NPR News Now: Detailed Summary of Episode Released on June 12, 2025
Host: Shea Stevens
Release Date: June 12, 2025
1. Ongoing Immigration Protests and Mass Deportations
Downtown Los Angeles Curfew and Protests
In downtown Los Angeles, a curfew has been enforced for the second consecutive night due to persistent immigration protests. These demonstrations are part of the wider unrest surrounding the Trump administration's ongoing mass deportation efforts.
Trump Administration’s Stance
President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his commitment to executing "the largest mass deportation campaign in American history." Speaking on this issue, Trump stated:
"Black [left-wing] riots will not deter me in that effort. Sanctuary cities and states will no longer be allowed to shield illegal criminals from deportation."
[00:41]
Deployment of National Guard and Military Personnel
Press Secretary Caroline Levitt addressed the situation by announcing the deployment of National Guard and military personnel to Los Angeles, emphasizing that this move serves as a "message to people who are trying to stop the effort." Additionally, Levitt mentioned that boxes containing masks and writing equipment have been delivered to the protests, hinting—without evidence—that protesters may be receiving external funding.
Protests in Spokane, Washington
Similar tensions are evident in Spokane, where police deployed tear gas to disperse a crowd gathered for an ICE protest. Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown has defended the city's actions, asserting:
"The city upholds the First Amendment right to free speech and public assembly."
[00:56]
To maintain order, Mayor Brown has also imposed a curfew from 9:30 PM to 5:00 AM.
2. Federal Court Ruling on Legal Services for Separated Families
Background of the Settlement
A significant development has emerged from a federal court ruling mandating the Justice Department (DOJ) to reinstate legal services for families that were separated at the U.S. southern border. This follows a 2023 settlement between the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Biden administration, which required the federal government to provide these essential legal services.
DOJ’s Breach of Settlement
Mark Bettencourt of the California Newsroom reported that approximately three months after President Trump took office, the DOJ terminated its contract with Acacia Center for Justice, the organization responsible for delivering these legal services. This termination constitutes a breach of the 2023 settlement agreement.
Impact and Response
A federal judge has now ruled that the DOJ's actions were in violation of the settlement. Sarah Van Hofwegen from Acacia expressed relief but noted the challenges ahead:
"It's going to take time for the legal service providers to rehire staff that they had to lay off and to regain contact with class members who had their services stopped suddenly."
[01:57]
The DOJ has declined to comment on the court's decision. For continued coverage, Mark Bettencourt provided updates from NPR.
3. Potential Release of Mahmoud Khalil from Federal Custody
Background on Mahmoud Khalil’s Detention
Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University graduate student, has been detained by ICE agents in rural Louisiana for the past three months. His detention is part of broader efforts under President Trump's administration targeting student protesters.
Legal Proceedings and Free Speech Concerns
Khalil's legal team has argued that Secretary of State Marco Rubio's decision to deport him due to his pro-Palestinian activism infringes upon his constitutional right to free speech. Judge Michael Tharbiars has ruled that Khalil is likely to succeed in this legal challenge, leading to a significant court decision that the government cannot maintain Khalil’s detention under the current circumstances.
Adrian Florido of NPR reported:
"Because of that, the judge has now ruled that the government cannot keep Khalil detained. But he gave the government until Friday to appeal, so it's not clear when Khalil might be released. Nonetheless, a huge victory for Khalil."
[02:30]
The outcome represents a substantial triumph for Khalil, highlighting the ongoing legal battles surrounding immigration policies and individual rights.
4. Health and Environmental Policy Shifts
Changes in Vaccine Policy Advisers
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has appointed eight new vaccine policy advisers to replace the CDC panel that was dismissed last week. The new appointments include critics of COVID-19 vaccines and officials linked to vaccine misinformation, signaling a potential shift in federal health strategies.
EPA’s Consideration to Repeal Pollution Restrictions
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently evaluating the repeal of Biden-era restrictions aiming to reduce pollution from coal and gas-fired power plants. The proposed changes would relax requirements for lowering emissions of toxic pollutants, which have been associated with heart problems.
Former President Biden had initially introduced tighter emissions regulations to combat industrial pollution, particularly affecting low-income and minority communities. The EPA's move has sparked concern among environmentalists and public health advocates about the potential impact on vulnerable populations.
5. Passing of Brian Wilson, Beach Boys Co-Founder
Tribute to a Musical Icon
Brian Wilson, the co-founder, songwriter, and producer of the Beach Boys, passed away at the age of 82. His contributions left an indelible mark on American pop music, with his innovative work on the 1966 album Pet Sounds securing his reputation as a musical mastermind.
Reflections from Linda Ronstadt
Linda Ronstadt, a fellow rock star, shared her admiration for Wilson's genius and the uplifting nature of his music:
"I wish they all could be California girls."
[04:14]
She further commented:
"Wouldn't it be nice if we were older than that?"
[04:35]
Legacy and Later Years
In his later years, Wilson continued to influence the music scene through projects like a reunion album and tour with the Beach Boys, solidifying his legacy as a pivotal figure in shaping the sound of American pop music.
Chloe Veltman of NPR provided these insights, highlighting the profound impact Brian Wilson had on both his contemporaries and future generations of musicians.
This summary encapsulates the key discussions and developments featured in the June 12, 2025 episode of NPR News Now, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the day's significant news events.