Up First from NPR – May 9, 2025

NPR's Up First brings you the three biggest stories to start your day with in-depth reporting and analysis. In this episode, hosts Leila Fadel and Steve Inskeep cover the historic election of the first American pope, Leo XIV, and the high-stakes trade negotiations between the United States and China.

1. Historic Election of Pope Leo XIV

A. Event Description and Immediate Reactions

The episode opens with the momentous announcement from Vatican City that American Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the new pope, adopting the name Leo XIV. Host Steve Inskeep introduces Ruth Sherlock, NPR’s Rome correspondent, who provides a vivid account of the event.

• Ruth Sherlock [02:37]: Describes the atmosphere leading up to the announcement, highlighting the diversity of the crowd praying in multiple languages and the palpable anticipation as white smoke signaled the selection of the new pope.

• Jason DeRose [03:23]: Shares the excitement of being present during the conclave, emphasizing the blend of prayer and hope among those waiting outside the Sistine Chapel.

Upon the announcement, the crowd erupted in chants of "Viva il Papa," mixed with initial confusion due to communication issues. Eventually, the name Prevost spread through the crowd, leading to his appearance on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.

B. Reactions to Pope Leo XIV

The reaction to an American pope was mixed, varying by region and personal expectations.

• Ruth Sherlock [04:48]: Highlights disappointment among Italians who traditionally expect an Italian pope, juxtaposed with jubilation among Americans celebrating this unprecedented event.

• Max Gleason [05:25]: A 21-year-old American college student studying in Rome expresses optimism, stating, “He just looks like someone who's gonna crush it,” reflecting a sense of hope and high expectations.

C. Background and Potential Leadership Style of Pope Leo XIV

Steve Inskeep brings in Jason DeRose and Max Gleason to delve into Pope Leo XIV’s background and what his papacy might entail.

• Max Gleason [06:05]: Details Pope Leo’s education at Villanova University, his membership in the Augustinians, and his extensive ministry in Peru. He notes Leo’s proficiency in Italian and Spanish, hinting at his global perspective.

• Max Gleason [07:02]: Quotes Cardinal Prevost's vision for church leadership: “The bishop is not supposed to be a little prince sitting in his kingdom, but rather called authentically to be humble, to be close to the people he serves, to walk with them, to suffer with them,” aligning with Pope Francis’s pastoral approach.

• Max Gleason [07:28]: Draws parallels to Pope Francis, suggesting Leo XIV will maintain a focus on humility and proximity to the congregation.

D. Controversies and Challenges Ahead

Despite the optimism, Pope Leo XIV faces scrutiny regarding his past actions and statements.

• Max Gleason [07:20]: Addresses criticisms from survivors of clergy sexual abuse, accusing Cardinal Prevost of inadequate responses during his tenure as bishop and archbishop.

• Max Gleason [08:14]: Discusses Prevost’s controversial comments on LGBTQ issues from 2012, where he criticized “gender ideology,” hinting at potential challenges Leo XIV might face in addressing modern social issues within the Church.

E. Political Implications and Global Stance

The new pope’s relationship with global politics, particularly with the United States and China, is explored.

• Max Gleason [08:29]: Suggests that Leo XIV, aligned with Pope Francis, might confront the Trump administration on issues like migration and conflicts in Gaza, indicating a papacy that could take strong stances on global humanitarian issues.

• Max Gleason [09:04]: Emphasizes the significance of an American pope in a traditionally non-American global religion, noting that Leo XIV’s extensive international experience brings a truly global perspective to the papacy.

2. High-Stakes US-China Trade Negotiations

A. Background of the Trade Dispute

The podcast transitions to the ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China, with negotiators meeting in Switzerland for their first high-level talks since President Trump returned to office.

• Layla Falden [10:06]: Outlines the severe tariffs currently imposed: Chinese goods face up to 245% taxes, while American goods entering China are taxed around 125%.

B. Dynamics of the Current Negotiations

NPR’s Emily Fang and Jason DeRose provide an in-depth analysis of the negotiation dynamics.

• Jason DeRose [10:30]: Highlights the increased stakes compared to Trump’s first term, noting that both nations are less willing to make concessions. China maintains a defiant stance, with the Commerce Ministry declaring it will “fight to the end” and reject any “coercion or blackmail.”

• Jason DeRose [12:03]: Comments on China's confidence due to their preparation for economic standoffs, including shoring up supply chains and implementing monetary changes to mitigate the impact of tariffs.

C. Key Issues and Demands

The primary points of contention revolve around tariffs and technology exports.

• Jason DeRose [12:03]: Points out China’s main demand: the rollback of US export controls on semiconductor chips and chip-making equipment, which are crucial for advancing their domestic AI capabilities.

• Max Gleason [07:02]: Reflects on the instrumental use of tariffs by the US to pressure China on various fronts, including fentanyl trafficking and demand for increased US purchases.

D. Prospects for Resolution

The likelihood of reaching a substantial agreement in the upcoming talks appears slim.

• Jason DeRose [10:35]: Observes that neither side is willing to make the first move, and the high tariffs in place create a challenging environment for negotiation.

• Jason DeRose [12:29]: Notes that while China feels confident, the tariffs are already impacting their economy. Additionally, China is actively seeking to promote a global free trade regime independent of US influence, signaling a strategic pivot in their trade policy.

E. Implications for Global Trade and Technology

The outcome of these negotiations will have significant ramifications for global trade dynamics and technological advancement.

• Jason DeRose [12:08]: Emphasizes that the US is unlikely to concede on export controls critical for AI development, underscoring the technological race at the heart of the trade dispute.

• Max Gleason [13:05]: Highlights China’s strategic positioning to support and perpetuate the existing global trade regime, challenging the US’s traditional dominance in this arena.

3. Upcoming Story: The Backstory of Sean Combs

The episode concludes with a teaser for an upcoming feature on Sean Combs, who is currently on trial for sex crimes. The Sunday Story will explore why allegations against the music star and record executive surfaced only recently.

• Ruth Sherlock [13:43]: Notes the “culture of fear and silence” that allowed Combs to maintain his public image for decades, setting the stage for an in-depth investigative piece.

Conclusion

This episode of Up First provides comprehensive coverage of two significant global events: the unprecedented election of an American pope with potential wide-reaching implications for the Catholic Church and international relations, and the intense US-China trade negotiations that could reshape global economic landscapes. With detailed reporting and expert analysis, NPR ensures listeners are well-informed on these critical issues shaping our world.

For more detailed analyses and additional stories, subscribe to NPR's Up First and support your local NPR station at donate.npr.org.