NPR News Now: July 23, 2025

Congressional Recess Amid Epstein Files Debate Timestamp: 00:15

In Washington, House Speaker Mike Johnson has sent his chamber home early as some members of Congress take an early summer recess. This move comes amid escalating calls for the release of all files related to Jeffrey Epstein, a late sex offender. New Jersey Senator Cory Booker criticized his Republican colleagues, stating, “They are running out of town” (00:15). An unnamed political analyst commented on the situation, saying, “The speaker believes that their membership in the Republican caucus over there is so fragile that they cannot withstand simple debate” (00:35), highlighting internal tensions within the Republican party over the Epstein dossier.

Senate Republicans Consider Trump's Recess Cancellation Request Timestamp: 00:49

Senate Republicans are currently deliberating President Donald Trump's request to cancel the August recess. The president aims to utilize this time to confirm additional nominees, a move that Majority Leader John Thune has indicated he is open to. This discussion aligns with the ongoing efforts of the Trump administration to solidify its appointments within the federal government.

Alina Habba's Tenure as US Attorney Ends Timestamp: 01:14

The Trump administration faces challenges in maintaining Alina Habba as the interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey. As reported by NPR's Ryan Lucas, a panel of federal judges has declined to extend Habba’s appointment beyond her initial 120-day tenure. Ryan Lucas detailed, “President Trump tapped Alina Habba as interim US Attorney for New Jersey back in March. Habba can only serve on an interim basis for 120 days...” (01:14). The court has appointed Desiree Lee Grace as the new U.S. Attorney, effective immediately. Habba's term was marked by controversy, including her decision to charge a Democratic congresswoman over an incident at an immigration detention facility.

Trump Administration Withdraws from UNESCO Timestamp: 01:55

In a significant policy reversal, the Trump administration is withdrawing from UNESCO, reversing the Biden administration’s reinstatement of U.S. funding and participation two years prior. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce explained, “UNESCO has an agenda to advance divisive and social and cultural causes” (01:55), citing concerns over the organization's direction. UNESCO's World Heritage Sites program, which identifies and protects major global landmarks, will now operate without U.S. involvement.

Ukraine Prepares for Peace Talks with Russia Timestamp: 02:32

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that his country will engage in its next round of peace talks with Russia on Wednesday in Turkey. NPR’s Polina Litvinova reported, “The Ukrainian president said his delegation would work on the return of the prisoners of war and deported children to Ukraine and preparation of a meeting between himself and President Vladimir Putin” (02:32). This marks the third attempt to resume direct negotiations since the talks were renewed, with previous meetings resulting in prisoner exchanges but failing to achieve a ceasefire or resolve territorial disputes.

Wall Street Update: Stocks Steady After Mixed Close; General Motors' Financial Outlook Timestamp: 03:06

U.S. futures are trading flat in after-hours markets following a mixed close on Tuesday. In corporate news, General Motors reported a loss exceeding $1 billion in profits for the second quarter, which, despite the significant figure, was better than expected due to strong sales of gas-powered vehicles. However, GM anticipates an annual loss of up to $5 billion attributed to President Trump’s tariffs, as nearly half of its vehicles sold in the U.S. are imported.

San Francisco Enacts New RV Parking Restrictions Timestamp: 03:35

San Francisco's Board of Supervisors has approved new parking restrictions targeting hundreds of recreational vehicles (RVs) used to shelter the homeless, including immigrant families with children. Mayor Daniel Lurie stated, “The plan is to keep sidewalks clear and free of trash” (03:35), emphasizing the city's need to manage public spaces effectively. Critics argue that the restrictions are inhumane, claiming they exacerbate the struggles of the homeless population by limiting their available shelter options.

Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne: Legacy of a Heavy Metal Icon Timestamp: 03:51

Heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne passed away at the age of 76, marking the end of an era for fans worldwide. NPR's Andrew Limbong commemorated Osbourne's contributions, noting, “John Michael Osbourne was born in Birmingham in 1948 to a working-class family. He told NPR in 2010 that because of his dyslexia and ADD, school wasn't his thing, he gravitated towards music” (04:08). Osbourne co-founded Black Sabbath, a band pivotal in creating the heavy metal genre. His career was characterized by both musical innovation and personal controversies, including his infamous on-stage antics and turbulent relationships within the band. Osbourne's death follows his farewell performance with Black Sabbath bandmates weeks earlier, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.

Conclusion This episode of NPR News Now provided a comprehensive overview of significant political developments, international relations, economic updates, social issues, and a heartfelt tribute to a music icon. From the inner workings of Congress and the Trump administration’s strategic moves to global peace efforts and market fluctuations, listeners were offered a multifaceted glimpse into current events shaping the world.