NPR News Now: December 21, 2024, 11 PM EST

Released on December 22, 2024

1. Government Budget Extension and Trump's Political Influence

Host: Dale Wilman

The episode opens with a critical update on the U.S. government's fiscal status. Congress narrowly passed a last-minute budget extension overnight to prevent a government shutdown, following a tumultuous week marked by intense negotiations and political maneuvering.

Reporter: Rebecca Davis

Rebecca Davis provides an in-depth analysis of the budgetary impasse, highlighting President-elect Donald Trump's attempts to influence the legislation. Trump, alongside his advisor Elon Musk, initially demanded the inclusion of an unconditional increase to the debt ceiling—a pivotal component of the nation's borrowing limit. This move was seen as an effort to leverage the budget negotiations to alleviate political pressure on his forthcoming administration.

However, despite these demands, the final bill excluded the debt ceiling provision. Davis remarks, "A lot of this week's episode potentially exposed more of Trump's political weaknesses. He tried to strong-arm into the bill an unconditional increase in the debt ceiling...[but] the bill did not include that provision." (00:45) This omission signals potential limits to Trump's influence as he transitions into the presidency. Furthermore, a subsequent attempt to pass the debt ceiling was thwarted by 38 House Republicans voting against it, indicating significant opposition within his own party.

2. Emergency Funding for Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge

Host: Dale Wilman

In another significant development, Congress approved an emergency spending bill allocating $100 billion for disaster aid. A notable portion of these funds is earmarked for the reconstruction of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Reporter: Scott Maccione

Scott Maccione reports on the catastrophic damage caused when a thousand-foot-long cargo ship collided with the Key Bridge in March, leading to its collapse. The federal government's full coverage of the replacement costs, estimated at up to $2 billion, marks a substantial federal commitment to infrastructure repair. Maryland state officials aim to have the new bridge constructed and operational by fall 2028.

Additionally, legal actions are underway as the state, the city of Baltimore, and various businesses have filed lawsuits against the cargo ship's owner, seeking damages and cleanup costs. The ship owners had previously settled with the U.S. Justice Department in October, agreeing to pay over $100 million for costs related to clearing the port channel post-incident. Maccione concludes, "For NPR News, I'm Scott Maccione in Baltimore." (01:36)

3. Missile Attack in Tel Aviv

Host: Dale Wilman

A concerning escalation in regional tensions is reported as at least 16 individuals were injured in a missile strike in Tel Aviv.

Reporter: Carrie Khan

Carrie Khan details the attack, stating, "This is the second time in the past week that missiles were fired into central Israel from Yemen's Houthi militants." (02:31) Unlike the previous strike two days prior, the latest missile breached Israel's air defense systems, landing in a suburb of Tel Aviv. The resultant shrapnel caused minor injuries to over a dozen people.

Yemen's armed forces claim responsibility, asserting the missile targeted a military installation, although it landed in an empty playground. The Houthi militants, supported by Iran, have a history of missile attacks against Israel and have targeted ships in the Red Sea for over a year. In response, Israeli forces have conducted strikes within Yemen and have issued warnings to Houthi leaders, threatening further action if attacks persist.

Khan summarizes the situation, "Houthi militants packed by Iran have fired missiles into Israel and attacked ships in the Red Sea for more than a year. Israeli officials have in return, struck sites in Yemen." (02:31)

4. Tragic Car Attack at Magdeburg Christmas Market

Host: Dale Wilman

A somber note is struck as reports emerge from Magdeburg, Germany, where a tragic incident occurred at a Christmas market.

Reporter: [Unnamed in Transcript]

On Saturday, exactly 24 hours after the attack, church bells in Magdeburg rang in remembrance. A man driven his car into a crowded Christmas market, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals and injuring approximately 200 others. The perpetrator, a 50-year-old doctor who immigrated from Saudi Arabia in 2006, was apprehended at the scene.

The attack has shaken the local community, prompting reflections on public safety and the impact of such tragedies during the holiday season.

5. Passing of Hall of Fame Outfielder Ricky Henderson

Host: Dale Wilman

In sports news, the baseball world mourns the loss of Ricky Henderson, a legendary outfielder renowned for his exceptional base-stealing prowess.

Reporter: Sune Khalid

Sune Khalid from San Francisco reports, "A native Oaklander, the flamboyant Henderson went from playing on local sandlots to a 25-year career in the major leagues, which included two stints with his hometown Oakland A's." (03:45) Henderson, celebrated as one of the greatest leadoff hitters, held several Major League records, including 1,406 stolen bases and nearly 2,300 runs scored. His illustrious career earned him a place in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009.

Henderson's wife, Pamela, announced his passing, emphasizing his roles as a devoted family man and a humble individual. He died just days shy of his 66th birthday on Christmas, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans and teammates alike.

6. Sports Highlights: College Football and More

Host: Dale Wilman

The episode concludes with updates from the world of sports:

• College Football: In San Francisco, Dominic DeLuca and Tony Rojas secured interceptions for touchdowns, propelling Penn State to a decisive 38-10 victory over SSMU. The six-seeded Nittany Lions are set to face Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl on New Year's Day.

• NCAA Highlights: Jaden Blue delivered an impressive performance, rushing for 146 yards as Texas triumphed over Clemson with a score of 38-24.

• College Football Showdown: In Columbus, Ohio State maintains a commanding lead over Tennessee, standing at 35-10 in the fourth quarter.

These highlights underscore the dynamic and competitive nature of the current college football season, with teams positioning themselves for upcoming bowl games and national championships.

For more detailed coverage and updates, tune into NPR News Now.