NPR News Now: April 20, 2025, 10 PM EDT Summary

Host: Jeanine Herbst
Release Date: April 21, 2025

1. Constitutional Crisis Surrounding Deportation Case

Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen has declared that the United States is facing a constitutional crisis. This statement comes amidst the Trump administration's continued disregard for court orders in the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Van Hollen emphasized the broader implications of this action, stating at [00:44] "If you can deny one person their constitutional rights, that is a threat to the constitutional rights of everybody who lives in the United States of America." He called on the administration to comply with court orders to ensure Garcia receives due process.

The White House has countered by asserting that Garcia will not be returning to the U.S., alleging his involvement in gang activities—a claim Garcia denies. Garcia's attorney has criticized the federal government for failing to present evidence supporting these allegations.

2. Tesla Takedown Protests Highlight Concerns Over Government Spending Cuts

For over two months, the Tesla takedown campaign has mobilized demonstrations at Tesla facilities across the United States and Europe. These protests target CEO Elon Musk's significant influence within the Trump administration, particularly his role in reducing government expenditures.

NPR's Emma Bowman reported from a protest in Los Angeles, where approximately 100 individuals gathered outside a Tesla service center in Burbank. The demonstration predominantly featured older adults, including many seniors apprehensive about potential cuts to Social Security benefits. Bailey Herms, a 29-year-old protester, expressed her concerns at [01:53]: "I can say I'm a bit disheartened when I see so few young people out here and I try to get through to them that pessimism and nihilism isn't the answer." She further highlighted the intergenerational impact by stating at [02:05]: "Social Security affects your parents. If they don't get Social Security, you then have to take care of your parents. You won't have enough money to take care of yourself."

Despite the modest size of some protests compared to other anti-Trump demonstrations, organizers maintain that the movement's momentum remains strong.

3. Pope Francis Makes Rare Public Appearance Amid Health Recovery

In a notable event, Pope Francis made a rare public appearance on Easter Sunday at the Vatican in Los Angeles. NPR's Joe Hernandez reported that the 88-year-old Pope, who has been recovering from a life-threatening illness involving severe respiratory infection and bilateral pneumonia, appeared on the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica. During this appearance, a blessing penned by the Pope was read aloud by a church official. Additionally, Pope Francis toured St. Peter's Square in the Pope Mobile, greeting worshipers attending Easter Mass.

Earlier this year, the Pope had been hospitalized for five weeks to address his health concerns. On Easter Sunday, he also had a brief meeting with Vice President J.D. Vance, who traveled to Italy with his family.

4. Queen Elizabeth’s Favorite Breed Shines at Scotland's Corgi Derby

Scotland's annual Corgi Derby recently crowned Juno as the top prize winner. This event honors the favorite dog breed of the late Queen Elizabeth and commemorates her 70-year reign, with the race inaugural in 2022. Sixteen corgis participated, all adorned in vibrant sweaters. Juno made a dramatic comeback in the final stretch, securing both a trophy and a collection of dog treats, much to the delight of onlookers.

5. Los Angeles Sees Significant Decline in Film and TV Productions

A new study reveals a continued downturn in television and film productions within Los Angeles, long regarded as the entertainment capital. NPR's Mandalit del Barco reported that location productions in Los Angeles decreased by over 22% in the first three months of the year, according to FilmLA, the organization responsible for issuing film permits in the area.

Philip Sokolowski, a spokesperson for FilmLA, attributed this decline to more attractive tax incentives offered by other states and countries, which are drawing productions away from California. Additionally, studios and streaming services are commissioning fewer series and films overall. Mandalit del Barco added that this trend is not isolated to Los Angeles but is being observed across all major production centers, intensifying competition for the remaining projects. Sokolowski noted that while recent wildfires had a minor impact, the industry is still grappling with the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and delays caused by ongoing strikes among Hollywood writers and performers.

6. Mixed Signals from Financial Markets as US Futures Sink

In financial news, U.S. futures contracts are trading lower. Both the Dow and S&P 500 futures have decreased by approximately 0.6%, while Nasdaq futures have fallen by about half a percent. This downturn reflects investor caution amid the various economic and political developments reported throughout the day.

This summary encapsulates the key topics and discussions from the NPR News Now episode aired on April 20, 2025, providing a comprehensive overview for those who did not listen to the original broadcast.