Up First from NPR

President Trump says his immigration crackdown may have gone too far even as he elevates Stephen Miller, one of its chief architects, to run the White House after Republicans lost Congress. Republicans are returning to Washington for a lame-duck session with a shrinking House majority and a short list of priorities, including funding the government, passing military spending and confirming Trump nominees. Nvidia is investigating reports that CEO Jensen Huang had an affair with a woman suspected of ties to Chinese intelligence, raising new questions about one of the most important companies in the U.S.-China technology race. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Emily Kopp, Mohamad ElBardicy and Adam Bearne. It was…

What drove the Democratic blue wave at the polls and what happens now? This week on The Sunday Story, we dive into the lessons from the midterms and talk about where the country goes from here. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

What the big win for Democrats in the midterm elections means for the Supreme Court and lower courts. Big tech companies sue California to block the enforcement of a state law meant to protect children from getting addicted to social media. Life in Cuba gets harder as the United States increases economic pressure on the island country. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

The October jobs report will show whether hiring picked up after a weak September, even as inflation continues to outpace wages and markets reel from a sharp selloff. Democrats are promising relief from high fuel prices, but Congress has limited power to lower them quickly and analysts say prices could stay elevated for months even if the war with Iran ends. A federal judge blocked construction on President Trump’s 250-foot D.C. arch for 14 days, setting up a broader fight over his efforts to reshape the capital and the checks courts and a new Democratic Congress may impose. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Kara Platoni, Carol Ritchie, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.…

Democrats are preparing an ambitious opening agenda for their new congressional majority, including efforts to restore health subsidies, reverse Medicaid cuts, rein in tariffs and challenge the war with Iran. Two Senate races remain undecided as Democrats continue gaining ground in places Republicans once considered safe, underscoring how dramatically the electorate shifted in the midterms. President Trump says the war with Iran hurt Republicans at the polls but insists he would make the same decision again, even as he rejects the idea that the losses were a repudiation of him. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Megan Pratz, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia…

Democrats swept control of Congress with historic Senate victories in Texas, South Carolina and Kansas, giving the party new momentum even as its broader brand remains unpopular. President Trump’s hand-picked candidates suffered major losses, leaving Republicans to wrestle with how closely to stay tied to him as he prepares for two years of divided government. Democratic control of the House and Senate will give the party new power to block Trump nominees and launch investigations, with Hakeem Jeffries poised to become the first Black Speaker of the House. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Miguel Macias, Padma Rama, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Adam Bearne. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our…

Election Day is here, with control of Congress hinging on unexpectedly competitive races in states including Iowa, Arkansas and Mississippi. President Trump sounded unusually subdued in his final campaign appearance, acknowledging the historical odds against the president’s party in midterm elections. Iran has spent months using the Strait of Hormuz and high gas prices to pressure President Trump back toward negotiations, but Election Day could instead mark the start of another round of war. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Rebekah Metzler, Tina Kraja, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from…

Michigan Democrats are in open conflict on the eve of the election after Haley Stevens revoked her endorsement of Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed and backed his Republican opponent. Republicans are defending unexpectedly competitive races across traditionally red territory, from Alaska to Kansas and South Carolina, as the political map continues shifting toward Democrats. Qatar is pushing a new diplomatic plan to stop Iranian attacks on ships and reopen talks with the U.S. as Gulf states try to prevent another round of war. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Brett Neely, Tina Kraja, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Taylor Haney. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We…

Millions of Americans have already cast their votes early ahead of Tuesday’s midterms. On this episode of The Sunday Story, NPR’s senior political correspondent Tamara Keith discusses the turbulent and unpredictable political landscape of this years’ midterm election. Rising costs and unpopular foreign policy decisions have some experts anticipating a blue wave. President Trump is predicting the opposite. But voters on both sides of the aisle share one commonality: they’re not happy. How will a dissatisfied electorate decide the future of America? Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Oil companies are reporting sky-high profits this quarter. Hackers stole $6.3 billion in cryptocurrency this week, in the largest digital heist ever. It’s been just over two years since the rise of Make America Healthy Again. Has the Trump administration made good on the MAHA agenda? Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

President Trump is changing his final campaign strategy as Republicans try to close an early-voting gap and hold off Democratic gains in competitive races across the country. Alaska’s tight Senate race is facing new scrutiny after allegations that Democrats helped recruit a spoiler candidate with the same name as the Republican incumbent, while Mary Peltola denies knowing about the effort. Connecticut Democratic Senator Chris Murphy, who was briefed on possible new U.S. strikes on Iran, is warning that the plan could trigger a major escalation as American forces continue building up in the region. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Miguel Macias, Andrew Sussman, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by…

