NPR News Now: December 21, 2024, 10 AM EST
1. Federal Government Avoids Shutdown with Budget Deal
The federal government will remain operational until at least mid-March after Congress narrowly averted a shutdown. The budget deal, which marks the end of a tumultuous week on Capitol Hill, was approved by both the House and Senate. This agreement funds the government for several months, allocates additional money for farmers, and provides $100 billion in aid for victims of natural disasters, including last year's wildfires in Hawaii and this year's hurricanes and flooding in the Carolinas.
Sarah McCammon reports that this was the third version of the bill introduced recently. The initial attempts failed due to opposition from President-elect Donald Trump and his advisor, Elon Musk. Ultimately, the bipartisan-supported bill passed without an increase to the nation's debt ceiling, which Trump had requested earlier.
Sarah McCammon [00:36]: "The agreement approved by the House and Senate was the third iteration of the bill introduced in recent days."
President Biden is expected to sign the stopgap measure into law today, concluding the 118th Congress as lawmakers depart Capitol Hill for the holidays.
2. Labor Strikes Spread Across Major Cities
A Union representing Starbucks workers has announced a five-day strike that is set to expand to Columbus, Denver, and Pittsburgh today. The initial walkouts began on Friday in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Seattle, with the intent to escalate daily, potentially impacting hundreds of stores by Christmas.
Lindsey Bergner, a Starbucks worker in Seattle, expressed the workers' grievances:
Lindsey Bergner [01:40]: "I deserve to have a living wage. I deserve not to have all these unfair labor practices against my fellow workers."
In addition to the Starbucks strike, Amazon delivery drivers, represented by the Teamsters union, initiated a strike at seven facilities on Thursday. Workers at a prominent New York warehouse are anticipated to join the strike starting midnight.
3. Stock Market Responds to Federal Reserve Policies
The stock market experienced volatility as investors reacted to the Federal Reserve's recent decisions. Despite a quarter percentage point rate cut announced on Wednesday, the Fed signaled that interest rates may remain higher for longer into the next year, dampening investor enthusiasm.
Scott Horsley explains that the Fed's cautious outlook for 2025, suggesting only a half percentage point decrease in interest rates next year compared to the previously projected full point, led to a sell-off. This uncertainty caused the Dow Jones Industrial Average to tumble more than 1,100 points initially, though some losses were later recovered. By the week's end, the Dow was down 2.25%, the S&P 500 fell by 2%, and the Nasdaq dropped approximately 1.8%.
Scott Horsley [01:45]: "Inflation wary policymakers suggested they might lower interest rates by only half a percentage point next year, not the full point they were projecting back in September."
4. International News: Germany and Canada
Germany: Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the tragic attack on a Christmas market in Magdeburg, describing it as a "dreadful tragedy." He visited the scene, where authorities believe a driver intentionally rammed his vehicle into a large crowd, resulting in at least five fatalities and numerous injuries.
Olaf Scholz [02:54]: "Calling last night's attack on a Christmas market... a dreadful tragedy."
Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces increasing pressure to resign following the recent departure of Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, a significant ally. Jack Macsing of the New Democratic Party announced plans to present a formal motion of no confidence when Parliament reconvenes after the holidays. Trudeau, who has led Canada for over nine years, is currently taking a Christmas break to contemplate his future.
5. Health Advisory: Rising Respiratory Viruses Ahead of Holidays
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning as respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, seasonal flu, and RSV, are on the rise across the United States. The increase is expected to continue as the holiday season approaches, with more people traveling and gathering.
Rob Stein reports that public health officials are particularly concerned because vaccination rates remain low. Only about 21% of adults have received an updated COVID-19 booster, and less than 42% have gotten a flu shot. The CDC emphasizes the importance of vaccinations to mitigate the spread and impact of these viruses during the festive period.
Rob Stein [03:58]: "Most people still haven't gotten the latest Covid and flu shots."
6. Sports: Lindsey Vaughn’s Triumphant Return to Ski Racing
Lindsey Vaughn made a remarkable comeback to World Cup ski racing this weekend in Switzerland, six years after retiring due to multiple crashes and injuries. Her return follows a knee replacement surgery, which she credits for her improved condition and renewed passion for the sport.
Vaughn competed in a Super G race at St. Moritz, showcasing her determination and resilience.
Giles Snyder [04:32]: "Lindsey Vaughn decided to return after knee replacement surgery, saying it feels better than it has in years."
Conclusion
As the holiday season unfolds, significant developments are shaping the national and international landscape. From government budget negotiations and labor strikes to economic policies and health advisories, NPR News Now provides comprehensive coverage to keep listeners informed and engaged.
This summary is based on the NPR News Now episode released on December 21, 2024.