NPR News Now: Episode Summary – June 28, 2025

Released on June 28, 2025 | Hosted by Dale Willman

U.S.-Canada Trade Tensions Escalate

Timestamp: [00:14]

President Donald Trump announced the termination of all trade discussions with Canada, citing Canada's new digital services tax as the primary reason. This tax, set to take effect on June 30, targets revenues generated by U.S.-based tech giants from Canadian users.

Quote:

“We are hereby terminating all discussions on trade with Canada effective immediately over Canada's digital services tax.” – President Donald Trump ([00:33])

Trump further indicated that the United States would soon inform Canada of the new tariff rates applicable to Canadian goods, signaling potential economic friction between the two nations. Additionally, Trump mentioned the possibility of moving the July 9 deadline for increasing tariffs on multiple countries, emphasizing the urgency of negotiating new tariff agreements.

Defense Department Renames Naval Ship Amid Controversy

Timestamp: [01:14]

In a move that has sparked debate, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the renaming of the USNS Harvey Milk to USNS Oscar V. Peterson. Harvey Milk was recognized as the first openly gay man elected to public office in California and was tragically assassinated in 1978.

Quote:

“We're not renaming the ship to anything political. This is not about political activists, unlike the previous administration. Instead, we're renaming the ship after a United States Navy Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, as it should be.” – Pete Hegseth, Defense Secretary ([01:29])

Hegseth emphasized that the renaming honors a Navy chief and aims to foster pride among the ship's crew, distancing the decision from political motivations.

Changes to Military Base Names and Tragic Political Assassination

Timestamp: [01:53]

The Defense Department is undertaking a broader initiative to rename military bases with names deemed more acceptable to conservative viewpoints. Concurrently, a somber event unfolded as hundreds gathered outside the Minnesota State Capitol to honor Melissa Hortman, a prominent Democratic leader who was assassinated two weeks prior.

Report by Kathryn Richard:

“Former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman, her husband, Mark, and their golden retriever, Gilbert, were all placed in the Capitol Rotunda. Among the hundreds who came to honor the former Democratic leader was Brianna Hallinan and her three kids. They drove from a town more than an hour north of the Twin Cities.” ([02:13])

Brianna Hallinan expressed admiration for Hortman's dedication to programs supporting lower-income families, highlighting the community's grief and respect.

Quote:

“Trying to teach my kids to look for, look for the helpers and be the helpers and honor them as well.” – Brianna Hallinan ([02:30])

Vance Belter has been charged with the murder of Hortman and her family, with authorities labeling the act as a politically motivated assassination.

U.S. Stock Markets Reach New Highs

Timestamp: [02:56]

U.S. stock markets closed at record highs on Friday. The S&P 500 increased by 0.5%, surpassing its previous peak set in February. Similarly, the Nasdaq grew by 0.5%, achieving its own all-time high, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 1%.

Prospects for Ceasefire in Gaza Conflict

President Trump expressed optimism regarding a potential ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict between Israel and Hamas, which is backed by Iran. Despite neither side confirming any agreement, Trump suggested that a resolution could be reached within a week.

Quote:

“I think it's possible that a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict… will be reached within a week.” – President Donald Trump ([02:56])

Hamas has indicated willingness to free remaining hostages in Gaza contingent upon a comprehensive deal to end the war, whereas Israel insists that such actions would only occur if Hamas is fully disarmed and dismantled.

California Boosts Film and TV Production Incentives

Timestamp: [03:48]

California legislators have approved a significant increase in incentives for film and television productions. The new tax credit program, part of the state's budget deal, offers up to $750 million annually, more than doubling previous incentives. This move aims to retain Hollywood productions within the state, countering competition from states like Georgia and New York, as well as international locations such as Canada and the UK.

Report by Mandalit Del Barco:

“Hollywood studios, producers and workers lobbied for the updated tax credits to try to prevent movies and TV shows from leaving for states like Georgia and New York and countries such as Canada and the UK which offer generous credits, rebates and grants.” ([03:48])

Governor Gavin Newsom has prioritized this initiative, with additional expansions expected to include animation and sitcom productions in the upcoming legislative session.

Exciting Developments at the PGA Classic in Detroit

Timestamp: [04:26]

The PGA Classic in Detroit saw a thrilling competition, resulting in a three-way tie for the lead between Chris Kirk, Phillip Knowles, and Andrew Putnam, all positioned at 14 under par after two rounds. Notably, Jake Knapp delivered a remarkable performance, shooting an 11 under par 61, thereby breaking the tournament record. Knapp also became the first golfer to break 60 and shoot a 61 or lower within the same season.

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