Ad spending in Kansas’ Senate race has jumped tenfold in weeks as Democrats pour money into Republican-heavy districts in the final days before the midterms. The economy appears to be growing at a solid pace, but inflation is still running ahead of wages and leaving many Americans feeling worse off financially. Israel still has no governing majority after its election, leaving Benjamin Netanyahu in office during coalition talks as questions remain about whether the country could launch another strike on Iran. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Rafael Nam, Tina Kraja, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Iman Maani and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from…

President Trump rallied for Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton in Texas, but his personal grievances kept competing with his party’s closing message ahead of the midterms. Israel’s election remains too close to call, with Benjamin Netanyahu and Gadi Eisenkot both short of a governing majority and Arab-led parties potentially holding the balance of power. Investors expect the Federal Reserve to hold interest rates steady today, even as prices rise faster than wages and squeeze household budgets. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Tina Kraja, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Iman Maani and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Carleigh…

A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll gives Democrats an eight-point lead on the congressional ballot, but lagging enthusiasm among young voters and independents could complicate their push to win Congress. Democrats are preparing legal and political responses to possible election challenges from President Trump as he offers million-dollar rewards for tips leading to voter fraud convictions. Israelis vote in a closely fought election that could determine Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political future, with tens of thousands of Israelis living abroad returning home to cast their ballots. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Tina Kraja, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Iman Maani and Nia Dumas. Our…

Republicans redrew 15 House districts hoping to protect their majority, but most have become competitive races as the party’s redistricting strategy falls short of expectations. Brazil’s leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva won reelection after trailing in the first round, but far-right rival Flávio Bolsonaro is demanding the result be thrown out. Youth-led protest movements are reshaping politics across Europe, from mass demonstrations in France to Serbia, where a student-led movement defeated the longtime ruling party in parliamentary elections. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Tina Kraja, Tara Neill, Mohamad ElBardicy and Olivia Hampton. It was produced by Iman Maani and Nia Dumas. Our director is Kaity…

The Midwest used to be known as an affordable place to live. Lately, though, many people there are having a hard time making ends meet. In this episode of The Sunday Story, Holly Edgell and Daniel Wheaton from NPR’s Midwest Newsroom bring us the voices of Midwesterners. We hear about how people in the region are struggling financially, and how the affordability crisis is impacting their votes in the midterms. You can hear more of the “Costly” series here Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

AI discovered a vulnerability in part of the internet's architecture, called PHP2SHELL. Security researchers rushed to fix it, but the news leaked and hackers have swooped in. France deploys hordes of police as another wave of protests begin. Netflix is regrouping after the release of its latest quarterly earnings this week. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. is sending a third aircraft carrier to the Middle East as oil prices climb and the prospect of another attack on Iran grows. More than 19 million Americans have already voted, with strong turnout among Democrats and voters of color, but the numbers can’t tell us who will win. A judge has ordered President Trump to testify in his $10 billion defamation case against the BBC, potentially forcing him to answer questions about his finances and January 6. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Megan Pratz, Emily Kopp, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Iman Maani and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Zac…

Democrats are sending former President Barack Obama and former Vice President Kamala Harris into competitive Senate races to help the party win in Republican territory. NPR has learned the U.S. and Israel are preparing for a possible attack on Iran after the midterms, while Americans face settler violence and military arrests in the West Bank. Tesla and SpaceX are exploring a merger that could create one of the world’s largest companies and give Elon Musk even greater control over his sprawling business empire. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Tina Kraja, Kara Platoni, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Iman Maani and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from…

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is trying to repair ties with Washington as President Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff carries new peace proposals to Russia. President Trump is campaigning in North Carolina as Republicans struggle in key races and he ties federal relief promises to the outcome of the midterms. Britain is sending fighter jets to help Saudi Arabia defend against Houthi attacks as the war disrupts the kingdom’s economy and deepens the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Megan Pratz, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Iman Maani and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. Our…

1Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is taking his concerns about delayed U.S. weapons and intelligence directly to Congress as lawmakers in both parties question President Trump’s approach to Russia. Republicans are spending heavily to defend traditionally conservative territory as Democrats expand the midterm map two weeks before Election Day. The Justice Department has charged 28 California voters it says are noncitizens while asking a federal judge to stop thousands of other ballots from being counted. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Megan Pratz, Shannon Bond, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Iman Maani and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support…

