NPR News Now Summary
Episode: NPR News: 08-07-2025 3AM EDT
Release Date: August 7, 2025
Host: Shea Stevens
International Trade: U.S. Imposes New Tariffs on Brazil and India
Shea Stevens opens the episode with a report on President Trump's latest tariffs affecting Brazil and India. The administration has implemented a 50% tariff on Brazilian beef and coffee, citing unfair political persecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is facing coup-related charges. Despite these measures, only 12% of Brazil's exports reach the U.S., allowing Brazil's economy to potentially mitigate the impact by seeking alternative markets.
Kerry Khan of NPR elaborates:
"Only about 12% of Brazil's exports go to the U.S. Most analysts say its economy will most likely weather the hit." (00:34)
Trump has also announced a 100% tariff on imports of computer chips and semiconductors, with exceptions for companies establishing chip factories in the U.S. Additionally, tariffs on Indian goods have surged from 25% to 50% as a punitive measure for India's purchase of Russian oil.
Military Incident: Shooting at Fort Stewart
Tragedy struck at Fort Stewart when five soldiers were shot on Wednesday. The shooter, identified as 28-year-old Automated Logistics Sergeant Cornelius Radford, targeted his coworkers. Brigadier General John Lubas reported that all injured soldiers are expected to recover.
General Lubas stated:
"Army investigators are still looking into a possible motive for the shooting, but there is no evidence to suggest that the attack was motivated by extremist beliefs." (02:06)
An unnamed Army official commended the quick actions of local law enforcement and fellow soldiers who subdued the shooter:
"These soldiers without a doubt prevented further casualties." (01:57)
The Army remains focused on caring for the injured and their families as investigations continue. Peter Biello from Georgia Public Broadcasting provided these updates. (01:43)
Political Developments: Governor Races in South Carolina and Tennessee
Shea Stevens reports on significant moves in state politics:
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Nancy Mace, a South Carolina Congresswoman, has declared her candidacy for governor. Speaking at a Myrtle Beach town hall, Mace emphasized her commitment to the state and aligned herself with Trump:
"I can't—he's way healthier than I am. But I'm following his lead because he set a good example and no one will work harder for South Carolina than I will." (02:32)
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In Tennessee, Republican U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn, the first woman to represent the state in the Senate, is also running for governor. Her election would make her Tennessee's first female governor.
Financial Markets: U.S. Futures Rise
U.S. futures experienced gains in after-hours trading, buoyed by Wednesday's positive market movements. This uptick reflects investor optimism amidst the current economic and political climate. (02:51)
U.S.-Russia Relations: Potential Summit and Sanctions Threats
President Trump expressed optimism about meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin soon, although no specific date was mentioned. Trump criticized Putin for past disappointments and threatened stiff sanctions if Russia does not pursue a ceasefire in Ukraine, expecting an agreement within days. This stance underscores the tense dynamics between the two nations. (02:51)
International Incident: Ghana Helicopter Crash
A tragic helicopter crash in Ghana resulted in the deaths of eight individuals, including two government ministers: Edward Omani Buama and Brahim Mohammed, the Environment Science and Technology Minister. The helicopter lost contact en route to the mining town of Obwasi in the Ashanti region. Emmanuel Akinwotu of NPR reports that the accident is considered a national tragedy by Ghanaian authorities, with both passengers and crew members among the casualties. (03:52)
Obituary: Celebrating Bandleader Eddie Palmieri
Renowned bandleader and pianist Eddie Palmieri passed away at the age of 88. Palmieri was celebrated for his innovative fusion of jazz and Afro-Caribbean rhythms, shaping the landscape of Latin music. His influential piano work on tracks like "Bilango" and "La Belanga" left a lasting legacy, particularly in the Asia Pacific music markets. (04:26)
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