NPR News Now: July 11, 2025, 6 PM EDT

Your comprehensive summary of today's top stories, delivered by NPR.

1. Catastrophic Flooding Devastates Central Texas

[00:01] Windsor Johnston opens the episode with a report on the severe flooding in Central Texas. President Donald Trump personally inspected the devastated regions from the air, receiving briefings from both state and local officials. The catastrophe has tragically claimed the lives of at least 120 people, with ongoing searches for over 170 missing individuals.

Governor Greg Abbott expressed gratitude towards the federal response:

[00:27] Greg Abbott: "This is the fastest that I'm aware of of any administration responding so swiftly, so collaboratively, so coordinated as we have in response to this. Thank you for that major disaster declaration. It ensures that we're going to be able to more effectively respond and help rebuild."

The swift approval of federal funding has been pivotal in accelerating recovery efforts, as officials work tirelessly to assist affected communities in rebuilding their lives.

2. High-Stakes US-China Summit on the Horizon

The geopolitical landscape remains tense as Secretary of State Marco Rubio hints at a probable summit between President Trump and China's leader, Xi Jinping.

[00:45] Secretary Rubio, on his maiden trip to Asia since his appointment, stated:

[01:08] Marco Rubio: "Both the US and Chinese sides want a meeting between Trump and Xi, so the odds are high."

However, Rubio emphasized the necessity of establishing the right conditions for the meeting and agreeing on tangible outcomes:

"They have to create the right atmosphere for the meeting and agree on deliverables. No date has been discussed so far."

During a side meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Wang criticized US tariffs, labeling them as "typical unilateral bullying behavior" that undermines "free trade and global supply chains."

[01:48] Anthony Kuhn of NPR News in Beijing provides further context on the delicate negotiations, highlighting the complexities both nations face in fostering a conducive environment for dialogue.

3. Virginia Embraces Artificial Intelligence to Slash Regulations

In a pioneering move, Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin of Virginia is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline and reduce state regulations by 25%. This initiative marks the first of its kind nationally.

[02:04] Governor Youngkin announced:

Glenn Youngkin: "Artificial intelligence played a role in helping reduce 25% of Virginia's regulations."

Under his directive, Virginia's regulatory office is required to produce AI-generated reports evaluating all existing regulations. State employees will utilize AI for legal reviews and to analyze regulatory frameworks of neighboring states, aiming to bolster Virginia's competitive edge in attracting new businesses. Moreover, the initiative seeks to simplify the language and guidance within regulations.

Executive agencies are given an eight-week window post-report to begin implementing the AI-driven recommendations. As Youngkin approaches the end of his tenure in January, he is determined to achieve a reduction of over a third in state regulations.

[02:42] Jad Khalil from NPR’s Richmond office reports on the significant strides Virginia is making towards regulatory efficiency through technological advancement.

4. Wall Street Dips Amid Economic Uncertainties

Stock markets showed a downturn today, reflecting investor anxiety and broader economic uncertainties.

• Dow Jones Industrial Average: Dropped 279 points to 44,371
• NASDAQ Composite: Fell by 45 points
• S&P 500: Declined 20 points

These declines signal potential concerns over market stability and the lingering effects of recent global events.

5. Gaza Faces Deadly Challenges in Aid Distribution

Efforts to deliver essential food and supplies to Gaza have become increasingly perilous. According to the United Nations Human Rights Office, nearly 800 individuals have lost their lives while attempting to reach aid distribution points over the past six weeks.

[03:18] Ruth Sherlock elaborates on the dire situation:

"The vast majority, 615 people, were killed while trying to access aid distribution sites run by the US and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation."

These centers, situated within Israeli-controlled zones and guarded by US private security, are grappling with overcrowding and safety issues. Israel maintains stringent controls over aid influx, citing concerns that supplies may be diverted to Hamas operatives. In a glimmer of hope, the European Union has brokered a deal potentially increasing the daily transport of food and other necessities into Gaza. However, the implementation timeline remains uncertain.

6. Manitoba Wildfires Spread Smoke to the Midwest

Canada's central province of Manitoba is battling another emergency as over 100 wildfires rage, forcing thousands to evacuate. Driven by soaring temperatures, most of these blazes ignited from lightning strikes, exacerbating the wildfire crisis.

The resultant smoke and ash have traversed the border, affecting regions in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Residents in these Midwestern states are experiencing diminished air quality and associated health risks.

[04:05] Windsor Johnston reports on the escalating wildfire situation, highlighting the environmental and human toll of these natural disasters.

Stay informed with NPR News Now for the latest updates on these and other stories shaping our world.