NPR News Now: September 28, 2025 – 7PM EDT

Host: Jeanine Herbst | Duration: 5 minutes
Main Theme: Rapid-fire summary of pressing national news, including federal government budget negotiations, state-level political maneuvers, a mass shooting in North Carolina, a major shift in New York City's mayoral race, and the passing of a global religious leader.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Looming Federal Government Shutdown

[00:18] – [01:04]

• Main Story: Bipartisan congressional leaders to meet with President Trump at the White House to negotiate a deal before the Sept. 30 deadline and avoid a partial government shutdown.
• Key Figures: Senate Majority Leader Thune, Senate Minority Leader Schumer, House Speaker Johnson, House Minority Leader Jeffries.
• Point of Contention: Democrats demand the extension of Obamacare subsidies as a condition for supporting government funding.
• Insight: Imminent deadline and partisan divides place immense pressure on leaders to reach a compromise.

"Democrats say they won't vote for a funding bill unless Obamacare subsidies, which allow millions of people to buy health insurance, are extended."
— Mara Liasson [00:54]

2. President Trump’s Attendance at Military Summit

[01:04] – [01:43]

• Story: President Trump to attend a rare gathering of top military officers in Northern Virginia; episode notes the unusual nature and secrecy of the meeting.
• Details Lacking: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has given limited information; unclear if Trump will issue a formal address.
• Significance: The meeting draws officers globally, highlighting its importance amid unspecified concerns or agendas.

3. Missouri Congressional Map Redrawn

[01:43] – [02:14]

• Action: Republican Governor Mike Kehoe codifies new congressional districts designed to solidify GOP control.
• Effect: Democrat-held Kansas City area fragmented, potentially shifting seats from six to seven in GOP favor.
• Controversy: The process is challenged legally, with efforts underway to force a public vote on the new map.
• Media Access: Bill signing was closed to the press.

"The new map breaks up the Kansas City area district of Democrat Emanuel Cleaver into three that could give the GOP a chance to win seven of Missouri’s eight seats up from the six it currently holds."
— Rachel Lipman [01:46]

4. Southport, NC Mass Shooting

[02:14] – [03:13]

• Incident: Three dead, five injured after a man opened fire at a popular waterfront restaurant and bar, arriving by boat.
• Suspect: Nigel Max Edge, identified as a combat veteran with PTSD, arrested at a nearby boat ramp.
• Community Shock: Southport renowned for tranquility and low crime.
• Legal Response: District Attorney considering the death penalty; suspect to appear in court tomorrow.

"Violent crime is virtually non-existent in the city of Southport. This is an idyllic waterfront community that really enjoys a reputation for being a very peaceful and tranquil place."
— Brunswick County District Attorney John David [02:52]

5. New York City Mayoral Race Shift

[03:13] – [03:58]

• Development: Mayor Eric Adams ends re-election bid, citing adverse media speculation and loss of campaign finance board's public matching funds.
• Remaining Candidates: Democratic Socialist Zoran Mamdani, Independent Andrew Cuomo, Republican Curtis Sliwa now lead the race.
• Significance: The sudden withdrawal reshapes the city’s political landscape.

6. Passing of LDS Church President Russell M. Nelson

[03:58] – [04:48]

• Summary: Russell M. Nelson, president and prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, dies at 101.
• Legacy: Expanded global temple count, promoted inclusivity, and prioritized Christ-centered reforms.
• Memorable Last Words: In April, Nelson called for greater kindness and civility.

"Hateful words are deadly weapons. Contention prevents the Holy Ghost from being our constant companion."
— Russell M. Nelson (quoted by Sierra Hewlett) [04:20]

• Succession: Next in line is 93-year-old Apostle Dallin H. Oaks.

7. Economic Update

[04:48] – [04:57]

• Note: U.S. Dow futures trading slightly higher at the time of reporting.

Notable Quotes

• "Democrats say they won't vote for a funding bill unless Obamacare subsidies, which allow millions of people to buy health insurance, are extended."
  — Mara Liasson [00:54]
• "Violent crime is virtually non-existent in the city of Southport. This is an idyllic waterfront community that really enjoys a reputation for being a very peaceful and tranquil place."
  — Brunswick County District Attorney John David [02:52]
• "Hateful words are deadly weapons. Contention prevents the Holy Ghost from being our constant companion."
  — Russell M. Nelson (via Sierra Hewlett) [04:20]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• [00:18] Government shutdown talks and deadline
• [01:04] Trump’s upcoming military meeting
• [01:43] Missouri congressional maps redrawn
• [02:14] Southport, NC mass shooting
• [03:13] NYC mayoral race shakeup
• [03:58] Passing and legacy of LDS President Russell M. Nelson
• [04:48] Economic update

Podcast Tone: Concise, factual, urgent, and direct—mirroring NPR’s clear and authoritative news delivery.