NPR News Now: July 9, 2025, 3PM EDT

Summary by NPR

US Government and New Tariffs

Lakshmi Singh opens the hour with significant developments in US trade policy. President Donald Trump has announced the imposition of new tariff rates ranging from 20% to 30% on a select group of countries, citing unfair trade practices.

• Trump on Brazil Tariffs ([00:32]): “We're going to have a couple of more coming out today. Brazil as an example has been not good to us, not good at all. We're going to be releasing a Brazil number, I think later on this afternoon or tomorrow morning.”

The tariffs target six nations, with the highest rates applied to Algeria, Iraq, and Libya. This move is part of Trump's broader strategy to renegotiate trade deals and protect American industries from what he perceives as unfair foreign competition.

Devastating Floods in Texas

A tragic update from Texas highlights the severe impact of the July 4th floods. The death toll continues to climb, with significant efforts underway for search and recovery.

• Death Toll and Ongoing Efforts ([00:45] - [01:14]):

  • Mariana Navarro reports that Kerr County officials confirm 95 deaths, including 36 children, with over 160 individuals still unaccounted for.
  • Sheriff Larry Litha emphasizes a forthcoming review of the initial emergency response: “As with other significant events that our emergencies services encounter, this incident will be reviewed. You have my word. When or if necessary if improvements need to be made, improvements will be made” ([01:28]).

• State Response:

  • Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announces the allocation of resources to enhance alert systems in Texas communities.
  • Governor Greg Abbott prioritizes flood assistance in the upcoming special legislative session.

US-Ukraine Conflict: Weapons Shipments and Russian Aggression

Confusion persists regarding the status of US weapons shipments to Ukraine amidst escalating tensions with Russia.

• Trump’s Stance on Weapons to Ukraine ([01:58]):

  • President Trump declares an intent to send additional weapons to Ukraine after a Pentagon-imposed pause, though specifics remain unclear.

• Russian Airstrikes Intensify:

  • The Ukrainian air force reports that Russia has launched a record number of drones and missiles targeting western regions near Poland, exacerbating the conflict and raising concerns about regional stability.

Business and Economic Updates

Several key developments in the business sector highlight significant mergers, corporate performances, and regulatory changes.

• Merck’s Acquisition of Verona Pharma ([02:33]):

  • Scott Horsley reports that pharmaceutical giant Merck is set to purchase British company Verona Pharma for approximately $10 billion. This acquisition grants Merck control over Verona’s FDA-approved drug for treating pulmonary disease, marking a substantial expansion in Merck’s respiratory care portfolio.

• Delta Air Lines Earnings Forecast ([02:33]):

  • Scott Horsley notes that Delta Air Lines is expected to report lower profits compared to the previous year. The airline has reduced its flight schedules in response to cautious consumer travel plans, a trend affecting the broader aviation industry.

• FTC’s ‘Click to Cancel’ Rule Blocked ([02:33]):

  • A federal appeals court has halted the implementation of the Federal Trade Commission’s new rule designed to simplify the cancellation of unwanted subscriptions. The “click to cancel” regulation was slated to take effect on Monday, aiming to enhance consumer rights and reduce fraudulent subscription practices.

• US Stock Market Rally ([03:15]):

  • Lakshmi Singh reports that US stocks are trading higher, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average up by 183 points, reflecting investor optimism amid mixed economic signals.

Environmental Concerns: Chemicals in Plastics

A groundbreaking study has shed light on the extensive use of harmful chemicals in plastics, raising alarms about environmental and health risks.

• Findings by Will Stone ([03:40]):
  • Over 16,000 chemicals have been identified in plastics, with more than 4,200 classified as chemicals of concern. Notable harmful substances include bisphenols, phthalates, and PFAS (“forever chemicals”).
  • The study, conducted by scientists in Norway and Switzerland and published in Nature, highlights significant gaps in the understanding of plastic composition. Nearly 11,000 of the identified chemicals lack official hazard classifications, posing challenges for regulators and manufacturers.
  • The authors advocate for the replacement of these hazardous chemicals with safer alternatives to mitigate health risks.

Law Enforcement and Fugitive Alert

Authorities are actively seeking information leading to the capture of Derrick Groves, the last remaining fugitive from the May jailbreak in New Orleans.

• $50,000 Reward Offered ([04:25]):
  • Derrick Groves, convicted of killing two individuals and facing life imprisonment, remains at large due to administrative delays that prevented a more secure incarceration. Law enforcement officials urge the public to provide any tips that could assist in locating him.

Corporate Leadership Changes at X

In a notable corporate update, Linda Yaccarino has stepped down as CEO of X, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk.

• CEO Departure ([04:25]):
  • Linda Yaccarino announced her resignation via a message on X, stating, “The best is yet to come,” signaling potential future developments under new leadership at the company.

This episode of NPR News Now provided a comprehensive overview of critical issues ranging from government policies and natural disasters to international conflicts, business mergers, environmental studies, and significant corporate leadership changes. For detailed reports and ongoing coverage, listeners are encouraged to follow NPR’s updates.