NPR News Now – June 12, 2025: Air India Crash, Immigration Protests, CDC Shake-Up, Texas Drug Trials, Wildfires, and Sports Highlights
Release Date: June 12, 2025
International Tragedy: Air India Flight Crash
At [00:15], host Dave Mattingly reported a distressing development from India, where a commercial Air India flight carrying over 240 passengers has crashed in the country's northwest region. The incident marks a significant aviation disaster, with details regarding the cause and the status of those aboard yet to be disclosed. The Reuters news agency is on the scene, working to gather more information as it becomes available.
Domestic Unrest: Immigration Raids Spark Nationwide Protests
Los Angeles Under Curfew
NPR News provided an in-depth look at the escalating tensions surrounding federal immigration raids in the United States. Dave Mattingly highlighted that downtown Los Angeles is under a nighttime curfew for the second consecutive day following six days of widespread protests. These demonstrations are a direct response to federal immigration raids targeting individuals without legal status.
[00:53] Steve Futterman, reporting from Los Angeles, described the atmosphere as cautiously tense. While acknowledging that most protests remained peaceful, he detailed a notable confrontation at City Hall where police deployed flashbangs to disperse protesters. Futterman emphasized, “Things weren’t totally peaceful in downtown LA,” reflecting the mixed nature of the protests.
Mayor's Critique
Mayor Karen Bass voiced strong opposition to Homeland Security’s methods: “When you raid Home Depots and workplaces, when you tear parents and children apart, you're not trying to keep anyone safe. You're trying to cause fear and panic attack” [00:53]. Her statement underscores the community’s distrust and frustration with federal immigration tactics.
Legal Repercussions
The US Attorney highlighted that individuals involved in violent confrontations during the protests have faced charges, with expectations of further legal actions as the unrest continues [00:53]. Dave Mattingly added that the LAPD has made hundreds of arrests since the protests began last Friday, indicating the scale and intensity of the demonstrations.
Spread of Protests Nationwide
The unrest is not confined to Los Angeles. More than 30 arrests have been reported in Spokane, Washington, where the mayor has declared a state of emergency and imposed a nighttime curfew [01:40]. Police in Spokane have resorted to using pepper balls to manage crowds, a tactic also observed in other cities like Chicago, Dallas, and Atlanta [01:40]. This nationwide surge in protests highlights the deep-seated tensions surrounding immigration enforcement policies.
Health Sector Shake-Up: New CDC Vaccine Advisory Committee Members
[01:40] Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has appointed eight new members to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Vaccine Advisory Committee, following the dismissal of the previous panel [01:40]. This move comes amid controversy and signals a significant shift in the CDC’s advisory framework.
Controversial Appointments
NPR's Ping Huang reported that the new committee members include several prominent critics of government COVID-19 policies:
- Martin Koldofff: Known for advocating against lockdowns.
- Dr. Robert Malone: Recognized for spreading false claims about the dangers of COVID vaccines.
- Vicki Pebsworth: Served on the board of the National Vaccine Information Center, a group that warns against vaccine risks.
- Dr. Cody Meissner: The only repeat member of the committee.
Conflict of Interest Concerns
The appointment process has raised eyebrows due to potential conflicts of interest. According to a database compiled by Kennedy's team, there were "1,212" instances of declared conflicts during his previous tenure from 2008 to 2012 [02:24]. These revelations have sparked discussions about the impartiality and credibility of the new advisory committee.
Role of the CDC Vaccine Advisory Committee
The committee is pivotal in shaping vaccine recommendations to prevent diseases and promote public health. The inclusion of members with contentious views may influence future vaccine policies and public trust in health guidelines [02:24].
Legislative Advance: Texas Funds Ibogaine Clinical Trials
Funding Psychedelic Research
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has signed groundbreaking legislation allocating $50 million over the next two years for FDA-approved clinical trials of ibogaine, a potent psychoactive drug currently banned in the United States [03:09]. This move represents a significant investment in alternative treatments for substance abuse, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury.
[03:25] Jonathan Levinson reported that ibogaine has shown extraordinary promise in addressing these conditions but has been challenging to study due to its illegal status. The Texas Ibogaine Initiative, supported by military veterans and Republican politicians, played a central role in advocating for this legislation.
Pioneering Treatment in Texas
The organization behind the initiative stated, “Texas is leading a revolution in the treatment of trauma and addiction” [03:25]. This assertion highlights Texas's proactive stance in exploring unconventional therapies to combat pressing health issues, potentially setting a precedent for other states to follow.
Environmental Crisis: Wildfire Threats in Oregon
Evacuation Orders Issued
Oregon is grappling with severe wildfire threats, prompting evacuation orders for residents in hundreds of homes [04:00]. The flames have necessitated the closure of nearly 20 miles of Interstate 84 between Hood River and The Dalles, east of Portland [04:00].
Potential for Expansion
Authorities have indicated that evacuation orders may be extended depending on the fire's progression and impact on surrounding areas [04:00]. The situation remains fluid, with emergency services closely monitoring the wildfire’s behavior to ensure public safety.
Sports and Financial Updates
NBA Finals: Indiana Pacers Lead
In sports news, the Indiana Pacers hold a lead in the NBA Finals, trailing the Oklahoma City Thunder two games to one after last night's comeback victory of 116-107 [04:00]. Game Four is scheduled for tomorrow night in Indianapolis, where the Pacers aim to secure their championship [04:00].
Stanley Cup Final: Florida Panthers Advance
The Stanley Cup Final sees the Florida Panthers leading the Edmonton Oilers two games to one in the best-of-seven series [04:00]. Game Four is set to take place tonight in Florida, with both teams vying for the coveted title [04:00].
Wall Street Futures Decline
On the financial front, Wall Street futures were reported as lower this morning, signaling potential shifts in the stock market [04:00]. Investors are closely watching these movements amidst the day's array of significant news events.
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key points and discussions from the June 12, 2025, episode of NPR News Now. From international tragedies and domestic protests to significant health sector changes and legislative advancements, the episode offers a broad overview of the pressing issues of the day. Additionally, it touches upon environmental challenges and updates in the world of sports and finance, providing listeners with a well-rounded news briefing.