NPR News Now: July 19, 2025, 10PM EDT
Released on July 20, 2025
USDA’s Demands for SNAP Participant Data Sparks Privacy Concerns
Reporter: Jeannine Hurst
Segment: [00:20]
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) has set a July 30 deadline for states to provide sensitive personal data of millions enrolled in the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This unprecedented data request includes applicants' names, birth dates, Social Security numbers, and addresses.
Reporter: Jude Joffe Block
Segment: [00:43]
The USDA insists this measure is essential for verifying the program's integrity. However, the plan has drawn significant criticism. Thirteen Democratic U.S. senators have condemned the initiative, arguing it would transform SNAP from a vital support system into a mechanism for government surveillance. In a letter to the Agriculture Secretary, they stated the proposal would, "turn a program that feeds millions of Americans into a tool of government surveillance".
Responding to these concerns, a USDA spokesperson informed NPR that the comment period for the proposed SNAP database remains open until July 23. Additionally, a federal lawsuit challenging the data collection process is currently underway.
Investigation Underway After Driver Crashes into Crowd Outside East Hollywood Nightclub
Reporter: Jeannine Hurst
Segment: [01:23]
Early morning hours saw a dramatic incident in Los Angeles when a man drove his car into a crowd outside the Vermont Club in East Hollywood, resulting in several injuries.
Reporter: Steve Futterman
Segment: [01:37]
The crash occurred around 2 AM, striking individuals gathered outside the nightclub, including food vendors operating nearby carts. Some victims sustained critical injuries. Los Angeles Police Officer Jerry Lee shared insights into the investigation:
Officer Jerry Lee: "What caused this driver to plow into this crowd? Was it intentional? Was it not intentional? Was it DUI related? Was it personal?"
[01:53]
Witnesses revealed that the driver had been asked to leave the club shortly before the incident. In the aftermath, the driver was forcibly removed from the vehicle and beaten by bystanders. Additionally, a gunshot was fired that hit the driver, further complicating the situation.
Grand Canyon Wildfire Continues to Rage with Low Containment Rates
Reporter: Ryan Hindjes (KNAU)
Segment: [02:21]
A massive wildfire, spanning nearly 12,000 acres at Grand Canyon National Park, remains largely uncontrolled with just 2% containment as of the latest reports.
Reporter: Ryan Hindjes
Segment: [02:32]
Firefighters faced temporary relief from the Dragon Bravo fire due to a humid monsoon pattern, but shifting weather conditions on the Grand Canyon’s remote North Rim are expected to exacerbate the blaze. Over 750 personnel are actively engaged in containing the wildfire, which was initially ignited by lightning on July 4. Initially, park managers allowed parts of the fire to burn to promote forest health. However, heavy winds a week later propelled the flames through dense timber, leading to the destruction of approximately 100 structures, including employee housing and the historic Grand Canyon Lodge.
Ryan Hindjes: "It eventually burned nearly 100 structures, including employee housing and the historic Grand Canyon Lodge."
[02:32]
Efforts to assess and mitigate damage continue as authorities strive to protect remaining infrastructure.
Russia Launches Massive Drone and Missile Attack on Ukraine Amidst Ongoing Conflict
Reporter: Jeannine Hurst
Segment: [03:13]
In a significant escalation, Russia launched a large-scale drone and missile offensive against Ukraine overnight, resulting in at least one fatality. President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that over 300 drones and 30 cruise missiles were deployed, with many targeting the port city of Odessa and critical infrastructure in the Sumy region.
In his evening address, Zelensky announced plans for a new series of peace talks scheduled for next week, following stalled negotiations in June. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has persisted for over three years, continuing to impact the region's stability and international relations.
AI Companions Gain Popularity Among American Teenagers, Raising Concerns
Reporter: Jeannine Hurst
Segment: [03:13]
Artificial Intelligence (AI) companions have surged in popularity among American teenagers, with three-quarters reporting usage for activities such as chatting, flirting, role-playing, and seeking advice.
Reporter: Neta Uluby
Segment: [03:13]
Expert: Michael Robb, Lead Researcher at Common Sense Media
Segment: [04:05]
The trend is highlighted by a study conducted by Common Sense Media, which surveyed 1,000 teenagers across diverse American demographics. While many teens utilize AI companions for entertainment, the study raises alarms about the implications for their emotional and social development.
Michael Robb: "They are sharing things that are quite serious with AI companions instead of sharing them with other humans."
[04:24]
Furthermore, a quarter of the surveyed teenagers admitted to sharing private information with AI companions, posing risks related to data privacy and security.
Michael Robb: "They are also sharing their data. One quarter of teenagers in the study said they had given AI companions private information."
[04:30]
Common Sense Media advises against the use of AI companions by teenagers, emphasizing that the companies behind these technologies may not prioritize the well-being of young users.
This summary captures the key discussions and insights from the NPR News Now episode released on July 20, 2025. For more detailed information, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode.