NPR News Now: July 18, 2025 – Detailed Summary

Live from Washington, NPR brings you the latest developments shaping the nation and the world. This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the July 18, 2025, episode of "NPR News Now," providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't tuned in.

1. Congress Approves $9 Billion Rescission of Federal Funding

In a significant move, Congress has finalized the rescission of $9 billion in federal funds previously designated for foreign aid and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). The House approved the bill along strict party lines with a narrow margin of 216 to 213.

Republican Congressman Steve Scalise of Louisiana emphasized the rationale behind the decision, stating, “Lawmakers have an obligation to stop waste, fraud and abuse. $9 billion, I would say, is a good start and hopefully, we do more things like this.” This substantial withdrawal includes just over a billion dollars from the CPB, effectively ending federal support for entities such as NPR and PBS along with their member stations.

2. Trump Administration to Share Medicaid Data with ICE

The Trump administration has announced plans to provide U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with personal data of Medicaid recipients. NPR's Jimena Bustillo reported that this initiative aims to aid immigration officers in identifying individuals residing in the country without legal authorization.

At 01:16, Bustillo highlighted the controversy surrounding the move: “The disclosure of information about millions of people enrolled in Medicaid is the latest database that ICE is using in its efforts to conduct mass deportations.” Immigration advocates have expressed concerns that such data sharing could deter eligible individuals from enrolling in public benefits, despite regulations requiring states to offer emergency Medicaid regardless of immigration status.

Bustillo further elaborated on the administration’s intensified efforts, noting, “The Trump administration has steadily increased the pressure on federal immigration officers to arrest more people. The latest quota calls for 3,000 arrests per day” (01:54).

3. Projected Surge in Health Insurance Costs for 2026

Healthcare costs are set to rise sharply next year for Americans purchasing individual health insurance plans. NPR's Selena Simmons Duffin explained that the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits in December is the primary driver behind the anticipated increase.

At 02:04, Simmons Duffin detailed, “There's one big reason why insurance premiums are going up next year. The federal money that had been making premiums lower expires in December.” Cynthia Cox from the nonpartisan health research organization KFF added insight, revealing that “Individuals on average are going to pay 75% more than they did this year” (02:24).

This substantial hike may lead healthier individuals to forego insurance, thereby increasing the financial burden on those with chronic conditions or costly medications. Cox attributed the rising rates to these factors, stating, “That's why health insurance companies are raising rates” (02:30).

4. President Trump Intends to Sue Wall Street Journal Over Epstein Article

In a developing story, President Trump has announced his intention to sue The Wall Street Journal, News Corp., and Rupert Murdoch. The lawsuit pertains to an article that delves into Trump's alleged connections with Jeffrey Epstein.

Reported by Dave Mattingly at 02:49, the controversy stems from the Journal's publication of a book containing birthday cards, one bearing Trump's name. The administration views the article as defamatory, citing materials from an ongoing investigation into Epstein’s activities.

5. Potential Merger Talks Between Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific

The freight railroad industry is abuzz with reports that Norfolk Southern and Union Pacific, two of the sector's six largest players, are in discussions regarding a possible merger. As of now, both companies have refrained from commenting on these rumors, leaving the future of the merger uncertain.

6. Congress Passes the Genius Act to Regulate Cryptocurrency

In a landmark move, Congress has enacted the Genius Act, marking the first significant legislation aimed at regulating cryptocurrency. Rafael Nam covered this development, highlighting the act's focus on stablecoins — cryptocurrencies intended to maintain a stable value by being backed by real cash reserves.

At 03:39, Nam explained, “It's meant to be safer because companies have to back each stablecoin with real cash. So if a company sells you a stablecoin worth a dollar, it has to keep another dollar in reserve so that it can pay you back whenever you want to cash in your stablecoin.” The legislation is praised for facilitating rapid and seamless global transactions.

However, critics argue that the regulations are insufficient. They contend that stablecoin companies should adhere to the same stringent standards as traditional financial institutions, such as credit card companies, to ensure comprehensive oversight and security.

7. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to End in May 2026

In entertainment news, it has been confirmed that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will conclude its run in May of the following year. Dave Mattingly reported at 04:25 that network executives attribute the decision to financial considerations, explicitly stating that it is “unrelated to the show's performance or content.”

Colbert, who took over the show in 2015 succeeding David Letterman, addressed his audience by mentioning he was informed of the cancellation the previous night, expressing his gratitude to viewers for their support over the years.

This summary encapsulates the pivotal topics discussed in the July 18, 2025, episode of "NPR News Now." For continuous updates and comprehensive news coverage, stay tuned to NPR.