NPR News Now: Episode Summary – August 14, 2025

Released on August 14, 2025

1. California and Texas Clash Over Redistricting

Governor Gavin Newsom Takes Stand Against Texas Redistricting Efforts

California Governor Gavin Newsom held a press conference addressing Republican-led initiatives in Texas aimed at redrawing congressional maps to secure more U.S. House seats for the GOP. Accusing former President Donald Trump of attempting to "rig Texas districts," Newsom unveiled his strategy to counter these efforts by proposing a special election for a House map ballot measure.

House Democrats Push Back

House Democratic Caucus Chair Representative Gene Wu of Houston emphasized the Democrats' resistance, stating, “House Democrats remain out of state to block the redistricting bill, which could add five more Republican seats to Congress” (00:50). Wu highlighted the broader Democratic strategy, noting that "several Democratic-led states across the country have said that they, too will redraw their congressional maps" (01:20), ensuring a collective stand against perceived partisan gerrymandering.

An unnamed Democratic representative further articulated the opposition: “Texas is determined to do this. If other red states are determined to do this, then we will have other states who will make sure that it does not matter what they do, that we will nullify their actions” (01:09).

2. Republican States Mobilize National Guard for Immigration Enforcement

Wyoming Leads the Charge

In response to the Trump administration's intensified crackdown on illegal immigration, Republican governors are deploying National Guard resources to support Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon announced the deployment of 15 National Guard members to assist with paperwork and migrant transportation within the month (01:35).

Governor Gordon clarified the role of the National Guard, stating, “The Guard will remain in state and under my control and that they will not have access to ICE databases or the training to make arrests” (01:35). An unnamed Wyoming official added, “Wyoming has been firm and consistent in our commitment to helping secure the border” (01:55).

This move aligns with commitments from 19 other GOP governors pledging to activate National Guard resources to support federal immigration enforcement efforts (01:59).

3. President Trump to Host the Kennedy Center Honors

A Politicized Tribute?

President Donald Trump announced his intention to host this year's Kennedy Center Honors Awards in December, having assumed the role of chairman of the Board of Trustees in February and replacing its members (02:12). NPR's Elizabeth Blair reported on Trump's defense of his active involvement, contrasting it with the Kennedy Center's tradition of political neutrality.

Addressing potential criticisms, Trump remarked, “I shouldn't make this political because they made the Academy Awards political and they went down the tubes. So they'll say Trump made it political. But I think if we make it, our kind of political will go up” (02:48).

Honorees Include:

• Singer Gloria Gaynor
• Country artist George Strait
• Actor Sylvester Stallone
• Broadway actor and singer Michael Crawford
• Rock band Kiss (02:59)

4. Harvey Weinstein Faces Potential Third Rape Trial

Legal Proceedings Continue

Harvey Weinstein appeared in court in Manhattan as prosecutors expressed their intention to retry him for a third rape charge. Following his June conviction for criminal sexual assault and an initial acquittal on another charge, the third rape allegation led to a mistrial (03:26).

Chloe Weiner reported that Weinstein's attorney stated, “Weinstein doesn't want to pursue a plea deal, adding, Weinstein doesn't want the word rape associated with him” (03:26). A judge indicated that if a retrial proceeds, it would occur within the year. This case marks Weinstein's third trial concerning allegations from former actress Jessica Mann, with his prior conviction overturned in 2020 on procedural grounds (03:26).

5. Americans Reduce Alcohol Consumption to Historic Lows

Gallup Poll Reveals Shifting Drinking Habits

A recent Gallup poll indicates a significant decline in alcohol consumption among American adults, with only 54% reporting that they drink alcohol—the lowest percentage tracked since the 1930s. Psychologists attribute this trend to increased awareness of the health risks associated with alcohol consumption.

Particularly noteworthy is the behavior of younger adults: approximately half of those aged 18 to 34 reported drinking alcohol, and about 66% believe that drinking in moderation is harmful (04:11). This shift suggests a growing cultural movement towards healthier lifestyles among younger demographics.

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Timestamps Reference:

• 00:50 Gene Wu discusses redistricting.
• 01:09 Unnamed Democratic Representative's statement.
• 01:20 Gene Wu on Democratic-led states.
• 01:35 Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon on National Guard deployment.
• 01:55 Unnamed Wyoming Official on border security commitment.
• 01:59 Statement on 19 GOP governors' commitments.
• 02:12 Announcement of Trump hosting Kennedy Center Honors.
• 02:48 President Trump's remarks on politicizing the Honors.
• 02:59 List of honorees.
• 03:26 Harvey Weinstein's court appearance and statements.
• 04:11 Gallup poll on alcohol consumption.