NPR News Now: Detailed Summary of December 28, 2024, 10 PM EST Episode

NPR News Now provides listeners with the latest updates in a concise five-minute format. The December 28, 2024, episode covers a range of significant news stories from around the globe and the United States. Below is a comprehensive summary of the key topics discussed, enriched with notable quotes and structured for clarity.

1. Tragic Aviation Incidents: South Korea and Azerbaijan Airlines

South Korea Plane Crash
At [00:19], Jeanine Herbst reports a devastating plane crash in South Korea where at least 47 people lost their lives. The aircraft veered off the runway, collided with a wall, and burst into flames at an international airport. The country's emergency office indicated a malfunction in the plane's landing gear, and there were 181 individuals on board.

Putin's Apology Over Azerbaijan Airlines Crash
Shortly after, at [00:58], Herbst transitions to Russian President Vladimir Putin's response to the crash of Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243, which resulted in 38 fatalities. President Putin issued an apology to Azerbaijani leader President Aliyev for the tragedy, described as a "tragic incident in Russian airspace." However, he refrained from taking direct responsibility. The BBC’s Steve Rosenberg elaborated that the Embraer 190 aircraft likely suffered damage from missiles fired by a Russian air defense system as it attempted to land in Grozny. This incident raises suspicions of accidental downing by Russian forces.

2. Internal Discord Among Trump's Supporters Over H1B Visas

At [01:31], Jeanine Herbst highlights emerging tensions within President-elect Donald Trump's supporter base concerning H1B visa policies. Trump, addressing the New York Post, affirmed his support for H1B visas, stating, "I’ve always been a supporter of H1B visas." He pledged to curb illegal immigration in his forthcoming administration. Despite this, some MAGA (Make America Great Again) loyalists criticize legal immigration measures, leading to online conflicts characterized by racist rhetoric on X (formerly Twitter), owned by Elon Musk.

Herbst notes that Elon Musk responded negatively to Trump supporters opposing H1B visas, particularly in industries like technology. The future implications of this discord on immigration policy remain uncertain, especially with the Republican-controlled House and Senate and President-elect Trump's influence pending.

3. Fatal Prison Beating in New York: Officer Accountability

At [02:30], Eva Pukach reports on a harrowing incident captured on body cam footage, revealing the fatal beating of Robert Brooks, a black inmate, by 14 white corrections officers at Marcy Correctional Facility in upstate New York. The video shows officers repeatedly punching, kicking, and choking Brooks while he was handcuffed and lying on a medical examination table ([02:30]).

Attorney General Letitia James stated, "The body cam footage shows officers [...] repeatedly punching and kicking inmate Robert Brooks." The preliminary autopsy identified the cause of death as asphyxia due to neck compression ([02:57]). In response, Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered the termination of the involved officers, with potential criminal charges looming over the 14 individuals.

4. US Debt Ceiling Crisis: Impending Deadline and Political Stalemate

At [03:09], Jeanine Herbst reports that Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned the U.S. government will hit its debt limit by mid-January. To avert default, the Treasury plans to implement special measures to continue paying government obligations temporarily. The situation places Congress under intense pressure to act, with differing opinions on how long the country can sustain these measures.

Analysts are divided, with some suggesting the US could stretch its remaining funds until the summer. However, resolving the debt ceiling issue largely depends on the actions of the incoming Republican-controlled House and Senate alongside President-elect Trump. The political impasse raises concerns about the nation's financial stability and economic repercussions if an agreement is not reached promptly.

5. Passing of Olivia Hussey: Legacy of a Classic Film Star

At [03:09], the episode shifts to a somber note as Olivia Hussey, famed for her role in the 1968 film Romeo and Juliet, passes away peacefully at age 73 ([03:56]). Chloe Veltman of NPR elaborates on Hussey's illustrious career, highlighting her discovery by Franco Zeffirelli during a stage performance in London, leading to her iconic casting in Romeo and Juliet.

Notably, Hussey's portrayal included a controversial nude scene, earning international acclaim. She continued to act in significant productions such as the 1977 series Jesus of Nazareth and the 1978 adaptation of Agatha Christie's Death on the Nile. Hussey also engaged in activism, notably suing Paramount Pictures over allegations of sexual abuse and harassment related to her scenes in Romeo and Juliet, although the case was dismissed in the previous year.

6. Mega Millions Jackpot Winner in Northern California

Concluding the episode, Jeanine Herbst shares that a single Mega Millions ticket purchased in Northern California won the staggering $1.2 billion jackpot ([04:41]). This marks one of the largest lottery winnings in recent history, offering life-changing prospects for the fortunate winner.

Closing Notes

Throughout the episode, NPR ensures listeners are informed about critical global events, political developments, tragic incidents, and notable passings. The inclusion of direct quotes and specific timestamps enhances the credibility and detail of the reporting, providing a thorough overview for those unable to listen to the broadcast.

Notable Quotes:

• President Putin at [00:58]: "President Putin apologized to President Aliyev for what the Kremlin calls a tragic incident in Russian airspace and expressed condolences to the families of the dead."

• Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen at [03:09]: "The government will reach its debt limit by mid-January and will have to adopt special measures to continue paying its bill."

• Letitia James at [02:30]: "The body cam footage shows officers at Marcy Correctional Facility in upstate New York repeatedly punching and kicking inmate Robert Brooks in the face and groin and choking and striking him in the chest or shoe as he lies on a medical examination table."

This summary encapsulates the major stories covered in the NPR News Now episode, providing listeners with a clear and detailed understanding of the day's most pressing news topics.