NPR News: July 21, 2025, 6 PM EDT

1. Harvard Challenges Trump Administration's $2 Billion Research Funding Cuts (00:24)

Host Kristen Wright reported from Washington, highlighting a significant legal battle between Harvard University and the Trump administration. Alyssa Nadworny detailed the courtroom arguments in Boston:

“Harvard is arguing that the government's actions violate their First Amendment rights and their academic freedom and that the government failed to follow the Administrative Procedure Act.” (00:39)

The Trump administration contends that the funding cuts are a contractual matter, asserting federal authority to cancel, freeze, or renegotiate contracts. In contrast, Harvard maintains that the abrupt cessation of funds disrupts academic operations and infringes upon constitutional protections.

2. Sentencing of Former Kentucky Police Officer in Breonna Taylor Case (01:17)

In another major story, Kristen Wright covered the upcoming sentencing of Brett Hankinson, the ex-Kentucky police officer convicted of violating Breonna Taylor's civil rights:

“He was acquitted of state charges in 2022, and his first federal trial ended in a hung jury.” (01:17)

Despite the gravity of the actions during the 2020 raid in Louisville, where Taylor was fatally shot by officers, the Justice Department recommends a one-day prison sentence, deeming Hankinson not a public threat.

3. International Call for Ceasefire in Gaza Amidst Rising Tensions (02:04)

Lauren Frayer reported on a joint statement from the foreign ministers of 25 countries, including the U.K., Japan, and Canada, urging an immediate end to the Gaza conflict:

“The suffering of civilians in Gaza has reached new depths. It calls the Israeli government's aid delivery model dangerous. It condemns the, 'inhumane killing of civilians and says Israel's denial of essential humanitarian assistance is unacceptable.'” (02:15)

In response, Israel maintains that its actions are lawful and attributes the crisis to Hamas, accusing the group of using civilians as human shields and misappropriating aid. The international community, including the European Union, emphasizes that further bloodshed is futile and advocates for a political solution to ensure lasting peace.

4. Passing of Actor Malcolm Jamal Warner (02:46)

The news also touched on the tragic death of Malcolm Jamal Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on "The Cosby Show":

“Warner was the only brother to four sisters and shaped his character with memorable comedic timing.” (02:46)

Officials confirmed that Warner drowned while swimming during a family vacation in Costa Rica. Beyond acting, Warner was recognized for his Emmy nomination, Grammy win in 2015, and his recent podcast launch, "Not All Hood."

5. Venom Harvesting for Allergy Medications in Oregon (03:43)

Brian Bull from KLCC in Eugene, Oregon, explored the unconventional industry of harvesting yellow jackets and other venomous insects for pharmaceutical purposes:

“I've been able to meet people that grew up as a teenager going to an allergist, getting a series of injections, and now they have a whole new freedom of being able to enjoy the outdoors.” (04:03)

Individuals like Jeannie Howell collect insects to supply companies like Hollister Steer Allergy, which manufactures venom immunotherapy treatments. This niche market supports allergy sufferers in managing severe reactions to stings, with vendors earning up to $1,500 per pound of harvested insects.

6. Texas Special Session on Redistricting and Release of FBI Records on MLK (04:15)

The final stories covered in this episode include:

• Texas Lawmakers' Special Session: A 30-day special session is underway, focusing primarily on redistricting. The Republican-led legislature seeks to redraw the state's congressional map, a move backed by President Trump to bolster Republican control of the U.S. House in the upcoming midterm elections.

• Release of FBI Surveillance Records on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: The Trump administration has made public more than 250,000 pages of sealed FBI surveillance records pertaining to Dr. King since 1977. This significant release sheds new light on the extent of governmental monitoring of the civil rights leader.

Conclusion

This episode of NPR News Now provided a comprehensive overview of critical national and international issues, ranging from significant legal battles and political maneuvers to humanitarian crises and unexpected economic niches. Through detailed reporting and insightful commentary, listeners are kept informed on matters shaping the current socio-political landscape.

Notable Quotes

• Alyssa Nadworny (00:39): “Harvard is arguing that the government's actions violate their First Amendment rights and their academic freedom and that the government failed to follow the Administrative Procedure Act.”

• Brian Bull (04:03): “I've been able to meet people that grew up as a teenager going to an allergist, getting a series of injections, and now they have a whole new freedom of being able to enjoy the outdoors.”

This summary is based on the transcript of the NPR News Now episode released on July 21, 2025. For more detailed information, please listen to the full episode.