NPR News Now: Detailed Summary of Episode Released on May 28, 2025

Host: Shea Stevens
Release Date: May 28, 2025

1. Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration's Retaliation Against New York Over Manhattan Tolls

Timestamp: [00:20]

Shea Stevens opens the episode by reporting a significant legal development in New York. A federal judge has temporarily halted the Trump administration's efforts to retaliate against New York State for maintaining congestion tolls in Manhattan. This legal battle centers around the $9 toll imposed on vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street, a policy initially opposed by President Trump during his campaign.

Details:

• Steven Nessen from WNYC provides an in-depth report on the situation.
• In February, the Department of Transportation (DOT) rescinded its approval of New York's toll program, prompting the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to file a counter lawsuit.
• The toll program has been instrumental in generating millions for transit improvements and has effectively reduced traffic congestion in the area.
• Judge Louis Lyman has granted the federal government until June 9 to present further documentation in the case.
• A DOT spokesperson commented, “The tolls are unfair for working-class Americans,” signaling the administration's stance against the program.

Quote:

“The tolls are unfair for working-class Americans.” – DOT Spokesperson [00:41]

2. President Trump Defends Proposed 50% Tariffs on European Union Goods Amid Policy Shifts

Timestamp: [01:24]

Shea Stevens transitions to international trade tensions, focusing on President Trump's fluctuating stance on tariffs.

Details:

• Daniel Kurtzleben reports that President Trump has been inconsistent on his tariff policy towards the European Union (EU). Initially proposing a 50% tariff starting June 1, Trump later postponed the implementation to July 9 following discussions with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
• Despite the delay, Trump remains firm on the high tariff rate, stating he is “extremely satisfied with the 50% tariff” and is prepared to enforce these rates if negotiations with the EU fail.
• The administration is also eyeing potential tariff increases on China and other countries, with deadlines set for the summer. Failure to reach agreements by these dates could see tariffs escalate further.

Quote:

“I am extremely satisfied with the 50% tariff... I will set rates if we and the EU are unable to make a deal.” – President Trump [01:37]

3. King Charles Addresses Canadian Parliament on Global Challenges

Timestamp: [02:22]

In a rare ceremonial event, Britain's King Charles inaugurated a new session of the Canadian Parliament, delivering a speech that underscored pressing global issues.

Details:

• King Charles emphasized the importance of democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination, and freedom—values deeply cherished by Canadians.
• He encouraged Canadians to harness their skills and determination to develop solutions to global challenges, asserting that Canadians possess the resilience to “give themselves far more than any foreign power can ever take away.”

Quotes:

“Today, Canada faces another critical moment. Democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination, freedom are values which Canadians hold dear...” – King Charles [02:38]

“Canadians can seize the moment by recognizing that they can give themselves far more than any foreign power can ever take away.” – King Charles [02:57]

4. Manhunt Underway for Escaped Convict Grant Hardin in Arkansas

Timestamp: [03:19]

Shea Stevens reports on an ongoing manhunt in Arkansas for Grant Hardin, an ex-police chief and convicted killer who recently escaped from a medium-security facility in Gateway.

Details:

• Hardin's escape occurred on Sunday, shortly after a separate incident where 10 inmates broke out of a New Orleans jail. While most of those escapees have been recaptured, Hardin remains at large.
• Authorities are intensifying efforts to locate him, raising concerns about public safety given his criminal background.

5. Tributes Following the Deaths of Susan Brownmiller and Rick Derringer

Timestamp: [03:53]

The episode pays homage to two notable figures who recently passed away: feminist author Susan Brownmiller and musician Rick Derringer.

Susan Brownmiller:

• Elizabeth Blair reports the passing of Brownmiller at age 90. Renowned for her 1975 bestseller Against Our Will, Brownmiller was a pioneering feminist who explored rape as a weapon of war and critiqued the systemic biases against victims in law enforcement and the judiciary.
• In a 1975 interview with NPR, Brownmiller stated, “Unfortunately, a woman has to prove that she did not consent and in many states has to have independent corroborative proof of the act.” [04:09]
• Despite criticisms from civil rights activists regarding her chapter on race, her work achieved bestseller status and earned her recognition as one of Time magazine’s Women of the Year in 1975.

Rick Derringer:

• Elizabeth Blair also reports the death of Rick Derringer, a guitarist and singer famed for his 1965 hit "Hang On, Sloopy."
• Derringer contributed to the music industry not only with his band, the McCoys, but also through session work with notable artists like Steely Dan and Bonnie Tyler.
• He passed away on Monday in Florida, with no cause of death disclosed. [04:52]

Market and Other Updates

• Shea Stevens briefly mentions that U.S. futures are flat in after-hours trading on Wall Street, and Asia-Pacific markets show mixed performances.

This episode of NPR News Now provides comprehensive coverage of significant national and international events, offering listeners insightful analyses and updates on legal battles, international trade policies, ceremonial speeches, criminal investigations, and notable passings. Through detailed reporting and the inclusion of impactful quotes, the podcast ensures that even those who haven't listened can stay informed on these crucial topics.