President Trump is easing pressure on Russia by waiving new sanctions as Ukraine continues striking Russian energy targets and tensions deepen between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Democratic candidates are outraising Republicans across many competitive midterm races, while Elon Musk pours hundreds of millions into GOP super PACs. France is facing one of its biggest political crises in years after nationwide protests erupted into violence, with thousands arrested and the unrest already shaping a presidential election six months away. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Padma Rama, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Lindsay Totty. It was produced by Iman Maani and Nia Dumas. Our director is…

Israelis will vote in national elections next week. It’s the first vote since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks and the Gaza war. Many Israelis call it the most important vote in their country’s history. On this episode of the Sunday Story, NPR’s Daniel Estrin reports on Israelis and how they’ve changed after three years of wars across the Middle East. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, one of the world’s most controversial and consequential leaders, is seeking a seventh term. A former military chief of staff is his main challenger. Now, as Israel faces a global backlash for its destructive war in Gaza, Israelis must decide: will they vote for change? See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Authorities say the 16-year-old suspect in a school shooting that killed three children and one teacher at an elementary school in Bend, Oregon was once a student there. Elon Musk has influence across the economy and politics. The major party candidates for Minnesota’s U.S. Senate seat faced off in a debate Friday on MPR News. Affordability and fallout from the Trump administration’s policies were key points. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

At least three children and a teacher were killed in a shooting at an elementary school in Bend, Oregon, where police say a 16-year-old gunman was killed by an armed community member. As President Trump increasingly blames Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the failure of peace efforts, Russia is watching the growing divide while beginning to release diesel under its new deal with the United States. The Justice Department sued California after Los Angeles County refused to investigate a federal list of more than 20,000 voters the government says may be noncitizens. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Tina Kraja, Ben Swasey, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ben Abrams.…

President Donald Trump recently called Hasan Piker a “terrible liability” and a “communist.” The California-based streamer — who describes himself as a socialist — has become the GOP’s political bogeyman ahead of the midterm elections. Piker argues those attacks will backfire, but also says he has played a role in being portrayed as a 'figurehead of the insurgent left.' “The way that I'm portrayed in the media is an America-hating communist Islamist fundamentalist who wants to secretly do jihad, and then also, at the same time, very woke and gay, so there's this weird inconsistency in their messaging,” Piker says. “Who I am is very simple. I'm a socialist. I'm an anti-imperialist. I want what's best for Americans, and I want what's best for everyone from all around the world.” In this episode from NPR’s Newsmakers, Piker sits down with host Leila Fadel and argues Republicans are using him to distract from policies that made life less affordable. He also addresses his seven Twitch bans, defends his rhetoric…

President Donald Trump is campaigning across traditionally Republican states as his party tries to turn out voters in an increasingly competitive midterm map. Ukraine says U.S.-supplied Starshield satellite communications have suddenly been restricted, disrupting the drones it uses to attack Russia and defend against Russian strikes. Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck the headquarters of Saudi oil giant Aramco and are threatening more attacks on Saudi airports and oil facilities as the conflict escalates. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Andrew Sussman, Tina Kraja, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ben Abrams. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey…

In a sit-down interview with NPR, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the U.S. warned it could cut intelligence sharing over Ukraine’s attacks on Russian oil refineries. Pope Leo XIV is recovering from surgery after the Vatican announced he has lung cancer, as doctors wait for more test results to determine what comes next. President Trump forced out U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle after a series of misconduct allegations, raising new questions about his political appointees overseas. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Miguel Macias, Daniel Burke, Hannah Bloch, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering…

President Trump is ramping up campaign travel and putting himself at the center of the midterms as Republicans fight increasingly competitive races in states he won easily. Federal agents searched Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar’s home as part of a criminal investigation just weeks before the midterms, prompting her to accuse the Trump administration of political targeting. European allies are pushing back on Trump’s approach to Russia, with the E-U tightening sanctions and NATO’s top commander warning the alliance is ready to fight if attacked. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Padma Rama, Tina Kraja, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher…

President Trump is increasing pressure on Ukraine over its strikes on Russian oil refineries while again calling on Ukrainians to hold wartime elections and threatening to cut off U.S. intelligence support. President Trump is trying to show voters he is focused on affordability as record fuel prices and a controversial Russian diesel deal collide with his familiar political grievances just weeks before the midterms. Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia have killed at least 20 people in the past week and repeatedly struck Riyadh’s main airport, raising new questions about the kingdom’s security and the role of its allies. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Brett Neely, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Taylor Haney. It was…

Aliksandria Prout had only been at the Central California Women’s Facility for a few days when a male officer stopped her at a checkpoint. “You have beautiful lips and beautiful eyes,” he said. That was just the beginning. On this episode of The Sunday Story, we feature the first episode of a new three-part series from KQED’s Snap Judgment called “We Are Jane Doe.” It follows thirteen women and their fight for justice against the jailers who sexually assaulted them. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

