NPR News Now: July 24, 2025, 10 PM EDT

Released on July 25, 2025

Federal Reserve Renovation Costs Under Scrutiny

Host Kristen Wright opens the evening with a heated exchange between President Trump and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell regarding the escalating costs of the Federal Reserve's headquarters renovation in Washington.

• Trump criticized the project as "expensive and out of control," alleging mismanagement of funds.

• Jerome Powell responded promptly, clarifying the President's misunderstanding:

  [00:54] "You're including the Martin renovation. You just added a third building is what that is... It's part of the overall work."

The Federal Reserve attributes the rising expenses to factors such as Trump's tariffs and the financial burdens of complying with historical preservation requirements.

Ghislaine Maxwell Meets with Deputy Attorney General

In a significant development, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanch announced plans to continue his investigation by interviewing Ghislaine Maxwell, a key figure connected to Jeffrey Epstein.

• Maxwell, currently serving a 20-year sentence for her role in Epstein's exploitation of underage girls, met with Blanch in Florida.

• Maxwell's attorney, David Marcus, affirmed her cooperation:

  [01:48] "Ms. Maxwell answered every single question. She never stopped. She never invoked a privilege. She never declined to answer."

Details of the conversation remain undisclosed as the Trump administration faces increasing scrutiny over its handling of the Epstein case files.

Brazilian Beef Exports to US Hit Record Lows

President Trump's imposition of tariffs on Brazilian beef in April has severely impacted the meat industry's dynamics.

• Carrie Kahn reports that beef sales to the US have plummeted by nearly 80%, with prices soaring by 12%.

• The Brazilian Meat Exporters Association attributes the decline to the 10% tariff and impending tariff increases slated for August 1st as the Federal Reserve's deadline approaches.

Exporters are now seeking negotiations, postponing shipments, and exploring alternative markets. Notably, about 25% of Brazil's beef exports were directed to the US, influenced by Trump's stance against the "unfair prosecution" of Brazil's former president, a political ally facing accusations of coup plotting post-2022 elections.

Trump Influences Redistricting Efforts in Missouri

Amidst stalled Gaza ceasefire negotiations in Qatar, political maneuvers unfold within the US.

• Jason Rosenbaum reports that President Trump is pressuring Missouri Republicans to redraw the state's congressional map ahead of the 2026 midterms.

• Representative Eric Burleson confirms White House involvement:

  [03:42] "I can confirm that the White House is pursuing it."

The proposed redistricting targets Democratic Congressman Emanuel Cleaver's seat in Kansas City, as Republicans strive to maintain their slim House majority:

[03:45] "It's such a thin majority. It's so thin that every seat is going to count."

Additionally, California Governor Gavin Newsom has pledged to overhaul California's congressional map to favor Democrats should Texas Republicans execute their redistricting plans.

Jeanine Pirro Advances in US Attorney Nomination

President Trump continues to push his judicial agenda with the nomination of Jeanine Pirro to head the U.S. Attorney's Office in Washington.

• The Senate Judiciary Committee has advanced her nomination despite Democratic criticism of Pirro's remarks labeling January 6th defendants as "hostages."

• The President lauds her extensive experience as a former local prosecutor in New York and her tenure as a Fox News host, highlighting her suitability for the role.

Smithsonian Cancels Amy Sherald’s National Portrait Gallery Show

In the arts sector, artist Amy Sherald has canceled her highly anticipated exhibition at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in Washington.

• Sherald, renowned for her portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama, cited concerns from the museum regarding one of her pieces titled "Transforming Liberty 2024," which features a transgender woman holding a torch.

This cancellation marks a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue surrounding art, representation, and institutional sensitivities.

Conclusion

Tonight's NPR News Now covered a spectrum of pivotal topics, from high-stakes political disputes and international trade tensions to significant legal proceedings and cultural controversies. Each segment provided deep insights into the evolving narratives shaping the national and global landscape.

This summary is based on the NPR News Now episode released on July 25, 2025.