NPR News Now: July 4, 2025, 7 PM EDT

Hosted by NPR, this episode of "NPR News Now" provides a comprehensive overview of the latest national and international news. Below is a detailed summary of the key topics discussed, complete with notable quotes and timestamps.

1. President Trump Signs Major Tax Cut and Spending Bill

Host: Windsor Johnston
Reporter: Tamara Keith

At a Fourth of July celebration at the White House, President Donald Trump officially signed a significant tax cut and spending legislation into law. This bill, touted as a fulfillment of his campaign promises, includes:

• Permanent Tax Cuts: Building on those passed during Trump's first term.
• Immigration Enforcement Funding: Allocates billions of dollars towards this initiative.
• Cuts to Social Programs: Reductions in Medicaid and food assistance programs.

Notable Quotes:

• Tamara Keith (00:43): "President Trump got the Independence Day signing ceremony he had demanded."

• President Trump (01:01): "You're going to see like a rocket ship. You know, it said all sorts of economic records right now. And that's before this kicks in. After this kicks in, our country is going to be a rocket ship."

Political Reactions:

Democrats criticized the legislation, citing independent analyses that suggest the majority of the tax benefits will accrue to high-income individuals. Additionally, the bill is projected to result in nearly 12 million people losing Medicaid coverage.

2. Severe Flooding and Search Efforts in Central Texas

Host: Windsor Johnston
Official Spokesperson: Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick

Central Texas is grappling with catastrophic flooding caused by torrential rains that led the Guadalupe River to overflow its banks. The disaster has resulted in at least 13 fatalities and triggered extensive search and rescue operations.

Key Details:

• Affected Area: Texas Hill Country
• Casualties: Minimum of 13 deaths
• Ongoing Efforts: Approximately 20 children from Camp Mystic remain unaccounted for.

Notable Quotes:

• Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (01:50): "That does not mean they've been lost. They could be in a tree. They could be out of communication. We're praying for all of those missing to be found alive."

Emergency Measures:

Flash flood emergencies have been declared in five counties across West Texas, with state officials intensifying efforts to locate and assist those affected.

3. Ukraine-Russia Conflict: Zelensky's Call with President Trump

Host: Windsor Johnston
Reporter: Joanna Kakissis

In a pivotal development amidst ongoing tensions, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a phone conversation with President Trump hours after Russia launched its largest airstrike on Ukraine since the invasion began over three years ago.

Discussion Highlights:

• Air Defense Needs: Zelensky emphasized the critical state of Ukraine's air defenses.
• Joint Efforts: Both leaders agreed to collaborate on strengthening Ukraine's sky protections.
• Defense Production: Plans were discussed for the US and Ukraine to engage in joint defense manufacturing.

Notable Quotes:

• Zelensky (02:29): "We agreed to work together to strengthen the protection of Ukraine's skies."

• Trump (Post-call, 02:29): "Putin does not seem interested in ending the war."

Additional Context:

Earlier in the week, the Pentagon had unexpectedly paused a shipment of approved military aid, including essential air defense missiles, sparking concerns about Ukraine's defensive capabilities.

4. Deadly Explosions at Rome Gas Station

Host: Windsor Johnston
Reporter: Frank Morris

Tragedy struck in Rome as two explosions occurred at a local gas station, resulting in at least 20 injuries and several fatalities. Authorities are investigating the cause of the blasts, which coincided with reports of a gas leak.

Key Details:

• Location: Central Italy, Rome
• Casualties: Minimum of 20 injured
• Response: Police and firefighters are actively managing the aftermath and investigating the incident.

5. Upcoming Fireworks Tariff Increases for Next July 4th

Host: Windsor Johnston
Reporter: Frank Morris

With the United States approaching its 250th anniversary, the fireworks industry anticipates significant price hikes next July 4th due to impending tariff increases on imported fireworks from China.

Industry Insights:

• Current Tariffs: Previously set at 145%, reduced to 30% earlier this year.
• Impact Timeline: Importers had pre-ordered inventory before tariff adjustments, mitigating immediate effects.
• Future Projections: As new inventory arrives under the higher tariff rate, consumers can expect increased prices for fireworks.

Notable Quotes:

• Lauren Caller, Winco Fireworks (04:08): "So we didn't see a big dramatic impact. But when we replace our inventory after this selling season and it comes into the tariff rate, we're going to see an increase next year, which happens to be the 250th anniversary of the United States."

Political Background:

The fireworks industry's call for a tariff exemption draws parallels to Trump's previous trade policies, including the initiation of a trade war with China.

6. Severe Thunderstorms Devastate Central New Jersey

Host: Windsor Johnston

Central New Jersey experienced a violent thunderstorm last night, leading to widespread damage and power outages affecting tens of thousands of residents.

Impact Overview:

• Casualties: At least three fatalities reported.
• Damage: Extensive destruction across multiple towns, significant infrastructure disruption.
• Response Efforts: Emergency crews are actively clearing downed trees and power lines to reopen blocked roads and restore electricity.

Conclusion

This episode of "NPR News Now" provided listeners with crucial updates on domestic policies, natural disasters, international conflicts, and local incidents, ensuring comprehensive coverage of events shaping the nation and the world.