NPR News Now: Detailed Summary of June 18, 2025, Episode at 3AM EDT
Release Date: June 18, 2025
International News: President Trump Calls for Iran's Unconditional Surrender
Host: Shea Stevens introduces the segment at [00:16].
Reporter: Franco Ordonez reports from the White House.
President Donald Trump has intensified rhetoric against Iran amidst escalating conflicts with Israel, which has now entered its fifth day of exchange strikes. Taking to social media, Trump demanded Iran's "unconditional surrender," asserting, "We have now total and complete control of the skies over Iran" ([00:31]). He further stated, "The US knows exactly where the supreme leader is. We're not going to take him out, at least for now. But we don't want missiles shot at civilians or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin." These statements highlight the administration's firm stance while signaling a cautious approach towards direct action against Iran's leadership.
Domestic Politics: Senator Alex Padilla Advocates for Peaceful Resistance
Host: Shea Stevens reports at [01:06].
Speaker: US Senator Alex Padilla addresses the Senate floor.
California Senator Alex Padilla is urging Americans to engage in peaceful protests against the current administration's policies. Reflecting on his own experience of detention last week while questioning the head of Homeland Security, Padilla emphasized, "We know that the cameras are not on in every corner of the country, but if this administration is this afraid of just one senator with a question, colleagues, imagine what the voices of tens of millions of Americans peacefully protesting can do" ([01:21]).
Padilla's call to action underscores a growing sentiment among some lawmakers and constituents who feel marginalized and constrained by executive policies. The incident of his detention has become a catalyst for advocating broader civil engagement and resistance.
Legal Developments: Arrest of New York City Comptroller Brad Lander
Host: Shea Stevens continues the report.
Incident Details: New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, a mayoral candidate, was arrested at an immigration court on Tuesday. Lander claims he was present to observe immigration hearings and to escort defendants from the courtroom. However, he was accused of obstruction after locking arms with an immigrant and demanding to see a judicial warrant. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem's office clarified that the Secret Service initially mistook Padilla for an attacker, although the senator asserts he identified himself during the incident.
This arrest highlights tensions between political figures and law enforcement agencies, raising questions about the conduct and protocols followed during such interactions.
Weather Alert: First-Ever Heat Advisory Issued for Alaska
Host: Shelby Herbert of KUAC reports at [02:29].
The National Weather Service has issued its first-ever heat advisory for Alaska, with temperatures in the interior regions projected to reach the mid-80s Fahrenheit over the next several days. Shelby Herbert outlines the challenges faced by Alaskans, particularly in Fairbanks, where residents are struggling to keep themselves and their pets cool. Local animal shelters are responding by providing kiddie pools and peanut butter popsicles for pets.
Meteorologist Jason Laney explains, "The state is warming two to three times faster than the global average. And the summer heat beats down on the many buildings in the region that don't have air conditioning. It's a one, two punch," ([02:57]). Additionally, the heat coincides with wildfire season, exacerbating conditions as smoke from Canadian wildfires drifts into Fairbanks, preventing residents from opening windows for relief ([03:01]).
Severe Weather Forecast: Thunderstorms and Flooding in the Midwest
Host: Shea Stevens at [03:12].
Parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia are on high alert for severe thunderstorms and flash flooding. The National Weather Service warns that these storms could produce large hail and isolated tornadoes. Additionally, a line of severe storms is impacting areas of Kansas and Oklahoma, indicating a widespread weather event that could lead to significant damage and safety concerns.
Residents in these regions are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard life and property.
Legal Proceedings: Conspiracy Theorist Alex Jones Faces New Lawsuit
Host: Tovia Smith reports at [03:52].
Alex Jones, known for his conspiracy theories, is embroiled in another legal battle. Following previous defamation lawsuits from Sandy Hook families, who were awarded over a billion dollars in damages, Jones is now accused of hiding assets to avoid repayment. Tovia Smith details that a federal trustee overseeing Jones's bankruptcy case alleges that his financial dealings constitute "textbook fraud."
Jones has historically claimed inability to pay the families, but the trustee seeks to reverse $5 million in last-minute sales and transfers of assets, including cars, condos, cash, and a ranch, which were allegedly moved to his father, ex-wife, and children's trusts. Chris Mattey, attorney for the families, stated, "It's no surprise Jones would lie to hide his assets, but he won't get away with it." Jones's legal team has not responded to comments as the case progresses.
Sports and Markets: Florida Panthers Win Stanley Cup; Market Updates
Host: Shea Stevens at [04:33].
In sports, the Florida Panthers have clinched the Stanley Cup for the second consecutive year by defeating the Edmonton Oilers 5-1 in Game Six of the finals. This triumph marks a significant achievement for the team and its supporters.
On the financial front, US futures are trading flat in after-hours on Wall Street, indicating a stable market sentiment. In contrast, Asia-Pacific markets are experiencing mixed performances, with slight gains in Tokyo and Shanghai. These movements reflect ongoing global economic dynamics amidst current events.
Note: Advertisements and non-content sections from the podcast have been excluded to focus on the substantive news coverage.