NPR News Now – September 5, 2025, 2AM EDT
Host: Shea Stevens (NPR News Anchor)
Duration: ~5 minutes
Main Theme:
A fast-paced update on significant national and international news, covering developments in U.S. tariffs and business, politics, justice, health policy, the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, and a cultural tribute.
Key Stories & Insights
Impact of New U.S. Tariffs on Campbell Soup Company
[00:19 – 01:23]
- Campbell Faces Mounting Costs:
- New U.S. tariffs are contributing substantially to Campbell Soup Company’s operating costs, particularly import taxes on steel and aluminum for cans.
- Lena Selyuk (NPR Reporter):
“Campbell says tariffs are expected to account for about 4% of its cost of goods sold over the next fiscal year. That's hundreds of millions of dollars in costs.” [00:41]
- The company is facing difficulties sourcing enough domestic steel, making imports (subject to a new 50% tariff from President Trump) unavoidable.
- Campbell plans to mitigate expenses via supplier negotiation, improved productivity, cost savings, and “surgical and responsible price increases.”
- Notable Quote:
"There's simply not a way to source the needed amount of steel in the United States, so they have to import this key raw material." — Lena Selyuk [01:05]
President Trump on Tariffs, Semiconductors, and Tech Superiority
[01:23 – 01:46]
-
New Tariffs and Geopolitics:
- President Trump to announce tariffs on semiconductor chips from companies that don’t relocate production to the U.S.
- During a dinner with tech leaders, Trump dismissed concerns about China, Russia, and North Korea outpacing the U.S. in military artificial intelligence.
- Donald Trump:
“We have the smartest people. We have the greatest technology… They can copy, but they can't create like we can create.” [01:39]
-
Comment on NYC Mayoral Race:
- Trump suggests two out of four New York City mayoral candidates should drop out.
Investigation of Former Advisor John Bolton
[01:46 – 02:48]
- Legal Scrutiny:
- Federal agents searched John Bolton’s Maryland home; devices and documents were seized.
- DOJ has filed redacted documents in federal court indicating investigation for potential mishandling or transmission of defense information and classified documents.
- Ryan Lucas (NPR Reporter):
“A redacted copy of the inventory from the Bolton search shows that agencies cell phones, hard drives and computers, as well as typed documents and a binder labeled Statements and Reflections to allied Strikes [were seized].” [02:28]
- Bolton, a former Trump national security adviser, became a vocal critic after leaving the administration.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Faces Senate
[02:48 – 03:14]
- Senate Hearing Highlights:
- Kennedy is questioned by both parties in the Senate, defends firing CDC head and not recommending vaccines, including COVID-19 shots.
- He accuses lawmakers of misinformation regarding his department’s actions.
War and International Relations Updates
Gaza Conflict
[03:14 – 03:39]
- Rising Casualty Toll:
- Gaza’s health ministry reports over 64,000 Palestinians killed since the war began in October 2023.
- Recent Israeli strikes killed at least 28 people as military operations in Gaza City expand.
- Background: War began after Hamas attacked Israel in October 2023, killing ~1,400 and kidnapping hundreds.
Ukraine’s International Support
[03:39 – 04:40]
- Coalition of Support:
- Over 35 countries, mainly European, plus Australia and Canada, pledge support for Ukraine post-war with Russia.
- Eleanor Beardsley (NPR Reporter):
“French President Emmanuel Macron says the pillar of Ukraine's security will be its own military. 'We will accept no limit on the format or capacity of the Ukrainian army,' he said..." [03:58]
- Macron notes Russia’s immense losses for limited territorial gain; urges an end to the war.
- Upcoming: New U.S. proposals for bolstering European security guarantees will be defined soon.
- Notable Quote:
“Macron said Russia has lost more than a million soldiers to conquer less than 20% of Ukrainian territory in three years, so it has every reason to end the war.” — Eleanor Beardsley [04:15]
Tribute: The Passing of Giorgio Armani
[04:40 – 04:57]
- Cultural Moment:
- Renowned fashion designer Giorgio Armani has died at age 91.
- Remembered for dressing celebrities, models, and notable figures over fifty years in fashion.
Notable Quotes
-
Donald Trump:
“We have the smartest people. We have the greatest technology… They can copy, but they can't create like we can create.” [01:39]
-
Lena Selyuk:
"There's simply not a way to source the needed amount of steel in the United States, so they have to import this key raw material." [01:05]
-
Eleanor Beardsley, quoting Macron:
“We will accept no limit on the format or capacity of the Ukrainian army.” [03:58]
“Macron said Russia has lost more than a million soldiers to conquer less than 20% of Ukrainian territory in three years...” [04:15]
Additional Timestamps & Segments
- [02:48] – Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Senate hearing and vaccine policy
- [03:14] – Gaza war casualty update and Israeli military actions
- [03:39] – International coalition for Ukraine and Macron's remarks
- [04:40] – Giorgio Armani’s passing and legacy
Summary Takeaway
This NPR News Now episode provides a concise yet substantive roundup of impactful news: the economic ripple effects of U.S. tariffs, mounting tensions and investigations in national politics, contentious health policies, ongoing international conflict, robust Western commitments to Ukraine, and the passing of a fashion legend. Each story is delivered with urgency and clarity, making it an essential update for listeners seeking to stay informed on current events.