NPR News Now: July 7, 2025, 3AM EDT

Released on July 7, 2025

1. Medicaid Work Requirements Under Debate

One of the most contentious aspects of recent legislation revolves around the introduction of new work requirements for Medicaid recipients. These requirements mandate beneficiaries to register for Medicaid twice a year to continue receiving benefits.

Treasury Secretary Scott Besant addressed concerns regarding the potential impact of these measures:

“These requirements will not create problems.”
[00:30]

In response, a Policy Analyst emphasized the agency and capabilities of low-income individuals:

“I don't think poor people are stupid, think they have agency. And I think to have them register twice a year for these benefits, that is not a burden. But these people who want to infantilize the poor and those who need these Medicaid benefits are alarmist.”
[00:30]

While the legislation promises tax cuts for the poorest Americans, it simultaneously proposes reductions in essential programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), potentially impacting those who rely heavily on these services.

2. Escalating US-European Union Trade Tensions

Trade relations between the United States and the European Union are tense, with President Trump considering significant tariff increases on EU exports if no trade agreement is reached.

Scott Besant detailed the administration's strategy:

“The White House is sending out letters to trading partners within the next couple of days to inform them how much President Trump plans to tax imports if they can't get a deal.”
[01:13]

He continued, expressing cautious optimism about ongoing negotiations:

“The EU is making very good progress. They were off to a slow start.”
[01:32]

Currently, the US has imposed a 50% tariff on imported European steel and aluminum, along with a 25% tax on imported automobiles and parts. The administration is threatening to extend higher tariffs to a broader range of European goods unless the EU concedes on non-tariff trade barriers that the White House has objected to.

Repporting from Brussels, Terry Schultz highlighted the EU's preparedness to respond with its own retaliatory measures if negotiations falter.

3. Israeli Airstrikes in Yemen Respond to Houthi Attacks

In international developments, Israel's military launched airstrikes targeting Houthi-held regions in Yemen early Monday. These strikes focused on strategic locations, including ports and facilities, following a suspected Houthi attack on a commercial vessel in the Red Sea over the weekend.

Dale Willman reported:

“It appears the ship was hit by drone boats that were carrying bombs. It appears it was also targeted by small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades.”
[04:04]

In retaliation, Israeli forces conducted strikes on multiple sites in Yemen:

“Israeli officials say the attack was in response to that Houthi attack on the ship.”
[04:13]

This escalation marks a significant intensification in the regional conflict, with both sides exchanging aggressive military actions.

4. Box Office Update: Jurassic World Rebirth

The latest installment in the Jurassic World franchise, "Jurassic World Rebirth," made a substantial impact at the box office over the weekend.

Bob Mondello provided insights:

“Jurassic World Rebirth Weasel say they're Raptors. They're Raptors Will stomp its way to $147 million in its first five days in North America.”
[02:25]

Despite being the second-biggest US opening of 2025, trailing only the Minecraft movie, it is considered the weakest in the franchise to date. Previous entries benefited from extended holiday weekends, grossing between $145 to $208 million in three days, compared to the current $147 million over five days.

However, the film is performing exceptionally well internationally:

“Jurassic World Rebirth is playing well overseas. Its worldwide total this weekend is 318 million, the biggest global haul for any movie in 2025.”
[02:59]

5. Sports Highlights: Wimbledon and PGA Tournament

In sports news, Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the quarterfinals at Wimbledon after defeating world number 14, Andrey Rublev, enhancing his pursuit of a third consecutive title at the All England Club. Alcaraz is on an impressive streak, having won his last 22 matches this season and maintaining an 18-match winning streak at Wimbledon.

Another notable match features Taylor Fritz set to compete against Karen Khachanoff in the men's quarterfinals.

In the world of golf, Brian Campbell secured his second PGA trophy of the year by shooting a 67 in the final round of the Classic in Silvis, Illinois. He triumphed in a playoff against Emiliano Grillo, who had shot a bogey in the decisive hole. David Lipsky also had a chance to join the playoff after an eagle on the 17th, but ultimately missed the opportunity by shooting a bogey on the final hole.

Dale Willman concluded the sports segment:

“He shot a bogey on the last hole.”
[03:11]

Global Security Concerns

In addition to military actions in the Middle East, security firms have analyzed the recent attack on a commercial ship, suggesting it was targeted using advanced weaponry:

“It appears the ship was hit by drone boats that were carrying bombs. It appears it was also targeted by small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades.”
[04:04]

These developments underscore the escalating tensions and the potential for broader regional instability.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now provided a comprehensive overview of significant national and international issues, ranging from domestic policy changes affecting Medicaid beneficiaries to escalating trade tensions between the US and the EU, and notable developments in global security and the entertainment industry. Sports updates highlighted key achievements in tennis and golf, reflecting ongoing human interest stories amidst broader geopolitical narratives.

For more detailed coverage, listeners are encouraged to tune into future episodes of NPR News Now.