NPR News Now: July 23, 2025

Host: Shea Stevens

1. U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson on Jeffrey Epstein Files

Timestamp: [00:17]

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson addressed allegations that Democrats are engaging in "gotcha politics" regarding the release of files on late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Johnson stated, “As I've said many times, there's no daylight between the White House and the House. You have to allow the legislation to ripen and you also have to allow the administration the space to do what it is doing” (00:38). He emphasized that he would not hold a vote on a resolution calling for the release of all grand jury records on Epstein before the upcoming August recess in July.

2. Justice Department’s Move on Ghislaine Maxwell

Timestamp: [00:47]

The Justice Department is actively seeking a meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's former partner, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking and other related crimes. This development comes amid ongoing investigations and public interest in Epstein-related cases.

3. President Trump’s Trade Deal with Japan and Tariffs on the Philippines

Timestamp: [00:47]

President Trump announced a significant trade deal with Japan, which includes reciprocal tariffs set at 15%. This news positively impacted the stock market, with Japanese auto stocks experiencing a notable increase. Additionally, Trump declared a 19% tariff on imports from the Philippines. He also mentioned that Japan will invest over half a trillion dollars in the United States, signaling a strengthening of economic ties between the two nations.

4. Los Angeles Nightclub Vehicle Attack

Timestamps: [01:25] - [01:51]

In a tragic incident over the weekend, Fernando Ramirez, a 29-year-old suspect, has been formally charged with 37 counts of attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon following a vehicle attack on pedestrians outside a Los Angeles nightclub. LA County District Attorney Nathan Hockman described the event as "a deliberate act" (01:35). Ramirez allegedly targeted the crowd after being told to leave the nightclub, initially driving away before making a U-turn and crashing into bystanders. Although no fatalities were reported, several individuals sustained critical injuries. The charges carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

5. Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza Amid Blockade

Timestamp: [02:14]

Gaza’s health infrastructure is on the brink of collapse as several clinics announce shutdowns due to a severe shortage of medical supplies and fuel, exacerbated by an ongoing blockade. The Gaza Ministry of Health reported that only two days' worth of supplies remain for the remaining facilities. Additionally, a World Health Organization (WHO) building in Gaza was struck by Israeli artillery, resulting in a fire. Israel claims the strike was in response to gunfire and that evacuation orders were issued for the area. Despite significant aid from the WHO and other organizations awaiting entry, permission from the Israeli military remains pending. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt commented, “President Trump never likes to see Palestinians being killed while trying to access food” and expressed a desire for a negotiated ceasefire.

6. Justice Department Challenges U.S. Attorney Appointment in New Jersey

Timestamp: [03:11]

The Justice Department is contesting a judicial panel's decision to replace interim U.S. Attorney Alina Haba with Desiree Lee Grace for the District of New Jersey. Attorney General Pam Bondi dismissed Grace shortly after her appointment, labeling it a "political act by rogue judges" on social media platform X. Alina Haba, a former Trump attorney, had served the maximum allowable 120 days as acting U.S. Attorney. This dispute coincides with significant administrative changes within NPR, as the chief news executive plans to step down later in the year due to the pressures of holding dual senior roles. This announcement follows a congressional vote by Republicans to eliminate all future federal funding for public media.

7. Leadership Changes at NPR

Timestamp: [04:11]

Edith Chapin, NPR's Chief Content Officer and former International Editor since 2012, announced her decision to step down. Chapin cited the need to "recharge and regroup" as the primary reason for her departure. During her tenure, she initiated the creation of seven regional newsrooms to enhance collaboration among local stations and address allegations of liberal bias. Additionally, Chapin established a team of senior editors dedicated to reviewing stories for fairness and maintaining transparency in NPR's overall coverage. She remarked, “NPR must always be open to criticism and to keep considering all things, even if not everyone likes it” (04:11). David Folkenflik, NPR News, followed up with further details on her departure and the impact on the organization.

8. Market Update: Asian Markets Respond to Trade News

Timestamp: [04:47]

Following President Trump’s announcement of the trade deal with Japan and tariffs on the Philippines, Asian markets reacted positively. Tokyo shares rose by 3%, reflecting investor confidence in the new economic agreements.

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