The first hurricane of the Atlantic hurricane season strikes the Florida panhandle and drenches the southeast. Trump agrees to import Russian diesel, in the hopes of lowering gas prices. New York City is rattled after ICE shot a man who was driving his 5-year-old son home from school. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

Hurricane Isaias is expected to strike near the Alabama-Florida state line as communities prepare for dangerous winds, flooding and a life-threatening storm surge. Ukraine is reclaiming territory in the east with a counteroffensive that uses drones and unmanned ground vehicles to push back Russian forces. President Trump says the U.S. will not launch new strikes on Iran before the midterm elections as the unpopular war weighs on Republicans heading into Election Day. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Susanna Capelouto, Tina Kraja, Megan Pratz, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott Our technical director is…

Communities along the Alabama and Florida Gulf Coast are preparing for Hurricane Isaias as officials warn of flooding, damaging winds and disruptions to weekend events. Democrats are targeting House districts President Trump won comfortably in 2024, while Republicans spend heavily to defend seats that would normally be considered safe. CNN, MS NOW and Politico are back in federal court challenging the Trump administration’s efforts to restrict their reporters’ access to the White House. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Susanna Capelouto, Megan Pratz, Emily Kopp, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our…

The U.S. pulled a dozen bombers out of Britain after officials identified a credible Iran-linked threat, raising new questions about how exposed American forces are to drone attacks overseas. French students are protesting teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms and deteriorating schools as demonstrations spread nationwide and clashes with police intensify. Germany has arrested former intelligence chief August Hanning on suspicion of attempted treason after prosecutors accused him of obtaining classified documents for a foreign spy service. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Tina Kraja, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher…

With four weeks until the midterms, Democrats have the advantage in the polls and are increasingly competitive in Senate races that once looked safe for Republican. Saudi-backed forces in Yemen say they have pushed Houthi rebels back from areas around a key Red Sea shipping route, as the Houthis strike Saudi oil facilities and the fighting draws in more outside powers. Paramount and Warner Brothers complete their mega merger bringing major studios, streaming services, CNN and CBS News under one company. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Tina Kraja, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha…

Investigators now believe the Flydubai co-pilot who attacked the captain intended to crash the plane into Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, raising new questions about how he was cleared to fly the route. The Supreme Court begins a new term with a case that could shape whether states and cities can make energy companies pay for climate-related damage. Brazil’s presidential election is headed to a runoff after Flávio Bolsonaro finished ahead of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, giving the right a stronger showing than expected. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Anna Yukhananov, Tara Neill, Mohamad ElBardicy and Taylor Haney. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher Thomas. We get…

Fox News Correspondent Benjamin Hall had been accused by a colleague of taking unnecessary risks when reporting in Syria. Later, Fox News assigned Hall to cover the war in Ukraine. NPR’s David Folkenflik brings the in-depth story of a fatal reporting trip near Kyiv, where Hall was gravely wounded and two other Fox News journalists were killed. Now, the journalists’ families are suing Fox, saying the network put the story ahead of its people. One of the lawsuits says Fox gave Hall free rein to push the Fox news team into an area he’d been repeatedly warned was off limits. Two former high-risk security advisers for the network tell NPR they blame Hall for the decision to go where the deadly strike occurred. You can read more of David Folkenflik’s reporting on this story here. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. economy added fewer jobs than expected last month, and Black unemployment spiked. California voters will decide whether the state should charge a one-time tax on billionaires, an idea that has split Democrats. The Supreme Court begins its new term on Monday, with cases involving climate change, guns and religious rights. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

The government has a sobering update on the job market, as workers face wages that fail to keep up with higher prices and borrowing costs. Tennessee has paused executions after Christa Pike survived two doses of a lethal injection drug, marking the state’s second failed execution this year. New York’s governor has appointed a special prosecutor in the Cornell sexual assault case after new questions emerged about what information campus police shared with the local district attorney. **correction note: A previous audio version of this story misstated the name of Christa Pike's attorney. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Susanna Capeluto, Gigi Douban, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh…

A FlyDubai flight bound for Israel made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after one pilot allegedly stabbed the other and tried to crash the plane, with all passengers safe and investigators working to determine exactly what happened. President Trump is starting his midterm campaign push in Oklahoma and Alabama, raising questions about whether his presence would help or hurt Republicans in battleground states. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says he is reshaping the military around a new “warrior ethos,” with plans to cut more senior officers and overhaul parts of the Pentagon seven months into the war with Iran. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Rebekah Metzler, Andrew Sussman, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.…

