NPR News: June 16, 2025

Funding Rescission Threatens Public Media

In a significant move affecting public media, the House of Representatives has approved a White House request to claw back two years of previously allocated funding for public media. The rescission package, which now proceeds to the Senate, poses a serious threat to local stations and the integrity of public media institutions.

"This move poses a serious threat to local stations and public media as we know it."
— Unknown Speaker, [00:00]

Advocates are urging the public to take a stand against this funding cut by reaching out to support organizations.

Tensions Escalate Between Iran and Israel

Amid ongoing regional tensions, President Trump announced that Iran has sent messages indicating a desire to de-escalate the conflict with Israel. However, Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Michelle Keleman, remains skeptical of Iran's intentions.

"The Israeli ambassador to the U.N. calls Iran a master of deception."
— Jack Spear, [00:25]

Michelle Keleman elaborated on Israel's stance, emphasizing the lack of room for dialogue at the moment and defending recent military strikes against Iranian interests.

"Israel has pushed back Iran's nuclear program in recent days and it will continue to do that."
— Michelle Keleman, [00:43]

She further clarified the severity of Israel's operations against Iran, distinguishing them from past actions in Iraq and Syria.

"It's not a short operation. It's a much more challenging operation and it takes time."
— Unknown Speaker, [00:58]

Keleman also addressed Israel's commitment to targeting anyone collaborating with the Iranian military, underscoring the ongoing nature of the conflict.

"Israel will target anyone cooperating with the Iranian military."
— Michelle Keleman, [01:11]

Purdue Pharma Reaches $1.4 Billion Bankruptcy Settlement

All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories have approved a new $1.4 billion bankruptcy settlement with Purdue Pharma, the manufacturer of OxyContin. This settlement is a pivotal development in addressing the U.S. opioid crisis.

"The Sacklers are expected to contribute billions of dollars to the settlement."
— Brian Mann, [01:40]

Unlike previous bankruptcy plans overturned by the Supreme Court, this deal allows individuals to retain the ability to pursue lawsuits against members of the Sackler family, who own Purdue Pharma. New York Attorney General Letitia James emphasized the settlement's role in holding the Sacklers accountable for their part in the opioid epidemic, although the family denies any wrongdoing.

Brian Mann noted that this settlement adds to over $50 billion already allocated to opioid-related settlements, marking a significant financial response to the crisis.

Economists Predict Higher Inflation and Slower Growth Due to Tariffs

Economists are forecasting a rise in prices and a slowdown in economic growth for the year, attributing these changes to President Trump's implementation of tariffs.

"More than 90% of the business economists surveyed say they expect tariffs to result in higher inflation this year."
— Scott Horsley, [02:32]

Despite recent inflation reports showing minimal impact from the trade war, private forecasters anticipate a lasting effect. They project an average price increase of approximately 3.4%, up from last month's 2.4%. Additionally, GDP growth is expected to taper to around 1.3%, down from the previously projected 1.9%, with slight increases in unemployment rates.

"On average, they think the economy will grow about 1.3% this year, down from 1.9% before tariffs."
— Scott Horsley, [02:32]

Wall Street Rises Amid Middle East Tensions

In spite of escalating tensions and military actions between Israel and Iran, Wall Street saw gains today. The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 317 points, reflecting investor confidence despite regional instability.

Devastating Floods in West Virginia Claim Six Lives

Severe flooding in West Virginia's panhandle has resulted in six fatalities, with two individuals still missing. Governor Patrick Morris reported substantial damage across several counties, including Willing and Ohio.

"As much as four inches of rain fell in parts of Willing and Ohio counties over a 40 minute period."
— Unknown Speaker, [03:13]

The floods have destroyed at least 60 homes, 24 businesses, and 30 roads, highlighting the extreme weather events impacting the region.

Potential Reopening of Michigan's Palisades Nuclear Power Plant

Federal regulators are currently reviewing plans to revive the Palisades nuclear power plant in Michigan, which has been shuttered since 2022. If approved, Palisades could become the first decommissioned nuclear plant in the U.S. to return to operation.

"Once I was convinced, I told him to sign me up, so I wanted to be part of it."
— Steve Schip, [04:20]

Steve Schip, one of the workers involved in the plant's reopening, expressed initial skepticism before committing to the project. However, some local residents oppose the plan, citing concerns over the aging infrastructure and potential risks.

"Some local residents are opposed to the plan, saying the aging plant is too big of a risk."
— Dustin Dwyer, [04:25]

European Satellites Create Artificial Solar Eclipses for Research

In a groundbreaking scientific achievement, two European satellites have successfully employed precise formation flying to create artificial solar eclipses. This innovation allows for extended periods of observation and research that were previously unattainable.

"The satellite pair launched late last year have been able to create 10 mini solar eclipses so far."
— Jack Spear, [04:34]

The European Space Agency showcased images of these satellite-created eclipses, anticipating many more to be generated over the next two years, thereby opening new avenues for solar research.

Conclusion

Today's NPR News Now episode covered a broad spectrum of critical issues, from funding challenges in public media and escalating Middle Eastern tensions to significant developments in the opioid settlement, economic forecasts influenced by tariffs, and innovative scientific endeavors. Additionally, the episode highlighted severe weather impacts in West Virginia and potential changes in the nuclear energy landscape in Michigan. These updates provide listeners with a comprehensive overview of the pressing events shaping our world.