NPR News Now: December 20, 2024, 1 PM EST
Host: Dwahilisai Kao
Release Date: December 20, 2024
1. Potential Federal Government Shutdown
Reporter: Margaret Barthel
Time Reference: [00:39]
As the deadline approaches, Members of Congress face hours to pass a crucial spending bill to avert a partial shutdown of the federal government by midnight. A shutdown could halt operations for many federal workers, though certain sectors like air traffic control and parts of the defense industry would continue functioning without timely paychecks. However, a 2019 law mandates back pay for approximately 2 million federal employees once the shutdown concludes.
Quote:
Virginia Senator Tim Kaine criticized the fiscal implications, stating at [01:05], “There's no reason to shut government down, lock employees out of their office, tell them they can't help their fellow Americans, and then give them a paycheck anyway.”
Kaine expressed hope that congressional leaders would reach an agreement before the midnight deadline to prevent the adverse economic and operational impacts of a shutdown.
2. Oxford, Michigan School Shooter's Guilty Plea Upheld
Reporter: Kristen Wright
Time Reference: [01:21]
Ethan Crumbley, the Oxford, Michigan school shooter, has had his guilty plea to first-degree murder and terrorism charges upheld by the court. Crumbley’s defense argued that at 16, he did not fully comprehend his actions due to mental illness and cognitive impairment. They contended that these factors were not adequately addressed during his plea and sentencing.
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Judge Kristen Wright affirmed at [01:38], “Ethan Crumbley's guilty plea was knowingly, voluntarily and accurately given.”
Despite these arguments, the judge maintained that Crumbley displayed no signs of confusion during his plea, resulting in a sentence of life without the possibility of parole. This case is particularly notable as Crumbley's parents became the first in the nation to be convicted in relation to a school shooting perpetrated by their child. The tragic incident occurred in 2021, where Crumbley killed four classmates and injured seven others.
3. North Korean Troop Casualties in Russia and Conflict in Ukraine
Reporter: Brian Mann
Time Reference: [02:26]
Reports indicate that over 100 North Korean troops have died supporting Russia's war efforts since earlier this month, according to a South Korean lawmaker. Concurrently, in Ukraine, emergency responders are combating fires in Kyiv caused by overnight Russian attacks.
On the Ground in Pokrovsk:
Brian Mann provides a harrowing account of Pokrovsk, a city in Ukraine's Donetsk region struggling under continuous bombardment.
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At [02:50], Mann described Pokrovsk as “a frightening place” where Russian drones have relentlessly attacked, leading officials to believe that roughly 11,000 Ukrainians remain hiding amid severe shortages of gas, heat, and running water.
The city, once home to 60,000 residents, has largely been evacuated due to the ongoing conflict and the pervasive threat of violence.
4. College Football Playoffs Kick Off
Reporter: Becky Sullivan
Time Reference: [03:09]
The college football playoffs are set to begin this weekend, featuring an exciting lineup of games. The initial game on Friday night will showcase an in-state clash between Notre Dame and Indiana, both boasting only one loss each this season.
Saturday’s Highlights:
- Texas vs. Clemson: A high-stakes matchup anticipated to draw significant attention.
- Tennessee vs. Ohio State: Another marquee game expected to be a highlight of the weekend.
Additionally, Southern Methodist University will travel to Penn State for an early game in the power conference. Notably, four conference champions, including the undefeated Oregon Ducks and the Georgia Bulldogs, will bypass the first round and enter directly into the second round.
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Becky Sullivan outlined the expanded format at [03:33], “It's the first year of this expanded 12 team playoff. It'll be a full month of games before a team is crowned champion.”
Fans can look forward to a month-long series of thrilling contests leading up to the crowning of the national champion.
5. Holiday Travel and Potential Airport Delays Amid Government Shutdown
Reporter: Dwahilisai Kao
Time Reference: [04:14]
The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects that nearly 120 million people will travel during the upcoming holiday season between tomorrow and New Year's Day, marking an increase of about 3 million travelers compared to last year. Of these, approximately 8 million are expected to fly.
However, a potential partial federal government shutdown tonight could exacerbate travel conditions. Air traffic controllers are required to work during a shutdown but would not receive paychecks, potentially affecting airport operations. Similarly, TSA agents would face the same predicament, possibly leading to longer security lines and delays for travelers.
In international news, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Mayotte, an island territory near eastern Africa between Madagascar and Mozambique, which was severely impacted by a cyclone last week. His visit underscores ongoing efforts to provide aid and support to the cyclone-hit region.
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