NPR News Now: July 10, 2025, 7 PM EDT

Hosted by NPR

Central Texas Floods: A Week of Devastation

Timestamp: [00:20]

In the latest update from NPR News, host Windsor Johnston reports on the ongoing aftermath of the severe floods that struck Central Texas nearly a week ago. The natural disaster has resulted in a tragic death toll of at least 120 people, including 36 children. Despite extensive rescue efforts, more than 170 individuals remain missing.

Report by Marianne Navarro:

Marianne Navarro of Texas Public Radio provides a comprehensive overview of the rescue operations. With over 2,100 responders actively engaged on the ground, the situation remains critical. Navarro highlights the increasing complexity of search and recovery efforts, which are now employing more technical methods.

Quote:

"I believe that all of our basic needs are being met both through the federal and state response and the support that we've been getting, as well as this community rising up," said Sergeant Jonathan Lamb of the Kerrville Police Department at [00:55].

Support and Assistance: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration have established a disaster recovery center in Kerrville to aid those affected. Financial assistance is now available to help with medical and dental needs, vehicle damage repairs, and housing issues.

Legal Battle: Columbia Graduate Student Sues Trump Administration

Timestamp: [01:22]

In a significant legal development, Mahmoud Khalil, a graduate student from Columbia University, has filed a lawsuit seeking $20 million in damages against the Trump administration. The case, covered by NPR’s Juliana Kim, centers on Khalil’s arrest and detention, which he alleges were unjust and harmful.

Details of the Case:

Khalil was one of the first students targeted during the Trump administration's crackdown on pro-Palestinian activists. He was detained for approximately a hundred days before his release last month. In his legal filing, Khalil accuses immigration agents of arresting him without probable cause and under false pretenses. He further claims that the conditions of his detention led to significant personal hardships, including a loss of 50 to 15 pounds due to stress and inadequate food, and the emotional strain of missing the birth of his first child.

Government Response: Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin has dismissed Khalil’s claims as "absurd," asserting that the government acted within its legal authority during his detention.

Quote:

"The government acted within its authority," stated Tricia McLaughlin in response to Khalil's allegations at [01:37].

Mexico Reevaluates Copper Exports Amid U.S. Tariffs

Timestamp: [02:21]

In international trade news, Mexico is reassessing its copper export destinations in response to new tariffs announced by U.S. President Donald Trump. NPR’s Ada Peralta reports on the implications of these economic measures.

President Trump’s Tariffs: President Trump has declared plans to impose a 50% tariff on imported copper starting August 1st. This move is part of his broader strategy to protect American industries but has significant repercussions for Mexico, a key copper exporter.

Mexico’s Response: Mexican President Claudio Shimam indicated that while a substantial portion of Mexico’s copper exports go to China, the United States also remains a significant market. In light of the impending tariffs, Mexico is exploring alternative countries to redirect its copper exports. President Shimam emphasized the global demand for copper, noting, "Copper is required in a lot of parts of the world, so we have some options."

Economic Diplomacy: Mexico has adeptly navigated the Trump era, avoiding retaliatory tariffs and maintaining a cooperative stance without direct confrontation. Despite ongoing threats, economists suggest that most Mexican imports have so far evaded the imposition of tariffs.

Quote:

"We have some options," affirmed President Shimam regarding Mexico’s strategy to mitigate the impact of new tariffs at [02:32].

Election Security Concerns Amid Federal Budget Cuts

Timestamp: [03:14]

A recent survey conducted by the Brennan Center for Justice reveals increasing anxiety among election officials nationwide regarding proposed cuts to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). NPR’s Windsor Johnston elaborates on the survey findings.

Survey Insights: More than 60% of election officials expressed concern over the Trump administration’s budget cuts to CISA, an agency tasked with safeguarding the integrity of elections. The majority of respondents, nearly 90%, believe that state and local governments will need to compensate for the reduced federal support to maintain robust election security measures.

Nature’s Engineering: The Squirting Cucumber

Timestamp: [03:14]

Switching to a lighter topic, NPR’s Ari Daniel discusses fascinating research on the squirting cucumber, a plant known for its unique seed dispersal mechanism.

Research Highlights: A team from Keele University in Germany has studied the physics behind the squirting cucumber’s seed dispersal by filming the process at 10,000 frames per second. The findings reveal that the plant's stem lifts off, and a liquid jet propels each seed individually at velocities nearing 30 miles per hour, reaching distances up to 40 feet. PhD student Helen Gorgis notes that the seeds' mucilaginous coating is exceptionally sticky, capable of supporting up to six pounds.

Potential Applications: The study suggests that the squirting cucumber’s mechanism could inspire innovations in soft robotics, potentially enhancing seed dispersal techniques in agriculture or enabling precise drug delivery systems within the human body.

Quotes:

"The fruit really prepares for perfect dispersal," commented Helen Gorgis at [04:38].

Wall Street Closes Higher

Timestamp: [04:52]

In financial news, Wall Street concluded the day with positive momentum. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 192 points, signaling investor confidence amidst ongoing economic developments.

Conclusion: This episode of NPR News Now encapsulates a diverse array of stories, from natural disasters and legal battles to international trade tensions, election security, botanical research, and financial markets. Each segment provides listeners with insightful updates and analyses, ensuring a comprehensive overview of current events.

For more detailed coverage, refer to the full episode transcript or visit NPR’s official website.