President Trump told AI executives they can police themselves and signed an order branding the technology “super intelligence,” even as some of those same companies say the rules for keeping it safe are still a work in progress. More than two decades after the U.S. first invaded Iraq, American forces have now left the country as Iran-backed militias remain powerful and some U.S. partners warn they are being left vulnerable. The Supreme Court is allowing the Trump administration to resume deporting some immigrants to countries they have no ties to while the justices consider whether the policy is legal. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Alina Hartounian, Tina Kraja, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was…

Five men arrested near a U.S.-used air base in Britain have been released on bail but remain under investigation, as police say they have not determined whether a foreign state was involved. The Trump administration is rolling back fuel efficiency standards for new cars, saying the change will lower sticker prices even as critics warn drivers could pay more over time in fuel and other costs. And a 2024 sexual assault case at Cornell University is now under criminal investigation as the school faces growing scrutiny over how it handled the allegations. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Kara Platoni, Gigi Douban, Mohamad ElBardicy and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Christopher…

President Trump rejected Iran’s latest ceasefire proposal but says he remains open to talks, as questions grow over whether there is any realistic path toward ending the war. British police arrested five men on suspicion of preparing an attack near a military base used by the U.S. Air Force, as investigators work to determine whether a foreign government was involved. And President Trump’s fight with the press continues even after a judge restored White House access to three banned outlets, raising questions about whether the battle is costing him the media coverage he normally seeks. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Tina Kraja, Kelsey Snell, Mohamad ElBardicy and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and…

This November, a notable number of Democrats are running for Congress who all have one thing in common: they are members of the clergy. In a moment when the party is counting on every seat it can flip, will these clergy members be able to win over the party’s secular base? NPR’s religion correspondent Jason DeRose followed four of the candidates who are running competitive races in Texas and Iowa. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

A weekend of wild weather as a couple of power storms are set to hit Hawaii and the Northeastern United States. The Supreme Court rejects the new congressional maps in Missouri that favored republicans. Mortgage rates and bond yields continue to rise, raising borrowing costs for both consumers and the government. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

President Trump hosts China's leader Xi Jinping. While their differences abound on many issues, they extend their truce on tariffs by two months. CNN and MS NOW are denied access to Trump's State dinner with Xi. And diplomats walk out during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's blistering speech at the U.N. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today's episode of Up First was edited by Emily Kopp, Rebekah Metzler, James Hider, Tina Kraja, Alice Woelfle, and Reena Advani. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas. Our director is Chris Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis . Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor. (0:00) Introduction (01:51) Trump-Xi Summit (05:40) White House Media Ban Update (09:08)…

Tucker Carlson is talking about what happened behind closed doors in his very public break with President Trump. In this episode of NPR's Newsmakers, Carlson told host Steve Inskeep about a meeting with Trump in which, he says, Trump dismissed his concerns about the Iran war by saying, "We'll all die anyway." Carlson has taken the view not only that Israel influenced Trump to launch the war, but that Israel gave Trump no choice, and in fact that outside forces control both American political parties, which he described as the "uniparty," a single organization. Carlson's theories have raised questions about antisemitism — a charge he denied before being asked. Carlson also revisits his years as a cable-TV partisan, talks about a possible third party and explains why he believes both major parties have failed Americans. In response to a request for comment from NPR, the White House did not address Carlson's claims specifically, instead sending along a social media post by the president that describes Carlson…

A federal judge ordered the White House to temporarily restore press passes for CNN, MS NOW and Politico after finding the outlets are likely to succeed on their due process claim. Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with President Trump at the White House today, with Taiwan, Iran, artificial intelligence and trade among the major issues on the table. At the United Nations General Assembly, Ukraine pushed for a limited ceasefire with Russia as Iran defends its position in the war with the U.S. and Venezuela’s interim leader promises elections without giving a timetable. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Emily Kopp, Miguel Macias, Tara Neill, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Ziad Buchh and…

President Trump used his U.N. General Assembly speech to threaten Iran with “annihilation” while also revealing that U.S. and Iranian officials had resumed direct talks aimed at ending the conflict. A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll shows Democrats with a double-digit advantage over Republicans in the congressional vote as President Trump remains a major factor shaping voters’ choices ahead of the midterms. CNN, MS NOW and Politico are asking a federal judge to restore their White House access, while the Trump administration argues the bans are justified by national-security and professional-conduct concerns. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one. This show’s perks include sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org. Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Megan Pratz, Emily Kopp, Mohamad ElBardicy and Ally Schweitzer. It was…