NPR News Now: July 7, 2025, 4AM EDT
Hosted by Dale Willman
1. Central Texas Flooding Crisis
Dale Willman opens the episode with a dire update on the ongoing flooding in Central Texas. Overnight rains have exacerbated the situation, leading to heightened fears of further devastation. As of the latest reports, at least 80 people have been confirmed dead due to Friday's flash flooding, with authorities anticipating that this number might rise. Additionally, over 40 individuals remain missing, intensifying the urgency of rescue operations.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the critical need for swift action and communication:
“We know that parents and families, they want information, they want closure, and we want them to know that we are working as swiftly as possible to get them accurate information that will provide that closure.”
[00:38]
In Kerr County alone, the sheriff's office has reported the discovery of 68 bodies, including the tragic loss of 28 children. The ongoing efforts to locate the missing continue as authorities grapple with the scale of the disaster.
2. Elon Musk Announces Formation of New Political Party
Transitioning to the political arena, Elon Musk has declared the formation of a new political entity, the America Party. This announcement marks a significant shift in Musk's political involvement, especially after his close association with former President Donald Trump.
Joe Hernandez reports that Musk's new party aims to secure two or three Senate seats and eight to ten House districts. This strategy is designed to wield influence over major legislative votes without seeking widespread electoral dominance.
Musk's relationship with Trump has soured following the passage of the Republican mega bill. Initially a top Republican donor who supported Trump's initiatives, Musk has since criticized the bill, labeling it a:
“disgusting abomination.”
[01:09]
This public dissent underscores the deepening rift between Musk and Trump, transforming former allies into political adversaries.
3. Republican Push to Alter Census Counts
In legislative developments, approximately 80 Republican lawmakers are advocating for controversial amendments to the U.S. census methodology. These proposals seek to exclude millions of non-citizens residing in the states from the census counts, a move that has significant implications for political representation and federal funding.
Hansi Le Wang explains:
“How many U.S. house seats and Electoral College votes each state gets for a decade is determined using a key set of census results.”
[01:58]
The 14th Amendment mandates that the census include the entire population of each state. However, the current proposals aim to reinterpret this requirement by focusing solely on U.S. citizens, a stance supported by former President Trump, who previously attempted to exclude individuals without legal status during the 2020 census.
If enacted, these bills would likely face legal challenges. Additionally, there is a related joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to redefine census requirements, necessitating support from 38 states to pass.
4. Escalating Drone Conflict Between Russia and Ukraine
International tensions continue to escalate as Russia and Ukraine engage in persistent drone attacks, disrupting air travel and heightening global security concerns. Flights in major Russian airports, including those in Moscow and St. Petersburg, have experienced significant delays and cancellations over the weekend.
In response to the ongoing conflict, Ukraine's President has taken decisive steps to bolster the nation's defense capabilities:
“I signed deals with several Western nations to boost drone production for use in the war.”
[02:42]
Furthermore, discussions have been held with President Trump regarding the possibility of joint drone production between the U.S. and Ukraine, aiming to enhance Ukraine's resistance against Russian aggression.
Simultaneously, the Trump administration is intensifying diplomatic efforts, urging trading partners to finalize new agreements before the impending Wednesday tariff deadline. This move has negatively impacted global markets, with Asian shares declining on Monday. Notable market performances include:
- Japan's Nikkei: Dropped 0.6%
- Jurassic World Rebirth: Earned $91.5 million globally in its first week
- F1 (Brad Pitt's racing film): Secured $26.1 million
- How to Train Your Dragon: Reached $11 million
5. Commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the London Bombings
Today marks the 20th anniversary of the tragic July 7, 2005, London bombings. In remembrance, Vicki Barker shares a poignant tribute capturing the heroism and resilience of that day.
A short film released by the London Ambulance Service features paramedic Crai Cassidy, who recollects the harrowing moments following the explosions:
“I'm looking at six people that have died. I couldn't do anything more for them.”
[03:39]
The coordinated attacks involved four bombs detonated across three underground trains and a bus, resulting in 52 fatalities and over 700 injuries. The community's strength and the unwavering dedication of first responders were pivotal in the immediate response to the attacks.
A commemorative service is scheduled to take place at St Paul's Cathedral, with additional observances planned across the Capitol, honoring the lives lost and the bravery displayed.
6. Washington Nationals' Management Shake-Up and Sports Updates
In sports news, the Washington Nationals have undergone significant management changes following a disappointing performance this season. After being swept in a series by the Boston Red Sox on Sunday, both the team's manager and general manager were dismissed. The Nationals currently hold a 37-53 record, marking their sixth consecutive losing season since their 2019 World Series victory. They trail only the Colorado Rockies in terms of performance this season.
On the entertainment front, the latest installment in the Jurassic Park franchise, Jurassic World Rebirth, has achieved impressive box office success, grossing $91.5 million in North America and $318 million globally during its first week. Following closely is F1, a racing film starring Brad Pitt, which garnered $26.1 million, and How to Train Your Dragon, bringing in $11 million.
Summary compiled based on the transcript from the NPR News Now episode released on July 7, 2025.