NPR News Now: July 29, 2025
Live from Washington, Windsor Johnston brings you the latest updates across national and international headlines.
1. Shooting in Midtown Manhattan
At [00:11], Windsor Johnston reported a tragic incident in midtown Manhattan:
The New York City Police Department is expected to hold a press conference at this hour to provide more details about a shooting that took place tonight in midtown Manhattan. The incident occurred at a building that includes Blackstone headquarters, a major private equity firm, and asset manager. Mayor Eric Adams stated, "Multiple people were injured and an investigation into the shooting is ongoing." The NYPD confirmed that the suspected shooter is dead.
2. US and European Union Reach Trade Deal Framework
Continuing the economic discourse, Rafael Nam provided insights into the newly agreed framework for a US-EU trade deal:
[00:25] Rafael Nam reported, "President Trump and the European Union have agreed to a framework for a new trade deal." However, key concerns remain regarding the impact of tariffs on the US economy.
3. Impact of Tariffs on the US Economy
At [01:03], Rafael Nam delved deeper into the tariff situation:
Rafael Nam emphasized, "It's a critical week for the US Policy on tariffs." President Trump is threatening higher tariffs for any country that doesn't agree to a trade deal by Friday. This deadline coincides with the release of crucial economic indicators:
- Wednesday: US Economy growth report for the latest quarter.
- Thursday: Key inflation gauge monitored by the Federal Reserve, indicating tariff effects on prices.
- Friday: Latest employment report, highlighting the solid yet potentially unsustainable labor market.
4. Escalating Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Windsor Johnston shifted focus to the Middle East at [01:46]:
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is worsening, with most aid being blocked before reaching civilians and many distribution sites remaining inaccessible. Dr. Nick Maynard, a surgeon volunteering at Nasser Hospital in Gaza, shared his concerns:
[02:07] Dr. Nick Maynard stated, "They're all weak. They're all tired, they're all hungry, they're all getting ill. It undoubtedly has an impact on their ability to work, but they are carrying on, working heroically in my view, sometimes for 24-hour shifts." This underscores the dire conditions faced by healthcare workers on the ground.
5. Ceasefire Between Thailand and Cambodia
In [02:21], Windsor Johnston reported on Southeast Asia:
A ceasefire has been brokered between Thailand and Cambodia following a deadly dispute. Michael Sullivan provided detailed coverage:
[02:40] Michael Sullivan explained, "Both Thailand and Cambodia accuse each other of starting the fighting, which began on Thursday after months of simmering tension over the disputed border between the two countries." President Trump intervened by calling the prime ministers of both nations, urging an end to the conflict and warning that failure to secure a favorable trade deal by August 1st could have repercussions.
6. Spirit Airlines to Demote or Furlough Pilots
Back in the United States, Windsor Johnston covered significant developments in the aviation industry at [03:06]:
Spirit Airlines has announced plans to demote or furlough hundreds of pilots. The company aims to reduce its flight schedule and restore profitability, with changes set to take effect on November 1st. This comes after Spirit filed for bankruptcy protection, signaling a challenging period for the low-cost carrier.
7. Lifestyle Changes Enhance Memory in Older Adults
Health news took center stage with John Hamilton reporting at [03:48]:
A new study presented at the Alzheimer's Association International meeting in Toronto highlights that lifestyle modifications can significantly improve memory and cognitive function in individuals aged 60 to 79. The study involved over 2,100 participants:
- Half created their own health programs.
- Half engaged in aerobic exercise four times a week, adhered to a heart-healthy diet, and participated in online brain training.
Laura Baker of Wake Forest University shared, "These people are obtaining cognitive function scores that are similar to people who are one to two years younger than they are." The findings were also published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, suggesting promising avenues for mitigating cognitive decline.
8. Deion Sanders Announces He Is Cancer-Free
In a personal and uplifting note, Windsor Johnston shared at [04:28]:
University of Colorado football coach Deion Sanders announced that he is cancer-free following surgery to remove a bladder tumor. The 57-year-old former NFL star expressed optimism about his recovery:
"Since the surgery, there have been no traces of cancer, and I'll continue to coach this season," Sanders affirmed, highlighting his resilience and dedication to his team.
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