NPR News Now: May 29, 2025
Release Date: May 29, 2025
Host: NPR
Duration: Approximately 5 Minutes
Harvard Faces Legal Challenges Amid Trump Administration Policies
Lakshmi Singh reports on Harvard University's ongoing legal battles against the Trump administration's attempts to cut deep funding and restrict the enrollment of international students. President Alan Garber received a standing ovation during graduation, symbolizing the university's resilience.
A federal judge has recently issued a preliminary injunction against the administration's efforts, signaling a significant victory for educational institutions nationwide. This injunction serves as a warning to other institutions contemplating non-compliance with Trump's directives. Additionally, new visa restrictions have impacted hundreds of thousands of Chinese students across the U.S., with Trump supporters citing national security concerns.
"President Garber received a lengthy standing ovation as the face of the university's landmark court battles against government interference."
[00:26]
Secretary Rubio Unveils Ambitious State Department Reorganization Plan
Michelle Kellerman delves into Secretary of State Marco Rubio's proposed reorganization plan aimed at streamlining the State Department. The plan includes significant staff cuts in areas such as human rights and democracy, shifting focus towards regional bureaus to enhance agility.
Rubio emphasizes the necessity for the State Department to "move at the speed of relevance" in today's fast-paced world. However, Democrats on Capitol Hill criticize the plan, arguing that these cuts may undermine U.S. standing and cede ground to adversaries like China. Notably, Rubio plans to take over the remnants of USAID, ensuring that passport and visa services remain unaffected as they are funded by fees.
"Secretary Rubio is making deep cuts, saying they are meant to make the State department more agile."
[01:36]
Federal Courts Block President Trump's Tariff Authority
In a significant legal setback for the Trump administration, a specialized trade court has ruled unanimously that only Congress holds the authority to regulate trade and impose tariffs. This decision comes less than a day after the U.S. Court of International Trade dismissed most of Trump's tariff impositions.
A dozen states and five businesses had challenged the president's unilateral actions, leading to a decisive victory for the challengers. The Trump administration has vowed to appeal the decision all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. Meanwhile, U.S. stock markets responded positively, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising by 65 points, the S&P by 14 points, and the Nasdaq by 45 points.
"Under the Constitution, it's Congress that has exclusive power to regulate trade and impose tariffs."
[02:34]
Wildfire Smoke Linked to Long-Term Cardiorespiratory Issues
Alejandra Barunda reports on a new study published in the journal Epidemiology that highlights the persistent health risks associated with wildfire smoke exposure. The research indicates that individuals exposed to wildfire smoke are more likely to experience hospitalizations for heart and breathing problems up to three months after the initial exposure, with hypertension being particularly affected.
The study underscores the growing body of evidence connecting climate change to more intense and frequent wildfires, thereby exacerbating public health concerns related to air quality.
"Breathing in wildfire smoke contributed to hospitalizations for heart and breathing problems as long as three months after the smoke exposure."
[03:37]
Swiss Village Erased by Sudden Glacier Collapse
In a startling natural disaster, a Swiss village was completely destroyed by a massive glacier detachment. Eleanor Beardsley reports that scientists had predicted the disaster and evacuated all 300 residents of Blatten on May 19. Despite these precautions, a mile-long strip of ice, rock, and dirt several feet deep covered the village, leaving nothing behind.
Christophe Lambiel, a specialist in high mountain geology and glaciers, explained on RTS Swiss television that the glacier's detachment was the result of years of the rock face breaking off and adding weight and pressure until it ultimately collapsed.
"What happened is unthinkable. It's the catastrophic worst case scenario," said Christophe Lambiel.
[04:24]
This episode of NPR News Now provided insightful updates on significant national and international events, from educational institutions battling federal policies to natural disasters reshaping communities. For those seeking detailed accounts of economic, political, and environmental developments, this summary encapsulates the essential information delivered in today's broadcast.