The Trump administration has directed federal agencies to terminate their remaining contracts with Harvard University, citing allegations of antisemitism within the institution. The estimated value of these contracts is approximately $100 million.
A letter from the U.S. General Services Administration issued on Tuesday mandates agencies to review and either terminate existing contracts with Harvard or seek alternative vendors. Agencies are required to report the terminated contracts by June 6th. This action adds to the over $2 billion in federal funding that the administration has already frozen for Harvard.
Harvard University has yet to respond to NPR's requests for comment. In response to the administration's freeze, Harvard is pursuing legal action to block the funding cuts, arguing that these measures are unlawful and pose a threat to academic freedom and First Amendment rights.
Notable Quote:
“The administration's moves are unlawful and that the cuts threaten academic freedom and First Amendment rights.”
— Alyssa Nadworny, [00:38]
2. President Trump's Memorial Day Tributes and Social Media Contradictions
Host: Lakshmi Singh
Reporter: Domenico Montanaro
President Trump observed Memorial Day by paying tribute to fallen military service members at Arlington National Cemetery, adhering to traditional presidential practices. However, his actions on social media painted a contrasting picture.
Trump posted messages online three times, wishing followers a "happy Memorial Day," a sentiment some critics argue is inappropriate for the solemn nature of the day. He further added disparaging remarks about those he blames for political divisions.
Notable Quote:
“It's not a day to tell people, happy Memorial Day. But that's what Trump did three times on social media, wishing a happy Memorial Day to quote, including the scum that spent the last four years trying to destroy our country through warped radical left minds.”
— Domenico Montanaro, [01:32]
3. Increase in US Economic Confidence Following Tariff Suspension
Host: Lakshmi Singh
Reporter: Scott Horsley
Consumers are showing increased confidence in the US economic outlook after the administration lifted some of its stringent tariffs. This development marks the first rise in economic confidence in six months.
A recent survey by the nonprofit Conference Board revealed a 14% increase in the confidence index. Respondents expressed optimism about both the current economic conditions and future prospects. Approximately half of the survey responses were received after the US and China agreed to a temporary truce in their ongoing trade war, which also buoyed the stock market and contributed to the positive sentiment.
Despite the uptick, concerns remain regarding the potential for tariffs to drive up prices. Additionally, while gasoline prices have become cheaper, many respondents remain anxious about the job market, even in the context of a low unemployment rate.
Notable Quote:
“About half the survey responses came in after the US and China agreed to a temporary truce in their trade war. That also gave a boost to the stock market, which contributed to the stronger confidence numbers.”
— Scott Horsley, [02:10]
4. Southwest Airlines to Implement Baggage Fees
Host: Lakshmi Singh
Travelers booking flights with Southwest Airlines should act swiftly, as today is the final day to check bags without incurring fees. Starting Wednesday, Southwest will introduce charges of $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. This change marks the end of the airline's longstanding policy of allowing two free checked bags, a feature that prominently differentiated Southwest from its discount competitors for decades.
5. King Charles' Historic Speech at Canada's Parliament
Host: Lakshmi Singh
King Charles marked a significant moment in Canadian history by delivering the throne speech during the opening session of Canada's parliament today. This event makes him the first British monarch to perform such a duty in 48 years, following Queen Elizabeth II.
Notable Quote:
“It is with a deep sense of pride and pleasure that my wife and I join you here today as we witness Canadians coming together in a renewed sense of national pride, unity and hope.”
— King Charles, [03:30]
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted that the monarchy's presence underscores Canada's sovereignty, serving as a counterpoint to President Trump's persistent remarks suggesting that Canada should be the 51st state.
6. Scripps National Spelling Bee Celebrates Its 100th Anniversary
Host: Lakshmi Singh
Reporter: Eva Pukach
The Scripps National Spelling Bee is currently underway, celebrating its centennial. The inaugural contest took place 100 years ago with nine participants, with "gladiolus" being the winning word. This year, the competition has expanded dramatically, featuring 243 spellers over four days.
A notable addition to this year's format is the "spell-off." In this final round, each remaining speller has 90 seconds to spell as many words as possible from a predetermined list. The champion will be the contestant who correctly spells the most words within the allotted time, adding an exciting new element to the historic competition.
Notable Quote:
“As part of the bee, the spellers participate in a vocabulary round, answering multiple choice questions that are designed to advance the bee's focus on word knowledge and literacy.”
— Eva Pukach, [04:05]
The final round is scheduled for Thursday evening, and if necessary, the spell-off could extend the competition further, heightening anticipation for the crowning of this year's champion.
This summary provides an overview of the key topics discussed in the NPR News Now episode aired on May 27, 2025, at 1PM EDT. For more detailed coverage, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode.