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Primary Results, DOJ Scraps Anti-Weaponization Fund, Trump Appoints Acting DNI

June 3, 2026

Republican voters in Iowa rejected President Trump's pick for governor in last night's primary, a rare moment of pushback as voters in six states set up key November matchups including House races that could decide control of Congress.
The Justice Department is scrapping President Trump's nearly $1.8 billion dollar anti-weaponization fund after sustained bipartisan backlash, though the DOJ says part of the IRS settlement shielding Trump and his family from past tax investigations still stands.
And President Trump has named Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte as acting Director of National Intelligence despite his complete lack of intelligence experience, drawing skepticism even from Senate Republicans.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Anna Yukhananov, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy and Lindsay Totty.

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 Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:59) Primary Results
(05:58) DOJ Scraps Anti-Weaponization Fund
(09:40) Trump Appoints Acting DNI

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DOJ Pauses Anti-Weaponization Fund, Iran Deal Complications, California Primary

June 2, 2026

The Justice Department says it will abide by a court order temporarily blocking President Trump's anti-weaponization fund, even as Senate Republicans push the White House to abandon the nearly two billion dollar program entirely amid bipartisan backlash.
The ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is barely holding as Israel keeps expanding its war in Lebanon, with Gulf states watching nervously as President Trump's diplomatic push faces its biggest test yet.
And it's primary day in six states including California, where Democrats hope new congressional maps will help them flip up to five Republican-held House seats and the Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi's seat is up for grabs.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Tina Kraja, Megan Pratz, Mohamad ElBardicy and Taylor Haney.

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 Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:11) DOJ Pauses Anti-Weaponization Fund
(05:52) Iran Deal Complications
(09:40) California Primary

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Can Graham Platner survive another controversy? | NPR’s Newsmakers

June 1, 2026

Anti-establishment candidate Graham Platner seemingly came out of nowhere to become the presumptive Democratic nominee for the Senate seat in Maine. But his campaign has been dogged by controversies.

There were the old, deleted Reddit posts in which he made racist comments and blamed sexual assault on victims. There was a now-covered tattoo resembling a Nazi symbol. And most recently, the Wall Street Journal reported that Platner exchanged sexually explicit messages with multiple women early in his marriage.

Taken together, they raise a big question. Does he have too much baggage to carry on? Or can his anti-establishment political message — that has generated SO much enthusiasm among the democratic base — carry him through?

In this episode of NPR’s Newsmakers, Platner addresses earlier controversies, the failures of his own party and calls Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth “insecure.” Platner says he aspires to a version of masculinity different from the one embodied by Hegseth. “This idea that you're supposed to use your strengths to use power over other people or to offend people, be mean to people — that somehow that's manly. That's not masculinity,” he says. “That's the act of a coward.”

Platner sat down with host Leila Fadel before news broke of the explicit sexual messages.

NPR's Newsmakers is where you'll find NPR's biggest interviews. New episodes drop as soon as they're available -- any day of the week. To stay caught up, follow the show on Spotify, subscribe on YouTube, or find Newsmakers on the NPR app.

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Israel Pushes Deeper Into Lebanon, Immigration Bill Stalled, Anti-Weaponization Fund

June 1, 2026

Israeli forces captured a 900-year-old castle in southern Lebanon in their deepest incursion into the country in 26 years, complicating U.S. efforts to reach a deal with Iran even as the two sides traded more strikes over the weekend.
Congress returns from its Memorial Day break facing a stalled immigration funding bill that has become tangled up with President Trump’s push for an anti-weaponization fund and possible payments to January 6 defendants.
And the Trump administration’s anti-weaponization fund is facing new legal hurdles after one judge temporarily blocked it and another judge raised questions about the settlement that created the nearly $1.8 billion settlement fund.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Anna Yukhananov, Mohamad ElBardicy and Lindsay Totty.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Israel Pushes Deeper Into Lebanon
(05:37) Immigration Bill Stalled
(08:58) Anti-weaponization Fund

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How 5 minutes of movement can change your life

May 31, 2026

Scientists say that sitting is the new smoking. The average American adult now sits for 9-10 hours per day. What’s the least amount of movement someone can do to offset the harms of our modern sedentary lifestyle? Manoush Zomorodi, host of NPR’s TED Radio Hour podcast, has spent the last several years trying to answer that question. After collaborating with Columbia University Medical Center on a major study, she brings Ayesha the answer.

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Shangri-La Dialogue, Trump's Slush Fund, Gas Prices

May 30, 2026

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth talks Pacific security, the government reviews E. Jean Carroll's civil cases against President Trump, Costco and Walmart are selling more gasoline.

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Israel Ramps Up Attacks Amid Iran Talks, E. Jean Carroll Investigation, CBS Overhaul

May 29, 2026

Vice President Vance says the U.S. is very close to a deal with Iran to extend the ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but Lebanon remains the main hurdle as Israel bombed Beirut again and is also expanding its control over Gaza.
The Justice Department is investigating writer E. Jean Carroll and the major Democratic donor who helped pay some of her legal bills against President Trump, part of a broader pattern of probes into the president’s perceived political adversaries.
CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss is asserting full control over the network, forcing out the longtime executive producer of 60 Minutes and several top correspondents as she tries to remake the network’s most prestigious program.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Anna Yukhananov, Emily Kopp, Mohamad ElBardicy and Lindsay Totty.

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 Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Israel Ramps Up Attacks Amid Iran Talks
(05:38) E. Jean Carroll Investigation
(09:27) CBS Overhaul

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Iran Talks And Strikes, Senate Opportunities For Democrats, Ebola Outbreak Epicenter

May 28, 2026

Even as peace talks continue, the U.S. struck Iran near the Strait of Hormuz and Iran retaliated against a U.S. base in Kuwait, while Israel expanded its assault in Lebanon by issuing evacuation orders for the southern city, Tyre.
Texas now has one of the most competitive Senate races in the country after Republicans nominated Ken Paxton, giving Democrats an opportunity to flip a seat in the midterms as they map out their path to controlling the Senate.
And the Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo is worsening with more than a thousand suspected cases and over 200 suspected deaths, as Canada bans travelers from the region and the U.S. sets up a facility in Kenya for Americans who may have been exposed.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Megan Pratz, Tara Neill, Mohamad ElBardicy and Lindsay Totty.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:53) Iran Talks And Strikes
(05:39) Senate Opportunities For Democrats
(09:29) Ebola Outbreak Epicenter

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Texas Primary Results, South Carolina Rejects Redistricting, Iran Deal Whiplash

May 27, 2026

Ken Paxton defeated four-term Senator John Cornyn in the Texas Republican primary by nearly two to one, setting up what could be the most competitive Senate race in the state in decades as Democrats see an opening.
South Carolina Republicans blocked President Trump's push to redraw the state's congressional map, with some in the party warning the nationwide redistricting effort is energizing Democrats and independents ahead of the midterms.
And President Trump has declared progress on an Iran deal at least six times and still no deal, now as negotiations continue Trump is pushing for more Gulf countries to join the Abraham Accords.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Larry Kaplow, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy and Taylor Haney.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:36) Texas Primary Results
(06:32) South Carolina Rejects Redistricting
(10:06) Iran Deal Whiplash

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US Hits Iran Amid Talks, Russia-Ukraine War Intensifies, Texas Primary Runoff

May 26, 2026

The U.S. launched fresh strikes on Iran, targeting missile sites and boats laying mines, even as Secretary of State Marco Rubio says negotiations to end the war could still take a few more days, with Israel warning the emerging deal is a bad one as it escalates attacks in Lebanon.
Russia carried out one of its largest attacks on Ukraine, hitting every district in Kyiv over the weekend while Ukraine continues long-range drone strikes on Russian oil facilities and warns it desperately needs more air defense systems.
Texas Republicans are voting today in the most expensive primary in U.S. history, with President Trump’s endorsed candidate Ken Paxton challenging longtime Senator John Cornyn in a high-stakes race that could have major implications for the midterms.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Tina Kraya, Anna Yukhananov, Mohamad ElBardicy and John Stolnis.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:59) US Hits Iran Amid Talks
(05:49) Russia-Ukraine War Intensifies
(09:44) Texas Primary Runoff

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US-Iran Negotiations, Middle East Reacts To Possible Deal, DRC Ebola Outbreak Spreads

May 25, 2026

President Trump says a deal with Iran is “largely negotiated” after weekend talks with Gulf leaders and Israel. The preliminary agreement is expected to gradually reopen the Strait of Hormuz while leaving the nuclear program for a later round of talks. Some Republican senators are already calling it a disaster.
Gulf countries are pressing hard for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict with Iran as a preliminary 60-day ceasefire extension is discussed, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other regional players react to the latest developments.
In eastern Congo, a rare strain of Ebola has killed more than 200 people amid an outbreak complicated by ongoing conflict, misinformation, and severely strained aid efforts.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Tina Kraja, Tara Neil, Mohamad ElBardicy and Taylor Haney.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:26) US-Iran Negotiations
(06:18) Middle East Reacts To Possible Deal
(10:08) DRC Ebola Outbreak Spreads

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Trump is rolling back climate solutions. What can cities and states do?

May 24, 2026

For people working to address climate change in the U.S., the last year has been a hard one. The Trump administration has been rolling back rules and regulations aimed at reducing planet-warming pollution. But some cities and states are moving forward on climate action. On today’s episode of The Sunday Story, NPR’s Julia Simon brings us local solutions to this global problem.

To hear and read more reporting from NPR’s Climate Solutions week, visit npr.org/climateweek.

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Cuba Pressure, Abrego Garcia Charges, Cooling Costs

May 23, 2026

Washington ratcheted up the pressure on Havana this week. A federal judge in Tennessee dismissed criminal charges against Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Electricity costs are rising as the U.S. enters warmer weather, likely meaning higher utility bills for consumers.

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GOP Pushback On Trump, DNC 2024 Election Autopsy Report, Trump's Interest In Cuba

May 22, 2026

Republicans left for recess without passing President Trump’s top immigration enforcement package after he pushed for funding for his White House ballroom and a controversial anti-weaponization fund, raising new questions about growing GOP pushback against the president.
The Democratic National Committee has released its long-delayed 2024 election autopsy report, a nearly 200-page document filled with disclaimers that much of the data could not be verified and containing almost no serious discussion of the economy.
President Trump hinted at military action against Cuba after the U.S. indicted former Cuban President Raul Castro, drawing direct comparisons to the events that preceded the capture of Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Megan Pratz, Luis Clemens, Mohamad ElBardicy, and John Stolnis.

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 Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:59) GOP Pushback On Trump
(05:47) DNC 2024 Election Autopsy Report
(09:35) Trump's Interest In Cuba

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Trump Warns GOP Over Ballroom Funding, Trump Gives Iran More Time, Castro Charged

May 21, 2026

Republicans in Congress are racing to pass a $72 billion immigration enforcement package using budget reconciliation, but President Trump is furious that funding for his White House ballroom was blocked, escalating tensions with GOP lawmakers still recovering from his primary challenges.
President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a tense call Tuesday over the direction of the war with Iran as Trump delayed a planned U.S. strike at the request of Gulf leaders concerned about next week’s Hajj pilgrimage.
The U.S. has indicted former Cuban President Raul Castro for his alleged role in the 1996 downing of two planes that killed four Americans, part of the Trump administration’s intensifying pressure campaign on Cuba.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Tina Kraja, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Adam Bearne.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:59) Trump Warns GOP Over Ballroom Funding
(05:39) Trump Gives Iran More Time
(09:34) Castro Charged

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Massie Ousted, Trump, Vance and Iran, San Diego Mosque Shooting Investigation

May 20, 2026

President Trump ousted Republican Congressman Thomas Massie in last night's primary in Kentucky, the latest GOP lawmaker to lose his seat for crossing the president, and Democratic voters turned out in force across six states that held primaries on Tuesday.
President Trump said he was "an hour away" from launching new military strikes on Iran this week before calling them off and he's now giving Tehran a few more days to reach a deal.
Police have identified the three victims killed in the San Diego mosque shooting, including security guard Amin Abdullah who is credited with saving 140 children. Authorities are investigating links the two teenage suspects had with a global white supremacist movement.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Rebekah Metzler, Andrew Sussman, Mohamad ElBardicy and John Stolnis.

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 Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:02) Massie Ousted in Kentucky Primary
(06:03) Trump, Vance and Iran
(09:35) San Diego Mosque Shooting Investigation

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San Diego Mosque Shooting, Primaries Test Trump Influence, Trump IRS Suit

May 19, 2026

San Diego authorities are investigating a shooting at the city’s largest mosque as a hate crime. Three victims were killed and two teenage suspects whom police believe carried out the attack were found dead.
Primaries in six states today are testing President Trump’s influence over the Republican Party, including a high-stakes congressional race in Kentucky where Trump is trying to defeat a sitting GOP member who has crossed him.
President Trump dropped his lawsuit against his own IRS over the leak of his tax returns and instead agreed to create a nearly 1.8 billion dollar anti-weaponization fund that critics say could use taxpayer dollars to compensate his allies.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Natalie Escobar, Dana Farrington, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy, John Stolnis and Adam Bearne.

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 Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) San Diego Mosque Shooting
(05:20) Primaries Test Trump Influence
(09:23) Trump IRS Suit

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Dana White on Trump, men and UFC at the White House | NPR's Newsmakers

May 18, 2026

In this special episode of Up First, we’re sharing the latest episode of NPR’s Newsmakers, featuring UFC president Dana White.

When Donald Trump celebrated his imminent return to the White House on election night in November 2024, a parade of high-profile supporters joined him on stage. They included White, the president and CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, the multibillion-dollar mixed martial arts organization. White calls Trump "a friend." This June 14, UFC will host a fight on the South Lawn of the White House -- commemorating the nation's 250th birthday. That day happens to be President Trump's birthday, too.

White sat down with Steve Inskeep to discuss the growth and success of UFC, political polarization, and masculinity in the Trump era.

NPR's Newsmakers is where you'll find NPR's biggest interviews. New episodes drop as soon as they're available -- any day of the week. To stay caught up, follow the show on Spotify, subscribe on YouTube, or find Newsmakers on the NPR app.

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Cassidy Loses Louisiana Primary, Ebola Outbreak, Musk Sues Altman Over OpenAI

May 18, 2026

Senator Bill Cassidy became the latest Republican casualty in President Trump’s campaign against disloyal members of his party, losing his primary in Louisiana after voting to convict Trump following the January 6th insurrection.
The World Health Organization has declared an international public health emergency over a deadly Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that has already killed more than 80 people and spread to neighboring Uganda.
A jury in California has begun deliberating in Elon Musk’s high-profile lawsuit against OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, with Musk claiming he was misled when he helped found the company as a nonprofit.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Carmel Wroth, Kara Platoni, Mohamad ElBardicy and HJ Mai.

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 Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Cassidy Loses Louisiana Primary
(05:35) Ebola Outbreak
(09:14) Musk Sues Altman Over OpenAI

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The human cost of building the Dubai of Africa

May 17, 2026

For many of the poorest residents in Lagos, Nigeria, the land their families have lived on for generations is now being violently seized by the government to build luxury condos. The communities are fighting back, but even court injunctions haven’t stopped the bulldozers. This week on The Sunday Story, NPR’s Emmanuel Akinwotu goes to these sites of destruction and talks to those who have lost everything in this race to develop one of the world’s fastest-growing megacities.

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Cuba Latest, Louisiana Primary, World Cup Travel

May 16, 2026

Cuba experienced blackouts and protests this week, and the CIA director made a visit to Havana. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., faces primary voters today. Trump administration travel restrictions are complicating travel plans for World Cup soccer fans.

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Trump's China Visit Wraps, SCOTUS Mifepristone, Keir Starmer Under Pressure To Resign

May 15, 2026

President Trump is heading home from Beijing claiming he made fantastic trade deals with China, including a commitment for 200 Boeing jets and soybean purchases.
The Supreme Court kept the abortion pill mifepristone available over telemedicine, putting a hold on an appeals court order that would have required patients to visit a clinic in person to get the medication.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing a rebellion within his own party, with candidates already emerging to replace him after Labour was trounced in local elections and his approval ratings hit historic lows.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kate Bartlett, Diane Webber, Tina Kraja, Mohamad ElBardicy and John Stolnis.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Trump's China Visit Wraps
(05:47) SCOTUS Mifepristone
(09:42) Keir Starmer Under Pressure To Resign

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Trump Meets With China's Xi, Asia's View Of Summit, Trump Targets Law Firms

May 14, 2026

President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met for more than two hours at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, with the CEOs of Apple, Tesla and NVIDIA in the room as both sides look to stabilize a trade relationship that has been on shaky ground for years.
China's readout of the meeting between the two leaders emphasized the need for "constructive strategic stability" and warned that mishandling Taiwan could put the entire U.S.-China relationship in jeopardy.
And President Trump's crackdown on big law firms goes before a federal appeals court today, as firms that once employed lawyers who investigated Trump fight back against executive orders that targeted their security clearances and government contracts.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Tina Kraja, Anna Yukhananov, Mohamad ElBardicy and John Stolnis.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:51) Trump Meets With Xi
(05:49) China's Readout Of Meeting
(08:51) Trump Targets Law Firms

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Trump In China, Hegseth Requests Wartime Budget, FDA Commissioner Resigns

May 13, 2026

President Trump is in Beijing today meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping, with American manufacturers hoping for tariff relief even as the war in Iran looms over the high-stakes summit.
The Pentagon told Congress they estimate the war in Iran has cost $29 billion dollars so far. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth asked for $1.5 trillion dollars for next year’s Pentagon budget.
FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary has resigned after thirteen months on the job, with the final straw being White House pressure to approve flavored vapes, something he refused to do.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Jason Breslow, Kris Husted, Mohamad El-Bardicy and John Stolnis.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Trump In China
(05:40) Hegseth Requests Wartime Budget
(09:26) FDA Commissioner Resigns

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Stakes of Trump's China Trip, Inflation Report Shows War Impact, Hantavirus Science

May 12, 2026

President Trump leaves for Beijing today for a state visit with Chinese President Xi Jinping as the ongoing war in Iran casts a long shadow over the high-stakes summit.
A new inflation report out this morning shows prices rising again, driven heavily by higher gasoline costs from the war in Iran, with ripple effects on airline tickets and other consumer prices.
Public health officials say the hantavirus outbreak that started on a cruise ship is not the next COVID, but it still has no vaccine or specific treatment and can be fatal in some cases.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Rafael Nam, Gisele Grayson, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Olivia Hampton.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

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(01:51) Stakes of Trump's China Trip
(05:31) Inflation Report Shows War Impact
(09:27) Hantavirus Science

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US-Iran Responses, Trump's Trip To China Amid Iran War, Congress To Do List

May 11, 2026

President Trump has rejected Iran’s latest response to a U.S. peace proposal as “totally unacceptable,” even as Tehran vows it will never bow to what it calls excessive demands by the United States.
President Trump leaves for Beijing tomorrow to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping as the war in Iran continues to complicate the high-stakes meeting.
Congress is back with a major push to lock in three years of funding for immigration enforcement, giving the Trump administration long-term resources while limiting congressional oversight.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Rebekah Metzler, Dana Farrington, Mohamad El-Bardicy, Adam Bearne and John Stolnis.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Maggie Luthar. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:50) US-Iran Responses
(05:29) Trump's Trip To China Amid Iran War
(09:04) Congress To Do List

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Why more women are choosing to be single mothers

May 10, 2026

So you want to be a mother, but you don’t have a partner. More women are shedding the stigma of single motherhood and choosing to have children on their own. This week on The Sunday Story, NPR’s Pallavi Gogoi brings us stories from her conversations with more than 60 women who have embraced this new vision of what motherhood can be.

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NATO Friction, Florida Detention Center, Public Corruption

May 9, 2026

President Trump's continued criticism of NATO allies is bringing relations within the alliance to historic lows. The controversial immigration center in the Florida Everglades may be closing. New reporting on the second Trump administration's posture toward corruption by public officials reveals alarming attitudes.

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US and Iran Trade Fire, Tennessee Redistricting, US Boat Strikes In Caribbean

May 8, 2026

President Trump insists the ceasefire is holding even after the U.S. and Iran traded fire in the Strait of Hormuz for the second time this week.
Tennessee is the first state to redraw its congressional map after the Supreme Court weakened the Voting Rights Act, joining other Southern Republican-led states in redrawing districts ahead of the midterms.
The U.S. military is facing growing scrutiny over its campaign of airstrikes on suspected drug boats in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, which has killed nearly 200 people and raised new allegations of mistreatment of foreign fishermen.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tina Kraja, Acacia Squires, Tara Neill, Mohamad ElBardicy and Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) US and Iran Trade Fire
(05:45) Tennessee Redistricting
(09:40) US Boat Strikes In Caribbean

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Trump's Iran Progress Claims, Oil Industry Profit From Iran War, Rubio Meets Pope Leo

May 7, 2026

President Trump is once again claiming the U.S. is on the cusp of a deal with Iran and that the Iranians are desperate to negotiate, even as Tehran has shown no sign of agreeing and U.S. gas prices remain above four dollars and fifty cents a gallon.
Big oil companies are benefiting from high prices caused by the war in Iran, but many are wary of producing more oil.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is meeting Pope Leo the Fourteenth at the Vatican today after weeks of sharp public attacks by President Trump on the first American pope.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Tina Kraja, Kara Platoni, Mohamad ElBardicy and Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Trump's Iran Progress Claims
(05:37) Oil Industry Profit From Iran War
(09:30) Rubio Meets Pope Leo

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Project Freedom Paused, Ohio & Indiana Primary Results, Poll Shows Dems Advantage

May 6, 2026

President Trump claims “great progress” toward an agreement with Iran as he ended the short-lived U.S. effort to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, while keeping the naval blockade in place and Secretary of State Marco Rubio declaring combat operations over.
In Indiana, several Republican state senators who defied President Trump on redistricting lost their primaries last night, while Ohio saw stronger-than-expected Democratic turnout in its primary election.
A new poll shows Democrats leading Republicans by 10 points in the generic congressional ballot with significantly higher voter enthusiasm six months before the midterms.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Megan Pratz, Dana Farrington, Mohamad ElBardicy and Arezou Rezvani.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:51) Project Freedom Paused
(05:32) Ohio & Indiana Primary Results
(09:06) Poll Shows Dems Advantage

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Strait Of Hormuz Tension, Trump Primaries in Indiana, Mifepristone Court Reprieve

May 5, 2026

President Trump launched “Project Freedom” to escort commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz, but Iran immediately attacked the first vessels with missiles, drones and small boats on day one of the operation.
In Indiana, President Trump is pouring millions into state senate primaries to punish Republican lawmakers who blocked his push for new congressional maps, testing his hold over the party ahead of the midterms.
The Supreme Court has granted the abortion pill mifepristone a one-week reprieve, allowing it to continue being mailed while a major legal challenge from Louisiana plays out.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Megan Pratz, Diane Webber, Mohamad ElBardicy and Jan Johnson.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:53) Strait Of Hormuz Tension
(05:54) Trump Primaries in Indiana
(09:45) Mifepristone Court Reprieve

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Project Freedom Strait Of Hormuz, Louisiana Redistricting, Senate Midterm Landscape

May 4, 2026

President Trump announced the U.S. military will begin escorting commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz in an operation he calls Project Freedom, even as he reviews a new offer from Iran and keeps the option of renewed strikes on the table.
Louisiana’s governor suspended U.S. House races so lawmakers can draw new congressional maps after the Supreme Court weakened the Voting Rights Act, part of a broader Republican push for aggressive redistricting ahead of the midterms.
With President Trump’s approval ratings near new lows, Democrats see a narrow but real opportunity to flip the Senate this fall in several key races including North Carolina, Ohio and Alaska.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Susanna Capelouto, Mohamad ElBardicy and Arezou Rezvani.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:52) Project Freedom Strait Of Hormuz
(07:39) Louisiana Redistricting
(11:01) Senate Midterm Landscape

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'The Bible is not a policy manual’: Christians reckon with immigration under Trump

May 3, 2026

Evangelicals in America are divided over immigration enforcement. So who gets to claim the side of God?

This week on The Sunday Story, NPR’s Brittany Luse sits down with two people who think a lot about the separation of church and state: NPR’s religion correspondent, Jason DeRose, and the Rev. Dr. Gabriel Salguero, president and founder of the National Latino Evangelical Coalition. DeRose and Salguero unpack the rhetoric of conservative white Evangelicals and discuss what happens when the government uses scripture to justify policy. How does the Christian tenet of “welcoming the stranger” come to bear on current debates about U.S. immigration enforcement and war?

This conversation was originally published as an episode of NPR’s It’s Been A Minute podcast: “Christians are having a Trump-sized reckoning.”

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Spirit Airlines Folds, Abortion Pills, Government Debt

May 2, 2026

Spirit Airlines ceased operation overnight, as jet fuel prices are pinching airlines. A panel of federal judges in Louisiana has ended telemedicine access to the abortion pill mifepristone for the entire country. And the federal debt has outgrown the entire U.S. economy.

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Stalemate In The Strait Of Hormuz, DHS Shutdown Ends, Trump's Surgeon General Nominee

May 1, 2026

President Trump is facing growing political pressure over the war in Iran as gas prices hit new highs and European allies accuse him of being humiliated by Tehran in the standoff over the Strait of Hormuz.
The longest government shutdown in U.S. history is over. The House passed a deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security after weeks of bitter partisan fighting over immigration enforcement.
President Trump has nominated his third pick for Surgeon General after his previous two nominees failed to win Senate confirmation. Dr. Nicole Saphier is a breast cancer radiologist and frequent Fox News contributor.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Kelsey Snell, Kris Husted, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Ally Schweitzer.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Zac Coleman.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:40) Stalemate In The Strait Of Hormuz
(06:33) DHS Shutdown Ends
(10:27) Trump's Surgeon General Nominee

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Hegseth Defends Iran War, Powell Stays On As Fed Chair, SCOTUS Voting Rights Case

April 30, 2026

The Pentagon estimates the war with Iran has already cost 25 billion dollars as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the cost of the war in a hearing before the House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell says he will remain on the central bank’s board after his term ends next month to shield the agency from political pressure.
The Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that the Voting Rights Act only prohibits congressional maps intentionally drawn to discriminate based on race, a decision that could make it much harder to challenge aggressive Republican-led redistricting efforts.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Rafael Nam, Ben Swasey, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Ally Schweitzer.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:18) Hegseth Defends Iran War
(06:07) Powell Stays On As Fed Chair
(09:55) SCOTUS Voting Rights Case

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Comey Indicted Again, King Charles' Message To Congress, SCOTUS Temp Protected Status

April 29, 2026

The Justice Department has indicted former FBI Director James Comey for a second time, accusing him of threatening President Trump with an Instagram post of the numbers 86 47 spelled out in seashells on a beach.
King Charles told a joint session of Congress today that the United States and Britain must strengthen their partnership even as President Trump clashes with European leaders over Iran and NATO.
The Supreme Court hears arguments today in a case that could let the Trump administration move forward with mass deportations of people who have lived legally in the United States for years under temporary protected status. (NOTE: this story contains a bleeped clip of President Trump using vulgarity)

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Jason Breslow, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Comey Indicted Again
(05:46) King Charles' Message To Congress
(09:31) SCOTUS Temp Protected Status

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WHCA Shooter In Court, Trump-King Charles Relationship, Lebanon Ceasefire In Limbo

April 28, 2026

The man who stormed the White House Correspondents’ Dinner is being charged with trying to assassinate President Trump, with new court documents revealing he booked the hotel a month in advance and emailed his motives minutes before the attempt.
King Charles addresses Congress today during his state visit to Washington as the royal trip tests whether personal diplomacy can ease sharp tensions between the Trump administration and the UK government.
As diplomacy between the U.S. and Iran remains stalled, Israel carried out new strikes in eastern Lebanon and Hezbollah launched drones at Israeli troops, with both sides accusing each other of violations.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Rebekah Metzler, Ruth Sherlock Mohamad ElBardicy, and Ally Schweitzer.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ben Abrams.
Our director is Christopher Thomas.
We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.
And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:09) White House Correspondents' Dinner Shooter In Court
(05:41) Trump- King Charles Relationship
(09:44) Lebanon Ceasefire In Limbo

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White House Response To Shooting, Shooter Investigation, King Charles State Visit

April 27, 2026

President Trump called for unity after shots were fired at the White House Correspondents Dinner with him and the Vice President on stage, then later returned to attacking the press and Democrats.
The suspect in the attempted attack is in federal court today and not cooperating with investigators after his own family warned police just minutes before he tried to storm the ballroom.
King Charles and Queen Camilla arrive in Washington today for a state visit as the White House weighs security changes following Saturday’s shooting.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Krishnadev Calamur, Tina Kraja, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Ally Schweitzer.

It was produced by Paige Waterhouse and Nia Dumas.

Our Director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

(0:00) Introduction
(1:54) White House response
(5:32) Shooting investigation
(9:20) King Charles

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The hidden cost of separating 'emotionally disturbed' students

April 26, 2026

There’s a category of special education that stands out from the rest. It’s designed for kids who struggle with their emotions and behaviors, known at the federal level as “emotional disturbance.” More than 300,000 students in the U.S. currently have this label. Often, these students are taught in separate classrooms or even separate schools.

Today on The Sunday Story, reporter Laurie Stern shares how this disability label shaped the life of one student who she followed for nearly two years — and what his experience reveals about how the label can simultaneously support and limit students.

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Hormuz Deadlock, Presidential Laugh Lines, Prediction Markets

April 25, 2026

A deadlock between the U.S. and Iran continues over the U.S. blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket have caught the attention of regulators as people profit from privileged information. And the media try to release some pressure through humor at the White House Correspondents Association dinner.

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Strait Of Hormuz Shipping Crisis, Marijuana Reclassification, Georgia Wildfires

April 24, 2026

President Trump says he is prepared to wait for the best deal to end the war with Iran, even as he orders the Navy to shoot any boat caught laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Justice Department is moving marijuana out of its most dangerous drug classification for the first time, a major shift that could open up banking and tax relief for the legal cannabis industry, with a broader review of recreational marijuana expected by June.

And wildfires are tearing through South Georgia and Northern Florida with little warning, destroying nearly 90 homes.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by James Hider, Ruth Sherlock, Alfredo Carbajal, Rachel Waldholtz, Mohamad ElBardicy and HJ Mai

It was produced by Kaity Kline and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Strait of Hormuz Shipping Crisis
(06:15) Marijuana Reclassification
(10:04) Georgia Wildfires

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Tension In Two Ceasefires, Navy Secretary Out, Trump's Slumping Approval

April 23, 2026

Iran seized two cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz as both the U.S. and Iran claim control of the waterway. The White House insists the ceasefire, which Iran has not officially acknowledged, is holding. In Lebanon, a journalist was killed in an Israeli strike even as Israel and Lebanon meet in Washington today to extend their truce.
The Secretary of the Navy is out with no explanation, the latest in more than 30 high-level departures at the Pentagon under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as the war in Iran enters its eighth week.
And with the midterms are six months away, President Trump's approval rating on the economy has dropped to 30 percent, the Iran war is two weeks past his own deadline, and his tariffs were struck down by the Supreme Court.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Ruth Sherlock, Andrew Sussman, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Lindsay Totty.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:00) Tension In Two Ceasefires
(05:18) Navy Secretary Out
(09:05) Trump's Slumping Approval

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Trump Extends Ceasefire Indefinitely, VA Redistricting Results, Warsh Fed Hearing

April 22, 2026

President Trump extends the ceasefire with Iran indefinitely as Iran calls the extension meaningless and accuses the U.S. of preparing a surprise attack.
Virginia voters narrowly approved a ballot measure letting Democrats redraw the state's congressional map, potentially flipping four House seats this fall.
And Kevin Warsh told the Senate he wouldn't be the president's sock puppet at the Federal Reserve, but Republican Senator Thom Tillis is still threatening to block his confirmation until the Justice Department drops its investigation of current Fed Chair Jerome Powell.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Ben Swasey, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Lindsay Totty.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Trump Extends Ceasefire Indefinitely
(05:44) VA Redistricting Results
(09:18) Warsh Fed Hearing

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Iran Ceasefire Deadline, Labor Secretary Out, Hearing For New Fed Chair

April 21, 2026

The ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran expires soon as President Trump calls an extension highly unlikely and Vice President JD Vance heads to Pakistan for talks Iran won't publicly confirm it will attend.
Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer resigned amid allegations of an affair with her bodyguard, drinking on the job, and using taxpayer money for personal travel, becoming the third cabinet member to leave in less than two months.
And President Trump's pick to lead the Federal Reserve faces his confirmation hearing today, but Republican Senator Thom Tillis is threatening to block it until the Justice Department drops its investigation of current Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
A previous version of the story "Iran Ceasefire Deadline" incorrectly said the ceasefire between the US, Iran and Israel expires today. It expires on Wednesday.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Ruth Sherlock, Emily Kopp, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Iran Ceasefire Deadline
(05:59) Labor Secretary Out
(09:33) Hearing For New Fed Chair

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Trump and Iran Talks, Iran Reacts to Ship Seized, Tariff Refunds

April 20, 2026

The U.S. fired on and seized an Iranian cargo ship that tried to break through the naval blockade. Iran calls it piracy and vows to retaliate with the ceasefire set to expire Wednesday.
Iran is back to blocking the Strait of Hormuz as both sides accuse each other of violating the ceasefire and a new round of talks in Pakistan have yet to be confirmed by Tehran.
And businesses can finally start applying today for refunds on $166 billion in tariffs the Supreme Court ruled were collected illegally, in what could be a scramble for hundreds of thousands of importers.
Correction: A previous version of the story "Iran reacts to ship seized" incorrectly said the death toll in Lebanon was more than 1,000. It is more than 2,000.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Ruth Sherlock, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Lindsay Totty.

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 Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Trump and Iran Talks
(05:34) Iran Reacts to Ship Seized
(09:30) Tariff Refunds

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In one Iowa city, public schools compete in the free market. Are students better off?

April 19, 2026

Public education used to enjoy strong bipartisan support, but across the country, there’s a growing push to offer students alternatives to traditional public schools. The idea behind “school choice” is that competition improves education. President Trump and Republicans have attacked public education for failing students and for being too “woke,” while Democrats who strongly oppose school choice often dismiss valid criticism of public schools.

Today on The Sunday Story, NPR education correspondent Cory Turner travels to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to understand how school choice can change a city's education landscape. Are students better served when schools compete in a free market?

You can find more of Cory's reporting from Cedar Rapids here.

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Hormuz Latest, Trump Rallies Amid Sinking Approval, Tariff Refunds

April 18, 2026

Iran says it is clamping back down on the Strait of Hormuz, putting the ceasefire at risk. President Trump appeared at a rally at an Arizona megachurch. Businesses are preparing for Monday's launch of an online portal for tariff refunds.

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Zohran Mamdani on NYC as a blueprint for Democrats | NPR's Newsmakers

April 17, 2026

In this special episode of Up First, we’re sharing the latest episode of NPR’s Newsmakers, featuring New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Through his first 100 days in office, Mamdani has focused on “pothole politics” — a blend of high-level legislative wins and intense focus on everyday essential services that keep the city running. The 34-year-old mayor has delivered on progressive campaign promises, from more funding for child care to new taxes on the ultrawealthy. He views his government as a model for how Democrats can deliver on policies that benefit the working class.

Mamdani sat down with host Leila Fadel at City Hall to discuss how he views his accomplishments so far, his approach to working with President Trump and the message he believes Democrats should deliver during this year’s midterm elections.

NPR's Newsmakers is where you'll find NPR's biggest interviews. Watch or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

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Lebanon-Israel Ceasefire, Hegseth On Blockade, Trump Nominates New CDC Director

April 17, 2026

A 10-day ceasefire is now in effect between Israel and Lebanon, but Israel says it is not leaving southern Lebanon and Hezbollah says that gives it the right to resist.
The U.S. naval blockade on Iran is firmly in place as Defense Secretary Hegseth compared reporters covering the war to the enemies of Jesus in the Bible, part of a pattern of religious language from the Pentagon that is raising eyebrows.
And President Trump has nominated Dr. Erica Schwartz to lead the CDC after nearly a year without a confirmed director, as the agency has been struggling under budget cuts and a loss of public trust.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Ruth Sherlock, Andrew Sussman, Kris Husted, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Lindsay Totty.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from David Greenburg. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Lebanon-Israel Ceasefire
(05:34) Hegseth On Blockade
(09:46) Trump Nominates New CDC Director

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Trump's Iran War Timeline, Iran Blockade And Peace Talks, GOP And Trump Pope Feud

April 16, 2026

President Trump keeps saying the war with Iran is very close to over, but peace talks have stalled and Iran is threatening to block Red Sea traffic if the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports continues.
Pakistan is trying to restart peace talks between the U.S and Iran, and Trump posted that the leaders of Israel and Lebanon will speak today for the first time in 34 years.
Vice President JD Vance told a Catholic audience that the Pope should be careful when he talks about theology, as Trump's feud with Pope Leo puts some of his most loyal supporters in an awkward spot.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Ruth Sherlock, Dana Farrington, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Lindsay Totty.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Trump's Iran War Timeline
(05:42) Iran Blockade And Peace Talks
(09:34) GOP And Trump Pope Feud

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Dave Chappelle on free speech and the purpose of comedy | NPR’s Newsmakers

April 15, 2026

In this bonus episode of Up First, we’re sharing the latest episode of NPR’s Newsmakers, featuring comedian Dave Chappelle. The provocative comedian and architect of Chappelle’s Show is one of the biggest names in comedy. Now in arguably the most successful chapter of his life and career, he views himself not just as an entertainer -- but as a professional processor of events and experiences. He describes comedians as 'the nation's kidney' -- an essential organ for processing the raw experiences of life.

Chappelle believes that function is one shared by comics and journalists -- they both process events and help audiences make sense of the world. That conviction is why he recently invested $15 million into the infrastructure of WYSO, the public radio station in his hometown of Yellow Springs, Ohio.

In this conversation, Chappelle tells host Michel Martin why free speech is so important to him, and why he refuses to let public expectations dictate his art.

NPR's Newsmakers is where you'll find NPR's biggest interviews. Follow the show wherever you listen to podcasts or subscribe and watch on NPR’s YouTube channel.

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Middle East War Negotiations, War And The Global Economy, New Swalwell Allegations

April 15, 2026

President Trump says new talks with Iran could happen in the next two days, and negotiations with Israel, Lebanon and Hamas all unfold simultaneously across the region.
The Iran war is pushing up prices on everything from gas to groceries, with fuel protests spreading across Europe and the IMF warning of a global recession.
And a second woman has accused Eric Swalwell of rape, saying she was drugged in a West Hollywood hotel room, as Swalwell resigned from Congress and faces potential criminal investigations in three cities.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Ruth Sherlock, Tina Kraja , Padma Rama, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Reena Advani.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:51) Middle East War Negotiations
(05:25) War And The Global Economy
(09:06) New Swalwell Allegations

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Swalwell Resignation, Strait Of Hormuz Standoff, Trump Feuds with Pope Leo

April 14, 2026

Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell is resigning after multiple women accused him of sexual assault and misconduct, just one week after he was seen as a frontrunner in California's governor's race.
The U.S. and Iran are both blocking the Strait of Hormuz, oil prices are surging, and virtually every country on earth is feeling the pain.
And President Trump is feuding with the first American-born pope, calling him weak on crime for opposing the war, the pope says he has no fear of the Trump administration.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Andrew Sussman, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Swalwell Resignation
(05:45) Strait Of Hormuz Standoff
(09:38) Trump Feuds with Pope Leo

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Trump's Blockade, Israel-Lebanon Talks, Hungary's Orbán Out

April 13, 2026

President Trump announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after peace talks with Iran collapsed, as Iran warns any warship approaching the waterway will face a severe response.
Israel continues striking Lebanon despite the ceasefire, killing more than 100 people over the weekend including a Red Cross paramedic, even as ambassadors from Israel and Lebanon prepare to meet in Washington on Tuesday with Hezbollah telling NPR they have no intention of disarming.
And Hungary's Viktor Orbán is out after 16 years in power, with voters turning out in record numbers to oust the Trump ally and hand his challenger a landslide victory.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Ruth Sherlock, Tina Kraja, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Trump's Blockade
(05:32) Israel-Lebanon Talks
(09:25) Hungary's Orbán Out

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Dozens of Black pilots disappeared during WWII. Who are the men still lost?

April 12, 2026

Dozens of Tuskegee Airmen went missing in action during World War II. Most of them have not been found. Who were these men and what happened to them? In her book, "Forgotten Souls," NPR investigative correspondent Cheryl W. Thompson tells their stories.

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US/Iran Peace Talks, Hungary Election Preview, Congress Returns Monday

April 11, 2026

Delegations from the US and Iran are in Pakistan to negotiate an end to the six-week-old war. Voters in Hungary weigh in ahead of tomorrow’s national election where polls signal trouble for Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Congressional lawmakers have a big to-do list when they return to Washington next week.

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Vance Iran Negotiations, Israel-Lebanon Talks, Artemis II Return To Earth

April 10, 2026

Vice President JD Vance is heading to Pakistan this weekend to lead peace talks with Iran, as the ceasefire is already under enormous stress.
More than 300 people have been killed in Lebanon since Israel's massive offensive Wednesday, with Netanyahu telling Israelis the strikes will not stop even as he says he'll open direct talks with Lebanon for the first time in history.
And the Artemis II crew splashes down near California tonight after a record-breaking trip around the moon.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gerry Holmes, Amina Khan, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Taylor Haney.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Vance Iran Negotiations
(05:30) Israel-Lebanon Talks
(09:23) Artemis II Return To Earth

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Trump and NATO, Shaky Ceasefire In Middle East, Lebanon's Day Of Mourning

April 9, 2026

President Trump met with NATO's Secretary-General at the White House and blasted the alliance afterward for not helping during the war, as the ceasefire is already showing cracks less than 24 hours after it was announced.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard says it has started blocking ships in the Strait of Hormuz again, as Iran warns the U.S. it must choose between a ceasefire and continued war via Israel.
And Lebanon declared a national day of mourning after Israeli strikes killed more than 250 people in a single day, with Hezbollah firing rockets into northern Israel this morning despite the ceasefire.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gerry Holmes, Mohamad ElBardicy and Taylor Haney.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:53) Trump and NATO
(05:22) Shaky Ceasefire In Middle East
(09:04) Lebanon's Day Of Mourning

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Trump-Iran Ceasefire, Iran On Trump's Reversal, Markets React To Reopening Of Hormuz

April 8, 2026

President Trump reached a last-minute ceasefire with Iran just before his deadline to bomb the country's bridges and power plants, with Iran agreeing to open the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks while negotiations continue over a 10-point peace proposal.
Iran and the U.S. are both claiming victory, but the terms are murky and Israel says the deal does not include Lebanon, even as Hezbollah says it is abiding by the ceasefire.
And global markets are surging on the news, but analysts warn the damage done to oil infrastructure will keep prices high for a long time to come.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gerry Holmes, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Trump-Iran Ceasefire
(05:41) Iran On Trump's Reversal
(09:51) Markets React To Reopening Of Hormuz

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Jamie Dimon on Iran, Trump and why he’s optimistic about AI | NPR’s Newsmakers

April 7, 2026

In this bonus episode of Up First, we’re sharing the latest episode of NPR’s Newsmakers, featuring Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorganChase, the nation’s largest bank. JPMorgan has a stake in almost everything. But unlike many CEOs, Dimon says it’s his job to speak out on many things.

This week, Dimon released his annual letter to shareholders — a document that comments on banking issues and also assesses risks to the economy, from inflation to the war in Iran. The letter asserts his company is ready for anything — noting, among other things, that it has profited during economic booms and also during recessions.

In this episode of NPR’s Newsmakers, Dimon tells host Steve Inskeep he didn’t worry much about the way President Trump’s contradictory statements tend to send financial markets sliding and soaring again, saying, “I have to deal with the world I got.”

NPR's Newsmakers is where you'll find NPR's biggest interviews. Follow the show wherever you listen to podcasts or subscribe and watch on NPR’s YouTube channel.

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Iran Deadline, Middle East War Escalation, Artemis II Trip Home

April 7, 2026

President Trump's deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz is tonight, with threats to bomb every bridge and power plant if the deal falls through.
Israel is already battering Iran's economy and warned Iranians this morning not to take the trains, with heavy bombing of the railway system expected today.
And the Artemis Two crew is heading home after a record-breaking trip around the moon.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gerry Holmes, Amina Khan, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:00) Iran Deadline
(04:30) Middle East War Escalation
(09:16) Artemis II Trip Home

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Trump Issues Profane Threats, Trump's War Politics, Artemis II Lunar Flyby

April 6, 2026

Missiles struck across the Middle East overnight as President Trump's deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz nears.
Trump posted a profane threat to bomb Iran's power plants and bridges if it doesn't open the Strait of Hormuz.
And the Artemis II crew makes its closest approach to the moon today, sending humans farther into space than at any point in the last 50 years.

Please help us out by completing a short survey telling us what you like and how we could improve our podcast.
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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Dana Farrington, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Taylor Haney.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:12) Trump Issues Profane Threats
(05:26) Trump's War Politics
(09:32) Artemis II Lunar Flyby

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The Americans caught in ICE’s web of surveillance

April 5, 2026

Since taking office last year, the Trump administration has pushed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to ramp up deportations. This increase in enforcement operations has meant that American citizens and lawful residents have increasingly been entangled in ICE’s activities. Today on The Sunday Story, we talk to NPR’s Kat Lonsdorf and Meg Anderson about the growing trend of Americans getting caught up in ICE’s growing web of tracking and surveillance.

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Jet Down in Iran, Voter Privacy, Dietary Guidelines

April 4, 2026

A U.S. fighter jet went down in Iran and there's been a shakeup of Army leadership. The retirement of a privacy officer at the Department of Justice shines a light on the Trump Administration's interest in voter information.
And, the American Heart Association releases its guidance on the pattern of eating that promotes good health and helps fend off disease.

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Pam Bondi Out, Iran Charges Strait Tolls, International Meeting on Hormuz

April 3, 2026

Attorney General Pam Bondi is out after facing backlash for the Justice Department's mishandling of the Epstein files and failing to deliver the prosecutions of President Trump's enemies.
Iran is formalizing a toll system for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, charging up to two million dollars per vessel, as the energy crisis deepens and critical goods remain stuck at sea.
And more than 40 countries met to discuss reopening the strait, but neither Iran nor the U.S. were at the table.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, James Hider, Nick Spicer, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:18) Pam Bondi Out
(05:59) Iran Charges Strait Tolls
(09:45) International Meeting on Hormuz

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Trump's Speech On Iran, Reactions To Trump's Remarks, SCOTUS Birthright Case

April 2, 2026

President Trump says the war in Iran will end shortly, promising to hit Iran extremely hard over the next two to three weeks but offering few specifics on how the Strait of Hormuz will reopen.
The UK is hosting talks today on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, as Iran keeps a stranglehold on the waterway and threatens U.S. tech companies in the Gulf.
And Trump became the first sitting president to attend a Supreme Court hearing, watching as his lawyers faced tough questions from even conservative justices over his challenge to birthright citizenship.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gerry Holmes, Domenico Montanaro, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:12) Trump's Speech On Iran
(06:04) Reactions To Trump's Remarks
(09:42) SCOTUS Birthright Case

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Trump's Iran Endgame, War Economy, SCOTUS Birthright Citizenship Case

April 1, 2026

President Trump says the U.S. mission in Iran is almost over, walking back his demands on the Strait of Hormuz and saying other countries can deal with it themselves.
Iran's closure of the strait has sent gas prices to their highest level in years, with U.S. truck drivers, farmers and brewers all feeling the ripple effects on their bottom line.
And the Supreme Court hears President Trump's challenge to birthright citizenship today, a right that has been guaranteed to every child born in the United States for more than 150 years.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Rafael Nam, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:59) Trump's Iran Endgame
(05:46) War Economy
(09:33) SCOTUS Birthright Citizenship Case

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Iran War Week 5, Trump's Mixed Messages, TSA Back Pay

March 31, 2026

Pakistan says it is ready to host U.S.-Iran talks in the coming days, but Iran is still attacking U.S. troops in Saudi Arabia and other targets across the Gulf as the war enters its fifth week.
President Trump is sending mixed messages on the war, claiming Iran agreed to most of his demands while threatening to obliterate its energy infrastructure if a deal isn't reached soon.
And TSA workers are finally getting paychecks after more than 40 days without pay, but Congress still hasn't reached a deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Rebekah Metzler, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:51) Iran War Week 5
(05:23) Trump's Mixed Messages
(09:15) TSA Back Pay

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Lebanese Warfront, US Troops Deployed To Middle East, TSA and Travel

March 30, 2026

Israeli airstrikes killed three journalists in southern Lebanon this weekend, as Netanyahu orders the military to expand its offensive as millions are displaced by the war.
Iran agreed to let 20 Pakistani-flagged ships through the Strait of Hormuz as a diplomatic gesture, but thousands more U.S. troops are arriving in the region, raising questions about whether a deal is close or the war is widening.
And TSA workers are now past 40 days without pay, as President Trump says he has a plan to pay them but it is not clear how it will work.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Andrew Sussman, Alfredo Carbajal, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Lebanese Warfront
(05:37) U.S. Troops Deployed To Middle East
(09:54) TSA and Travel

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RFK Jr lauds Italy's addiction treatment. Can it work here?

March 29, 2026

As many as 50 million people in the United States are thought to struggle with an addiction to drugs or alcohol. The majority don’t get treatment for it, and of those who do seek treatment, about half relapse within the first year.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has his own story of addiction and credits Alcoholics Anonymous with keeping him sober. But Secretary Kennedy has said that a treatment program in Italy that has shown great success in keeping people sober should serve as the vision for what addiction treatment could be here in the US. On this episode of The Sunday Story, WBUR’s Deborah Becker travels to Italy to see firsthand how a treatment program at an Italian vineyard has created so many success stories.

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Iran War, TSA Funding, No Kings Marches

March 28, 2026

The Iran War enters its second month with no clear ceasefire talks. Gas prices and airport chaos weigh down President Trump's approval numbers. Protesters against the president gather around the country for a third No Kings march.

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Gov. Wes Moore on Iran, pardon power, and his future | NPR's Newsmakers

March 27, 2026

In this special episode of Up First, we're sharing the premiere of NPR's newest podcast, Newsmakers, featuring Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.

Moore has turned aside speculation that he might seek the presidency in 2028. He is seeking re-election to his current job in 2026.

But in this interview with Steve Inskeep, Moore says he's put a lot of thought into the challenge that President Trump’s successor would face upon taking office on January 20, 2029.

At 47, Moore is regarded among Democrats as a rising star. The governor and First Lady Dawn Moore have drawn comparisons to the Obamas. He’s a decorated combat veteran, anti-poverty fighter and charismatic public speaker who was elected governor in 2022 in his first ever campaign.

NPR's Newsmakers is where you'll find NPR's biggest interviews. Follow the show wherever you listen to podcasts or subscribe and watch on NPR’s YouTube channel.

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Trump Cabinet, DHS Funding, CPAC, Trump and Iran

March 27, 2026

The Senate reaches an agreement to open most of the Department of Homeland Security. Trump sets a deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, then extends it twice. GOP faithful gather for CPAC conference over mixed approval of the Iran war.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Kelsey Snell, Jason Breslow, Alice Woelfle, and Taylor Haney.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Chris Thomas.

Our technical director is Carleigh Strange, and we get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:20) Trump Cabinet
(06:22) DHS Funding
(10:18) CPAC, Trump and Iran

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Iran Rejects US Peace Proposal, Troop Deployment, Social Media Trial

March 26, 2026

Iran rejects a U.S. proposal to end the war and offers a different peace plan. Thousands more U.S. troops are deployed to the Middle East as President Trump considers seizing Iranian oil infrastructure. An unprecedented verdict against Meta and Google finds the tech giants responsible for mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Tara Neill, Brett Neely, Alice Woelfle, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Chris Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange, and our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Iran Rejects US Peace Proposal
(05:47) Troop Deployment
(09:30) Social Media Trial

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82nd Airborne Deployment, Israel Threatens Lebanon Invasion, DHS Funding Negotiations

March 25, 2026

NPR has confirmed the U.S. is sending thousands of paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne to the Middle East, raising questions about whether this is an escalation in the war or a pressure tactic to force Iran to the negotiating table.
Lebanon expelled Iran's ambassador as Israel threatens to move the country's border northward and use the "Gaza model" in the south of Lebanon, with more than a million people already displaced.
And Congress is inching toward a deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security, but President Trump says he's probably not going to be happy with it, leaving TSA workers still without pay.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Andrew Sussman, Kelsey Snell, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:53) 82nd Airborne Deployment
(05:55) Israel Threatens Lebanon Invasion
(09:39) DHS Funding Negotiations

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Negotiations With Iran, Trump On Deal With Iran, ICE Impact On Airport Lines

March 24, 2026

After postponing attacks on Iranian powerplants, President Trump says a deal with Iran could come within days and NPR has confirmed backchannel efforts are underway through regional allies.
Trump says he believes a deal is possible but is not guaranteeing anything, as the political clock ticks with midterms approaching and gas prices rising. And ICE agents are now in more than a dozen airports across the country to help ease security lines during the partial government shutdown, but passengers in Atlanta's airport are still waiting for hours.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Rebekah Metzler, Susanna Capeluto, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas/Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Negotiations With Iran
(06:14) Trump On Deal With Iran
(09:55) ICE Impact On Airport Lines

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Trump's Hormuz Deadline, Congress DHS Funding, ICE In Airports

March 23, 2026

President Trump has given Iran 48 hours to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face strikes on its power plants and Iran is threatening to close the vital shipping waterway indefinitely if he follows through.
Congress returns this week with airport lines growing and TSA agents going unpaid, as President Trump links any DHS deal to a long list of new demands including voter ID and ending mail-in voting.
And hundreds of ICE agents have been deployed to help address chaos in airports across the U.S., but mixed messages have left questions about what they will actually do ease security lines.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Anna Yukhananov, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Trump's Hormuz Deadline
(05:50) Congress DHS Funding
(09:18) ICE In Airports

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The Betrayal of Trans Troops

March 22, 2026

In his first term, President Trump required transgender service members to register with the diagnosis of gender dysphoria in order to continue serving openly in the military. Now, amidst Middle East deployment plans, that documentation is being used to find and separate thousands of highly trained troops. This week on The Sunday Story, how the Pentagon’s push to remove trans troops is affecting active duty service members—and how it may also affect the military’s mission readiness.

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On the Iranian Border, More Military on the Way, Warm Western Winter

March 21, 2026

As the war in Iran enters its fourth week, Iranian civilians remain in the crossfire and the Pentagon is sending at least two Marine units to the region. In the American West, states reported their hottest and driest winter on record.

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Israel and Iran Trade Airstrikes, Trump Meets Japan PM, Kharg Island Future

March 20, 2026

Iran and Israel are trading airstrikes as the Israeli prime minister pushed back against claims he forced the U.S. into the war with Iran. Japan’s prime minister visited President Trump at the White House, where they talked about Iran and China, and 2,200 Marines are on their way to the Persian Gulf.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Rebekah Metzler, Andrew Sussman, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:53) Israel and Iran Trade Airstrikes
(05:49) Trump Meets Japan PM
(09:06) Kharg Island Future

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Iran Attacks Energy Targets, DHS Confirmation Hearing, Cesar Chavez Abuse Allegations

March 19, 2026

Iran attacked energy targets around the Persian Gulf in response to an Israeli strike as the war escalates. President Trump's pick to lead the Department of Homeland Security, Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), faced a tense confirmation hearing. Allegations that the late labor leader Cesar Chavez sexually abused girls are leading to a re-examination of his legacy.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Kelsey Snell, Eric Whitney, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy executive producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Iran Attacks Energy Targets
(06:15) DHS Confirmation Hearing
(10:41) Cesar Chavez Abuse Allegations

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Life Inside Iran, Trump and Cuba, Fed Interest Rates

March 18, 2026

Iran is retaliating for the killing of its top security chief with strikes across the region overnight, and Iranian are crossing into Iraq just to buy food they can no longer afford at home.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Cuba needs new people in charge, raising questions about what the Trump administration is actually planning for the island.
And the Federal Reserve meets today facing a scrambled economic outlook with energy prices are soaring because of the war and the job market is weakening.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Block, Rebekah Metzler, Rafael Nam, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Life Inside Iran
(06:15) Trump and Cuba
(10:10) Fed Interest Rates

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Israel's Incursion Into Lebanon, NATO and Strait Of Hormuz, Cuba's Blackout and Trump

March 17, 2026

Israel intensified its air and ground operations in Lebanon overnight, with airstrikes hitting southern Beirut and millions displaced as the war shows no signs of letting up.
President Trump is scolding NATO allies for not doing more to protect the Strait of Hormuz — as European leaders remain hesitant to get involved in the war with Iran.
And Trump says he expects to "take Cuba" just as the island suffers another catastrophic blackout, with nearly 11 million people left in the dark amid a U.S. oil blockade.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Block, Tina Kraja, Tara Neill, 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 Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(1:57) Iran Lebanon
(5:50) NATO and Hormuz
(9:53) Cuba Grid Collapse

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Middle East War Week 3, Trump Messaging 'Winning', Voting Act

March 16, 2026

Israeli officials say the man who attacked a Michigan synagogue last week had family killed in an airstrike in Lebanon, Israel says they targeted a Hezbollah commander in the home.
President Trump is repeating one message as the war enters its third week 'the U.S. is winning', even as gas prices soar and Americans grow more skeptical of the Middle East war.
And Senate Republicans are pushing a bill to require proof of citizenship to register to vote, but it may not have the votes to clear the Senate.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Block, Dana Farrington, Ben Swasey, Mohamad ElBardicy and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Iman Maani and Nia Dumas.

Our Director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heiniss. Our technical director is Stacy Abbott.

(0:00) Introduction
(1:52) Middle East War Week 3
(5:53) Trump's Message of Winning
(9:37) Voting Act in Senate

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Emotional Abuse in College Sports

March 15, 2026

March Madness is here. The high-stakes, sudden-death college basketball tournament is a beloved tradition in American sports. For the players, it’s a chance to showcase the skills they’ve developed through years of hard training of the body and mind. In many cases, that push produces incredible feats of athletic performance. But an investigation by reporters Julia Haney and Elizabeth Santos has found instances in which athletes allege that the push from coaches goes too far. Emotional abuse by coaches, some athletes maintain, can cause lasting, even irreparable damage. On this episode of The Sunday Story, we hear from athletes who fought back.
*A warning that today’s story includes mentions of sexual and emotional abuse, suicide, bullying and includes explicit language.

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Iran War, Political Violence in US, New Action on Housing Affordability

March 14, 2026

More strikes against Iran, including an island crucial to the country’s oil exports. Three separate domestic attacks in the U.S. do not appear to have direct links to Iran. President Trump signs two executive orders geared toward making housing more affordable, as Congress works on legislation.

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Israel Bombs Beirut, Attacks In Michigan And Virginia, Housing Bill

March 13, 2026

Israel struck central Beirut overnight and issued the first ever evacuation order for part of the capital, as Israel vows it will not stop until Hezbollah is defeated and nearly a million people are displaced in Lebanon alone.
The FBI is investigating two separate attacks as acts of terrorism — an armed man drove a car into a Michigan synagogue, and a gunman with a prior ISIS conviction opened fire in a Virginia university classroom, killing one person.
And the Senate passed the largest housing bill in decades with bipartisan support, including a ban on large corporations buying up single-family homes, but it faces an uncertain path with President Trump.

**Correction: In a previous audio version of this episode we mistakenly stated that car that drove into Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan was packed with explosives.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Block, Cheryl Corley, Julia Redpath, Kara Platoni, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Israel Bombs Beirut
(05:30) Attacks In Michigan And Virginia
(09:44) Housing Bill

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Strait Of Hormuz Crisis, Gas Price Politics, Iranian School Strike Investigation

March 12, 2026

Three commercial oil tankers were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz as U.S. and Israeli airstrikes continue on Tehran — Iran may be losing the war in the air, but it is strangling one of the world's most vital waterways and shaking global markets.
President Trump, who campaigned on bringing gas prices down, is now tapping the strategic petroleum reserve as the war drives prices up.
And the Pentagon has determined the U.S. is responsible for a missile strike on a girls school in Iran that killed at least 165 civilians on day one of the war — NPR has learned the school had been walled off from a nearby military base years before the strike.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Rebekah Metzler, James Hider, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Strait Of Hormuz Crisis
(06:17) Gas Price Politics
(10:25) Iranian School Strike Investigation

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Intense Strikes On Iran, Trump Approval Poll, Georgia Special Election Runoff

March 11, 2026

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth promised the most intense strikes yet on Iran as residential buildings in Tehran come under fire and Iranian forces target naval ships in the Gulf.
A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll finds a majority of Americans oppose the war and President Trump's approval rating on the economy has hit a record low, raising questions about what the conflict means heading into the midterm elections.
And in Georgia, the special election to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene is heading to a runoff, with Trump's endorsed candidate falling short of an outright win as a Democrat closes in.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Block, Dana Farrington, 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 Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Intense Strikes On Iran
(06:08) Trump Approval Poll
(10:05) Georgia Special Election Runoff

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Trump Declares Early Victory, Lebanon Asks Israel To Talk, New York Protest Attack

March 10, 2026

President Trump declared victory in Iran at his first press conference since the war began, but said the U.S. could still go further and compared the endgame to Venezuela, walking back earlier calls for unconditional surrender.
The war is widening as Israel keeps striking Tehran and Beirut, Iran continues to hit back in the Gulf, and Lebanon's president publicly accuses Hezbollah of betraying the country while signaling he's ready for direct talks with Israel.
And in New York City, two Pennsylvania teenagers are charged with terrorism after throwing explosive devices at an anti-Muslim protest, with investigators saying they were inspired by ISIS.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Hannah Block, Alfredo Carbajal, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange
Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Trump Declares Early Victory
(06:15) Lebanon Asks Israel To Talk
(10:14) New York Protest Attack

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Iran War Escalates, Kurds Stay Out, Global Shipping Crisis

March 9, 2026

Israel struck Tehran's oil facilities as Iran named a new supreme leader, the hardline son of the Ayatollah Israel killed on day one, and a senior Israeli military official tells NPR the war needs three more weeks.
President Trump reversed course on Kurdish fighters entering Iran, and Iraq's Kurdish deputy prime minister tells NPR in his first interview with western media since the war began that the Kurds will not be part of the fight and are not guns for hire.
And the war is strangling the Strait of Hormuz, where hundreds of tankers and container ships are now stranded, raising fears of a global energy crisis.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Block, Tina Kraja, James Hider, Mohamad ElBardicy and HJ Mai.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ben Abrams.
Our director is Christopher Thomas.
We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Iran War Escalates
(5:17) Kurds Stay Out
(10:52) Global Shipping Crisis

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The Human Egg Sellers

March 8, 2026

For years, India was thought of as the Wild West of the fertility industry. But in 2021, a new law in India made it illegal for women to sell their eggs or serve as paid surrogates. That law clashed with a growing demand for human eggs within the country. The result: a thriving black market for human eggs.

Today, some of the most marginalized Indian women and girls are supplying reproductive material, often with little compensation and at great personal risk. This week on The Sunday Story, NPR correspondent Diaa Hadid and co-reporter Shweta Desai investigate the supply chain of human eggs in India, from fertility clinics catering to the wealthy to the slums of Mumbai and Chennai. And we meet women who have given up some of the most intimate parts of themselves—to survive.

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Iran One Week On, Oil Prices Spike, Latin America Meeting

March 7, 2026

More countries in the Middle East reported incoming fire from Iran over the week. Oil prices spike as shippers avoid the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump is attending a summit for Latin American leaders.

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Trump Fires Kristi Noem, Middle East War Latest, Venezuela-US Diplomacy

March 6, 2026

President Trump fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and named Senator Markwayne Mullin as his pick to take over, in the first cabinet shakeup of his second term.
The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran is widening again, with Israel striking Beirut’s southern suburbs as Lebanon says tens of thousands have been displaced.
And two months after U.S. forces seized Venezuela’s president, Washington and Caracas are suddenly cutting deals on oil and critical minerals and moving to restore diplomatic relations.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Hannah Bloch, Tara Neill, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:53) Trump Fires Kristi Noem
(05:50) Middle East War Latest
(09:44) Venezuela-US Diplomacy

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Iran War Expanding, Khamenei Successor, China Mediates Middle East War

March 5, 2026

Iranians are fleeing as Israel and the U.S. keep striking Iran, the fighting continues in Lebanon, and the war’s spillover is rattling Gulf countries.
President Trump is offering shifting explanations for why the U.S. struck Iran, as the White House tries to line up its message and Americans remain wary about what the war is meant to achieve.
And China says it will send a special envoy to the Middle East as Beijing’s annual “Two Sessions” get underway, with leaders warning the world is getting more volatile even as growth slows at home.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Miguel Macias, James Hider, 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 Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:10) Iran War Expanding
(06:13) Khamenei Successor
(09:49) China Mediates Middle East War

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Middle East War Intensifies, Trump's Rational For War, First Midterm Primaries

March 4, 2026

The Middle East war is in its fifth day as the U.S. and Israel keep striking targets across Iran and Lebanon, Iran retaliates into the Gulf, and funeral preparations begin for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
President Trump is offering shifting explanations for why the U.S. struck Iran, as the White House tries to unify its message and Americans remain wary about what the war is meant to achieve.
And the first midterm primary results are in, with Democrats in Texas choosing James Talarico and early races in North Carolina and Arkansas offering a first read on where both parties are headed.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Rebekah Metzler, Dana Farrington, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ana Perez and Nia Dumas

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Middle East War Intensifies
(05:58) Trump's Rational For War
(09:36) First Midterm Primaries

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Middle East At War, Congress Briefed On War, Texas and North Carolina Primaries

March 3, 2026

The State Department is urging Americans in the Middle East to leave as Iranian attacks continue, including a drone strike on the U.S. embassy in Saudi Arabia.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio briefed Congress on the war and lawmakers walked out split, as both chambers prepare to vote on measures that would curb the president’s war powers.
And voters in Texas and North Carolina are casting ballots in two expensive Senate primaries that could offer an early read on where both parties are headed in November’s midterm elections.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Kelsey Snell, Padma Rama, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ana Perez and Nia Dumas

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Middle East At War
(5:51) Congress Briefed On War
(09:35) Texas and North Carolina Primaries

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US Israeli War With Iran, Trump's War Address, Gulf Countries Bear The Brunt

March 2, 2026

It is day three of the U.S. Israeli war with Iran as the fighting widens with Tehran launching retaliatory attacks across the Middle East, and Israel trading fire with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
President Trump says the strikes will continue “at full force” and warns Americans there will likely be more U.S. casualties, as the White House still hasn’t spelled out the war's objectives or how long it could last.
And Iran’s retaliation is hitting America’s Gulf partners hard, with missiles and drones turning places like Doha, Bahrain and Dubai into battle zones.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by James Hider, Tina Kraya, Andrew Sussman, Miguel Macias, Olivia Hampton, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ana Perez, and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:20) Pentagon Update on Iran
(07:18) US Israeli War With Iran
(10:39) Gulf Countries Bear The Brunt

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Bet on Anything, Everywhere, All at Once

March 1, 2026

The rise of prediction markets means you can now bet on just about anything, right from your phone. Apps like Kalshi and Polymarket have grown exponentially in President Trump’s second term, as his administration has rolled back regulations designed to keep the industry in check. Billions of dollars have flooded in, and users are placing bets on everything from whether it will rain in Seattle today to whether the US will take over control of Greenland. Who’s winning big on these apps? And who is losing? NPR correspondent Bobby Allyn joins The Sunday Story to explain how these markets came to be and where they are going.

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US/Israeli Strikes Iran, Iran Retaliates on Israel and other Middle East Countries

February 28, 2026

The U.S. and Israel launch a joint attack on Iran. Iran responds with a missile attack on Israel, Bahrain, the U.A.E. and Qatar. Iran says a girls elementary school suffered a direct hit.

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US-Iran Tension, Clinton Deposition, Paramount Wins Warner Bros. Bid

February 27, 2026

The U.S. may be on the cusp of striking Iran, even as President Trump has not laid out clear objectives, asked Congress for authorization, or made a full public case for military action.
Hillary Clinton sat for a six-hour, closed-door deposition in the House Oversight Committee’s Epstein investigation, and now Bill Clinton is set to testify as Republicans say they still have unanswered questions.
And Warner Bros. Discovery abruptly walked away from a deal with Netflix for a sweeter bid from Paramount, setting up a major media merger fight that now heads to antitrust regulators.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Megan Pratz, Gerry Holmes, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) US-Iran Tension
(05:47) Clinton Deposition
(09:30) Paramount Wins Warner Bros. Bid

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Oklahoma’s governor on Trump, immigration and tribal lands

February 26, 2026

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt leads a state that gave President Trump 66% of the vote in 2024. He is also charting his own course and has publicly differed with the president. Stitt sat for an interview with NPR’s Steve Inskeep and talked about his vision for the Republican Party’s post-Trump future.

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This bonus episode of Up First was was produced by Adam Bearne. We get engineering support from Margaret Luthar, David Greenburg and Tiffany Vera Castro.
Our Deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens and our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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US-Iran Talks, Summers Resigns Over Epstein Ties, Cuba Kills Four In Boat Strike

February 26, 2026

U.S. and Iranian officials are meeting in Switzerland for another round of high-level talks. The talks will focus on Iran’s nuclear program, but the U.S. also wants ballistic missile restrictions.

Harvard professor and former U.S. Treasury Secretary Larry Summers is resigning from his university positions over his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Also, Cuban border agents shot and killed four alleged terrorists on a boat registered in the U.S.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by James Hider, Tina Kraja, Elissa Nadworny, Tara Neill, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:13) US-Iran Talks
(06:02) Summers Resigns Over Epstein Ties
(09:59) Cuba Kills Four In Boat Strike

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Trump Delivers State Of The Union, Economic Focus, Aviation Safety Bill

February 25, 2026

President Trump touted the beginnings of an American revival during his State of the Union address. He talked about a “turnaround for the ages,” in a record-length speech filled with exaggeration.

And a bipartisan aviation safety bill failed to advance in Congress after the Pentagon withdrew its support.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Rafael Nam, Russell Lewis, HJ Mai and Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Neisha Heines. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Trump Delivers State Of The Union
(05:34) What Trump Had To Say About The Economy
(09:34) Aviation Safety Bill

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Trump State of the Union Strategy, Mexico Cartel Violence, Epstein Files Naming Trump

February 24, 2026

Republican strategists say President Trump needs a reset in his State of the Union tonight, with new NPR polling showing 60% of Americans think the country is worse off than a year ago.
Mexico is still reeling from cartel violence after a military operation killed the country's biggest drug lord, El Mencho, and triggered a wave of retaliation, raising questions about whether the government can take on the cartels without fueling even more violence.
And an NPR investigation finds the Justice Department removed or withheld dozens of pages from the Epstein files database that include allegations mentioning President Trump, even as the administration says it has released everything.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Rebecca Rosman, 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 Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:16) Trump State of the Union Strategy
(05:57) Mexico Cartel Violence
(09:43) Epstein Files Naming Trump

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Trump's New Tariffs, China Reacts To Tariff Ruling, State Of The Union Poll

February 23, 2026

President Trump says he’s raising global tariffs to 15% under a different authority after the Supreme Court blocked his emergency tariff power, forcing Congress to decide how closely they want to own the policy in a midterm election year.
China is weighing what the court ruling actually changes on the ground for exporters and how it could reshape Trump’s leverage ahead of his trip to Beijing in a few weeks.
And a new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll finds most Americans say the state of the union is not strong, as President Trump heads into Tuesday night’s address facing deep divides over the country’s direction.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Vincent Ni, Dana Farrington, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:13) Trump's New Tariffs
(05:55) China Reacts To Tariff Ruling
(09:37) State Of The Union Poll

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Hollywood’s Love Affair with VistaVision

February 22, 2026

Two of this year’s top contenders for the Academy Awards were filmed using a technology from the 1950s: VistaVision. Filmmakers are reviving this visually stunning yet finicky film format at a time when movie theaters are struggling to get audiences back into theaters. Today on The Sunday Story, NPR’s culture correspondent Mandalit Del Barco tells the story of the changing movie industry through the lens of VistaVision technology.

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Court Invalidates Tariffs, Military Options Regarding Iran, Olympic Matchup Preview

February 21, 2026

The Supreme Court says President Trump cannot use the economic emergency he declared as a rationale for his import tax regime. The U.S. military buildup in the Mideast over the past month gives Trump options for striking Iran. The U.S. and Canada will compete Sunday for the gold medal in men's Olympic ice hockey.

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Military Buildup Around Iran, Board Of Peace Meeting, Former Prince Andrew Released

February 20, 2026

President Trump says he will make a decision in ten days on whether or not to attack Iran as the U.S. military buildup in the Middle East is now large enough to support a sustained bombing campaign.
President Trump is widening the scope of his new Board of Peace after a Gaza-focused gathering, pitching it as a tool for other global conflicts as world leaders warn it could sideline the United Nations and the Gaza ceasefire remains fragile.
And British police are searching royal properties after the arrest of former Prince Andrew tied to the Epstein files, investigators are looking into whether he passed government documents to the convicted sex offender.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Rebekah Metzler, Tina Kraja, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our Director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Military Buildup Around Iran
(05:48) Board Of Peace Meeting
(09:38) Former Prince Andrew Released

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U.S. Men's hockey overtime win and the Olympic sport that produces the best athletes

February 19, 2026

If enjoyed this, check out the Up First Winter Games Video Podcast. You'll find it at youtube.com/npr.

This bonus episode of Up First was edited by Eric Whitney. Our visual editors include Nicole Werbeck, Elizabeth Gillis, Grace Raver and Pablo Valdivia.

It was produced by Lauren Migaki, Brianna Scott, Ana Perez, Barry Gordemer and Elizabeth Baker.

We get engineering support from Jay Czys, Andie Huether, Becky Brown and Josephine Nyounai.

Our Executive Producers are Adam Verdugo, Jay Shaylor and Samantha Melbourneweaver.

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Trump's Board Of Peace, Former Prince Andrew Arrested, Zuckerberg Defends Meta

February 19, 2026

President Trump convenes the first meeting of his Board of Peace, touting $5 billion in reconstruction pledges for Gaza as Israel gives Hamas 60 days to disarm or face renewed war.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
And Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg takes the stand in the first-ever social media addiction trial, defending accusations that the company knew kids under 13 were using Instagram and built its platforms to hook young users early.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Robbie Griffiths, Miguel Macias, Tina Kraja, Brett Neely, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:56) Trump's Board of Peace
(06:10) Former Prince Andrew Arrested
(08:30) Zuckerberg Defends Meta

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US & Iran Plan To Meet Again, CBS: Colbert & Cooper, Social Media On Trial

February 18, 2026

U.S. and Iranian negotiators agree to keep talking after meetings in Geneva, even as President Trump threatens military force and Tehran warns it could retaliate.
Stephen Colbert says CBS blocked a political guest from his late-night show, adding to a wave of upheaval involving Anderson Cooper and corporate maneuvering at the network’s parent company.
And Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg takes the stand in a landmark trial testing whether social media companies can be held legally responsible for harming young users.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by James Hider, Pallavi Gogoi, Brett Neely, 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 Heinis. And our technical director is Simon-Laslo Janssen.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) US & Iran Plan To Meet Again
(05:26) CBS: Colbert & Cooper
(09:49) Social Media On Trial

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US-Iran Talks, Texas ICE Shooting Trial, Rev. Jesse Jackson Dies At 84

February 17, 2026

U.S. and Iranian officials meet again in Geneva as the Trump administration sends more military forces to the region while pressing Tehran to limit its nuclear program.
Nine defendants go on trial in Texas over a shooting outside an ICE detention center, in a case federal prosecutors are framing as terrorism and defense attorneys say grew out of a protest.
And Reverend Jesse Jesse Jackson, the civil leader, presidential candidate and longtime advocate for racial and economic justice, has died at age 84.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by James Hider, Alfredo Carbajal, Kara Platoni, 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 Heinis. And our technical director is Simon-Laslo Janssen.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:17) US-Iran Talks
(05:40) Texas ICE Shooting Trial
(09:26) Rev. Jesse Jackson Dies At 84

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Cheating in the most-polite sport, curling and what is "sledhead?"

February 16, 2026

If enjoyed this, check out the Up First Winter Games Video Podcast. You'll find it at youtube.com/npr.

This bonus episode of Up First was edited by Eric Whitney. Our visual editors include Nicole Werbeck, Elizabeth Gillis, Grace Raver and Pablo Valdivia.

It was produced by Lauren Migaki, Brianna Scott, Ana Perez, Barry Gordemer and Elizabeth Baker.

We get engineering support from Jay Czys, Andie Huether, Becky Brown and Josephine Nyounai.

Our Executive Producers are Adam Verdugo, Jay Shaylor and Samantha Melbourneweaver.

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DHS Shutdown, Ukraine Peace Talks, Olympics Stars Stumble

February 16, 2026

Congress is out on recess as a partial shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security is underway after talks collapsed over immigration enforcement reforms.
Officials from the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine prepare for new peace talks in Geneva as Moscow presses territorial demands and Kyiv insists on security guarantees.
And at the Winter Olympics in Italy, American speed skater Jordan Stolz is making history while other superstar athletes struggle with the intense pressure of competing on the world’s biggest stage.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Kate Bartlett, Tina Kraya, Eric Whitney, Mohamad ElBardicy and Adam Bearne.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Simon-Laslo Janssen.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) DHS Shutdown
(05:38) Ukraine Peace Talks
(09:26) Olympics Stars Stumble

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Gisèle Pelicot Tells Her Story

February 15, 2026

How do you find the strength to face the unimaginable? In September of 2024, Gisèle Pelicot took the stand in an unprecedented mass rape trial in France. On trial was her former husband, along with 50 other men. Police had found images and videos of her husband and dozens of men raping Pelicot while she was drugged and unconscious. In this episode of The Sunday Story, Gisèle Pelicot sits down with NPR’s Michel Martin to talk about the pain of discovering what had happened to her, the harm it did to her family, and her decision to reject shame and speak up on behalf of victims of sexual assault.

Pelicot’s new memoir, “A Hymn to Life,” will be published on February 17th.

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The Munich Security Conference; FDA Rejects Flu Vaccine; The Fall of The Quad God

February 14, 2026

We get the latest from the Munich Security Conference, where U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a speech before European leaders. We also look at the reasons behind why the FDA rejected Moderna's new flu vaccine and how that decision could shape future clinical trials. Plus, we'll look at the what happened with U.S Olympic figure skater Illia Malinin, dubbed the "Quad God," on the ice yesterday. Tipped to win the gold, Malinin didn't end up even medaling.

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ICE Leaving Minnesota, DHS Funding Deadline, EPA Vehicle Emissions

February 13, 2026

Federal immigration agents are pulling back from Minnesota after months of aggressive immigration enforcement that led to thousands of arrests, weeks of protests, and the fatal shooting of two U.S. citizens.
Congress is racing to fund the Department of Homeland Security before a shutdown, with Democrats demanding changes to immigration enforcement and negotiations still stalled.
And the Environmental Protection Agency is scrapping the legal basis for regulating greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Jason Breslow, Kara Platoni, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) ICE Leaving Minnesota
(05:48) DHS Funding Deadline
(09:31) EPA Vehicle Emissions

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Bondi's Heated Hearing, Pushback On Trump's Tariffs, Revised 2025 Jobs Report

February 12, 2026

Attorney General Pam Bondi clashed with lawmakers during a Capitol Hill hearing dominated by questions about the Justice Department’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files.
President Trump’s tariff agenda faces a rare Republican pushback in Congress, even as the White House argues the policy is bringing money into the United States.
And a new jobs report shows stronger hiring to start the year, but revised data suggests the labor market was far weaker in 2025 than previously believed.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Rebekah Metzler, Rafael Nam, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:07) Bondi's Heated Hearing
(06:04) Pushback On Trump's Tariffs
(09:54) Revised 2025 Jobs Report

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Guthrie Door Camera Footage, Trump & Netanyahu Meet On Iran, DHS House Hearing

February 11, 2026

The FBI released door camera footage from the home of Nancy Guthrie, the 84 year-old mother of Today Show host Savanah Guthrie who's been missing for eleven days.
President Trump meets with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss Israel’s security, as the White House signals possible progress in nuclear talks with Iran.
And immigration officials defend enforcement tactics on Capitol Hill while lawmakers remain divided ahead of a Friday deadline to fund the Department of Homeland Security.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Anna Yukhananov, Emma Bowman, Kate Bartlett, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Simon-Laslo Janssen.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Guthrie Door Camera Footage
(05:29) Trump & Netanyahu Meet On Iran
(09:11) DHS House Hearing

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DHS Funding Negotiations, UK Epstein Fallout, Latest On Guthrie Investigation

February 10, 2026

Congress has until Friday to reach a deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security, with negotiations stalled over Democratic demands to overhaul immigration enforcement.
Britain’s prime minister Keir Starmer is fighting to hold onto power after new revelations show he hired a Washington ambassador with ties to Jeffrey Epstein, triggering calls for him to step down.
And Savannah Guthrie issues another emotional plea for her missing mother as a ransom deadline passes and investigators say they still have no suspects in the disappearance.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Kate Bartlett, 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 Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) DHS Funding Negotiations
(05:40) UK Epstein Fallout
(09:27) Latest on Guthrie Investigation

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Guthrie Investigation, Ghislaine Maxwell Deposition, Seahawks Win Super Bowl LX

February 9, 2026

The search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie, enters a second week as her family says they’ve received a message from the people who took her and investigators continue to look for suspects.
Ghislaine Maxwell is set to be questioned by members of Congress about Jeffrey Epstein, his crimes, and the powerful figures connected to him, even as she continues to challenge her own conviction.
And the Seattle Seahawks win Super Bowl 60, beating the New England Patriots 29-13, using a dominant defense to secure the franchise’s second championship.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by James Doubek, Megan Pratz, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Guthrie Investigation
(05:37) Ghislaine Maxwell Deposition
(09:20) Seahawks Win Super Bowl LX

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How the Presidency is Making Trump Richer

February 8, 2026

Before President Donald Trump’s first term, he was in a “tight spot” financially, according to New Yorker writer David Kirkpatrick. At the start of his second term, Kirkpatrick says, Trump was in an “even tighter” spot. But six months later, Trump’s financial situation had substantially improved.
Kirkpatrick has done a full accounting of the money, that’s flowed into the Trump family coffers. Kirkpatrick says even using the most conservative estimates, the Trumps have made almost $4 billion dollars “off of the presidency,” in just about a year.
Today on The Sunday Story, we turn to our friends at NPR’s Planet Money to help us understand how President Trump and his family have found ways to profit from the presidency.

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U.S.-Iran Talks Continue, Texas Politics, 2026 Winter Olympics Begin

February 7, 2026

U.S. and Iranian envoys have held talks aimed at averting possible U.S. strikes on Iran. Debates over immigration enforcement are front and center in a Texas primary contest. Plus, it’s a busy weekend for sports fans with the 2026 Winter Olympic Games and the Super Bowl.

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US-Iran Talks Begin, Dems List Of DHS Demands, Search For Nancy Guthrie Continues

February 6, 2026

The U.S. and Iran begin high-stakes talks in Oman today over Tehran’s nuclear program, If they can't reach a deal, President Trump could launch a military strike from the large military force assembled in the Middle East.
Lawmakers now have just one week to fund the Department of Homeland Security, as Democrats release a detailed list of demands to overhaul how immigration enforcement officers operate.
And the FBI confirms a ransom letter in the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie, as investigators search for answers and her family pleads for proof she is alive.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Jason Breslow, James Doubek, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our Director is Milton Guevara.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:12) US-Iran Talks Begin
(05:36) Dem List of DHS Demands
(09:24) Search For Nancy Guthrie Continues

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Partial Drawdown In Minnesota, NPR Poll: Trump and ICE, Nuclear Treaty Expires

February 5, 2026

White House Border Czar Tom Homan says 700 federal agents will be leaving Minnesota after months of aggressive immigration enforcement, protests, and the killing of two U.S. citizens by federal agents.
A new NPR/PBS/Marist poll finds most Americans now say ICE has gone too far, as the Trump administration shifts its tone on immigration enforcement.
And the last remaining nuclear arms control treaty between the United States and Russia, the New START Treaty, is set to expire, raising new fears about unconstrained nuclear competition.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Dana Farrington, Robbie Griffiths, 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 Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Partial Drawdown in Minnesota
(05:36) NPR Poll: Trump and ICE
(09:18) Nuclear Treaty Expires

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DHS Funding Negotiations, Russia Attacks Ukraine Power Grid, Nationalizing Elections

February 4, 2026

Congress ended the shutdown but now faces a tight deadline to fund the Department of Homeland Security, with Democrats and Republicans far apart over immigration enforcement reforms after two U.S. citizens were killed by federal agents in Minnesota.
Russia has resumed heavy strikes on Ukraine’s power grid during extreme cold, despite President Trump saying Vladimir Putin agreed to pause attacks, putting new strain on fragile diplomatic efforts.
And President Trump is calling for the federal government to “take over” elections in some states, escalating concerns among election officials about interference ahead of the midterms.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Miguel Macias, Ben Swasey, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:52) DHS Funding Negotiations
(05:27) Ukraine Peace Talks
(09:26) Trump Nationalizing Elections

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Government Shutdown Day 4, US-Iran Nuclear Talks, Guthrie Investigation

February 3, 2026

A partial government shutdown enters its fourth day as House Republicans weigh whether to back a Senate deal that would reopen most agencies while giving Congress two weeks to negotiate changes to immigration enforcement.
The U.S. is set to reopen nuclear talks with Iran, as regional powers push diplomacy even while President Trump warns military action remains on the table.
And investigators in Arizona say 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, may have been abducted from her home as an urgent search continues.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, James Hider, Miguel Macias, Martha Ann Overland, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Government Shutdown Day 4
(05:31) US-Iran Nuclear Talks
(09:06) Guthrie Investigation

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House Shutdown Vote, Minneapolis Immigration Operations, Trump Kennedy Center Closure

February 2, 2026

A partial government shutdown is under way after Congress missed its funding deadline, with lawmakers advancing a plan to reopen most agencies while negotiations over Homeland Security and immigration enforcement continue.
A federal judge ruled the Trump administration can keep its immigration enforcement surge in Minneapolis going, even as plans to draw down agents haven’t materialized and residents see ongoing arrests and protests.
And President Trump says the performing arts center built as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy will close for two years for a massive renovation.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy and Adrianna Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) House Shutdown Vote
(05:34) Minneapolis Immigration Operations
(09:16) Trump Kennedy Center Closure

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Women in the Skilled Trades Face New Hurdles

February 1, 2026

President Trump has a vision for the American workforce. Forget expensive college educations. His eye is on the skilled trades. The U.S. Department of Labor has adopted the slogan “Make America Skilled Again.”

But who gets to be part of this renaissance?

Since the 1980s, women have made small but meaningful gains in the construction trades. Now there are concerns that President Trump’s campaign to end diversity, equity and inclusion will stall that progress — setting back both women and the construction industry.

Today on the Sunday Story, we ask how women fit into this administration’s vision of this skilled trades future.

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More Epstein Files Released; Government Shutdown; New Winter Storm

January 31, 2026

The Justice Department has released its final tranche of the Epstein files - we'll look at what they have and haven't included. And, the U.S. in a partial government shutdown again, although this is one is expected to be shorter than the record-breaking shutdown that happened during the fall. Plus, another winter storm is hitting the U-S this weekend, this time, hitting parts of the Southeast.

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Senate Funding Deal, Border Czar Homan In Minnesota, Georgia Election Ballots Seized

January 30, 2026

Senate leaders strike a short-term funding deal to keep most of the government running, but a partial shutdown now looks imminent as the House remains out until next week.
Border Czar Tom Homan suggested a possible drawdown of federal immigration agents in Minnesota, only for President Trump to later say there would be no pullback at all, as arrests and protests continue on the ground.
And the FBI seizes hundreds of thousands of ballots and election records from Fulton County, Georgia, as the Trump administration escalates scrutiny ahead of the midterms.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Gigi Douban, Ben Swasey, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:53) Senate Funding Deal
(05:38) Border Czar in Minnesota
(09:51) Georgia Election Ballots Ceased

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Senate Funding Vote, ICE Family Detention Protest, Fed Holds Interest Rates

January 29, 2026

Senate Democrats are threatening a partial government shutdown unless Republicans agree to new limits on immigration enforcement by Friday's deadline.
A protest at an ICE family detention center in South Texas turned confrontational as demonstrators demanded the release of a five-year-old boy and his father taken from Minnesota and held at the facility hundreds of miles away.
And despite pressure from President Trump to lower interest rates, the Federal Reserve is holding steady to fight lingering inflation and rising prices.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Susanna Capelouto, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Senate Funding Vote
(05:41) ICE Family Detention Protest
(10:28) Fed Holds Interest Rates

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Trump's Economic Message, DC Helicopter Crash Report, New Nuclear Regulations

January 28, 2026

President Trump takes his economic message to Iowa, trying to refocus on affordability after weeks of distractions ranging from Greenland to Venezuela and fallout from federal shootings in Minnesota.
Nearly a year after a deadly midair collision near Washington, D.C., investigators say deep, systemic failures at the FAA allowed known risks to go unaddressed until it was too late.
And NPR has obtained documents showing the Trump administration quietly loosened nuclear safety and environmental rules to fast-track new reactors, raising concerns about oversight and public trust.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Russell Lewis, Brett Neely, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our Supervising Producer is HJ Mai.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Trump Economic Message
(05:43) DC Helicopter Crash Report
(10:02) New Nuclear Regulation

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Bovino Out Of Minnesota, Trump Refocusing On Economy, Social Media On Trial

January 27, 2026

Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, the public face of the Trump administration’s immigration operations, is no longer leading enforcement efforts in Minnesota after two fatal shootings and escalating legal battles over who gets to investigate them.
President Trump heads to Iowa trying to sell his economic agenda, even as backlash grows from within his own party over his immigration crackdown in Minneapolis.
And a landmark trial begins in Los Angeles that will test whether major social media companies knowingly designed their platforms in ways that harm kids, a case that could force the tech industry to rethink how its apps are built.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrea de Leon, Rebekah Metzler, Brett Neely, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Bovino Out of Minnesota
(05:57) Trump Refocusing on Economy
(09:38) Social Media on Trial

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Minnesota ICE Shooting Aftermath, Senate DHS Funding Vote, Icy Weather

January 26, 2026

Protests and a general strike continue in Minneapolis after federal immigration agents fatally shot 37 year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti during a crackdown, the second ICE related killing in the state this month.
Senate Democrats threaten to block funding for the Department of Homeland Security unless Republicans agree to new limits on immigration enforcement, a standoff that could trigger a partial government shutdown.
And across the country, states are digging out from a major winter storm that left deadly ice and snow, widespread power outages, and thousands of canceled flights.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Krishnadev Calamur, Alfredo Carbajal, Mohamad ElBardicy and Adam Bearne.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Simon-Laslo Janssen. And our technical director is David Greenburg.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Minnesota ICE Shooting Aftermath
(05:44) Senate DHS Funding Vote
(09:26) Icy Weather

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Challenger at 40: Lessons from a tragedy

January 25, 2026

Forty years ago, the space shuttle Challenger exploded 73 seconds after liftoff. Seven astronauts were killed, including teacher-in-space Christa McAuliffe. It was a devastating blow to the U.S. space program and a national tragedy for the country. In the days after the explosion, the search for answers began. Two NPR reporters, Howard Berkes and Daniel Zwerdling, focused their reporting on the engineers who managed Challenger’s booster rockets. On February 20, 1986, Berkes and Zwerdling broke a major story, providing the first details of a last-minute effort by those engineers to stop NASA from launching Challenger.

In this special NPR documentary, Howard Berkes unfolds an investigation spanning forty years, from those desperate efforts in 1986 to delay the launch, to decades of crushing guilt for some of the engineers, and to the lessons learned that are as critical as ever as NASA’s budget and workforce shrink.

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U.S. Preparing for Winter Storm; Trump's Use of Military; U.S Consumer Spending

January 24, 2026

At least half of the U.S. population will be hit by a powerful winter storm this weekend - we'll tell you how Oklahoma, and other states, are preparing. Plus, a look at how President Trump is using the military overseas as well inside the U.S. during his second term. Plus, a look at consumer spending in the U.S. and how sustainable it is at present levels.

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Minnesota Protests, Zelenskyy Slams Europe In Davos, Winter Storm Approaches

January 23, 2026

In Minnesota, protests and business closures spread as immigration operations continue and confrontations with federal agents intensify.
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Ukraine’s president delivers a blunt message to Europe, warning that the continent must stop relying on the U.S. and prepare to defend itself as Russia’s war grinds on.
And across the U.S., states are bracing for a massive winter storm threatening millions of people with dangerous weather conditions.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Willem Marx, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Minnesota Protests
(05:28) Zelenskyy Slams Europe In Davos
(09:00) Winter Storm Approaches

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Rahm Emanuel on 2026 Midterms and Politics in the Trump Era

January 22, 2026

Rahm Emanuel has held many political jobs, and he's considering a run for President. In a wide-ranging interview with NPR's Steve Inskeep, he critiques democrats and offers advice for the upcoming midterms.
Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

This bonus episode of Up First was edited by Reena Advani. It was produced by Barry Gordemer and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. Our Deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens and our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Greenland Emergency Summit, New World Order, SCOTUS Justices Hear Fed Case

January 22, 2026

European leaders meet for an emergency summit as allies weigh a possible deal with the U.S. on Greenland after President Trump walked back threats of military action and tariffs.
Trump’s clashes with Canada and Europe raise fresh doubts about the stability of U.S. alliances, as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney warns coercion and tariff threats are changing the global order.
And Supreme Court justices had tough question for Trump's lawyers as they hear arguments over whether a president can fire a Federal Reserve governor, a case that could redefine the independence of the central bank.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Andrew Sussman, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:59) Greenland Emergency Summit
(05:27) New World Order
(09:10) SCOTUS Justices Hear Fed Case

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Trump's Speech In Davos, DOJ Subpoenas For Minnesota, SCOTUS Federal Reserve Case

January 21, 2026

European leaders brace for President Trump’s speech at the World Economic Forum, as new tariff threats and talk of acquiring Greenland overshadow talks on affordability.
The Justice Department issues subpoenas to Minnesota’s top Democratic leaders, as state officials accuse the Trump administration of weaponizing immigration enforcement and creating fear in immigrant communities.
And the Supreme Court hears a high-stakes case over President Trump’s attempt to fire a Federal Reserve governor, a move that could upend a century of precedent and rattle financial markets.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gigi Douban, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:24) Trump's Speech in Davos
(06:07) DOJ Subpoenas For Minnesota
(09:49) SCOTUS Federal Reserve Case

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Michigan's Governor Fears Interference in this Fall's Elections

January 20, 2026

Gretchen Whitmer is in her final year as governor of the swing state of Michigan. The Democratic governor sat for an interview with NPR's Steve Inskeep and talked about tariffs, the prospects of a female president, and the security of upcoming elections.

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This bonus episode of Up First was edited by Reena Advani. It was produced by Adam Bearne, Kaity Kline and Ziad Buchh. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Trump's World Stage, El Paso Detention Deaths, Indiana College Football Champions

January 20, 2026

As world leaders gather in Davos, President Trump escalates pressure on allies with new tariff threats, renewed talk of acquiring Greenland, and plans for a sweeping new “Board of Peace” that could reshape global diplomacy.
Three people die in six weeks at the country’s largest immigration detention center in El Paso, raising urgent questions about medical care, oversight, and the role of private contractors.
And Indiana completes one of the most improbable turnarounds in college football history, capping a perfect season with a national championship win over Miami.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Alfredo Carbajal, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy, Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Trump's World Stage
(05:51) El Paso Detention Deaths
(09:17) Indiana College Football Champions

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Troops Stand By For Minnesota, Greenland NATO Tensions, Gaza Peace Board

January 19, 2026

Minnesota braces for a possible escalation as federal troops stand by amid protests against immigration enforcement and renewed threats to invoke the Insurrection Act.
Tensions rise with European allies as the White House pressures Denmark and other NATO countries over Greenland, prompting warnings of damage to transatlantic relations.
And world leaders are being asked to buy into a new U.S.-led “Board of Peace” for Gaza and other conflicts, with billion-dollar commitments and President Trump at the helm.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Padma Rama, Ben Swasey, Gerry Holmes, Mohamad ElBardicy, HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Simon-Laslo Janssen. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Troops Stand By For Minnesota
(05:47) Greenland NATO Tensions
(09:34) Gaza Peace Board

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Defending the Disabled

January 18, 2026

L.A. County Public Defender Noah Cox noticed the disturbing trend. Many of his clients seemed to struggle answering even the most basic questions about the crimes they’d been charged with, questions like, “Where were you that day?” It seemed, Cox said, “like they were having troubles related to some sort of intellectual ability.” But when he dug into their records, Cox could see that while many had committed serious crimes, most had never been identified as disabled or offered resources to help with cognitive impairments. So Cox set about to change that. He helped create a new unit in the Los Angeles Public Defender’s Office dedicated to representing people with cognitive disorders.

Today on The Sunday Story a look at the possibilities and challenges of helping those with cognitive impairments stay out of prison and get the resources they need to live productive lives.

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DOJ Targets Minnesota Officials; Harsh Ukraine Winter; AI Harmful In Child Education

January 17, 2026

The Justice Department has launched an investigation into Minnesota's Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, alleging that they conspired to impede the work of ICE agents. Plus, an especially harsh winter hits Ukraine, where Russian strikes have taken out power plants, leaving many without heat and electricity. And, a new study finds that the use of generative AI is harmful to the development of children.

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Trump and Minnesota, Venezuela's Opposition, Trump's Healthcare Plan

January 16, 2026

Protests intensify in Minneapolis after a second ICE-related shooting, as President Trump threatens to invoke the Insurrection Act in Minnesota.
Venezuela’s top opposition leader brings her Nobel Peace Prize to Washington to press her case with President Trump, even as the U.S. signals support for an interim leader.
And President Trump unveils what he calls a new healthcare plan, leaning on cheaper insurance with limited benefits as Congress debates the future of ACA subsidies.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Cheryl Corley, Tara Neill, Diane Webber, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(1:57) Trump and Minnesota
(05:29) Venezuela's Opposition
(09:20) Trump's Healthcare Plan

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FBI Search Journalist's Home, U.S. Greenland Talks, Mental Health Funding

January 15, 2026

The FBI searches the home of a Washington Post reporter as part of a leak investigation, raising concerns among press advocates about an escalation against press freedom.
U.S. talks with Denmark and Greenland end without a deal on Greenland’s future, but a new working group forms as allies push back on President Trump’s security-driven claims.
And after widespread confusion and backlash, the Trump administration reverses course and restores roughly $2 billion in funding for mental health and addiction programs nationwide.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Emily Kopp, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Minnesota Prosecutors Quit, Trump in Detroit, Inflation Report

January 14, 2026

Veteran federal prosecutors in Minnesota resign after pressure from Justice Department leaders to investigate the widow of Renee Macklin Good, the woman killed by an ICE agent, raising new questions about political interference.
President Trump takes his economic message on the road, pitching affordability as voters remain frustrated by high prices.
And while gas prices have dipped, rising heating costs, grocery prices, and stubborn inflation show why relief still feels out of reach for many families.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gigi Douban, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:19) Minnesota Prosecutors Quit
(06:10) Trump in Detroit
(09:52) Inflation Report

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Trump Weighs Options In Iran, Minnesota Sues DHS, SCOTUS Trans Sports Cases

January 13, 2026

Minnesota officials sue the Trump administration, accusing federal immigration agents of unconstitutional conduct, as protests and enforcement intensify after an ICE officer killed 37 year-old Renee Macklin Good.
President Trump is weighing options, including military action, as Iran’s largest protests in years grow deadlier as the regime cracks down on nationwide demonstrations.
And the Supreme Court hears arguments in two cases over whether states can bar transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gigi Douban, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Simon Laslo-Janssen. Our technical director is Zac Coleman.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Trump Weighs Options In Iran
(05:35) Minnesota Sues DHS,
(08:52) SCOTUS Trans Sports Cases

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Minnesota ICE, Iran Protests, DOJ Subpoenas Federal Reserve

January 12, 2026

Tension is mounting in Minneapolis as the Trump administration sends hundreds of additional federal agents into Minnesota and anger grows over last week's ICE shooting that killed 37 year old Renee Good.
Deadly protests in Iran intensify as President Trump warns the U.S. could strike the regime if the crackdown continues.
And the Justice Department subpoenas the Federal Reserve, prompting Chair Jerome Powell to accuse President Trump of trying to pressure the central bank over interest rates.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Daniel Burke, Kate Bartlett, Pallavi Gogoi, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Simon-Laslo Janssen. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(03:10) Federal Agents Sent to Minnesota
(06:53) Iran Protests
(10:34) DOJ Subpoenas Federal Reserve

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Why More Liberals Are Buying Guns

January 11, 2026

Since President Trump’s second inauguration, more liberals, people of color and LGBTQ folks say they are buying guns and getting training. This is the latest in a trend that researchers, gun clubs and trainers say they’ve been watching for years. No longer do firearm buyers fit the old stereo-type of being white, rural and Republican. Today on The Sunday Story, NPR’s Frank Langfitt shares his reporting on the changing face of American gun ownership.

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Minneapolis Protests ICE Shooting; Protests in Iran; States Preparing for Midterms

January 10, 2026

Protests continue in Minneapolis after ICE agents kill a local woman, Renee Good, with more protests planned this weekend. Plus, Iranians have been taking to the streets in cities across the country, protesting against the government there. We'll look at what's behind the protests as well as the government's response. Also, the U.S. federal government might want to get involved with upcoming elections in several ways. We'll look at what this might mean for the midterm elections, and how states are preparing.

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Minneapolis Protests, Immigration Enforcement Shootings, Running Venezuela

January 9, 2026

Protesters in Minneapolis return to the streets as federal agents take over the investigation into the killing of a Minnesota woman by an ICE agent, while Portland officials condemn another immigration-related shooting.
A review of immigration related shootings under President Trump shows a rising pattern of violence as federal agents carry out increasingly aggressive and public operations in U.S. cities.
And President Trump signals the U.S. could run Venezuela “much longer” than expected, as oil executives head to the White House to discuss America’s expanded oversight of the country’s future.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Gigi Douban, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Milton Guevara and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Minneapolis Protests
(05:29) Immigration Enforcement Shootings
(09:04) Running Venezuela

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Minnesota ICE Shooting, Venezuela Oil Tanker Pursuit, RFK Jr's New Dietary Guidelines

January 8, 2026

Minnesota state law enforcement officials are working with the FBI to investigate the fatal shooting of a Minneapolis woman by an Immigrations and Customs Enforcement officer.
U.S. forces boarded a tanker carrying sanctioned oil after a two-week chase across the Atlantic, as the Trump administration expands plans to take control of Venezuela’s oil sales indefinitely.
And Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s new dietary guidelines flip decades of advice, elevating meat and dairy and alarming many public health researchers.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Kelsey Snell, Kate Bartlett, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from David Greenburg. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Minnesota ICE Shooting
(05:48) Venezuela Oil Tanker Pursuit
(09:35) RFK Jr's New Dietary Guidelines

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Next Steps In Venezuela, GOP 2026 Roadmap, Greenland and Europe

January 7, 2026

President Trump talks about next steps for Venezuela, calling for U.S. companies to help rebuild the economy even as much of the existing power structure remains in place.
Facing tough midterm elections in 2026, Trump tells House Republicans he’s struggling to understand voters and leans into culture-war issues rather than cost-of-living concerns.
And European leaders rally around Greenland, pushing back on Trump’s renewed claims that the United States needs the territory for national security.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Kelsey Snell, Kate Bartlett, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:59) Next Steps In Venezuela
(05:47) GOP 2026 Roadmap
(09:32) Greenland and Europe

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Maduro Pleads Not Guilty, Congress On Venezuela, Vaccine Schedule Overhaul

January 6, 2026

Ousted Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro and his wife plead not guilty in New York, after a U.S. military operation brought them out of Venezuela and into a federal courtroom.
Lawmakers are divided after a classified congressional briefing on Venezuela, with Republicans insisting the president acted within the law and Democrats asking what comes next.
And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention scales back routine childhood vaccine recommendations at President Trump’s direction, some pediatricians warn it could leave more kids vulnerable.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Gigi Douban, Jane Greenhalgh, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacy Abbott. And our technical director is Neisha Heinis.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(1:57) Maduro Pleads Not Guilty
(05:32) Congress on Venezuela
(09:18) Vaccine Schedule Overhaul

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U.S. In Venezuela, Future Of Venezuela, Maduro In NYC Court

January 5, 2026

President Trump says the United States will run Venezuela after U.S. forces seized Nicolás Maduro and his wife in Caracas.
Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodriguez shifts from defiance to calls for cooperation as the White House ramps up pressure and threatens further action.
And Nicolás Maduro is set to appear in a New York courtroom, facing drug trafficking, weapons, and narco-terrorism charges that could test the reach of U.S. law overseas.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Tara Neill, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) U.S. In Venezuela
(05:49) Future Of Venezuela
(09:46) Maduro In NYC Court

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Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is in New York City, faces narcoterrorism charges

January 4, 2026

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is in a federal prison in Brooklyn, New York, awaiting trial on charges of narcoterrorism, cocaine-importation conspiracy and weapons charges. The operation to capture Maduro happened in the middle of the night as U.S. troops enjoyed the element of surprise. The U.S. says Maduro is not the legitimate president of Venezuela and accuse him of being the leader of a violent drug cartel.

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The U.S. strikes Venezuela, captures President Maduro

January 3, 2026

The U.S. bombed the Venezuelan capital Caracas and other areas of the country, and captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. President Donald Trump said Maduro is being flown to the U.S. and Attorney General Pam Bondi says he will be indicted in the Southern District of New York. The events come after months of escalating U.S. pressure, sending troops and warships to the Carribean.

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Daycare Fraud Claims Fallout, Epstein Files Mess, Swiss Nightclub Fire

January 2, 2026

Somali-run day care centers in Minnesota report threats and vandalism after a viral right-wing video accusing them of fraud prompts federal action with nationwide consequences.
The Justice Department misses its deadline to release the Epstein files, fueling confusion and conspiracy theories as heavily redacted and unreliable documents trickle out.
And Switzerland begins days of mourning after a deadly New Year’s Eve fire rips through a crowded nightclub at a ski resort, killing dozens and injuring many more.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Luis Clemens, Dana Farrington, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Kaity Kline and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is David Greenburg..

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Daycare Fraud Claims Fallout
(05:31) Epstein Files Mess
(09:27) Swiss Nightclub Fire

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Healthcare Subsides Expire, Trump and Minnesota, Mamdani Takes Office In NYC

January 1, 2026

Health insurance costs jump for millions after pandemic-era Affordable Care Act subsidies expired overnight.
The Trump administration freezes child care funding nationwide after targeting Minnesota over unproven fraud claims tied to Somali-run day care centers.
And New York City’s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, is sworn in at midnight as he prepares to take office.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Carrie Feibel, Cheryl Corley, Andrea De Leon, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:33) Health care Subsidies Expire
(05:53) Trump and Minnesota
(10:06) Mamdani Takes Office in NYC

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U.S. Strikes Inside Venezuela, Iran Protests, Flu Cases Surge

December 31, 2025

President Trump confirms the first known U.S. strike inside Venezuela, saying it targets drug trafficking as critics warn it risks escalation.
Iranian authorities shut down cities and security forces move in to contain growing protests as anger over inflation and sanctions boils over.
And the flu is spreading fast across the U.S., with a new strain driving cases higher just as vaccination rates slip and hospitals brace for what’s next.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, James Hider, Rebecca Davis, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(03:30) U.S. Strikes Inside Venezuela
(07:25) Iran Protests
(11:22) Flu Cases Surge

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Trump Pushes Hamas Disarmament, Ukraine Peace Talks, A Year Of DOGE

December 30, 2025

President Trump doubles down on demanding Hamas disarm after meeting with Israel’s prime minister, and warned Iran not to rebuild its nuclear program.
Ukraine’s president presses the White House for decades-long U.S. security guarantees as part of a proposed peace deal with Russia.
And a year after DOGE’s push to shrink government, agencies are smaller, spending is higher, and millions of Americans’ data remains in play.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Ruth Sherlock, Anna Yukhananov, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(03:13) Trump Pushes Hamas Disarmament
(07:25) Ukraine Peace Talks
(10:45) A Year Of DOGE

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Trump Zelensky Meeting, Netanyahu Mar-a-Lago Meeting, Rough Year For Poverty Aid

December 29, 2025

President Trump and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy signal momentum on peace talks, but fighting continues and key disputes remain.
Israel’s prime minister is in Mar-a-Lago today as pressure mounts over Gaza, Iran, and what comes next in Trump's ceasefire deal.
And anti-poverty groups warn funding chaos is forcing cuts just as more Americans need help.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Miguel Macias, Catherine Laidlaw, Mohamad ElBardicy, Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Simon-Laslow Jansen. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(00:00) Introduction
(03:26) Trump Zelensky Meeting
(07:17) Netanyahu Mar-a-Lago Meeting
(10:53) Rough Year For Poverty Aid

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A New Chapter, Later in Life

December 28, 2025

At the end of every year, many of us resolve to make small changes in our lives. But what would it take to make a radical change–and can it still be done if you’ve reached retirement age? Today on The Sunday Story, WBUR reporter Anthony Brooks shares stories about people he’s met who’ve done just that.

To hear more of Anthony’s reporting on people who reinvented themselves late in life, check out his series "The Third Act."

This interview originally aired on January 19, 2025.

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The Second Trump Administration, South America Shifts Right, Time For Sports

December 27, 2025

NPR’s Ron Elving has been thinking about the state of U.S. politics since President Donald Trump returned to power. Also, several countries in South America elected conservative and even far right leaders in 2025, marking a political and ideological shift in the region. And, we’ll have the highlight reel from the year in sports.

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U.S. Strikes ISIS In Nigeria, The Year In Congress, Holiday Spending

December 26, 2025

President Trump has announced the U.S. launched a number of strikes against Islamic State militants in northwestern Nigeria. Congress started 2025 with an ambitious legislative agenda, but 12 months later has ceded much of its power to President Trump and has passed a record low number of bills. And, shoppers spent a record amount of money this holiday season even as polling finds Americans are feeling glum about the economy.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Jason Breslow, Emily Kopp, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from David Greenberg. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(00:00) Introduction
(02:00) U.S. Strikes ISIS In Nigeria
(05:40) The Year In Congress
(09:28) Holiday Spending

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Christmas In Bethlehem, Honduras Election Result, Immigration Crackdown

December 25, 2025

After two years of not celebrating because of the war in nearby Gaza, Christmas festivities have returned to Bethlehem. Election officials in Honduras have named the winner of the country’s presidential election, after more than three weeks of counting the votes. And, in a year of record breaking immigration enforcement, deportations and detentions are separating families and in some cases that means the oldest children become the family breadwinner.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by James Hider, Didi Schanche, Eric Westervelt and Lisa Thomson.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is David Greenburg.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(00:00) Introduction
(03:11) Christmas In Bethlehem
(06:58) Honduras Election Result
(10:40) Immigration Crackdown

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New Epstein Documents, SCOTUS National Guard, GDP Growth

December 24, 2025

The Justice Department released about 30,000 pages of new documents related to the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled against the Trump administration to block the deployment of National Guard troops to the Chicago area. And, the U.S. economy grew faster than economists had predicted, in July through September.

(00:00) Introduction
(02:17) New Epstein Documents
(06:15) SCOTUS National Guard
(10:00) GDP Growth

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Alina Hartounian, Rafael Nam, Lisa Thomson and Arezou Rezvani.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from David Greenburg. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

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Trump Announces 'Golden Fleet', Judge Rules Deportations Illegal, Heritage Exodus

December 23, 2025

President Trump has announced the Navy will begin building a new class of warship named after himself. A federal judge has ruled the deportations of more than 100 Venezuelan men to El Salvador were illegal. And, a number of staff members have left the think tank behind Project 2025 to join a group founded by former Vice President Mike Pence.

(00:00) Introduction
(04:03) Trump Announces 'Golden Fleet'
(07:50) Judge Rules Deportations Illegal
(11:39) Heritage Foundation Exodus

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Anna Yukhananov, Jason Breslow, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woefle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

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Coast Guard Pursues Tanker, Epstein Files Release, Immigration Court No-Shows

December 22, 2025

The U.S. Coast Guard is pursuing an oil tanker in the Caribbean that it says has links to Venezuela. The Department of Justice has released a limited number of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. And, an analysis by NPR finds thousands of immigrants without legal status aren’t showing up to immigration court, leading to a rise in deportation removals.

(00:00) Cold Open
(01:37) Introduction
(03:43) Coast Guard Pursues Tanker
(08:02) Epstein Files Release
(10:43) Immigration Court No-Shows

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tara Neill, Anna Yukhanonov, Lisa Thomson and Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Where Kids Play

December 21, 2025

During the holidays, the kids are off from school, so they might be enjoying some extra screentime. It’s a reality many parents begrudgingly accept. But is time spent playing online games always a cause for concern? On The Sunday Story, host Ayesha Rascoe (whose kids are spending a lot of time lately playing Roblox, Minecraft and Fortnite) sits down with researcher Eli Stark-Elster to clear up some misconceptions around the harms of screentime.

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Epstein Files Release, Health Care Subsidies, Surviving The Holiday Season

December 20, 2025

The Justice Department releases a vast trove of documents relating to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Also, Congress left Washington D.C. for its holiday break without reaching a deal on health care. Millions of Americans will face price hikes on their insurance premiums. And surviving the holiday season, we’ll have tips on what can be a stressful time of the year.

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Brown University Suspect Found Dead, Epstein Files Deadline, Kennedy Center Renamed

December 19, 2025

The suspected gunman behind the shooting at Brown University and the killing of an MIT professor has been found dead. The Justice Department faces a deadline to release files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. And the board of the Kennedy Center has voted to change the name of the cultural hub to the Trump Kennedy Center.
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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Robbie Griffiths, Megan Pratz, Jay Vanasco, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Trump Addresses Nation, Congress ACA Vote, Venezuela Oil Tankers

December 18, 2025

In a nationwide address, President Trump says the U.S. is poised for an economic boom and that high prices are falling rapidly. Four Republicans joined Democrats to force a vote on a three year extension of the enhanced healthcare subsidies. And, President Trump has ordered a ban on all sanctioned oil tankers going to and from Venezuela.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Kelsey Snell, Andrew Sussman, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Republican Healthcare Vote, Susie Wiles Interview, Nuclear Reactor Regulations

December 17, 2025

Congress has two days to take action on health care subsidies, before lawmakers head home for the holiday recess. Vanity Fair has published a story featuring rare interviews conducted over more than a year with White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. And, the Trump administration is fast-tracking construction of new nuclear reactor designs.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Rebekah Metzler, Brett Neely, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woefle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Supervising Editor is Jan Johnson.

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Nick Reiner Arrested, Brown University Suspect Search, Bondi Beach Aftermath

December 16, 2025

A son of filmmaker Rob Reiner and producer Michele Singer Reiner has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is being held without bail. Authorities in Rhode Island are asking for the public’s help in identifying the gunman behind the shooting at Brown University. And, Australian authorities say the two suspected gunmen behind the mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach were inspired by Islamic State.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Matteen Mokalla, Andrea DeLeon, Rebecca Rosman, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woefle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

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Bondi Beach Attack, Brown University Latest, Reiner Investigation

December 15, 2025

Australian authorities have more detail about who they believe killed at least 15 people in a shooting at a Hanukkah celebration over the weekend. Authorities say they’ll release a “Person of Interest" detained after the Brown University shooting. And, police are investigating the reported deaths of actor and director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebecca Rosman, Alfredo Carbajal, Matteen Mokalla , Lisa Thomson and Arezou Rezvani.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Best Friends and Life Partners

December 14, 2025

What was the biggest thing that changed for you this year? We’ll go first: our host Ayesha Rascoe bought a house with her best friend! Now the two of them are living together and platonically coparenting five kids under the same roof. The seed of this idea actually came from a conversation Ayesha had last year, when she sat down with NPR producer and editor Rhaina Cohen to talk about her book, "The Other Significant Others: Reimagining Life with Friendship at the Center." In the book, Rhaina shares stories about friends who own homes together, raise kids with each other, and care for each other in old age. At the end of the year, when so many of us are reflecting on personal milestones and relationships, we’re sharing Ayesha and Rhaina’s conversation again. Because so much is possible when you choose to put friendship at the center of your life.

This interview originally aired on February 11, 2024.

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Health Care Subsidies, Flooding In Washington, DOJ Under President Trump

December 13, 2025

Health care subsidies are set to expire at the end of this year. Millions of Americans face price hikes but can Congress reach a deal to alleviate the pain? Historic flooding hits part of the Pacific Northwest, we’ll have the latest from Washington. Plus, a look at the U.S. Justice Department under President Trump.

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Zelenskyy and Peace Promises, Abrego Garcia Release, Indiana Rejects Redistricting

December 12, 2025

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he’s willing to hold elections if the US and other allies help ensure security. Is that a promise Trump can make as he pushes Ukraine to surrender territory to Russia? Also, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a man illegally deported by the Trump administration in March and eventually returned, is now free from immigration custody. Plus, Republicans in Indiana have rejected a redistricting proposal. President Trump successfully pushed other states to redraw their congressional maps to help Republicans win next year’s midterm elections, so why did Indiana’s Republicans break with the president?

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kate Bartlett, Anna Yukhananov, Larry Kaplow and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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ACA Vote, Fed Cuts Interest Rates, US-Venezuela

December 11, 2025

With Obamacare health insurance subsidies set to expire this month, millions of Americans are bracing for massive increases in healthcare costs. Also, the Federal Reserve’s decision to cut interest rates may help the job market but hurt efforts to wrangle inflation. Will the central bank continue slashing rates into 20-26? Plus, the Trump administration says it’s seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Diane Webber, Rafael Nam, Andrew Sussman and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Trump Economy, Federal Reserve December, Afghan Fighters' Struggles

December 10, 2025

President Trump insists the economy is thriving. So, how does he explain why so many voters view the economy negatively? Also, the Federal Reserve considers whether to cut interest rates today. Will concerns over inflation keep rates as is or will unemployment worries prompt another cut? Plus, the unraveling of the Afghan man accused of gunning down two National Guard members. How are other Afghans in the US who fought for the CIA navigating the stress and despair that commonly haunt frontline soldiers?

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Rafael Nam, Luis Clemens, Alice Woelfle, and Arezou Rezvani.

It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

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Trump Defends Affordability, SCOTUS & Presidential Power, Indiana Redistricting

December 9, 2025

President Trump heads to Pennsylvania to defend his record on affordability as polls show voters increasingly blame his policies for high prices.
The Supreme Court appears poised to grant presidents far greater power over independent agencies, signaling a major shift in how the federal government operates.
And Indiana lawmakers move toward a congressional map that could eliminate the state’s last two Democratic seats, intensifying a nationwide battle over mid-cycle redistricting.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Krishnadev Calamur, Kelsey Snell, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Senior Supervising Producer is Vince Pearson.

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SCOTUS FTC Case, ACA Extension Vote, Zelenskyy In London

December 8, 2025

The Supreme Court hears a case that could upend decades of limits on executive power by allowing the president to fire leaders of independent agency leaders.
Pandemic-era Affordable Care Act subsidies are on track to expire at the end of the month, with Democrats pushing an extension and Republicans offering no unified plan.
And President Zelenskyy meets with European leaders in London as they push back on U.S. pressure for Ukraine to accept concessions in peace talks with Russia.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Dana Farrington, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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The Families Hiding from ICE

December 7, 2025

With increased immigration enforcement under President Trump, many families with undocumented members are living in fear of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. Many are afraid to leave their homes and families are having to face the reality that they may be separated, detained and even deported. This week on The Sunday Story, NPR immigration correspondent Jasmine Garsd, reporting for the Code Switch podcast, takes us into the lives of the immigrant families who are facing immense pressure in the United States.

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CDC Vaccine Vote; Netflix Buys Warner Bros; Economic Outlook

December 6, 2025

A CDC advisory panel has voted to roll back Hepatitis B vaccines for newborns. If approved, it could reverse 30 years of gains in fighting the liver disease. We also look how Hollywood is responding Netflix purchasing Warner Bros. And we look at a series of economic indicators and how the Federal Reserve might respond to in their meeting next week.

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Hegseth Scrutiny, Jan 6th Pipe Bomb Suspect, Texas Redistricting Ruling

December 5, 2025

A Pentagon watchdog report and video of a deadly boat strike in the Caribbean deepen scrutiny of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s actions.
Federal agents arrested a Virginia man accused of planting the Jan. 6 pipe bombs after a years-long investigation that uncovered new forensic leads.
And the Supreme Court cleared Texas to use a Republican-drawn congressional map that could shift multiple House seats and reshape the 2026 midterms.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Anna Yukhananov, Ben Swasey, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from David Greenburg. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor

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Trump's Racist Somali Remarks, Signalgate Report, CDC Vaccine Meeting

December 4, 2025

President Trump leans into a familiar political strategy of attacking immigrant communities as he intensifies racist comments about Minnesota’s Somali population and Congresswoman Ilhan Omar.
A Pentagon watchdog report finds Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth endangered U.S. troops by sharing classified strike plans over Signal, directly undercutting the White House’s claim that no harm was done.
And a CDC advisory panel appointed by the Trump administration prepares to revisit long-standing vaccine recommendations, including whether to scale back protections for newborns and young children.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Andrew Sussman, Scott Hensley, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from David Greenburg. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Russia Rejects Peace Proposal, Hegseth Defends Boat Strikes, Tennessee House Election

December 3, 2025

A five-hour meeting between Vladimir Putin and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff ends without a breakthrough, as the Kremlin rejects key parts of the updated Ukraine peace plan.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shifts his account of the U.S. strike on an alleged drug boat, saying he didn’t order the second, lethal attack as lawmakers press for answers.
And a special House election in deep-red Tennessee district tightened far more than expected, offering both parties clues about voter energy heading into the 2026 midterms.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebecca Rossman, Jason Breslow, Megan Pratz, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

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Hegseth Boat Strikes, Witkoff To Moscow, National Guard Shooting Suspect

December 2, 2025

A U.S. official contradicts the White House account of who ordered the deadly boat strike in the Caribbean, while President Trump considers his next moves with Venezuela.
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff heads to Moscow for high-stakes talks after revising the peace agreement with Ukrainian negotiators.
And new details about the Afghan man accused of shooting two National Guard soldiers point to a long-running mental health crisis rather than radicalization.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebecca Metzler, Miguel Macias, Alina Hartounian, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Senior Supervising Producer is Vince Pearson.

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National Guard Shooting & Immigration, Venezuela Latest, Ukraine Negotiations

December 1, 2025

The White House is moving swiftly to tighten legal immigration reviews after two National Guard members were shot in Washington, D.C. last week, escalating scrutiny on asylum seekers, green card holders and refugees already living in the U.S.
U.S. strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean are under growing scrutiny, as some lawmakers warn one attack may constitute a war crime.
And Ukraine enters a new round of negotiations without its top negotiator, after a corruption scandal forces out President Zelensky’s powerful chief of staff.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Tara Neill, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Lisa Thompson.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Your Next Great Listen

November 30, 2025

Are you searching for your next favorite podcast? With an endless queue of options, it can be hard to choose. That’s where Lauren Gonzalez, co-writer of the Pod Club newsletter, can help. The Pod Club newsletter aims to cut through the clutter and help you decipher what’s worth listening to. Sign up for the newsletter here: npr.org/podclub.

Podcasts featured in this episode:

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Airbus A-320 Inspections, Afghan Asylum Seekers in Limbo, Real Video or AI Generated?

November 29, 2025

A JetBlue plane plunged uncontrollably last month prompting the parent company to issue an order to inspect all Airbus A-320 jets. It’s bad timing for holiday travel. Afghans waiting for asylum say they are in limbo after the Trump administration paused all asylum decisions. This comes after an Afghan national killed a National Guard soldier and wounded another. Tips on how to tell a real video from one generated by AI.

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Trump Suspends Immigration After Guard Attack, Holiday Economy, Retail Spending

November 28, 2025

One of the two National Guard members allegedly shot by an Afghan man in Washington, D.C. has died. In response, President Trump says he wants to permanently suspend immigration from certain countries.

With the holiday season in full swing, consumer confidence in the U.S. has dropped to its lowest level in months. Yet, despite these worries about the economy retail sales this holiday season are expected to top $1 trillion for the first time.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Julia Redpath, Emily Kopp, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Andie Huether.

Our technical director is Stacey Abbott

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Targeted Attack On National Guard, Trump Case Dismissed, Russia Awaits Peace Terms

November 27, 2025

Two national guard members are in critical condition after being shot near the White House. President Trump says the suspect came to the U.S. from Afghanistan. He now calls for a re-examination of all Afghan nationals.

There will also be no legal consequences for Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results. A federal judge dismissed the last outstanding election interference case against the president in Georgia.

Also, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff is set to arrive in Moscow next week, where do things stand in the ongoing peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine?

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Ben Swasey, Robbie Griffiths, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Ukraine Peace Negotiations, Trump's Ukraine Motivations, Holiday Travel

November 26, 2025

Leaked transcripts of a call between U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and an advisor of Russian President Vladimir Putin detail how President Trump’s 28-point peace proposal came about. The president dismisses the leak, saying it shows standard negotiating tactics.

Trump, who once campaigned on ending the war within 24 hours, is now thought to care more about reaching a deal than what’s in it.

And millions of Americans will take to the skies this week. The FAA says this year’s Thanksgiving could be the busiest in more than a decade.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kate Bartlett, Rebekah Metzler, Russell Lewis, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

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One-on-one with Utah Governor Spencer Cox

November 25, 2025

After the right-wing activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated, Utah Governor Spencer Cox called for civility. Steve Inskeep spoke to him at a meeting of the Western Governors' Association.

The full video of our interview with the governor is on npr.org and on YouTube.

This bonus episode of Up First was edited by Arezou Rezvani. It was produced by Taylor Haney and Julie Depenbrock. We got engineering support from Jimmy Keeley. Our executive producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Comey and James Indictments Dismissed, New Ukraine Peace Plan, Pressure On Venezuela

November 25, 2025

A federal judge dismissed the indictments President Trump ordered up against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. The judge found the prosecutor in the case was improperly appointed.

Europeans have offered their own proposal to end the war in Ukraine. How is it different from President Trump’s 28-point proposal?

Also, the Trump administration named Venezuela’s president the leader of a terror group.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Kate Bartlett, Rebekah Metzler, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Damien Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producers are Vince Pearson and Michael Lipkin.

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Updated Ukraine Peace Plan, MAGA Fractures, Fragile Gaza Ceasefire

November 24, 2025

The U.S. and Ukraine have updated President Trump’s 28-point peace proposal. They acted after widespread criticism of the original plan that appeared to heavily favor Russia.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia announced that she will resign form Congress early next year following a feud with Trump. She also said Trump and her party lost their ways.

Also, Israel and Hamas are accusing each other of ceasefire violations.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Willem Marx, Krishnadev Calamur, Miguel Macias, HJ Mai and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producers are Vince Pearson and Michael Lipkin.

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Higher Education’s AI Problem

November 23, 2025

Across the country, colleges and universities are struggling to figure out how to incorporate AI into the classroom. ChatGPT debuted almost exactly three years ago. And very quickly, students began to see its potential as a study buddy, an immense research tool and, for some, a way to cheat the system.

This week on The Sunday Story we look at the rapid growth of AI in higher ed and consider what it means for the future of teaching and learning.

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Parsing the Peace Deal, MAGA Star Quits, Obesity Pills, (Bonus!) Books We Love

November 22, 2025

Russia's long-standing requests are predominant in a peace deal for Ukraine brokered by American and Russian envoys. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green, R-Ga., says she will resign her Congressional seat in January. Pill versions of the obesity drugs now requiring injections are on the way. BONUS: 2025's best plot-driven books.

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CDC Links Vaccines and Autism, Trump's Ukraine Peace Plan, Mamdani Meets Trump

November 21, 2025

The CDC quietly rewrites its vaccine guidance online to suggest shots might cause autism, raising new questions about political influence over public health.
President Trump unveils a 28-point Ukraine peace plan that leans on territorial concessions Kyiv has repeatedly rejected.
And New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani heads to the White House for a meeting with a president who has labeled him a radical threat.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jane Greenhalgh, Rebekah Metzler, Megan Pratz, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor

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Comey Prosecution Troubles, New Findings In Epstein Documents, Nvidia & A.I. Bubble

November 20, 2025

Former FBI director James Comey’s prosecution hits a major snag after prosecutors admit the grand jury never reviewed his full indictment, raising questions about whether the case can even proceed.
Thousands of already released Epstein documents shed new light on the powerful figures who stayed close to Jeffrey Epstein even after his conviction.
And Nvidia’s staggering earnings and $5 trillion valuation fuel both optimism and warnings about whether the AI boom is entering bubble territory.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Megan Pratz, Julia Redpath, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump Defends Saudi Prince, Epstein Bill Passes, Trump Low Approval Rating

November 19, 2025

President Trump defends Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a White House visit, even as the two leaders unveil sweeping military, nuclear, and investment agreements.
Congress overwhelmingly passes a bill compelling the Justice Department to release its Epstein files, setting up a 30-day countdown that could spark new political fights over redactions.
And a new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll shows Trump at his lowest approval rating of his second term, with voters demanding that he focus on lowering prices as Democrats gain a significant edge heading into 2026.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Kelsey Snell, Megan Pratz, Rebecca Rossman, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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House Votes On Epstein Files, MAGA Coalition Cracks, Saudi Leader Visits White House

November 18, 2025

The House votes today on whether to force the release of long-awaited Epstein files, a move pushed by a bipartisan coalition despite President Trump’s earlier efforts to stop it. A widening feud between Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene exposes growing cracks inside the MAGA movement over foreign policy and the “America First” agenda. And President Trump welcomes Saudi Arabia’s crown prince to the White House as both sides seek deeper security and economic ties.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Megan Pratz, Rebecca Rossman, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump's Epstein Reversal, US Military Pressure On Venezuela, Charlotte Border Patrol

November 17, 2025

President Trump suddenly reverses course on the Epstein files, urging Republicans to support a House vote on Tuesday that he was previously trying to block. In the Caribbean, a major U.S. military buildup raises new questions about the administration’s strategy toward Venezuela as Trump claims President Maduro “would like to talk.” And in Charlotte, North Carolina, a new Border Patrol operation sparks fear and confusion after immigration enforcement agents fan out across the city with little warning.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Tara Neill, Kevin Drew, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.

We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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What is a ceasefire?

November 16, 2025

President Trump says his Gaza peace plan will end the war between Israel and Hamas and launch a new era of peace in the Middle East. But a month into the ceasefire, progress on implementing the 20-point plan appears to be stalling. Today on The Sunday Story, NPR correspondents Aya Batrawy and Daniel Estrin unpack the ceasefire plan and why it’s not going according to plan. Why is the deal so fragile, and what does this mean for Gaza? And for the first time in over two years of war, NPR goes to the part of Gaza where Israel is fortifying its military occupation.

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Congressional To-Do List, Trump V. BBC, Ukraine Update

November 15, 2025

Congress returns to further negotiations on health care subsidies and an earlier-than-expected vote on the Epstein files. President Trump is threatening to sue the BBC over an edit of his speech on January 6, 2021. Russian attacks and a major new corruption probe are the latest developments from Kyiv.

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Epstein Files Fallout, Charlotte Immigration Patrols, Economic Impact Of Shutdown

November 14, 2025

The White House is calling the recent trove of Epstein documents a "distraction" as both Democratic and Republican lawmakers call for the full release of the Epstein files. In Charlotte, North Carolina, city leaders and residents are scrambling after last-minute notice that Border Patrol agents could arrive within days. And economists warn the government shutdown left lasting scars on the U.S. economy, from lost wages to missing federal data that may never be recovered.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Susanna Capelouto, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor

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Epstein Documents Dump, Government Reopens, Affordable Care Act Limbo

November 13, 2025

Newly released emails from Jeffrey Epstein’s files include messages linking President Trump to the disgraced financier, as Congress prepares to vote on a bill forcing the release of the full Epstein records. After 43 days, the longest government shutdown in U.S. history ends with a bipartisan deal that leaves Democrats split over what they gained. And with health insurance subsidies still set to expire, millions of Americans could soon face higher premiums unless lawmakers act before year’s end.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Kelsey Snell, Diane Webber, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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House Shutdown Vote, Aviation Challenges, USS Ford Heads to the Caribbean

November 12, 2025

House Republicans say they have the votes to end the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, a vote today could send the bill to President Trump’s desk by nightfall. The FAA warns that flight disruptions will continue even after the government reopens, as air traffic controller shortages strain the nation’s aviation system. And the U.S. deploys its largest aircraft carrier to the Caribbean, escalating tensions with Venezuela.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Russell Lewis, Andrew Sussman, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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House Votes on Funding Bill, Shutdown Deal Dissent, COP30 Global Emissions

November 11, 2025

The House returns to vote on a bipartisan bill that could end the longest government shutdown in U.S. history and send thousands of federal workers back to their jobs. Democrats face internal backlash after several senators broke ranks to support the deal, raising questions about the impact ahead of next year's midterm elections. And COP30 opens in Brazil with a stark warning on global emissions, new data shows fossil fuels are at record highs, and the world is still far from meeting its climate goals.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Megan Pratz, Neela Banerjee, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Senate Shutdown Breakthrough, SNAP Legal Battle, COP30 Climate Summit Starts

November 10, 2025

Senate Democrats break ranks to join Republicans in backing a deal to reopen the government after 41 days, a move that could finally end the longest shutdown in U.S. history. SNAP benefits remain tangled in court battles, as a late ruling orders the Trump administration to fully restore payments while states face threats of federal penalties. And world leaders gather in Brazil for a major climate conference, but the Trump administration says the U.S. won't be at the table.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Kevin Drew, Neela Banerjee, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Carlson’s War: Part 1

November 9, 2025

What does it mean to live through war? And can someone who’s experienced war ever get over it? These are questions NPR’s Quil Lawrence has been asking himself for years. A decade ago, Lawrence did a story on David Carlson, a veteran who’d excelled at being a soldier but struggled at home with PTSD, drugs and finally incarceration. Could Carlson find a way out or would the trauma of war come to define his life?
Listen to Part 2 here.

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Carlson’s War: Part 2

November 9, 2025

Part 2: In part two of Carlson’s War, we find Dave Carlson locked up in prison while tormented by PTSD from his time serving in Iraq. Alone and in pain, Carlson reverts back to a combat mindset and finds himself in a dark place. From here, Carlson sets out on a mission to turn his life around. What can we learn from one veteran’s journey to recovery?

If you haven’t heard Part 1, listen here.

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Who's Been Paying Tariffs, DHS Surveillance Tools, Israel Holds Florida Teen

November 8, 2025

U.S. consumers have not borne the full brunt of President Trump's tariffs but that may change if they are held up, all or in part, by the Supreme Court. The Department of Homeland Security is employing powerful new tools to surveil foreigners. A Floridian, arrested by Israel earlier this year at age 15 in a rock-throwing incident, faces 20 years in prison.

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FAA Cuts Flights, SNAP Ruling, Trump Focused Abroad

November 7, 2025

The FAA directs airlines to cut flights by ten percent as the government shutdown strains the nation’s air traffic system. A federal judge orders the Trump administration to fully restore SNAP food benefits by today, blasting it for ignoring the harm to millions of Americans who rely on them. And President Trump hosts Hungary’s Viktor Orbán at the White House, while some of his allies say he should be paying more attention to the economy at home.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Russell Lewis, Catherine Laidlaw, Dana Farrington, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.

We get engineering support from David Greenburg. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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State Of The Shutdown, SCOTUS Tariff Arguments, Chicago ICE Ruling

November 6, 2025

President Trump calls on Senate Republicans to end the government shutdown by scrapping the filibuster, even as he admits the standoff hurt the party in this week’s elections. The Supreme Court hears arguments on whether Trump overstepped his authority by imposing tariffs under a decades-old emergency powers law. And in Chicago, federal judges side against the administration in immigration enforcement cases, ordering cleaner detention centers and tighter limits on the use of force.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Krishnadev Calamur Cheryl Corely, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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VA NJ Governor Races, Mamdani Elected NYC Mayor, California Redistricting

November 5, 2025

Democrats won two governor's races in Virginia and New Jersey, victories they call a rejection of President Trump’s policies and a sign that economic issues are resonating with voters. New York City elected Zohran Mamdani as its first Muslim mayor, defeating former governor Andrew Cuomo in a race that drew record voter turnout. And California voters approved a new congressional map that could give Democrats up to five more House seats in next year’s midterms.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Larry Kaplow, Acacia Squires, Miguel Macias, Ben Swasey, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

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Four Big Races To Watch, Partial SNAP Funding, Sudan Famine, Dick Cheney Dies at 84

November 4, 2025

Voters in New York, Virginia and New Jersey choose new leaders today, and a redistricting vote in California could reshape the balance of power in Congress. The Trump administration says it will restart SNAP benefits, but only partially, leaving millions of families uncertain about how they’ll eat this month. Aid groups warn of a deepening crisis in Sudan after a paramilitary force accused of genocide seized the last major city in Darfur, killing thousands of people and trapping many more without food or water. And former Vice President Dick Cheney has died due to complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease, according to a statement from his family. He was 84 years old.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Ben Swasey, Catherine Laidlaw, Kate Bartlett, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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Trump's Shutdown Travel, SNAP Benefits Gap, NYC Mayoral Race

November 3, 2025

President Trump returns to Washington D.C. after a week of international travel and a weekend at his resort in Florida while the government shutdown enters its second month. SNAP benefits ran out over the weekend, leaving millions without food aid as courts press the administration to use emergency funds. And New York City voters head to the polls tomorrow in a heated mayoral race between Zohran Mamdani and former Governor Andrew Cuomo that could shape the future of the Democratic Party.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Russell Lewis, Andrea de Leon, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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How Smaller Families are Changing the World

November 2, 2025

Across the globe, there is a shift in the size of families as birthrates decline. Communities, schools, and workforces are all shrinking at an alarming rate. Even in the wealthiest countries populations are aging and straining key social systems. How are smaller families changing the world and what does it mean for our future? Explore the full series at npr.org/populationshift.

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SNAP decision, Open Enrollment, Electricity Prices Increase

November 1, 2025

Two judges rule that it’s unlawful for President Trump to suspend SNAP food benefits. With higher premiums and a government shutdown, open enrollment for health insurance is different this year. Higher electricity prices are factoring into who voters in New Jersey and Virginia pick as their governors.

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Democrats' Shutdown Pressure, SNAP Deadline, Nuclear Testing

October 31, 2025

Democrats are facing growing pressure to end the government shutdown as millions brace to lose food aid and health care costs surge. A federal judge weighs whether to force the Trump administration to keep SNAP benefits flowing for 42 million Americans as funding runs out. And President Trump says the U.S. should resume nuclear weapons testing for the first time in decades, a move experts warn could reignite a global arms race.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Catherine Laidlaw, Kelsey Snell, Brett Neely, Mohamad ElBardicy and Ally Schweitzer.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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Trump-Xi Meeting, Head Start Funding, Surgeon General Nominee

October 30, 2025

President Trump met with China’s President Xi Jinping in South Korea, where the two leaders agree to ease trade tensions after months of tariff wars and threats. More than 65,000 children could lose access to Head Start as the government shutdown threatens to cut off funding for childcare and early learning programs. And a Senate confirmation hearing for Trump’s nominee for Surgeon General, Dr. Casey Means, was delayed after she went into labor.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Lauren Migaki, Diane Webber, Mohamad ElBardicy and Ally Schweitzer.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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Hurricane Melissa Aftermath, Israel Strikes Gaza Again, Air-Traffic Controllers

October 29, 2025

Hurricane Melissa devastates Jamaica, leaving neighborhoods underwater and hundreds of thousands without power as it moves toward Cuba. President Trump insisted nothing will jeopardize the ceasefire in Gaza, even after Israel launched new strikes while both sides accuse each other of violations. And air-traffic controllers are working without pay as the government shutdown strains the aviation system and threatens more flight disruptions.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Tara Neil, Russell Lewis, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Ally Schweitzer.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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SNAP Benefits Shutdown, Trump In Japan, Hurricane Melissa

October 28, 2025

More than 40 million Americans will soon be without federal food assistance because SNAP benefits are set to expire on November 1 as the government shutdown drags on. President Trump signs a trade deal in Japan to secure rare earth minerals, a key bargaining chip ahead of his meeting with China's president later this week. And Hurricane Melissa bring over 170 mile per hour winds as it barrels towards Jamaica, and threatening other island nations in the Caribbean.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Padma Rama, Tara Neil, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle .

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas

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Trump In Asia, U.S. Military In Caribbean, Shutdown Week 4

October 27, 2025

President Trump’s Asia trip kicks off with peace deal between Cambodia and Thailand and a trade framework with China, before meeting with President Xi Jinping on Thursday. The massive U.S. military build up in the Caribbean waters off the coast of Venezuela is causing concern from Caracas to the U.S. Congress, Venezuelan troops conduct drills on their beaches this weekend. And federal workers face growing financial strain as the government shutdown threatens holiday travel and food benefits.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Tara Neil, Kelsey Snell, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle .

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Correction: In a previous audio version of this episode we refer to Venezuelan Minister Diosdado Cabello as Minister of Defense instead of Minister of Interior.

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Kiwi vs. Predator

October 26, 2025

In New Zealand, a nationwide extermination campaign is underway. It's one of the most ambitious in the world. The country is home to more than four thousand native species that are threatened or at risk of extinction. To protect its biodiversity, New Zealand has embarked on an experiment that aims to eradicate all invasive species by the year 2050. Can the country pull it off? And how far should humans go to reverse the damage we’ve caused?

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House Members During Shutdown; Trump Visits Asia; US Military Buildup in Caribbean

October 25, 2025

Some members of the House of Representatives are using down time during the shutdown to connect from their constituents back home - we'll tell you what they're hearing. We'll also preview President Trump's trip to Asia, which will be dominated by his administration's at times contentious relationship with China. Plus, the U.S. is ramping up its military presence in the Caribbean. The Pentagon says it's to counter drug traffickers - we'll tell you how the move is being seen in the region.

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Missed Paychecks, NBA Gambling Scandal, Russia Reacts

October 24, 2025

More than a million federal workers are missing their first full paycheck as the shutdown stretches into week four, with pressure building on Washington to end the standoff. A wild NBA gambling scandal involving secret gadgets lands an active player and a Hall of Fame coach in legal trouble. And Russia's president shrugs off new U.S. sanctions after President Trump cancels his summit with Vladimir Putin.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Emily Kopp, Russell Lewis, Kate Bartlett, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor

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Ukraine-EU Meeting, National Guard Deployment Cases, Pentagon Press Corps

October 23, 2025

European leaders meet with Ukraine’s president with billions in frozen Russian assets on the table as the European Union and United States impose new sanctions on Moscow. Courts could rule this week on key legal challenges to President Trump’s National Guard deployments in multiple cities. And the Pentagon press corps gets a right-wing makeover as new reporters replace legacy outlets.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Alina Hartounian, Emily Kopp, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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VP Vance In Israel, Shutdown Politics, White House Under Construction

October 22, 2025

Vice President JD Vance says he’s optimistic about the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas as the U.S. pushes for the next phase of the deal. It’s week four of the government shutdown, and the White House is ramping up pressure with cuts and layoffs. And the demolition of the East Wing raises legal and ethical questions about President Trump’s ballroom project.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Padmananda Rama, Miguel Macias, Dana Farrington, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas

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Shutdown Economics, U.S.- Colombia Tensions, Louvre Heist Fallout

October 21, 2025

The economic cost of the government shutdown is mounting, as workers miss paychecks and contracts stall. President Trump’s feud with Colombia is deepening, with threats to cut aid testing a decades-long alliance. And in France, outrage is growing after the Louvre jewel heist, with political backlash and a security crackdown underway.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Raphael Nam, Tara Neil, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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Airstrikes On Gaza, Shutdown Pressure Points, Venezuela Boat Strikes

October 20, 2025

Israel says the ceasefire is back on after it launched strikes on Gaza in response to clashes over the weekend that threaten to unravel a fragile deal. It's day 20 of the government shutdown, but the usual pressure points that push lawmakers toward a deal haven’t been felt yet. And the U.S. steps up military operations in the Caribbean, raising fears and tensions in the region.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebecca Rosman, Jason Breslow, Tara Neil, Mohamad ElBardicy and Ally Schweitzer.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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A Tiny Plot to Call Home

October 19, 2025

Homeless encampments are a part of the landscape in many U.S. cities. In Oakland, California, one of the longest-standing and most well-known encampments was at Union Point Park. It was right by the water, and it had a beautiful view of the sunset. But it was also a concern for some local residents, who worried about crime and safety. When the city tried to clear Union Point Park, the people who lived there united and fought back. Reporter Shaina Shealy followed this community for about a year, as they advocated for their own small plot of land in the city where they could live by their own rules, on their own terms. Her 5-part series from KQED’s Snap Studios is called A Tiny Plot.

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"No Kings" Protests; Aid Slow for Gaza; U.S. - China Trade War Heats Up

October 18, 2025

Thousands of "No Kings" rallies are planned across the U.S. today, protesting the Trump administration's policies. Plus, over a week in the Hamas-Israel ceasefire, desperately needed humanitarian aid has been slow to arrive in Gaza. We'll also look at the latest salvos in the ongoing trade war between the U.S. and China.

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Bolton Indicted, Trump and Zelenskyy Meeting, Rebuilding Gaza

October 17, 2025

John Bolton is indicted on 18 counts for allegedly mishandling classified information dating back to his time as national security advisor during President Trump’s first term. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meets with President Trump at the White House to discuss Ukraine's request for long-range missiles, Trump says he will meet with Russia's president in Hungary next. And the scale of Gaza’s reconstruction is staggering, with unexploded bombs buried in the rubble, nearly all buildings damaged or destroyed and major questions about who will lead the reconstruction.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Nick Spicer, Miguel Macias, Mohamad El Bardicy and Alice Woelfle

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara.

We get engineering support from Zac Coleman. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor

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Venezuela Escalation, Shutdown Layoffs Paused, Military Pay

October 16, 2025

President Trump escalates pressure on Venezuela, authorizing covert CIA operations and striking suspected drug boats. A federal judge pauses the Trump administration’s shutdown layoffs, at least for now. And active-duty troops get paid after a last-minute fix, but military families still feel the strain as the shutdown drags on.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Emily Kopp, Andrew Sussman, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara.

We get engineering support from Zac Coleman. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

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Gaza Ceasefire Tested, Shutdown Stalemate, SCOTUS Voting Rights

October 15, 2025

Hamas hands over more bodies of deceased hostages as tensions rise in Gaza over the next phase of the ceasefire deal. The government shutdown stretches into its third week with no negotiations underway, as pressure builds on both parties to break the stalemate. And the Supreme Court takes up a major case on Louisiana’s congressional map that could weaken the Voting Rights Act nationwide.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Jason Breslow, Anna Yukhananov, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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What's Next For Gaza?, Trump Return From Middle East Trip, ICE Tactics

October 14, 2025

A fragile ceasefire is holding in Gaza as Hamas fighters return to the streets and freed detainees cross back into the strip. President Trump returns from a Middle East trip celebrating the deal that ended the war, even as questions remain about how long it will last. And Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are ramping up arrest operations in several cities, raising concerns about ICE tactics in American cities.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Anna Yukhananov, Gigi Douban, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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Hostages Released, Trump In The Middle East, Shutdown Layoffs

October 13, 2025

Phase one of the Gaza ceasefire is underway as Hamas releases Israeli hostages and thousands of Palestinians held by Israel are being reunited with their families. President Trump addresses Israel's parliament ahead of his trip to Egypt to sign the deal he brokered. And the government shutdown enters its second week, with multiple agencies sending layoff notices and growing pressure on the military payroll.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kate Bartlett, Vincent Ni, Jason Breslow, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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ICE Under Trump

October 12, 2025

President Trump campaigned on a promise of mass deportations. Since he took office in January, agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement, also known as ICE, have been increasing detentions to try to meet that goal. Today on The Sunday Story, hear how ICE is changing under the Trump administration from two people who have been working inside the immigration system for decades. Listen to the full Throughline episode here.

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Nobel Laureate Maria Corina Machado on Regime Change in Venezuela

October 11, 2025

From hiding, Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado reacts to her Nobel Peace Prize, announced Friday, and tells NPR's Ayesha Rascoe why she dedicated the prize in part to President Trump.

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Israel, Hamas Peace Deal Latest; Federal Worker Layoffs; Health Care Subsidies

October 11, 2025

The peace deal between Israel and Hamas is entering its second day - we'll have the latest on how things are going on the ground. Also, As the shutdown rolls on, the Trump administration announces another series of layoffs among federal workers. Plus, look at subsidies for the Affordable Care Act and why they are at the center of the government shutdown.

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Gaza Ceasefire, Trump's Middle East Peace Plan, Letitia James Indicted

October 10, 2025

A fragile ceasefire deal is being put to the test as Israeli troops begin pulling back in Gaza. President Trump prepares to travel to the Middle East as the U.S. sends 200 American troops to monitor the agreement between Israel and Hamas. And New York Attorney General Letitia James is indicted on federal bank fraud charges, a case brought on after the president publicly called for her prosecution.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Rebecca Rosman, Gerry Holmes, Anna Yukhananov, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor

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Gaza Ceasefire Reached, Shutdown Day 9, Chicago National Guard

October 9, 2025

President Trump says Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a 20 point peace deal. More than a week into the government shutdown, the parties are largely digging into the same messages about what should happen next. And ICE continues arrest operations in Chicago while National Guard troops from Texas are positioned outside the city, despite a lawsuit by the state and city to block the deployment.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Kelsey Snell, Cheryl Corley, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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Shutdown Politics, Air Traffic Control Issues, Comey Arraignment

October 8, 2025

The government shutdown enters its second week with no negotiations underway, as President Trump threatens permanent layoffs. The impact of the shutdown is spreading to the skies, where staffing shortages have forced some air traffic control towers to close and ground flights across the country. And former FBI Director James Comey appears in court to face felony charges, a case driven by pressure from President Trump.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Russell Lewis, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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National Guard Powers, Marking October 7th, SCOTUS: Conversion Therapy

October 7, 2025

Texas deploys National Guard troops under President Trump’s orders as legal battles intensify over his authority to send them into Democratic-led cities. As the war in Gaza enters its third year, hopes rise over a new U.S.-backed plan aimed at ending the fighting. And the Supreme Court hears a case on state bans of conversion therapy, weighing free speech rights against protections for the LGBTQ community.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Alina Hartounian, Miguel Macias, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

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National Guard Portland, Gaza Talks In Egypt, SCOTUS Term Begins

October 6, 2025

A federal judge issues a late night order to stop President Trump’s latest attempt to deploy the National Guard to Portland, Oregon, warning the administration against efforts to get around court orders and the rule of law. In Egypt, Hamas and Israeli officials begin high-stakes talks that could end the war in Gaza and free dozens of hostages. And as the Supreme Court opens a new term, justices will take on major cases testing presidential power, birthright citizenship, and voting rights.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Alina Hartounian, Kate Bartlett, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas

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National Security, Unlocked

October 5, 2025

Mary Louise Kelly, host of NPR's All Things Considered, is no stranger to tough conversations with important people. In her new national security podcast, NPR’s Sources and Methods, Kelly brings you inside the Pentagon, State Department, and intelligence community to help you understand America's shifting role in the world, and how events in faraway places matter here at home.

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Hamas Agrees to Trump Plan, Shutdown Day 4, Medicaid Cuts

October 4, 2025

Hamas says it will release all hostages remaining in Gaza, as part of President Trump’s ceasefire deal, as long as its conditions are met. Fourth day of the shutdown as Democrats did not budge in a Senate vote. State governments are making cuts to their Medicaid programs affecting people in nursing home care all over the country.

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Shutdown Day 3, No Jobs Report, Trump Pressures Universities

October 3, 2025

Senators are set to vote again on competing spending bills to fund the government, with neither side budging and looming consequences of a prolonged shutdown. The shutdown is also blinding businesses and policymakers by halting the release of the closely watched monthly jobs report. And the White House is pressuring top universities to sign an agreement tying federal funding to Trump’s policy demands on free speech, tuition, and diversity.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Rafael Nam, Steve Drummond, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty

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Kentucky’s governor on the shutdown and political divisions

October 2, 2025

Andy Beshear is widely popular in red state Kentucky and he's considering a run for president. The Democratic governor sat for an interview with NPR's Steve Inskeep and talked about the federal government shutdown, political divisions, tariffs and a lot more.

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This bonus episode of Up First was edited by Reena Advani. It was produced by Adam Bearne and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Jay Czys. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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White House Shutdown Cuts, Government Services Interrupted, Gaza City Evacuation

October 2, 2025

President Trump’s budget director is canceling billions in projects and threatening mass layoffs as the White House uses the government shutdown to push for deeper spending cuts. The shutdown’s ripple effects are spreading nationwide, with key federal services slowing or stopping. And in Gaza, Israel has issued a final evacuation order, warning that anyone who remains in Gaza City will be treated as a militant as Hamas considers changes to Trump’s ceasefire plan.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Russell Lewis, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

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Government Shutdown Begins, Impact Of Shutdown, Trump Hegseth Military Meeting

October 1, 2025

The federal government has shut down for the first time since 2019, with President Trump threatening mass layoffs and facing criticism for using government resources to blame Democrats. More than two million federal workers are bracing for uncertainty as the shutdown drags on, with some agencies warning employees they may not be brought back once it ends. And President Trump told top military commanders he wants to use troops against “enemies within” and plans to deploy National Guard forces to Democratic-led cities.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Emily Kopp, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

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Shutdown Deadline, Gaza Deal Reaction, Top Military Leaders Meeting

September 30, 2025

Federal agencies will run out of money tonight unless Congress reaches a last-minute deal, with both parties still deadlocked over health care funding. President Trump unveiled a 20-point plan to end the Gaza war — including a ceasefire, hostage release, and new governance for the enclave — but Hamas has yet to respond. And hundreds of U.S. generals and admirals are gathering for a rare closed-door meeting where Trump is expected to address them directly, the Pentagon isn't saying why it summoned military leaders from around the world.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Miguel Macias, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

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Michigan Church Shooting, Government Shutdown Negotiations, Trump Netanyahu Meeting

September 29, 2025

A gunman was killed in a shootout with police after he drove his truck into a Michigan church during Sunday services, opened fire inside, and set the building on fire, the FBI is still search for answers about his motive. President Trump is set to meet with Democratic leaders at the White House as a government shutdown looms and health care funding remains a key sticking point. And President Trump meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House to discuss a new U.S.-backed ceasefire plan for the war in Gaza.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Russell Lewis, Dana Farrington, Kate Bartlett, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

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American Voices on Trump

September 28, 2025

The Trump administration has moved fast to chart a new course for American policy both here at home as well as internationally. But how are those changes impacting Americans across the country?

This week on The Sunday Story, we take a road trip to find out how people are feeling about the policy changes coming out of the White House. From wheat farmers in Washington state to Forest Service workers in Montana to business leaders in Mississippi, average Americans offer their thoughts on where the country is headed.

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Comey And Beyond, Costs Of TikTok Deal, Dreamers Amid Deportations

September 27, 2025

President Trump claims not to have a list of people for the government to punish but he has already specified some individuals alongside now-indicted former FBI Director James Comey. Experts question the fees investors are paying the U.S. government to buy TikTok from its Chinese owners. Though they are supposed to be protected from deportation, some DACA recipients have been detained.

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Comey Indictment, Hegseth Summons Military Leaders, Impending Shutdown

September 26, 2025

Former FBI Director James Comey is indicted on obstruction and false statement charges after President Trump pressured the Justice Department to pursue a case. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth orders an unprecedented global meeting of top U.S. military commanders, raising questions about what changes are coming. And Democrats accuse the White House of “mafia-style blackmail” as the shutdown fight intensifies over health care funding and the threat of mass federal layoffs.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Andrew Sussman, Kelsey Snell, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty

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ICE Shooting In Texas, UNGA: Ukraine Warning, Government Shutdown Standoff

September 25, 2025

A deadly shooting at a Dallas ICE office leaves one detainee dead and highlights rising violence around immigration enforcement. Ukraine's president warns that Russia’s war is fueling a dangerous new arms race as President Trump signals support for Ukraine reclaiming its territory. And a White House memo orders agencies to prepare mass firings if the government shuts down, with health care premiums still at the center of the standoff.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Alfredo Carbajal, Miguel Macias, Diane Webber, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.

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Government Shutdown Looms, UNGA: Trump Slams Russia, Jimmy Kimmel Returns

September 24, 2025

President Trump cancels a meeting with Democratic leaders as a government shutdown looms, with both sides refusing to budge on health care demands. At the U.N., Trump calls Russia a “paper tiger” and signals Ukraine could reclaim its territory with European help. And Jimmy Kimmel returns to ABC after nearly a week off the air, using an emotional monologue to defend free speech and respond to critics of his comments on Charlie Kirk’s killing.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Tara Neill, Kevin Drew, Matteen Mokalla, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

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Autism and Tylenol, Jimmy Kimmel Returns, Trump At The UN

September 23, 2025

President Trump promotes unproven links between Tylenol, vaccines, and autism, and moves to change drug labels despite scientists warning the evidence isn’t there. ABC reverses course and reinstates Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show after suspending him over comments about Charlie Kirk’s assassination. And Trump heads to the U.N. General Assembly, where growing recognition of Palestine is testing U.S. diplomacy.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Amina Khan, Kevin Drew, Roberta Rampton, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ana Perez and Christopher Thomas.

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Charlie Kirk Memorial, Trump Pressures DOJ, Palestinian State Recognition

September 22, 2025

President Trump and top officials turned Charlie Kirk’s memorial into both a tribute and a political rally, with Trump calling him a martyr and vowing to continue his fight. The president is also pressuring Attorney General Pam Bondi to pursue prosecutions of his political enemies, while forcing out a U.S. attorney who resisted. And several countries just recognized Palestine as a sovereign state, but in the West Bank many Palestinians say recognition without change on the ground means little.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Kevin Drew, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ana Perez and Christopher Thomas.

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Casualties of Trump’s War on Higher Ed

September 21, 2025

President Trump has a long list of grievances against many U.S. colleges and universities. He’s complained about antisemitism on campuses, of gender- and race-based course offerings, even communist indoctrination. To force change, the government has increasingly used the power of money. It’s withheld billions in research funding and clamped down on international student visas. This week on The Sunday Story, NPR Correspondent Elissa Nadworny explores what the disruption means for the future of higher education in America.

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The Week In Politics, The Week In Free Speech, The Week In Vaccines

September 20, 2025

Congress leaves for recess without an agreement on government funding, making an October shutdown more likely than not. The First Amendment's free speech protections were tested in the courts and on late-night TV. A vaccine advisory panel wrapped up a week of contentious meetings in Atlanta.

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Trump And Free Speech, CDC On Childhood Vaccines, Antifa Terror Designation

September 19, 2025

President Trump is pressuring the FCC to target broadcasters that criticize him, raising new questions about free speech and government power. A CDC vaccine panel, reshaped by RFK Jr.’s appointees, rolls back long-standing childhood vaccine guidance. And the president is moving to label Antifa a terrorist organization after the Charlie Kirk assassination.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Jane Greenhalgh, Andrew Sussman, Mohamad ElBardicy and Olivia Hampton.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ana Perez and Christopher Thomas.

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CDC Meeting On Vaccines, Fed Rate Cuts, Kimmel Suspended

September 18, 2025

Vaccine advisers to the CDC meet today to decide on COVID boosters and childhood shots, with new members raising doubts about long-settled science. The Federal Reserve cuts interest rates by a quarter point to shore up a slowing job market, even as President Trump pushes for deeper cuts. And ABC suspends Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show after his remarks about Charlie Kirk’s killing.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Scott Hensley, Rafael Nam, Matteen Mokalla, Mohamad El-Bardicy and Olivia Hampton.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ana Perez and Christopher Thomas.

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Kirk Suspect Charged, Trump Visits The King, FBI Director Patel Testifies

September 17, 2025

Utah prosecutors charge Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder and other crimes in the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, a case that could carry the death penalty. President Trump is in Britain for a rare second state visit, mixing royal pageantry with talks on trade and foreign policy. And FBI Director Kash Patel returns to Capitol Hill, facing questions about his leadership and his handling of high-profile investigations.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Gigi Douban, Roberta Rampton, Jason Breslow, Mohamad El-Bardicy and Olivia Hampton.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

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Vance and Charlie Kirk, Patel On The Hill, Fed Preview

September 16, 2025

Vice President JD Vance calls Charlie Kirk’s death personal and political, vowing to target groups he blames for fueling violence. FBI Director Kash Patel faces senators after his tweets during the Kirk investigation raised questions about his leadership. And the Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates as President Trump reshapes the central bank’s governing board.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Ana Yukhananov, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Olivia Hampton

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Kirk Probe Latest, Rubio in Israel, Emmys Recap

September 15, 2025

Authorities in Utah are still searching for a motive in the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in Jerusalem after Israel’s strike on Doha put the U.S. at odds with two close allies. And at the Emmys, Adolescence, The Studio, and The Pitt took top prizes.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Russell Lewis, Kevin Drew, Matteen Mokalla, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Olivia Hampton

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

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Life in a Christian Commune

September 14, 2025

As a young woman, Kate Riley’s search for meaning led her to a Christian commune. She lived there for a year and embraced collective life – everyone dressed the same and no one owned any private property. Kids growing up there didn’t have contact with cell phones or money. In this week’s conversation, Riley sits down with Ayesha Rascoe to explore what it means to be an individual in a communal place. And she shares what she learned about her own identity. These experiences informed her first novel, Ruth.

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Utah Suspect in Custody, Campuses React, Missouri Passes Redistricting

September 13, 2025

Members of Tyler Robinson's community say they are shocked he is accused of killing Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Colleges are questioning how open their campuses should be to the public. Missouri lawmakers have answered President Trump's call to help maintain the Republican majority in Congress by redrawing the state's voting map for the midterm election next year.

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Kirk Shooting Investigation, Economic Round-up, Brazil's Bolsanaro Convicted

September 12, 2025

Police have released video and pictures of a suspect who they believe shot and killed right-wing activist Charlie Kirk in Utah, and authorities are urging the public to come forward with tips. Stocks are surging on hopes of lower interest rates, even as Americans face rising prices at the store and a cooling job market. And in Brazil, former President Jair Bolsonaro has been found guilty of plotting a coup after losing the 2022 election.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Eric Whitney, Rafael Nam, Tara Neil, Mohamad ElBardicy, Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

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Latest on the Kirk Investigation, Who Was Charlie Kirk?, Russian Drones Over Poland

September 11, 2025

Police are still searching for the gunman who killed right-wing activist Charlie Kirk during a speech at a Utah college campus. We look back at Kirk’s rise in conservative politics through Turning Point USA and the controversies that defined him. And in Europe, Russian drones crossing into Poland are testing NATO’s limits and raising fears of a wider war.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Megan Pratz, Kate Bartlett, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woefle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

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IL Gov. Pritzker On Crime, Immigration, Trump's 'Power Grab'

September 10, 2025

JB Pritzker is in a battle with President Trump over crime and immigration--or really, Pritzker says, over a power grab. Pritzker has so far blocked Trump's effort to deploy the National Guard to Chicago, but immigration agents have arrived. As they did, Pritzker sat for a wide-ranging talk with NPR's Steve Inskeep about the president, immigrants, Chicago's development, and his party's future.

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This bonus episode of Up First was edited by Reena Advani. It was produced by Adam Bearne. We get engineering support from Gilly Moon. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Israel Strikes Qatar, ICE In Chicago, MAHA and Kids

September 10, 2025

Israel targeted Hamas leaders in Qatar as they were considering a deal to release all hostages, several people were killed but Hamas says none of its leaders were hit. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker spoke with Steve Inskeep as the Trump administration launches “Operation Midway Blitz “ in Chicago— sending hundreds of immigration agents to the city. And, the White House unveils its Make Our Children Healthy Again plan — with more than 100 recommendations on kids’ health, but critics say it leans heavily on RFK Jr.’s vaccine skepticism.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Reena Advani, Gisele Grayson, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woefle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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SCOTUS Immigration Sweeps Ruling, Limited Epstein Files, Trump's Handling of Russia

September 9, 2025

The Supreme Court clears the way for President Trump’s immigration sweeps in Los Angeles, even when agents use race and accents as a factor. The House Oversight Committee released a limited batch of Epstein estate documents, including a crude birthday letter that appears signed by President Trump. And Russia’s war on Ukraine is only intensifying, despite Trump’s threats of sanctions and his high-profile talks with Russia's president.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Megan Pratz, Andrew Sussman, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woefle

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

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Trump and Chicago, Trump Assassination Attempt Trial, Russia Ukraine Drone Attacks

September 8, 2025

President Trump walks back a weekend social media post warning Chicago is “about to find out why it’s called the Department of WAR,” while the city braces for possible immigration crackdowns and National Guard deployment. Jury selection begins for Ryan Routh, the man accused of attempting to assassinate President Trump, as he represents himself in court. And Russia launches its largest drone assault of the war, striking a government building in Kyiv and testing the limits of U.S. mediation.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Gigi Douban, Russell Lewis, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woefle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

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When the Oil Runs Dry

September 7, 2025

Drilling for oil has been going on in the US for over 150 years. Across the country we have bored millions of holes in the ground to pump the liquid gold that has fueled the country's energy appetite. But those wells don’t last forever. When the oil begins to dry up, wells are supposed to be plugged to prevent toxic, climate-altering chemicals from escaping. So why then is there, by some estimates, more than 2 million unplugged abandoned wells around the country? Today on The Sunday Story, NPR correspondent Camila Domonoske joins to talk about the lingering effects of these old wells and why it's so hard to find a long-term fix.

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Feds Eye More Cities, Hyundai Plant Raid, Influential Pastor

September 6, 2025

The Trump administration is eying more cities even as it builds up a National Guard presence near Chicago and fights a lawsuit by Los Angeles. Federal immigration authorities arrested nearly 500 workers they said were in the U.S. illegally at a South Korean battery maker's Georgia construction site. An Idaho pastor is gaining influence among national Republicans and expanding his presence in Washington, D.C.

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RFK Jr. Grilled, Europeans Pledge Troops to Ukraine, DC Sues Trump Admin

September 5, 2025

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has defended his actions on vaccines in a contentious Senate hearing. European leaders have finalized a commitment to provide post-war security guarantees for Ukraine, including troops. And, the Attorney General for the District of Columbia has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration calling the use of the National Guard in the District illegal.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Diane Webber, Miguel Macias, Martha Ann Overland, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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RFK Jr. Testifies Before Senate, Fed Confirmation Hearing, Harvard's Legal Victory

September 4, 2025

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will testify in the Senate today following a week of upheaval at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A Senate committee holds a hearing on President Trump’s nominee to fill a vacant seat on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. And, a federal judge in Boston has handed Harvard University a win, ruling the Trump administration unlawfully froze billions of dollars in research funds.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Diane Webber, Rafael Nam, Lauren Migaki, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Lawmakers Call For Epstein Files, Trump's Crypto Token, China's Military Parade

September 3, 2025

Members of Congress are trying to force a vote to make the Trump administration release more of the Epstein files. The cryptocurrency World Liberty Financial co-founded by the President and his sons started trading publicly this week. And, China held a military parade to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Rafael Nam, Ryland Barton, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woefle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Government Shutdown Looms, Brazil's Ex-President on Trial, Earthquake in Afghanistan

September 2, 2025

Congress returns to Washington following the August recess as a deadline to avoid a government shutdown looms. The former President of Brazil is on trial for attempting to overthrow the government. And, the Taliban is calling for international aid as rescue efforts continue following a deadly earthquake in Afghanistan.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Tara Neill, Ryland Barton, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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European Troop Coalition, Heads of State Meet in China, Trump and Labor Day

September 1, 2025

European leaders are drafting plans to send a coalition of troops to Ukraine as part of a possible post-war security guarantee. China's President Xi Jinping is hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit with the leaders of Russia and India gathering in a challenge to US influence. And, how The Trump administration is faring with workers as the President marks his first Labor Day since returning to the White House.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Miguel Macias, Emily Kopp, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woefle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Thomas Marchitto. And our technical director is Zach Coleman.

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A CLEAR Path to the Front of the Line

August 31, 2025

Air travel is stressful enough–and then there are people who can pay to jump the queue. How do some people get ushered straight to the front of the airport security line, while others find themselves waiting? The answer lies in the rise of a private company, CLEAR. Today on The Sunday Story, we look at how CLEAR inched its way into airport security. What actually happens when public and private interests try to coexist?

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Trump Tariff Ruling, Texas Abortion Medication Bill, New Dietary Guidelines

August 30, 2025

A federal appeals court ruled that most of President Trump’s tariffs are illegal, but is holding off enforcing the decision until October. Also, Texas lawmakers are on track to pass further restrictions aimed at reducing the use of abortion medication. The bill would allow members of the public to file lawsuits against the medicine’s providers. And Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. says he will release new dietary guidelines, but will they change the nation’s eating habits?

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Minneapolis Shooting Latest, New Acting CDC Director, North Korean Leader to Beijing

August 29, 2025

The father of the eight-year-old boy who has killed in the shooting at Annunciation Church and School in Minneapolis has spoken publicly about his son. A top advisor to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been selected to serve as acting Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And, the leaders of North Korea, China and Russia will gather together for the first time at a Chinese military parade in Beijing next week.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Daniel Burke, Diane Webber, Kate Bartlett, Lisa Thomson and Adam Bearne. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

And our special thanks to our colleagues at WWNO for hosting us this week, especially operations director Garrett Pittman and news director Ryan Vasquez.

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Minneapolis Mass Shooting, CDC Director Fired, Biden Admin and Gaza Aid

August 28, 2025

Investigators in Minneapolis are working to determine why a heavily armed 23-year-old opened fire at a Catholic school on Wednesday morning. The new Director of the Center for Disease Control has been fired less than a month after being sworn into the job. And, NPR reporters spoke with more than two dozen former senior Biden administration officials for a behind the scenes look at the discussions that shaped U.S. policy towards Israel’s war in Gaza.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Cheryl Corley, Jane Greenhalgh, Andrew Sussman, Lisa Thomson, and Adam Bearne. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Fed Governor Legal Fight, DNC Summer Meeting, Taylor Swift Engaged

August 27, 2025

Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook’s attorney has plans to file a lawsuit challenging President Trump’s bid to remove Cook from her position. The Democratic National Committee wraps up its first major gathering since President Trump’s return to the White House. And, music superstar Taylor Swift is engaged to football player Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Megan Pratz, Jacob Ganz, Hazel Cills, Lisa Thomson and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Fed Governor Fired, Trump Expands National Guard, Abrego Garcia Back in Custody

August 26, 2025

President Trump has moved to fire a member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve. The President has also taken action to eliminate cashless bail and expand the role of the National Guard as part of his crackdown on crime in Washington, DC. And, Kilmar Abrego Garcia has been taken into custody and faces deportation to Uganda.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Padma Rama, Rafael Nam, Eric Westervelt, Lisa Thomson and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Mansee Khurana.

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Trump Threatens Chicago, DOJ Latest, US-South Korea Summit

August 25, 2025

President Trump threatens to send the National Guard to Chicago. The Justice Department has released transcripts of an interview with Ghislaine Maxwell, a longtime accomplice of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. And, President Trump will meet with the president of South Korea in Washington for a summit on trade and security.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Ryland Barton, Lisa Thomson and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Mansee Khurana.

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How Katrina Transformed New Orleans Schools

August 24, 2025

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, state officials in Louisiana saw an opportunity to transform New Orleans public schools, many of which they considered "failing." Twenty years later, we look at one of the biggest experiments in U.S. public education and whether the move to charter schools was a success.

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DOJ’s Maxwell Transcripts, Possible Interest Rate Cut, DC Immigrants Fearful

August 23, 2025

The Justice Department released transcripts and recordings of their recent talks with convicted sex trafficker and Jeffrey Epstein partner Ghislaine Maxwell yesterday. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell signals the Fed may start interest rates cuts soon. After nearly two weeks of stepped-up arrests and federal law enforcement presence in the nation’s capital, many immigrants are afraid to attend church, worried they could be detained and deported.

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Famine in Northern Gaza, Epstein Docs, CA/TX Maps

August 22, 2025

A UN-backed panel of experts says there is famine in northern Gaza, the Justice Department is expected to deliver a first batch of files from its Jeffrey Epstein investigation to the House Oversight Committee and California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a California redistricting plan today to counter Texas Republicans.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Emily Kopp, Acacia Squires, Arezou Rezvani and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is David Greenburg. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Israel Calls Reservists, NATO & Ukraine, Hurricane Erin

August 21, 2025

Israel plans to call up 60,000 reservists for a new Gaza City offensive, even as Hamas says it has accepted a ceasefire deal.
U.S. and European officials are drafting security guarantees for Ukraine.
And Hurricane Erin is flooding North Carolina's Outer Banks and forcing evacuations as it tracks up the East Coast.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Andrew Sussman, Susanna Capelouto, Adriana Gallardo and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams, and Christopher Thomas.
We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Governors and the National Guard, Europe and Ukraine, Texas Redistricting

August 20, 2025

Six governors are sending National Guard troops to Washington, D.C. to back President Trump's crime crackdown there. European leaders weigh the options for a ceasefire and security guarantees for Ukraine. And the Texas Legislature appears on the verge of redrawing congressional districts that will help Republicans in the midterm elections, as requested by Trump.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Martha Ann Overland, Tara Neil, Ryland Barton, Acacia Squires, Olivia Hampton and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump and Ukraine, Kremlin's View, California Redistricting

August 19, 2025

President Trump plots his next steps to broker an end to Russia's war on Ukraine after White House meetings. We look at the Kremlin's view on the peace talks. And California lawmakers seek to overhaul the state's congressional map to counter a Trump-backed move in Texas to gain an edge in the 2026 midterms.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Ryland Barton, Acacia Squires, Olivia Hampton and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Zelenskyy Meets Trump, Gaza Latest, More National Guard Troops to D.C.

August 18, 2025

President Trump will host Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders at the White House. Israelis protest to demand a hostage deal as the military and government leaders pursue plans to occupy Gaza City. And growing number of National Guard troops are on their way to the nation’s capital.

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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Ryland Barton, Russell Lewis, Olivia Hampton and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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The Horror of Codependency

August 17, 2025

Maintaining a long-term romantic relationship is hard work. There are good times and there are bad and sometimes couples just grow apart over time. But in the new horror movie Together, growing apart is not an option for Millie and Tim. Starring real-life couple Alison Brie and Dave Franco, Together explores the idea of codependency in a horrific way as the couple becomes literally attached to each other.

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After The Summit, The Week In Politics

August 16, 2025

President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke for more than three hours after landing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, Friday for a summit on Ukraine. Now Trump returns to continuing controversy over his attempts to clamp down on Washington, D.C.,; Democratic pushback against his redistricting demands; and ongoing questions about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.

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Trump and Putin Meet For A Summit in Alaska. What Are the Views From Moscow and Kyiv?

August 15, 2025

President Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin meet in Anchorage today for a high-stakes summit about Ukraine. We take a look at how the talks are being perceived from Moscow, and from Kyiv.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Ryland Barton, Olivia Hampton and Adam Bearne. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Ukraine Battlefield, New Immigrant Detention Center, Kennedy Center Honors

August 14, 2025

Military escalations have taken place in Ukraine in recent days, even as President Trump prepares to meet Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. A new El Paso immigration detention center billed as the country's largest will start accepting migrants this weekend. And President Trump will host this year’s Kennedy Center Honors.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Alfredo Carbajal, Jay Vanasco, Olivia Hampton and Adam Bearne. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from David Greenburg. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump-Putin Expectations, Trump and D.C. Homelessness, Inflation Check-In

August 13, 2025

The White House tempers expectations of a breakthrough during the Trump-Putin summit. The Trump administration says unhoused people who refuse to leave "encampments" or accept mental health help could be fined or jailed. And U.S. core inflation remains high.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Gigi Douban, Rafael Nam, Olivia Hampton and Adam Bearne. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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D.C. Crackdown, Europe's Putin-Trump Scramble, Ford's Cheaper EV Rollout

August 12, 2025

President Trump asserts federal control over Washington D.C., police force. European leaders will meet with Trump before a U.S. - Russia summit. Ford plans to invest billions of dollars into a plant in Kentucky to prepare to build a new, cheaper electric truck.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gigi Douban, Ryland Barton, Kara Platoni, Olivia Hampton and Adam Bearne. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams, and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Putin U.S. Meeting, Netanyahu's Gaza Plan, Trump D.C. Action

August 11, 2025

President Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin prepare talks to end the war in Ukraine. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to forcibly move Gaza's residents to take control of the entire Palestinian enclave. And Trump deploys federal agents as a show of force across Washington, D.C.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rebecca Rossman, Hannah Bloch, Kevin Drew, Olivia Hampton and Adam Bearne. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Is Tech Really Helping Parents?

August 10, 2025

There are an endless stream of high-tech gadgets that promise to ease parenting fears and make the experience of child rearing more enjoyable. But at what cost? Does constant monitoring through pregnancy and early childhood make anyone safer... or happier? Today on The Sunday Story, we bring you an episode from our colleagues at On The Media. It's a conversation with author Amanda Hess about her new book, "Second Life: Having A Child In The Digital Age."

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Israel Expands War, Dems Enter Redistricting Fight, Setback For Asylum Seekers

August 9, 2025

There's been pushback from around the world after Israel said it would take control of Gaza City. California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a plan to enter the redistricting fight. And some asylum seekers are getting letters saying their applications have been dismissed.

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Gaza Occupation Decision, Redistricting Update, Trump Orders New Census

August 8, 2025

Israel's cabinet has voted to expand the war in Gaza by taking control of Gaza City, Republican efforts to redraw Congressional districts ahead of next year's midterms continue to escalate, and President Trump is calling for a "new" census that excludes people who are in the U.S. without legal status.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Ben Swasey, Janaya Williams and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from David Greenburg. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Fort Stewart Shooting, Tariff Deadline, Trump And Putin Meeting Prospects

August 7, 2025

Five soldiers were shot and injured by one of their co-workers at Fort Stewart Army base in Georgia, higher import tariffs taking effect today are beginning to weigh on the US economy, and President Trump says prospects look good for a meeting on ending the war in Ukraine with Russia's Vladimir Putin and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Susanna Capelouto, Rafael Nam, Krishnadev Calamur, Janaya Williams and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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White House Envoy In Moscow, MAGA Split On Gaza, Redefining The Attorney General Role

August 6, 2025

White House envoy Steve Witkoff is in Moscow to meet with Vladimir Putin, days before President Trump's deadline for Russia to end the war in Ukraine or face sanctions. Some of the President's core supporters are expressing disagreement with President Trump on issues from Gaza to Jeffrey Epstein, and the Justice Department has reportedly set up a grand jury investigation into the Obama administration's handling of the 2016 Presidential election.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Roberta Rampton, Megan Pratz, Janaya Williams and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Gaza Pressure On Israel, Texas Redistricting, NASA Carbon Dioxide Satellites

August 5, 2025

Israel's government is considering expanding the war in Gaza despite a growing chorus of voices in Israel calling for an immediate end to the war, Texas Republicans are threatening to arrest Democratic lawmakers unless they return to the statehouse for a redistricting vote, and the Trump administration has plans to end two satellite missions that measure carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Larry Kaplow, Neela Bannerjee, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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US Economic Outlook, Mexico Tariff Uncertainty, Gaza Hunger And Hostages

August 4, 2025

New and higher import tariffs are set to take effect this week, but Mexico got a 90 day reprieve, causing uncertainty among companies who rely on cross-border business. Also, President Trump is working to reach a deal to bring Israeli hostages home, as international pressure grows to stop the starvation and bombardment in Gaza.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Russell Lewis, Hannah Bloch, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Can Psychedelic Therapy Go Mainstream?

August 3, 2025

Research shows that psychedelics can help with a range of mental health conditions, like PTSD and depression. So why can't you get them from your doctor? Today on The Sunday Story, we take a trip through some of the latest science behind psychedelic therapy, and efforts to bring these mind‑altering drugs into the mainstream. Plus, what's ketamine got to do with it?

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Economic Worries, Redistricting Battles, Reconsidering BMI

August 2, 2025

A flurry of economic news this week painted an unflattering picture of the U.S. economy. States are eying redistricting as a way to swing control of the U.S. House. New research underscores some of the problems with relying too much on body mass index.

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Tariffs Deadline, Texas Flood Hearing, Witkoff In Israel

August 1, 2025

The White House issued new tariff rates last night. Which imported goods will face the highest rates and when? And survivors of the deadly floods in Texas address state lawmakers at an emotional hearing. Plus, two American officials visit a U.S. and Israeli-backed food distribution site in Gaza.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Larry Kaplow, Daniel Burke, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Fed Keeps Interest Rates, Texas Redistricting, US Middle East Envoy In Israel

July 31, 2025

The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady this week despite demands for lower rates from President Trump, Republicans in Texas released a proposal for a new state congressional map, and the US special envoy to the Middle East is traveling to Israel at a moment when the UN warns Gaza is on the verge of all out famine.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Ben Swasey, Hannah Bloch, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Gaza Famine and Diplomacy, EPA Emissions Standards, GOP's Epstein Troubles

July 30, 2025

The UK says it will recognize a Palestinian state if Israel doesn't act to end deaths from starvation. Trump's EPA wants to reverse course on CO2 emissions standards. And, Jeffrey Epstein's confidant Ghislaine Maxwell says she will speak with lawmakers in exchange for immunity from prosecution.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Jason Breslow, Kara Platoni, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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NYC Office Shooting, Trump In Scotland, Gaza Aid Latest

July 29, 2025

A gunman shot and killed four people — including a police officer — at an office building in midtown Manhattan. During his four-day trip to Scotland, President Trump made several deals, including a new US-EU trade agreement. And, the aid situation has changed in Gaza now that Israel has relaxed the rules for aid deliveries.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Russell Lewis, Miguel Macias, Hannah Bloch, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Pete Buttigieg warns democrats can't go back to pre-Trump status quo

July 28, 2025

Steve Inskeep speaks with former U.S. Secretary for Transportation Pete Buttigieg about where Democrats went wrong, how they can regain public trust, and why so many Americans don't believe what the government tells them about the Epstein files.

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This bonus episode of Up First was edited Reena Advani. It was produced by Phil Harrell. We get engineering support from Cena Loffredo. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Trump In Scotland, Gaza Aid, Pete Buttigieg on Democrats

July 28, 2025

President Trump spent the weekend in Scotland where he announced a new tariff deal with the European Union. Following days of global outrage about images of starvation in Gaza, the Israeli military announced a daily pause in fighting and a revival of aid airdrops, and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg weighs in on the path ahead for the Democratic party.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Miguel Macias, Reena Advani, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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How is Trump Changing the Justice Department?

July 27, 2025

Since Donald Trump's reelection, the Justice Department is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Once guided by norms of independence from the White House, the department now appears closely aligned with the president's personal agenda. NPR's Ayesha Rascoe and Justice Correspondent Ryan Lucas look at how Trump's new team—many of them his former personal attorneys—are reshaping the DOJ's mission, from the handling of specific prosecutions to sweeping changes in the Civil Rights Division. Critics call it the weaponization of justice; supporters say it's a long-overdue course correction.

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Trump In Scotland, Detainee Abuse Allegations in Florida, Stocks Surging

July 26, 2025

President Trump is spending the weekend in Scotland, but he can't get away from questions about his disgraced former friend, Jeffrey Epstein. Some people held at the immigrant detention center in Florida's Everglades say they are experiencing inhumane conditions and abuse at the hands of guards. Anxiety persists about where the economy is headed, but right now the stock market is hitting record highs.

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Trump Pressures The Fed, Epstein Town Halls, France Recognizes Palestinian State

July 25, 2025

President Trump personally inspected renovations of the Federal Reserve's headquarters as part of a pressure campaign on chair Jerome Powell, House Republicans are being asked questions back home about the push to release records related to Jeffrey Epstein, and France intends to recognise a Palestinian state.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Padmananda Rama, Hannah Bloch, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Christopher Thomas and Claire Murashima. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our executive producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Epstein Files Subpoena, Columbia $221 Million Settlement, 'Woke' AI

July 24, 2025

The White House is pushing against the wave of questions around the release of Jeffrey Epstein documents, Columbia University agreed to pay over $220 million to the federal government in order to resolve investigations and restore access to federal research funding, and President Trump signed an executive order instructing tech companies to address what he labeled "woke AI."

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Steve Drummond, Brett Neely, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Epstein Troubles In Congress, 2016 Election Interference, Columbia Student Discipline

July 23, 2025

House Republicans went home early for summer recess to avoid dragging out a fight over the Jeffrey Epstein saga, President Trump's spy chief published Obama-era emails claiming a conspiracy, and dozens of Columbia students are being suspended or expelled for their participation in pro-Palestinian protests.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Krishnadev Calamur, Denice Rios, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Troops In Central Gaza, Military Detention Centers, Harvard Hearing

July 22, 2025

Israel has expanded its military ground operation into central Gaza, the US Homeland Security Department is preparing to use military bases in New Jersey and Indiana for immigration detention, and attorneys for Harvard University are in federal court over the administration's attempt to cut billions of dollars in research funding and contracts.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Anna Yukhananov, Steve Drummond, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Gaza Aid Violence, Harvard On Trial, Congress Redistricting

July 21, 2025

Many Palestinians have been killed by Israeli military fire as they try to get food aid, the Trump administration is in court pushing Harvard University to comply with its demands, and lawmakers in Texas are heading into a special session to try to redraw voting districts for Congress.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Hannah Bloch, Steve Drummond, Ben Swasey, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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The Talk

July 20, 2025

It's been five years since George Floyd was murdered, yet for many Black families, the fear remains unchanged. In this episode of The Sunday Story, Ayesha Rascoe sits down with Ryan Ross and his teenage son Gavin to discuss "The Talk" — the painful but necessary conversation Black parents have to prepare their children for encounters with police. From childhood memories of Tamir Rice to fatherly rules for surviving traffic stops, we take a look at how Black parents explain to their sons how to navigate interactions with law enforcement.

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Epstein Conspiracies, US Drug Manufacturing, Student Loan Overhaul

July 19, 2025

The Justice Department has asked a federal judge to unseal more records relating to Jeffrey Epstein, but will this satisfy conspiracy theorists? President Trump is using tariffs to put pressure on pharmaceutical companies to move production back to the U.S. The recently signed spending and tax law includes major changes to the student loan system.

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Congress has voted to eliminate government funding for public media

July 18, 2025

Act now to ensure public media remains free and accessible to all. Your donation will help this essential American service survive and thrive. Visit donate.npr.org now.

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Rescission Vote, Trump And The Wall Street Journal, Trump's Health

July 18, 2025

House Republicans passed a rescissions bill taking back $9 billion in funding for public media and foreign aid. President Trump says he intends to sue the Wall Street Journal after they published an article about his relationship with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, and President Trump was diagnosed with a common medical condition affecting the veins in his legs.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Padma Rama, Jane Greenhalgh, Janaya Williams and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from David Greenburg. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Public Media Cuts, Trump And Fed Chair, Israel Strikes Syria

July 17, 2025

Senate Republicans voted to take back billions of dollars in funding for foreign aid and public broadcasting, President Trump has been threatening to fire Fed chair Jerome Powell before his term ends next year, and Israel launched airstrikes into Syria's capital of Damascus.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Dana Farrington, Miguel Macias, Janaya Williams and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from David Greenburg. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Tariffs And Inflation, Epstein Conspiracy Theories, Public Broadcasting Cuts

July 16, 2025

Escalating import tariffs are beginning to show up in the prices that consumers pay. The President has backtracked on his promise to release government's files on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and the Senate has approved a cut of more than one billion dollars for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting – which provides money to NPR, PBS and their member stations.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Brett Neely, Gerry Holmes, Janaya Williams and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from David Greenburg. And our technical director is Zo van Ginhoven.

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Moscow On Trump, Supreme Court On Education Department, Epstein Files

July 15, 2025

President Trump threatened Russia with heavy tariffs if a ceasefire deal with Ukraine is not reached by September, and he promised Ukraine billions of dollars worth of military equipment. The Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration can continue to dismantle the Education Department, and the President is facing backlash from his supporters over his handling of the so-called Epstein files.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Lauren Migaki, Megan Pratz, Janaya Williams and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Tariffs View From The EU, Ukraine Weapons Plan, Texas Flood Update

July 14, 2025

President Trump sent letters to leaders of the European Union and Mexico threatening to impose higher import sanctions. The President has expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin and says he will cut a deal coordinating arms shipments to Ukraine. And, as flood recovery efforts continue in central Texas, the magnitude of the disaster is coming into clearer focus.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Ryland Barton, Russell Lewis, Janaya Williams and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Zo van Ginhoven.

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Chinese manufacturing meets Small Town, USA

July 13, 2025

The Trump administration is pushing to bring manufacturing back to America. But what happens when one multinational company actually tries to set up shop in Small Town, USA?

Today we bring you the Planet Money story of how a battery factory ignited a political firestorm over what kind of factories we actually want in our backyard. And what happens when the global economy meets small town democracy.

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President Trump Visits Texas, Immigration Raids Ruling, New Antidepressants Study

July 12, 2025

President Trump visits Texas a week after the devastating floods. Questions are now being raised whether cuts to FEMA hampered the rescue response. Also, a federal judge orders a stop to indiscriminate immigration raids in Los Angeles. Plus, a new study on antidepressants sheds light on the severity of withdrawal when people come off the medications.

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Trump Visits Kerr County, Trump And Putin, DOGE And Farmers' Data

July 11, 2025

President Trump is visiting Kerr County, Texas to meet with first responders and families affected by the flash floods. The cozy relationship between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin may be turning sour, and an NPR investigation reveals that DOGE recently got high-level access to a database that controls loans and payments to American farmers.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Russell Lewis, Andrew Sussman, Janaya Williams and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Zac Coleman. And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Texas Vigil, Flood Danger Zones, Ukraine Air Defenses

July 10, 2025

Hundreds of mourners gathered in the football stadium at Tivy High School in Kerrville, Texas to remember those who died in last week's flash floods. An NPR investigation finds that flood risk data from FEMA is out of date, and Russia is intensifying its attacks against Ukraine.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Alfredo Carbajal, Barrie Hardymon, Jane Greenhalgh, Janaya Williams and Jan Johnson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.

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Texas Storm Toll, Trump's Foreign Policy, Supreme Court Allows Federal Layoffs

July 9, 2025

Rescue and recovery efforts trudged on for a fifth day after devastating floods hit central Texas, President Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House as they worked to make a Gaza deal, and the Supreme Court is allowing the Trump administration to move forward with plans to lay off hundreds of thousands of federal employees.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Alfredo Carbajal, Dana Farrington, Krishnadev Calamur, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Texas Flooding Update, Tariff Limbo, Health Groups Sue RFK, Jr.

July 8, 2025

Crews continue their search and rescue efforts in Central Texas, the Dow tumbled on Monday after President Trump threatened stiff new import taxes, and prominent health organizations filed a lawsuit against Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over vaccine policy.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Alfredo Carbajal, Rafael Nam, Jane Greenhalgh, Janaya Williams and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zo van Ginhoven.

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Texas Flooding Update, Trump And Netanyahu Meeting, Tariff Plans

July 7, 2025

In central Texas, crews are continuing the search for victims of last week's flash flooding, and local officials have been fielding questions about why residents were not warned to evacuate. Also, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with President Trump to advance a cease-fire deal for Gaza and see Hamas release some hostages, and the President says his administration is on the verge of many new deals with countries regarding tariff rates.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Russell Lewis, Miguel Macias, Dana Farrington, Janaya Williams and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Claire Murashima and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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When News Broke

July 6, 2025

Just a few decades ago most people used — and trusted — the same news sources. Now, Americans are siloed in separate ecosystems, consuming conflicting depictions of reality. Misinformation runs rampant. Conspiracy theories flourish. And extremism grows. Today on The Sunday Story from Up First, reporter Ben Bradford brings us back to the moment when the first crack formed in America's news media. And how that crack widened and widened, until we split into separate worlds.

To hear more check out "Engines of Outrage", a mini-series from the Landslide podcast, distributed by NPR.

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Texas Flash Floods, Trump's Next Priorities, Buy Now-Pay Later and Credit Scores.

July 5, 2025

Several months' worth of rain fell in Texas in just a few hours, leading to flash floods that killed at least two dozen people. With his "big, beautiful bill" now law, what's next on President Trump's agenda? And FICO will start considering Buy Now, Pay Later loans in credit scores.

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Trump's Victory Lap, Ukraine Weapons, Immigration And The Economy

July 4, 2025

President Trump is having an Independence Day ceremony to celebrate the signing of his domestic policy bill, the U.S. has decided to withhold some weapons from Ukraine, and a new forecast predicts a net loss of immigrants to the U.S., a shift that is likely to take a toll on the economy.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Rafael Nam, Ryland Barton, Janaya Williams and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott. And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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GOP Megabill Latest, Tax Cuts And Debt, Sean Combs Conviction

July 3, 2025

House Republicans are racing to pass President Trump's sweeping tax and spending bill and have it to his desk by July 4th. Budget analysts say it would add trillions of dollars to the government's debt. And, Sean Combs was found guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, but on the more serious charges, the jury found him not guilty.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Kelsey Snell, Kevin Drew, Rafael Nam, Jacob Ganz, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.

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One-on-One with Zohran Mamdani

July 2, 2025

NPR's Leila Fadel speaks with Zohran Mamdani about his vision for New York City and his surprise win in the Democratic primary for mayor.
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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Arezou Rezvani and produced by Mansee Khurana and Lilly Quiroz. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Tax And Spending Bill, Medicaid Concerns, Gun Tracing Fund

July 2, 2025

The Senate approved President Trump's megabill, which includes tax cuts and boosts border security and defense programs. Cuts to Medicaid in the bill are unpopular with some Senators and the general public. Also, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is planning to loosen or eliminate some gun regulations.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Carrie Fiebel, Gigi Douban, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.

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Megabill Wrangling, State Of Democracy Poll, USAID Ends

July 1, 2025

Republican leaders must find a fragile balance in the reconciliation bill between making deep cuts and protecting programs for the vulnerable. Also, an overwhelming majority of Americans say democracy is under serious threat, and USAID officially ends today.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Dana Farrington, Rebecca Davis, Janaya Williams and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Claire Murashima and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.

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Senate Spending Bill, Ukraine Airstrikes, Idaho Firefighter Shootings

June 30, 2025

Several Senate Republicans are attacking the cuts to Medicaid in the President's massive tax and spending bill, Russia unleashed a barrage of missiles and drones across Ukraine, and two firefighters are dead in North Idaho after an ambush by a sniper.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Ryland Barton, Kevin Drew, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.

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America is Changing Lanes on EVs

June 29, 2025

In 2025 America's car industry is encountering a new reality and has quickly shifted priorities to reflect changing winds in politics and the market. While the Biden administration was fully invested in electric vehicles and incentivized manufacturers to increase EV production, the Trump administration has set out to put all those policies in reverse.

Today on The Sunday Story, NPR's Camila Domonoske explains how the car industry is navigating the country's changing priorities and what's next for electric vehicles in America.

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SCOTUS Rulings, Trump Megabill, Israeli PM Denies IDF Deliberately Fired on Gazans

June 28, 2025

The Supreme Court rules that individual judges don't have the authority to issue nationwide injunctions, but the court did not clarify the constitutionality of birthright citizenship. The Senate has a timeline to advance Trump's so-called "big, beautiful bill." Israel's prime minister denies a newspaper report that Israeli troops have been firing at will on hungry Gazans at aid distribution centers.

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Supreme Court Decision on Nationwide Injunctions

June 27, 2025

The Supreme Court has come to a highly anticipated decision in the case related to birthright citizenship. The issue before the court was how lower courts should handle President Trump's executive order declaring that the children of parents who enter the U.S. illegally or on a temporary visa are not entitled to automatic citizenship. A conservative supermajority sided with the Trump administration's request to limit universal injunctions issued by federal courts.

This episode was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Natalie Winston, Ally Schweitzer, Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Kaity Kline, and Lilly Quiroz. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange and our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Iran Intelligence, Supreme Court Term Ends, Gaza Food Program

June 27, 2025

The administration has revealed new details about U.S. airstrikes on Iran's nuclear program, the Supreme Court hands down it's final rulings of the session today, and a new aid group in Gaza is drawing international controversy because hundreds of Palestinians have been killed while approaching the group's food distribution sites.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Krishnadev Calamur, Alex Leff, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our executive producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Trump After NATO, Abrego Garcia Latest, Senate Trump Agenda

June 26, 2025

President Trump ended the NATO summit in The Hague with a warmer view of the alliance. A federal judge has ordered the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who the government wrongly deported to El Salvador. And Senate Republicans have hit some roadblocks in the race to pass President Trump's signature policy bill by next week.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Gigi Douban, Kelsey Snell, Jason Breslow, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Iran Intelligence, NATO Summit, Trump Judicial Nod

June 25, 2025

New intelligence suggests U.S. strikes only set Iran's nuclear back by months, contrary to claims by President Trump, the President meets today with NATO members, and the nomination of a current Justice Department official to an appellate judgeship is drawing fresh attention to controversies inside the department.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Andrew Sussman, Anna Yukhananov, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zac Coleman. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump's Ceasefire, Supreme Court Immigration Ruling, NYC Mayoral Primary

June 24, 2025

President Trump announced on social media that Iran and Israel have agreed to a total ceasefire, and the US Supreme Court says the Trump administration will be allowed to quickly deport immigrants to countries they are not from. Also, New York City's Democratic mayoral primary is today. It's a tight race that's brought attention to the city's ranked-choice voting system.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Gigi Douban, Andrea De Leon, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump Strikes Iran, View From Israel, Iran's Options

June 23, 2025

President Trump says U.S. military strikes on Iran "obliterated" Tehran's nuclear program, Iran continues to send missiles into Israel, while Iran's ambassador to the United Nations denounced U.S. strikes on Iran's nuclear sites as "premeditated acts of aggression."

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Alex Leff, Andrew Sussman, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Bonus Episode: US Strikes Iran

June 22, 2025

President Trump ordered the U.S. military to bomb three Iranian sites he said were crucial to that nation's nuclear ambitions.

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Getting Abortion Pills Into Women's Hands

June 22, 2025

This week marks three years since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, in an historic ruling that changed the landscape of abortion access. Since that decision came down, abortion rates across the country have actually increased, despite many states enacting abortion bans or severely restricting abortion access.

One way many women are still accessing abortion is through abortion pills. The Network is a new series by Futuro Media and our colleagues at NPR's Embedded that looks at the surprising history of how the use of abortion pills began in Latin America and eventually spread around the world, including to the U.S.

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Weaponry in Israel-Iran Conflict, President Trump's Domestic Agenda, Heat Dome

June 21, 2025

Israel warns of a "prolonged" conflict with Iran. But with the war now in its second week, do the two countries have the weapons to fight a sustained campaign? Plus, President Trump is pushing to pass his massive tax cut and spending bill by as early as next week. But can he overcome the opposition within his own party? Also, a heat dome is expanding across the country and millions of Americans could experience record-breaking temperatures in the coming days.

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National Guard Ruling, Divisions On Iran, EU and Iran Diplomacy

June 20, 2025

A court says President Trump can keep control of the National Guard in Los Angeles, for now. Differences of opinion about whether to join Israel's war against Iran are dividing the MAGA movement, and EU Ministers are seeking a diplomatic solution to the conflict at a meeting with their Iranian counterparts in Geneva.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Ryland Barton, Alex Leff, Miguel Macias, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Claire Murashima and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacy Abbott. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Iran-Israel Conflict Latest, Trump On Iran, Social Security Funds

June 19, 2025

The latest developments in the Israel-Iran conflict, and the evolution of President Trump's thinking on whether to involve the US. Plus, the Social Security trust fund is expected to run out of cash in eight years, unless Congress acts before then.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Alex Leff, Jane Greenhalgh, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Claire Murashima and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump And Iran, Iran's Nuclear Program, ICE Farm Raids Continue

June 18, 2025

President Trump has escalated his rhetoric against Iran. Israel and the U.S. intelligence community disagree about whether Iran has suspended its nuclear weapons program or not, and immigration enforcement continues to target work sites in agriculture, construction and hospitality.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Andrew Sussman, Anna Yukhananov, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Claire Murashima and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Israel Attacks Iran State TV, Minnesota Suspect Hearing, Purdue Pharma Settlement

June 17, 2025

Israel has expanded its attacks on targets inside Iran to include the country's state television studios. The suspect accused of killing a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband faces federal and state murder charges, and Purdue Pharma and members of the Sackler family have reached a multibillion dollar settlement with states.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Vincent Ni, Cheryl Corley, Andrea DeLeon, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Claire Murashima, and Christopher Thomas.

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Minnesota Shooting Arrest, Israel-Iran Conflict, G7 Kicks Off, Colorado Election Data

June 16, 2025

An arrest has been made in the shooting of two Democratic Minnesota state lawmakers and their spouses, Israel and Iran are trading missile strikes with few signs of deescalation, President Trump has arrived at the G7 in Canada, and the Justice Department sent an unprecedented demand for election data to the state of Colorado.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Alex Leff, Roberta Rampton, Janaya Williams and Arezou Rezvani. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Claire Murashima and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Two Problems, One Affordable Green Solution

June 15, 2025

The U.S. faces a housing crisis and growing threats of climate change. One global city is tackling both problems at once, and U.S. cities are paying attention. In this episode of The Sunday Story, NPR's Julia Simon travels to Vienna, Austria to see how they make affordable housing that's resilient to climate change. And she meets politicians trying to build this "green social housing" in America.

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Middle East Conflict, Military Parade, No Kings Protests

June 14, 2025

Iran and Israel traded military strikes overnight, raising fears of a wider conflict. Plus, a military parade will take place in Washington, D.C. later today, marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. army. Critics say it's a vanity project of President Trump and are organizing No Kings protests across the country.

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Israel Strikes Iran, National Guard Ruling, Padilla Handcuffed, Rescission Vote

June 13, 2025

The Israeli military strikes dozens of Iranian targets including nuclear facilities. A California appeals court allows President Trump to maintain control of the state's National Guard until a hearing can be held next week. Democratic Senator Alex Padilla of California was forcibly removed from a Homeland Security press conference in Los Angeles. And, the House has voted to reclaim money Congress had allocated for the public media system for the next two years.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Alex Leff, Gigi Douban, Jason Breslow, Emily Kopp, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woefle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Kaity Kline and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Public Opinion on Immigration, New Power Plant Rules, College Cost Sharing

June 12, 2025

As the Trump administration carries out its campaign promises on immigration, Americans respond to rising tension over how they're put in place. The Environmental Protection Agency plans to repeal limits on greenhouse gas pollution from the country's fossil fuel power plants. And, a proposal in the Republican's mega bill aims to have colleges assume some financial responsibility for their student's loans.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Neela Banerjee, Nicole Cohen, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woefle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange

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Military in LA, Immigration Raids and Business, Trump's Hush Money Appeal

June 11, 2025

With Marines and National Guard in Los Angeles experts weigh-in on the limits of what they can do. As President Trump's immigration crackdown expands, some workers without legal authorization are being driven underground. And, a federal court of appeals in Manhattan will hear arguments today as part of Trump's legal efforts to have his criminal conviction overturned.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gigi Douban, Rafael Nam, Emma Bowman, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from David Greenburg and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Marines Deployed to LA, CDC Vaccine Board Ousted, Overdose Deaths Drop

June 10, 2025

For the fourth straight night, people in Los Angeles took to the streets to protest ICE immigration raids. Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is removing all 17 members of a key vaccine committee that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And, after a decade of carnage when more than 230,000 people under the age of 35 died from overdoses in the U.S., drug deaths are rapidly declining.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Jane Greenhalgh, Andrea DeLeon, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Dave Portnoy on Trump, the manosphere, and his advice for Democrats

June 9, 2025

NPR's Steve Inskeep talks with Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy about "bro" culture, his support of President Trump and what democrats could be doing better.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Reena Advani and produced by Adam Bearne. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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LA Protests, Federal Judges Toxic Workplaces, Housing Climate Solutions

June 9, 2025

Immigration raids in Los Angeles spark three days of protests. President Trump deploys the National Guard to the city against the wishes of California Governor Gavin Newsom. As federal judges serve as a check on the power of President Trump's administration, some judges extend their own power over the lives of those who work for them. And, six months after massive fires destroyed entire communities in Los Angeles, NPR kicks off a week of climate solutions reporting with a focus on housing.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gigi Douban, Anna Yokhananov, Barrie Hardymon, Neela Banerjee, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Unprepared: There is No Plan

June 8, 2025

Part 2: As North Carolina struggles to build back after Hurricane Helene, NPR correspondent Laura Sullivan travels to New York and New Jersey years after Superstorm Sandy to find how recovery efforts fell short. And we learn special interests are shaping how we put communities back together.

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Unprepared: Helene's Deadly Warning

June 8, 2025

Part 1: This weekend on The Sunday Story, NPR's Laura Sullivan examines how the nation is failing to rebuild after major storms in a way that will protect them from the next one. As climate-related storms become more frequent and severe, NPR and PBS FRONTLINE investigate the forces keeping communities from building resiliently, and the special interests that profit when communities don't. Despite billions in federal aid, outdated policies, weak building codes, and political resistance are putting lives and homes at continued risk.

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Deported Migrant Returns to US, World Pride in DC, Sports Finals

June 7, 2025

The migrant at the center of a legal storm is back on US soil. Kilmar Abrego Garcia was mistakenly deported to El Salvador. He now faces criminal charges. Plus, World Pride is wrapping up in Washington DC with thousands set to take part in a parade close to the White House. And the latest sports news on the NBA finals and Stanley Cup.

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Trump and Musk Break Up, Tariffs Raise $70 billion, ICE Detention Conditions

June 6, 2025

A rift between President Donald Trump and Elon Musk escalated on Thursday with the two trading barbs on their respective social media platforms. Reports from the Treasury Department show Trump's tariffs have raised nearly 70-billion dollars so far this year. And, migrant detainees staged a protest at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement run facility in Miami.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Pallavi Gogoi, Eric Westervelt, Lisa Thomson and Arezou Rezvani. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent, our technical director is Carleigh Strange and our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Trump Issues Travel Ban, Musk Criticizes Budget Bill, Iran Nuclear Talks Latest

June 5, 2025

President Trump signed a proclamation banning visitors from 12 countries and partially restricting travelers from seven others. While Senate Republicans consider Trump's budget bill, Elon Musk criticizes what it could mean for the deficit. And, as the U.S. and Iran hit a sticking point in nuclear talks Russian President Vladimir Putin suggests he could weigh-in.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Jason Breslow, James Hider, Lisa Thomson and Arezou Rezvani. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Imported Steel Tariffs Double, White House Rescission Request, Gaza Aid Paused

June 4, 2025

Starting today, the tax on imported steel and aluminum doubles to 50 percent. The White House has formally asked Congress to take back $9.4 billion dollars in funding for foreign aid and public media. And, the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation pauses food distribution for the day following another deadly shooting by the Israeli military near one of its sites.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Pallavi Gogoi, Gerry Holmes, Carrie Kahn, Lisa Thomson and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from David Greenburg and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Boulder Attack Latest, Ukraine and Russia Talks, South Korea Election

June 3, 2025

The man arrested in Colorado for an attack on people demonstrating in support of Israeli hostages being held by Hamas is facing a federal hate crime charge and multiple felonies. A second round of talks between Russia and Ukraine did not result in a ceasefire but the two countries did agree to a new prisoner swap. And, following months of political turmoil South Koreans are voting for a new president.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Eric Whitney, Ryland Barton, Kevin Drew, Lisa Thomson and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Ukrainian Drone Strikes, Senate Budget Bill, Colorado Attack

June 2, 2025

Ukraine hit Russia with a series of remote drone strikes hours before peace talks in Turkey. The Republican-led Senate returns from recess and is tasked with passing President Trump's budget plan. And, a man is in custody following an attack on people at an event calling attention to Israeli hostages being held by Hamas.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Ryland Barton, Kevin Drew, Lisa Thomson and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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The Day The Dinosaurs Died

June 1, 2025

In 2007, paleontologist Ken Lacovara suspected he'd made a huge discovery in an unexpected spot. Tucked behind a Lowe's hardware store in a strip mall in New Jersey he found one of the most intact fossil beds from 66 million years ago. Recently a new museum opened at the dig site, where visitors can learn more about the day an asteroid struck the earth, killing the dinosaurs, and even go hunting for their own fossils. Listen to the full episode on the TED Radio Hour podcast and see photos from the quarry.

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Shangri-La Dialogue, Nippon/U.S. Steel Deal, Taylor Swift Gets Her Masters

May 31, 2025

At the annual security forum in Singapore, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth characterizes China as a threat. President Trump celebrates a partnership between Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel, but he's short on specifics. After years of wrangling, Taylor Swift gets control of her first master recordings.

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Trump's US Steel Reversal, Court Win For Harvard, Musk Leaves DOGE

May 30, 2025

US Steel is entering a multi-billion dollar partnership and Japanese competitor Nippon Steel. President Trump campaigned on a promise to block the deal. Now he says he approves it, so what changed? Harvard University for now can continue enrolling international students after a federal judge granted a preliminary injunction. And Elon Musk is leaving the Department of Government Efficiency, commonly referred to as DOGE.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Lauren Migaki, Padma Rama, HJ Mai and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Court Blocks Most Trump Tariffs, Trump Grows Frustrated With Putin, CPAC Hungary

May 29, 2025

A federal court has blocked most of President Trump's "Liberation Day" tariffs. The judges said the president overstepped his authority when he put tariffs on nearly every country in the world last month. Trump also appears increasingly frustrated with Russian leader Vladimir Putin over Moscow's ongoing airstrikes in Ukraine. How could this affect any peace negotiations? And one of the largest right-wing political gatherings is getting underway in Eastern Europe.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kara Platoni, Miguel Macias, Arezou Rezvani, HJ Mai and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Gaza Food Distribution Chaos, New COVID-19 Vaccine Guidelines, Children Of ISIS

May 28, 2025

Israeli forces fired shots at a food distribution site in Gaza after people, many of whom face the threat of starvation, had overrun the place. The incident happened on the first day that a new U.S.-based system distributed humanitarian aid. The U.S. government has updated its COVID-19 vaccine guidelines. The shot is no longer recommended for healthy children or healthy pregnant women. But independent health experts are voicing concerns. And thousands of children of ISIS fighters are stuck in Syrian detention camps.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Carrie Kahn, Rebecca Davis, Barrie Hardymon, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Harvard President says critics' "fire is misdirected"

May 27, 2025

In addition to revoking Harvard's ability to enroll international students, the Trump administration is pulling all federal contracts from the university. NPR's Steve Inskeep sits down with Harvard's President Alan Garber and asks whether he sees the current actions as a warning.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Reena Advani and produced by Ana Perez. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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New Gaza Aid Group Faces Criticism, Harvard President Speaks Out, DEI Rollbacks

May 27, 2025

Israel has lifted its restrictions on humanitarian aid. A new U.S.-aid group is now preparing to bring food to Gaza, where hunger is widespread. But the UN and other groups have raised questions about this new entity. The Trump administration has targeted Harvard University over a number of issues. Steve Inskeep sat down with Harvard President Alan Garber. And thousands of positions in the area of diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) have been eliminated across corporate America.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Carrie Kahn, Reena Advani, Pallavi Gogoi, HJ Mai and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Russia Intensifies Attacks On Ukraine, Summer Travel Season, Wildfire Forecast

May 26, 2025

Ukrainian officials say Russia launched its largest airstrikes since the start of the conflict. Sunday's attack, which killed 12 people, happened only hours before a prisoner exchange. Memorial Day is considered the unofficial start of summer and the summer travel season, but a deadly midair collision in the nation's capital in January and reports of air traffic control outages have raised safety concerns. Also, government forecasts predict an above normal wildfire risk for some parts of the country yet cuts to the US Forest Service makes fighting fires harder.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Catherine Laidlaw, HJ Mai, Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totti. We get engineering support from Damian Herring and our technical director is David Greenburg.

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The Class of 2025

May 25, 2025

A lot has changed in higher education since President Trump took office. This week on The Sunday Story, Ayesha reflects on her own college graduation, and she sits down with three graduating college seniors. They talk about how funding cuts have upended their postgrad plans and how the last semester has made them think differently about what college is all about.

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National Security Council Shakeup, George Floyd Murder and Political Extremism

May 24, 2025

Another major shakeup at the White House National Security Council. Officials tell NPR that dozens of staff were fired yesterday. Also, Sunday marks five years since George Floyd was murdered by a Minneapolis police officer. His death triggered a reckoning with racism. But we explore how Floyd's murder also fueled conspiracies and political extremism.

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Suspected D.C. Shooter Charged, Trump vs. Harvard, SCOTUS Ruling On Agency Firings

May 23, 2025

The man suspected of killing two Israeli Embassy employees outside a Jewish museum in D.C. has been charged with two counts of murder, among other crimes. The Trump administration has revoked Harvard University's ability to enroll international students, sowing confusion for those who are already enrolled. Plus, the U.S. Supreme Court said President Trump can fire two members of independent agencies — for now.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Nicole Cohen, Russell Lewis, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zac Coleman and Josh Sauvagvau. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Israeli Embassy Employees Killed, Israel's Occupation Plans, Trump Bill Latest

May 22, 2025

Officials in Israel and Washington are condemning the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy employees outside a Jewish museum in Washington. Plus, Israel seeks full control of Gaza as a condition to end its war with Hamas, and Republicans close in on passage of a massive bill at the heart of President Trump's domestic agenda.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gigi Douban, Kevin Drew, Carrie Kahn, Kelsey Snell, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zac Coleman and Josh Sauvagvau. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Negotiating Trump's Sweeping Agenda, South Africa's President, DOGE Cuts

May 21, 2025

The latest on the president's massive tax and immigration bill as it faces continued resistance from both moderate and hardline Republicans. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will travel to Washington next week as relations between the U.S. and South Africa are at their lowest since the end of apartheid. An NPR analysis finds that the ad hoc Department of Government Efficiency keeps finding new parts of the federal government to try to shrink.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Kevin Drew, Brett Neely, Tara Neill, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is David Greenburg.

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Trump's Talk With Putin, Israel's Incursion, Weather Service Budget Cuts

May 20, 2025

Unpacking President Trump's hourslong conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In Gaza, Israeli forces ordered the evacuation of Khan Younis, but residents have nowhere to go. Plus, a look at how Trump administration budget cuts have left the National Weather Service scrambling to cover basic forecasting needs amid climate change.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Neela Banerjee, Ryland Barton, Carrie Kahn, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Biden Cancer Diagnosis, Escalation In Gaza, Kentucky Storm Recovery

May 19, 2025

The diagnosis of prostate cancer for the former president comes just days ahead of the release of a book detailing questions about his mental fitness as president. Israel's military says troops are now operating in multiple points throughout Gaza strip, in an operation dubbed Gideon's Chariots. More than two dozen people are dead in Kentucky, Missouri and Virginia after tornadoes and storms over the weekend.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Carrie Kahn, Anna Yukhananov, Ally Schweitzer, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Zac Coleman.

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Is America becoming an autocracy?

May 18, 2025

Hundreds of U.S.-based scholars say the United States is swiftly heading away from liberal democracy and towards some form of authoritarianism. In this episode of The Sunday Story, NPR's Frank Langfitt speaks to people who have fled authoritarian regimes for America. They say some of the Trump administration's tactics remind them of home.

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Deadly Kentucky Storms, Supreme Court Ruling, European Presidential Elections

May 17, 2025

Deadly storms and tornadoes tore through several states overnight. In Kentucky, a local mayor says more than 20 people were killed. Also, the Supreme Court says the Trump administration cannot deport a group of Venezuelans while their cases are being litigated in the courts. Plus, it's a big weekend for elections in Europe with voters in both Poland and Romania going to the polls.

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Birthright Citizenship Arguments, Trump's Mideast Trip, Sean 'Diddy' Combs Trial

May 16, 2025

The U.S. Supreme Court seemed divided as justices heard arguments debating how lower courts should handle President Trump's executive order on birthright citizenship. Trump heads back to Washington after four days of pomp in the Middle East. The first week of the federal criminal trial of Sean Combs featured testimony alleging a pattern of control and violence.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Jacob Ganz, Roberta Rampton, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ana Perez, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Syria's Relationship With Israel, Birthright Citizenship, Trump's Big Bill

May 15, 2025

President Trump did not make normalizing relations with Israel a condition for dropping sanctions against Syria, raising questions about how the two neighbors must navigate an unclear future. The Supreme Court hears historic arguments in a case challenging the constitutional provision guaranteeing birthright citizenship. House Republicans are still negotiating the details of a wide-ranging legislative package they hope to advance by the end of next week.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Carrie Kahn, Kelsey Snell, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ana Perez, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump Meets Syria's President, Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks, RFK Jr. On Capitol Hill

May 14, 2025

President Trump is meeting with Syria's new leader as the administration prepares to lift sanctions on the country. Could he also participate in Ukraine-Russia peace talks in Turkey? Plus, on Capitol Hill Wednesday, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is expected to defend his sweeping changes at the Department of Health and Human Services.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Diane Webber, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ana Perez, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Seesawing Tariffs, Trump's Middle East Agenda, Sean 'Diddy' Combs Trial

May 13, 2025

Companies are rushing to import merchandise while a temporary trade deal between the U.S. and China is in place, but what happens after the 90-day arrangement expires is unclear. As President Trump visits the Middle East, economic opportunities and security issues top the agenda. Jurors hear often graphic testimony on the first day Sean "Diddy" Combs' sex trafficking trial.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Carrie Kahn, Jacob Ganz, Rafael Nam, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ana Perez, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent, and our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Contributing reporting by Ximena Bustillo.

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Trump In The Middle East, Hamas Hostage Release, Mulling Medicaid Cuts

May 12, 2025

President Trump chose Saudi Arabia - again - for the first state trip of his second term. What does that say about his foreign policy? Hamas says it will release the last living American hostage held in Gaza, Edan Alexander. And as Republicans look for massive budget cuts, what could happen to Medicaid?

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Krishnadev Calamur, Carrie Kahn, Kelsey Snell, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ana Perez, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas. We get engineering support from David Greenberg, and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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The Trial of Sean Combs

May 11, 2025

Sean Combs who was once at the forefront of hip-hop music and fashion is now on trial for sex trafficking. The hip-hop mogul launched the careers of numerous stars and grew his business empire to a reported $1 billion dollars in 2022. A fortune that has since shrunk considerably as he faces multiple civil lawsuits, a crumbling media empire and the prospect of years behind bars.

With his trial set to begin tomorrow, today on The Sunday Story NPR Music reporter Isabella Gomez Sarmineto shares how Sean Combs went from music intern to media mogul and how it all came crashing down.

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India and Pakistan Agree Ceasefire, Food Stamps Data, Nuclear Reactor Watchdog

May 10, 2025

India and Pakistan agree to a full and immediate ceasefire. It follows US-led talks. Plus, NPR learns that the Department of Agriculture is demanding states hand over the personal data of those receiving food stamps. Critics fear the information could be used to carry out deportations. Also, the Trump administration tightens its control over the independent agency regulating America's nuclear reactors.

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Scene From Vatican City, Life Of Pope Leo XIV, China Trade Talks

May 9, 2025

People traveled to the Vatican from all over the world to witness the election of a new pope. What more do we know about the life of the Chicago-born pontiff who also holds Peruvian citizenship? Also, negotiators from the US and China will meet this weekend in Switzerland for talks about the trade war between the two countries.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Daniel Burke, Ryland Barton, Padmananda Rama, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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India And Pakistan Latest, Libya Deportations, The Fed And Interest Rates

May 8, 2025

Pakistan's defense minister warned that hostilities between his country and India could escalate into a nuclear confrontation, the White House plans to add Libya to the list of countries where it sends deportees, and the Federal Reserve voted to keep interest rates unchanged, for now.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Anna Yukhananov, Rafael Nam, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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India And Pakistan Conflict, Papal Conclave Begins, Transgender Military Ban

May 7, 2025

India struck multiple targets across Pakistan in the most extensive strikes in more than 50 years, the papal conclave to elect the next leader of the Roman Catholic church begins today, and the Supreme Court has allowed a ban on transgender people serving in the military.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Daniel Burke, Krishnadev Calamur, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Canada's Prime Minister Meets Trump, Abortion Lawsuit Surprise, Film Tariffs

May 6, 2025

President Trump will meet with Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney, who won his election on an anti-Trump platform. In a surprise move, the Justice Department asked for a lawsuit against the abortion medication mifepristone to be dismissed, and the global film industry is reeling after President Trump announced plans to hike tariffs on movies produced outside of the U.S.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Diane Webber, Jane Greenhalgh, Ciera Crawford, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump And The Constitution, Gaza Food Aid Plan, Sean 'Diddy' Combs Trial Begins

May 5, 2025

President Trump says he "doesn't know" if it's his job to defend the US Constitution when it comes to providing immigrants due process. Israel approved a plan to take control of the distribution of food aid inside Gaza, and the trial of Sean 'Diddy' Combs on charges of sex trafficking and racketeering begins today.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Carrie Kahn, Jacob Ganz, Janaya Williams, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.

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Syria's Missing Children

May 4, 2025

In Syria during the 14-year civil war, many children were detained with their mothers. Then, security forces separated them. Thousands of these children have never been found.

Since the fall of the Assad regime, parents of disappeared children have continued to search for answers. In this episode of The Sunday Story, NPR correspondent Diaa Hadid investigates: what happened to the disappeared children of Syria?

This episode includes mentions of rape and torture.

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President Trump's 2026 Budget, Gloomy Economic Outlook, Secretary of State's New Role

May 3, 2025

President Trump proposes major cuts to several federal agencies in next year's budget, but he wants defense and border security spending to increase. The budget plan comes after the economy shrank during the first three months of this year. We'll have the latest on the state of the economy. Plus, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has added the title of national security adviser to his growing roster of roles. But will he have the bandwidth to do both jobs?

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Public Media Cuts, Waltz Out As National Security Advisor, Alien Enemies Act Ruling

May 2, 2025

A new executive order aims to cut federal subsidies to PBS and NPR. President Trump is nominating national security adviser Mike Waltz as his ambassador to the United Nations, and a federal judge ruled that the use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan immigrants from the US is "unlawful."

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Roberta Rampton, Eric Westervelt, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Steve Bannon on Trump's First 100 Days

May 1, 2025

Steve Inskeep speaks with War Room Podcast Host and Trump ally Steve Bannon about the changes the U.S. President has introduced in his first months in office in 2025 and where he sees things heading.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Reena Advani and produced by Barry Gordemer.

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Economy In The Next 100 Days, Ukraine Minerals Deal, India And Pakistan Tension

May 1, 2025

The US economy shrank in the first three months of the year and economists say the months ahead could also be challenging. Ukraine signed a deal with the US to jointly invest in Ukraine's minerals and natural resources, and tensions are high between India and Pakistan after last week's deadly attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Ryland Barton, Vincent Ni, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump Marks 100 Days, Steve Bannon On Trump's Presidency, The "Big Beautiful Bill"

April 30, 2025

President Trump celebrated 100 days of his second term at a rally in Michigan and called his policy changes the "most profound" in generations. Steve Bannon weighed in on the first 100 days of the Trump presidency, and Congressional Republicans return from recess aiming to pass the President's so-called "big beautiful bill" before Memorial Day.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Reena Advani, Kelsey Snell, Vincent Ni, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Grading Trump's First 100 Days, Presidential Retaliation, Detained Student Speaks

April 29, 2025

In a new poll, voters graded President Trump's first 100 days in office. An NPR analysis finds more than 100 people and groups the President targeted for retribution in his second term, and NPR traveled to Vermont to speak with a Columbia University student detained by the Trump administration.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Barrie Hardymon, Jan Johnson, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

Editor's note: After this segment aired, Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, responded to our request for comment. She said: "It is a privilege to be granted a visa or green card to live and study in the United States of America. When you advocate for violence, glorify and support terrorists that relish the of killing Americans, and harass Jews, that privilege should be revoked, and you should not be in this country." McLaughlin did not respond to NPR's request that the government provide evidence for its allegations that Mahdawi's actions amounted to antisemitism and led to violence. Mahdawi and his lawyers say those allegations are false.

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Continued Crackdown on Illegal Immigration, Canada Votes, Measles Outbreak

April 28, 2025

The Trump administration continues to crack down on US immigrants without legal status. The Canadian election has been dominated by President Trump's trade war and threatening rhetoric, and a measles outbreak is especially bad in Texas, where two of every three Americans with the virus live.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Russell Lewis, Tara Neill, Alfredo Carbajal, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from David Greenburg. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.

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A Whistleblower Takes on DOGE

April 27, 2025

NPR's cybersecurity correspondent Jenna McLaughlin recently broke a story about a whistleblower inside the federal government who says DOGE representatives appear to have taken sensitive data, then covered their tracks. Daniel Berulis works for the National Labor Relations Board and he has shared evidence that DOGE engineers disabled security protocols, exported reams of sensitive data and used a "hacker's toolkit" to hide their activities. And he thinks his agency is not alone. Today on The Sunday Story, what this possible breach could mean for the private data of millions of Americans.

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Pope Francis's Funeral Ceremony; Gaza Goes Hungry Under Israeli Blockade

April 26, 2025

We report live from St. Peter's Square in Vatican City, where Pope Francis's funeral is taking place. Plus, the U.N.'s food agency says it is running out of food to distribute to people in Gaza two months into an Israeli blockade.

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Ukraine-Russia Peace, Noncitizens And Due Process, Khartoum Destroyed

April 25, 2025

Ukraine says a ceasefire must be in place first before it will accept a peace deal with Russia, President Trump claims it's not possible for all of the people he wants to deport to get a trial, and after two years of brutal fighting, Sudan's once-vibrant capitol city of Khartoum is in ruins.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Tara Neill, Anna Yukhananov, Ryland Barton, Janaya Williams and Jan Johnson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Trump Changes Tone On Tariffs, Russia And Ukraine, Education Executive Orders

April 24, 2025

President Trump is now saying tariffs on China will come down substantially, striking a very different tone from the tough talk of a few weeks ago. The President lashed out at Ukrainian President Zelenskyy after he rejected U.S. terms to end the war with Russia, and in a series of executive actions President Trump targeted foreign funding and DEI initiatives at universities and K-12 schools.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Ryland Barton, Steve Drummond, Janaya Williams and Arezou Rezvani.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zac Coleman. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Global Economic Forecast Dims, Ukraine Peace Talks, Pope Francis Lies In State

April 23, 2025

Economists warned about an economic slowdown on the horizon for most countries around the world in the wake of century-high US tariffs. European, Ukrainian and U.S. officials meet in London for peace talks on Russia's war on Ukraine, and crowds began lining up at Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican to pay their last respects to Pope Francis.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Kevin Drew, Ryland Barton, Janaya Williams and Arezou Rezvani.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Defense Department Leak, Mourning Francis, SCOTUS Considers Opting Out

April 22, 2025

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth continues to find himself mired in controversy. Also — tributes have poured in from around the world remembering Pope Francis as a leader who advocated for the poor and the dispossessed, and the Supreme Court considers a case brought by parents who want to pull their kids out of public school classes because of objections to some learning materials.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Ryland Barton, Krishnadev Calamur, Arezou Rezvani and Janaya Williams.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

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Pope's Life And Legacy, What Happens Now In Rome, Reaction From South America

April 21, 2025

Pope Francis has died at age 88. He was one of the most popular popes in decades and lent his voice to almost every modern issue facing the world, often taking the side of the marginalized and vulnerable. A look at funeral plans, the selection process for the next Pope, what happens next in Rome, and the reaction from South America.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Russell Lewis, James Doubek, Miguel Macias, Arezou Rezvani and Janaya Williams.

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The Girls Who Were Sent Away

April 20, 2025

Before Roe v. Wade, when a young, unmarried girl got pregnant, she was often sent away – to a place called a maternity home. There, she would give birth in secret, surrender her baby, and return to her life as if nothing had happened. That shadowed history is the setting of Grady Hendrix's latest horror novel, Witchcraft for Wayward Girls. Today on The Sunday Story from Up First, Ayesha Rascoe talks with Hendrix about the truth that inspired his timely fiction — and what happens when people with little choice, discover a new kind of power.

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Supreme Court Blocks Deportations; Imprisonment in El Salvador; US-Iran Nuclear Talks

April 19, 2025

The Supreme Court has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from deporting a group of Venezuelans. Also, President Trump this week raised the possibility of sending US citizens convicted of crimes to prison in El Salvador. And we'll hear the latest on the second round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran.

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US Senator Visits Abrego Garcia, Florida State University Shooting, Fed Independence

April 18, 2025

A US Senator from Maryland met with Kilmar Abrego Garcia — the man illegally deported by the Trump administration — in El Salvador. Two people were killed and six wounded in a shooting on the campus of Florida State University, and economists say it could backfire if President Trump pressures the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Willem Marx, Susanna Capelouto, Rafael Nam, Janaya Williams and Mohamad ElBardicy.
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Trump Wants Powell Out, Administration Risks Contempt, and Homegrowns Are Next

April 17, 2025

President Trump is feuding with Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell. This all comes as Americans are feeling gloomier about the economy. Also, a judge found probable cause to find the government in criminal contempt, ruling that the Trump administration willfully disregarded an order to turn back airplanes carrying deported migrants to El Salvador, and President Trump says he is looking into whether the U.S. can detain citizens who commit crimes in overseas prisons.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Eric Westervelt, Rafael Nam, Janaya Williams and Mohamad ElBardicy.
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Hearing For Wrongly Deported Man, Prescription Drug Prices, Harvard Battle Continues

April 16, 2025

A federal judge in Maryland questioned the Trump administration about its continued refusal to retrieve a mistakenly deported man from an El Salvador prison, President Trump signed an executive action that aims to lower drug prices for Americans, and the President threatened to remove Harvard's tax exempt status.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukananov, Scott Hensley, Steven Drummond, Janaya Williams and Mohamad ElBardicy.
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Wrongly Deported, DOGE And Agency Data, Harvard Defies The White House

April 15, 2025

Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele says he has no plans to return a Maryland man mistakenly deported to El Salvador, an NPR report details unusual data events at the National Labor Relations Board, and Harvard University says that it won't comply with a list of demands from the Trump administration.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Brett Neely, Steven Drummond, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Janaya Williams. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Carla Estevez, Ashley Montgomery, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is David Greenburg.

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China Tariffs, El Salvador President In DC, Meta Antitrust Trial

April 14, 2025

China calls new U.S. tariff exemptions a "small step", but urges President Trump to heed rational voices and abolish all reciprocal tariffs, El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele visits Washington to meet President Trump and discuss El Salvador's role in locking up deportees, and Meta's antitrust case begins.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Tara Neil, Brett Neely, Mohammad ElBardicy and Janaya Williams.
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The State of Free Speech in America

April 13, 2025

The first amendment is a cornerstone of American democracy. This week on The Sunday Story, we hear from people who feel their right to free speech might be changing under the Trump Administration. NPR's Morning Edition co-host Leila Fadel joins Ayesha Rascoe to share what she learned when she talked to teachers and students, pastors and scientists, and others about whether they feel emboldened or silenced in America today.

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China's Counter-Tariffs; CEOs Respond to Market Uncertainty; Trump's Deportations

April 12, 2025

China's 125 percent tariffs will hit U.S.-made goods today. We'll look at the view from China on President Trump's trade war. Plus, we'll hear from American business leaders dealing with this uncertain economy. And we'll hear the latest on the deportation cases of foreign nationals who were in the U.S. legally.

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Tariff Fears, Trump Budget Plan Passes House, Deportation Ruling

April 11, 2025

Wall Street's relief rally didn't last long as investors took stock of the latest developments in President Trump's trade war. House Republicans approved a budget narrowly after some pushback from conservatives, and the US Supreme Court says the Trump administration must "facilitate" the return of a Maryland man who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador.

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Today's episode of Up First was by Rafael Nam, Kelsey Snell, Julia Redpath, Jan Johnson and Janaya Williams.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Trump Pauses Tariffs, Businesses Welcome Relief, Trump Targets Former Officials

April 10, 2025

President Trump has hit pause on nearly all new tariffs for 90 days. Businesses struggle to plan for the future amid economic uncertainty. And President Trump has signed executive orders targeting two individuals who served in his first administration.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Rafael Nam, Megan Pratz, Lisa Thomson and Janaya Williams. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Trump's Tariff Talks, China's Tariff Response, SCOTUS Probationary Workers

April 9, 2025

President Trump's new tariffs went into effect just after midnight as U.S. trade partners seek negotiations. President Trump has raised the import tax on Chinese goods to a minimum of 104 percent. And, the U.S. Supreme Court has said the Trump administration is free to proceed with the firing of 16,000 probationary federal employees for now.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Robbie Griffiths, Anna Yukhananov, Jason Breslow, Lisa Thomson and Janaya Williams.
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Trump's Tariff Response, Economics of Tariffs, SCOTUS Rules on Deportations

April 8, 2025

President Trump faces questions on whether tariffs will remain in place as he welcomes trade negotiations with other countries. Forecasters warn of a heightened risk of recession as tariffs could mean higher prices and slower economic growth. And, the Trump administration has two legal wins in its efforts to crackdown on immigration.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Rafael Nam, Andrea de Leon, Lisa Thomson and Janaya Williams.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Global Markets Plummet, Wrongful Deportation Deadline, Second Measles Death

April 7, 2025

President Trump's trade war has prompted further market declines. The Trump administration has a midnight deadline to return a man deported to El Salvador in what a federal judge has called a "grievous error". And, a second child in Texas has died of measles according to state health officials.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kara Platoni, Russell Lewis, Marc Silver, Lisa Thomson and Janaya Williams.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Fear and Dreaming in the USA

April 6, 2025

Fear is consuming many immigrant communities since the nationwide crackdown on illegal immigration. This week on The Sunday Story, NPR Immigration Correspondent Jasmine Garsd travels from Florida to a meatpacking town in Nebraska to a food bank near Chicago and finally to North Carolina to find out how immigrants are coping with the current situation.

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Trump's Tariffs Hit Groceries; GOP Spending Bill; College Basketball and Hockey

April 5, 2025

With some of President Trump's hefty tariffs in place, Americans will see the prices of some grocery items rise - we'll tell you which items might get hit first. Plus, Senate Republicans are pushing a spending bill that would make some of President Trump's signature policies permanent. We'll also look at a hockey great's goal record, finally matched last night after 26 years, plus, a look at what's ahead in college basketball finals.

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Tariffs Hit At Midnight, Small Business Reactions, National Security Firings

April 4, 2025

Steep new tariffs are set to take effect at midnight on nearly everything the U.S. imports. Big businesses are losing market value and small businesses feel like they're caught in the middle of something they can't control. And, a number of National Security Council staffers have been fired after President Trump met with a far-right activist.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Pallavi Gogoi, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
We get engineering support from Damian Herring. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange and our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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Trump's New Tariffs, Global Tariff Reactions, TikTok Deadline

April 3, 2025

President Trump has announced plans to tax virtually all foreign goods coming into the United States. Leaders across the world react with dismay and confusion to the tariffs. And, the owner of TikTok has until Saturday to sell the app and a number of bidders have lined up.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Ryland Barton, Brett Neely, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
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Trump's 'Liberation Day', Wisconsin Supreme Court Race, Mistaken Deportation

April 2, 2025

President Trump is set to impose sweeping tariffs on an array of countries. Liberal judge Susan Crawford was elected to the state Supreme Court in Wisconsin. And, the Trump administration has admitted to deporting a Maryland father by mistake.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Acacia Squires, Anna Yukhananov, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle.
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Wisconsin Supreme Court Race, Florida's Special Elections, Trump's Trade War

April 1, 2025

A Wisconsin Supreme Court election has become the most expensive judicial race in American history. Democrats are vying to pick up Congressional seats held by Republicans in two Florida special elections. And, investors are bracing for more turbulence, as President Trump prepares to unveil the next phase in his trade war.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Acacia Squires, Russell Lewis, Rafael Nam, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
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President Trump Third Term, Smithsonian Executive Order, Myanmar Earthquake

March 31, 2025

President Trump declines to rule out the possibility of serving a third term in office as the Constitution stipulates a two-term limit. The executive order "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History" seeks to influence the Smithsonian Institution and the monuments and memorials overseen by the Department of the Interior. And, the death toll in Myanmar is rising as the window to find survivors following Friday's earthquake closes.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Clare Lombardo, Ryland Barton, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Gambling with Memes

March 30, 2025

What do Moo Deng the pygmy hippo, social media sensation Hawk Tuah, and the President of the United States all have in common? They've all inspired highly valuable, highly volatile memecoins. The memecoin began as a sort of joke cryptocurrency, but it soon became very real.

On today's episode of The Sunday Story, we turn to our friends at NPR's Planet Money to help us understand the phenomenon of memecoins. What are they, and how did they go from a one-off joke to a speculative frenzy worth tens of billions of dollars? Who are the winners and losers in this brazen new market?

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Myanmar Quake, Who Pays Tariffs, E.O. Impacts On Arts

March 29, 2025

A powerful earthquake struck Southeast Asia Friday, killing more than 1,000 people. New tariffs come into effect in days, with American consumers likely paying for them. President Trump's executive actions targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion are having effects on arts and culture across the country.

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ICE Student Arrests, HHS Cuts, Stefanik Nomination Pulled, China Trade City

March 28, 2025

The Trump administration has revoked hundreds of visas of foreign students, including PhD student Rumeysa Ozturk who was detained on the street by ICE agents. The Trump administration plans to cut 20,000 jobs from the Department of Health and Human Services. President Trump pulls Elise Stefanik's nomination for UN Ambassador to keep her in the House, protecting the GOP's razor-thin majority. And, NPR looks at how U.S. tariffs are putting pressure on Chinese businesses, with some raising prices and others making trade-offs to stay competitive.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Jane Greenhalgh, Jason Breslow, Reena Advani, Arezou Rezvani and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Milton Guevara, Aowen Cao, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
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Intelligence Officials Testify, Trump's Auto Tariffs, DOGE Access

March 27, 2025

A group chat among top U.S. national security officials discussing airstrikes in Yemen has been made public, sparking outrage and raising questions about the Trump administration's handling of classified information. President Trump imposes a 25% tariff on car imports to boost U.S. manufacturing, but auto industry leaders warn it could raise prices and disrupt markets. And, the Department of Government Efficiency's access to sensitive personal data from multiple federal agencies is sparking legal battles over privacy and security.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Brett Neely, Ryland Barton, Arezou Rezvani and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
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Intel Hearing On Group Chat, Return To Office Mandate, Black Sea Deal

March 26, 2025

President Trump's top intelligence officials face tough questions from lawmakers after a group chat security breach involving secret war plans and a journalist. Federal workers are being called back to the office, but some are finding chaotic conditions, including assignments to storage units. And, the U.S. brokers a deal to allow safe passage through the Black Sea, but Russia demands sanctions relief before it takes effect.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Brett Neely, Ryland Barton, Arezou Rezvani and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
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War Plans Group Chat, Alien Enemies Act, U.S. Greenland Visit

March 25, 2025

A national security breach reveals that U.S. military plans were accidentally shared in a group chat on a commercial app, including a journalist. The Trump Administration faces legal challenges over deporting Venezuelan migrants under a centuries-old law, while the White House invokes state secrets privilege to block a court inquiry. And, Second Lady Usha Vance's controversial visit to Greenland raises questions about the U.S. government's intentions amid ongoing diplomatic tensions.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Eric Westervelt, Roberta Rampton, Janaya Williams and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
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Occupy Gaza Plan, Ukraine Ceasefire Talks, China Economy

March 24, 2025

As the death toll reaches 50,000 Palestinians killed, Israel is considering a full-scale ground invasion and military occupation of Gaza. U.S. officials are meeting with Russian and Ukrainian diplomats in Saudi Arabia to negotiate a potential ceasefire. And, China's premier is calling for open markets and global investment amid the country's economic slowdown.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Alex Leff, Ryland Barton, Reena Advani, Janaya Williams and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
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The Long Shadow of Duterte's Drug War

March 23, 2025

With the recent arrest of former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte for crimes against humanity, a spotlight is again on actions taken during his presidency. Even years after Duterte declared his war on drugs, the reverberations continue to tear through the country. The loved ones of those killed are still left seeking justice and the extra-judicial killings, commonly called EJKs, that defined Duterte's war continue to sow fear amongst the people.

Today on The Sunday Story, we share an episode that originally aired last year with reporter Emily Feng. She traveled to the Philippines to understand the aftermath of Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs.

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DHS job cuts, Travel troubles under Trump, Sudan Civil War latest

March 22, 2025

The Department of Homeland Security makes cuts to its office for civil rights and civil liberties and other oversight offices, saying these offices slow down enforcement. Immigration officials at checkpoints are detaining travelers to the US over what were once minor visa violations. Sudan's military has retaken the seat of the country's government after nearly two years.

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School Funding, Venezuelan Deportation Hearing, Key Bridge Inspection

March 21, 2025

President Trump shuts down the Department of Education, leaving federal funding for schools in limbo. A judge demands answers from the Trump administration after Venezuelan migrants were deported despite a court order. And, Maryland failed to inspect the Francis Scott Key Bridge before its collapse last year, raising concerns about other bridges nationwide.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Nicole Cohen, Anna Yukhananov, Luis Clemens, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
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Fed Rates Pause, USIP Loses Case, Israel Restarts Gaza Ground Invasion

March 20, 2025

The Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady despite rising inflation, while President Trump calls for rate cuts as tariffs take effect. A federal judge rules against blocking the government's takeover of the U.S. Institute of Peace, despite concerns over heavy-handed tactics. And, Israel launches a new ground offensive in Gaza after breaking the ceasefire with Hamas, resulting in hundreds of deaths and raising questions about hostages.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Gerry Holmes, Russell Lewis, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams and Christopher Thomas.
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USAID Ruling, Ukraine On Trump Putin Agreement, Gaza Ceasefire Collapse

March 19, 2025

A federal judge rules that President Trump's administration likely violated the Constitution when it shut down USAID, but Trump vows to appeal. Hours after Trump and Putin announced a limited ceasefire, Russia and Ukraine launched new attacks, raising doubts about the deal. And Israel breaks the ceasefire with Hamas and resumes airstrikes on Gaza, killing hundreds of Palestinians.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Jane Greenhalgh, Ryland Barton, Russell Lewis, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams and Christopher Thomas.
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Israel Strikes Gaza, Trump And The Courts, Takeover At US Institute Of Peace

March 18, 2025

Hundreds of Palestinians were killed or injured in surprise Israeli strikes, threatening a tenuous ceasefire. A federal judge ordered the Department of Justice to explain why it ignored a ruling not to deport hundreds of Venezuelans, and the US Institute of Peace was the scene of a hostile takeover by the Trump administration's government efficiency group.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Roberta Rampton, Russell Lewis, Alice Woelfle and Janaya Williams. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Alien Enemies Act, Legal US Immigrants Denied Entry, Deadly Storm System

March 17, 2025

The Trump Administration invoked a wartime law called the Alien Enemies Act to deport hundreds of Venezuelans accused of being gang members, several legal immigrants living in the US were denied reentry into the country, and a powerful storm system killed dozens in the Midwest and South.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Luis Clemons, Alice Woelfle and Janaya Williams. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams, Zachary Coleman and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is David Greenburg.

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A Palestinian Reporter Returns Home to Gaza City

March 16, 2025

Anas Baba is NPR's eyes and ears on the ground in Gaza. He's also one of the only Palestinian journalists working full time for an American news organization in Gaza. Israel has banned international journalists from independent access to the territory throughout this war. But Baba is from Gaza City, and he chose to stay and report when the war began. Today on The Sunday Story, what it's like to cover the war while also living through it.

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Democrat In-Fighting; Conservative Media on Trump; Mahmoud Khalil's Wife Speaks

March 15, 2025

The partisan, Republican stopgap budget was narrowly passed by the Senate with the help of a few Democrats. Some Congressional Democrats view that vote as a betrayal. Plus, we look at how the conservative news media, often favorable of President Trump, is covering the economic consequences of his policies. Plus, we hear from Noor Abdalla, wife of Palestinian student and activist Mahmoud Khalil, who is now facing deportation over his role in campus protests.

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Congress Budget Vote, Trump Speaks At DOJ, Federal Workers Reinstated

March 14, 2025

Congress faces a shutdown deadline today as Senate Democrats weigh whether to back a Republican spending bill or risk being blamed for closing the government. President Trump makes a rare visit to the Justice Department, delivering a speech on law and order while his administration purges career prosecutors. And, federal judges order thousands of fired government workers to be reinstated, but legal battles could delay their return.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Anna Yukhananov, Ben Swayse, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, our technical director is Carleigh Strange.
Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor

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Russia Mulls Ceasefire, EPA Rollbacks, Iran Rebuffs Trump

March 13, 2025

President Trump's special envoy is in Moscow for talks as Russia reviews a U.S. backed proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine. The White House is rolling back more than two dozen environmental protections regulations, a move critics warn could lead to more pollution and health risks. And, Iran's Supreme Leader rejects President Trump's effort to start nuclear talks, calling it a deceptive attempt to pressure Tehran.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Neela Bannerjee, Kevin Drew, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
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Ukraine Ceasefire Talks, Education Department Layoffs, Spending Bill

March 12, 2025

The U.S. is resuming military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine after negotiators agree to a 30-day ceasefire, which Russia is now reviewing. The Trump administration is cutting nearly half of the Education Department's workforce. And, the House passes a stopgap funding bill with just days until a potential government shutdown, now it's headed for a vote in the Senate.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Nicole Cohen, Jason Breslow, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.
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Ukraine Ceasefire Talks, Stock Market Slide, Columbia University Arrest Latest

March 11, 2025

As Ukraine begins ceasefire negotiations in Saudi Arabia, the Trump administration signals that aid could resume if Ukraine makes concessions. A steep sell-off on Wall Street followed new tariffs from China and Canada, as investors worry that Trump's trade policies could tip the U.S. into a recession. And, after an ICE arrest at Columbia University, the U.S. Education Department is warning 60 universities they could face penalties over antisemitism investigations.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Rafael Nam, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas.
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Canada's New Leader, ICE Arrest Columbia Student, Congress and The Budget

March 10, 2025

Canada's ruling Liberal Party has a new leader, Mark Carney, a former central banker who now faces the challenge of steering the country through economic turmoil and a tense trade relationship with the United States. Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student and pro-Palestinian activist, has been arrested by ICE agents. And, House Republicans unveil a stopgap funding bill to keep the government running through September, but with Democrats opposing it, passing the bill will require almost every GOP vote.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Tara Neill, Kevin Drew, Krishnadev Calamur, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas.
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Who gets to be an American?

March 9, 2025

On the first day of his second term as President, Donald Trump signed an executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. whose parents are in the country illegally. The Trump Administration asserts that the children of noncitizens are not "subject to the jurisdiction of the United States" and therefore are not entitled to citizenship. But birthright citizenship is a Constitutional guarantee, explicitly laid out in the 14th Amendment. On this episode of The Sunday Story, we look at the origins of this right through a 1898 court case that would transform the life of one Chinese American and generations to follow. You can listen to the full episode from NPR's Throughline here or wherever you listen to podcasts.

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Limiting Musk's Powers; VA Employees On DOGE Emails; No Cure For Long COVID

March 8, 2025

President Trump says that his Cabinet secretaries are actually supposed to be the ones to make staffing decisions, not Elon Musk and his DOGE entity. Also, we hear from employees at the Veterans Health Administration about how they feel about DOGE emails asking them to spell out what they did last week. Plus, a look at where things stand on the treatment of Long COVID.

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BONUS: America's Shifting Alliances

March 7, 2025

President Trump has shaken up America's global alliances with policy reversals and realignments being felt around the world. How are writers, analysts, and leaders making sense of it all?

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This bonus episode of Up First was edited Lisa Thomson, Arezou Rezvani, Reena Advani and Olivia Hampton. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Nia Dumas, Chris Thomas, Paige Waterhouse, Adam Bearne, Milton Guevara and Ana Perez.

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Jobs Report, White House Crypto Summit, Gaza Ceasefire Uncertainty

March 7, 2025

The Labor Department is expected to show a modest uptick in hiring as part of its monthly jobs report card, but layoffs could cast a chill over the job market in coming months. The White House meets with founders and investors in the crypto industry to discuss how to grow the sector. And, rival ceasefire plans create uncertainty in Gaza, the Trump administration is demanding Hamas release hostages immediately, while holding secret talks with the group.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Roberta Rampton, Russell Lewis, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas.
We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, our technical director is Stacey Abbott.
And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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EU Leaders On Ukraine, Auto Tariffs Paused, USDA Workers Return

March 6, 2025

European leaders are meeting for an emergency summit to find ways to raise billions for defense and aid to Ukraine after after the U.S. cut military support. President Trump has granted a one-month exemption on new auto tariffs for Canadian and Mexican imports. And, a federal board has ordered the USDA to reinstate nearly 6,000 fired workers, ruling their dismissals were likely unlawful.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Nick Spicer, Kara Platoni, Padma Rama, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas.
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What Trump Said Last Night, Trump On Immigration, China Tariff Confidence

March 5, 2025

In his first address to Congress of this term, President Trump criticized Democrats and highlighted his administration's policy achievements. Trump used his address to Congress to highlight his administration's aggressive immigration policies, including designating certain gangs as terrorist organizations. And, China's premier outlined the nation's economic priorities and Beijing's retaliation against new U.S. tariffs.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Kevin Drew, Ryland Barton, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas.
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Ukraine Funds Paused, Trump Addresses Congress, Tariffs Begin

March 4, 2025

The White House put a pause on military aid to Ukraine after a heated Oval Office exchange with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump will address Congress tonight, outlining his agenda on immigration, tax cuts, and his approach to Ukraine. And, Trump's new tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China have sparked retaliation, escalating a trade war that could impact the global economy.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Roberta Rampton, Tara Neill, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas.
We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent, our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Zelenskyy in London, Gaza Ceasefire Status, Judicial Accountability

March 3, 2025

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received a warm welcome in London from the British prime minister and other European leaders, after a contentious meeting with President Trump in Washington. Israel and Hamas are at loggerheads over the next phase of the six-week-old Gaza ceasefire. And, an NPR investigation finds gaps in the systems to report misbehavior by federal judges and a widespread culture of fear about reporting abuse.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Didi Schanche, Krishnadev Calamur, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Claire Murashima and Chris Thomas.
We get engineering support from Zac Coleman, our technical director is David Greenburg

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Who Will Win at the Oscars

March 2, 2025

Tonight, big blockbuster films Dune: Part Two and Wicked are competing against critic favorites like The Brutalist, Nickel Boys and The Substance at the Academy Awards. With so many films out there it's hard to keep up, but the team at Pop Culture Happy Hour has seen them all and they are joining us today to share their predictions for who will be the big winners at this evening's ceremony.

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Zelenskyy-Vance-Trump Blow Up, DOJ Demotions, Feds Plan for Bird Flu

March 1, 2025

Ukrainians react to the stunning events in the Oval Office that ended not with a signed minerals deal, but with shouting. Trump's Department of Justice demotes career lawyers who were involved in prosecutions of Trump allies and January 6th rioters. The Department of Agriculture announces plans to fight bird flu and high egg prices.

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Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Says She's Fighting President Trump's "Illusion of Power"

March 1, 2025

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a New York Democrat, says she thinks Republicans have begun making mistakes... and her party is resolved to strike back.

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This bonus episode of Up First was edited by Susan Davis, Kelsey Snell and Reena Advani. It was produced by Adam Bearne. We get engineering support from Neil Tevault and Hannah Gluvna. Our Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Zelenskyy Visits DC, Tate Brothers In Florida, USAID Standoff, AOC and DOJ

February 28, 2025

The Ukrainian President is arriving in Washington to discuss a deal involving his country's rare earth minerals, social media influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate were charged with human trafficking in Romania and have now arrived in Florida, and the Supreme Court weighed in on a case involving frozen funds at USAID. Also, Rep. Ocasio-Cortez asks the Justice Department if she is under investigation.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Russell Lewis, Catherine Laidlaw, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Christopher Thomas and Paige Waterhouse. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent, and our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Foreign Aid Terminated, Migrants At Guantánamo, Legal Challenges To Federal Firings

February 27, 2025

The Trump administration says it will end more than 90 percent of the U.S. Agency for International Development's foreign aid contracts. NPR spoke to two immigrants sent to Guantánamo who allege mistreatment by detainment officers, and a federal judge will hear arguments over the Trump administration's firing of probationary employees.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Jane Greenhalgh, Anna Yukhananov, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, and Paige Waterhouse. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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House Budget Plan, DOGE Resignations, Battle Against Bird Flu

February 26, 2025

House Republicans passed a sweeping new budget plan but disagree on spending cuts. A group of civil servants on Elon Musk's DOGE team resigned, and egg farmers on the front lines of the latest bird flu outbreaks say they are losing the battle with the disease.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Padmananda Rama, Carrie Feibel, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Federal Worker Email Confusion, UN On Ukraine, Colorado River, France Surgeon Trial

February 25, 2025

Confusion remains after the "What did you do last week?" email that federal workers received, the Trump administration's break with European allies over Ukraine was reflected in several votes at the UN, funds set aside to keep the Colorado River flowing have been halted, and a surgeon in France is on trial for abusing his young patients.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Tara Neil, Eric Whitney, Kevin Drew, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

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Federal Worker Confusion, European Leaders In DC, German Election, Greenpeace Lawsuit

February 24, 2025

Federal workers are experiencing confusion after receiving an email demanding a list of their work accomplishments, the French President and British Prime Minister are meeting with President Trump this week in Washington to try to sway him on Ukraine, Germany is getting a new Chancellor, and the environmental group Greenpeace is is facing a multimillion dollar lawsuit for allegedly disrupting construction of an oil pipeline.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Kevin Drew, Neela Banerjee, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

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Alternate Realities

February 23, 2025

Conspiracy theories are all over social media. For some, that's as far as they go. But for reporter Zach Mack, conspiracy theories have infiltrated his family. After Mack's father became obsessed with conspiracy thinking, family relationships began to fray. Today on The Sunday Story, a look at what happens to a family when the people in it can't agree on what's true and what isn't.

To hear more of Mack's story about the impact conspiracy theories have had on his family check out his three-part series called Alternate Realities on NPR's Embedded podcast.

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Pentagon Upheaval, Hamas Releases More Hostages, NY State Prisons

February 22, 2025

President Donald Trump fires the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, plus the Defense Department is set to lose more than 5 thousand personnel. Hamas releases 6 more living hostages as part of its ceasefire agreement with Israel. Corrections officers in NY protest working conditions and some walk off the job, prompting the governor to send in National Guard troops to secure some state prisons.

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Migrants Leave Guantanamo, Israeli Hostages Update, Changes at FEMA

February 21, 2025

Nearly all migrants held at Guantánamo Bay have been released, with over 170 Venezuelans flown to their home country. Israeli authorities say a hostage body returned by Hamas is not who the militants claimed it to be. And the impact of job cuts at FEMA.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Didi Schanche, Neela Banerjee, Reena Advani and Janaya Williams. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Trump and Zelenskyy Feud, DOGE Savings Claims, Hamas Releases Four Hostage Bodies

February 20, 2025

A look at the roots of the difficult relationship between President Trump and President Zelenskyy. DOGE says its saved taxpayers billions of dollars. How do these claims stack up against the evidence? And Hamas returns the bodies of four Israeli hostages held in Gaza since the October 7, 2023 attack.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Padmananda Rama, Didi Schanche, Reena Advani and Janaya Williams. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Measles Outbreak, Foreign Aid Cuts, Bolsonaro Charges

February 19, 2025

Health officials are warning about a measles outbreak in Texas. Trump administration efforts to shrink the federal government have temporarily cut off funding to pro-democracy groups abroad. And Brazil's former leader Jair Bolsonaro is charged with participating in a coup.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Alfredo Carbajal, Padmananda Rama, Tara Neill, Reena Advani and Janaya Williams. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Simon-Laslo Janssen and our technical director is Stacey Abbott. Our Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Ukraine Talks, U.S. Health Agency Cuts, NYC Mayor Eric Adams Fallout

February 18, 2025

American and Russian officials meet in Saudi Arabia for talks on negotiating an end to the war in Ukraine. The Trump administration has started making broad cuts to federal health agencies. Days after the Justice Department moved to drop corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, four of his top aides and deputy mayors announced their resignations.
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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Jane Greenhalgh, Denice Rios, Reena Advani and Janaya Williams. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Paris Emergency Summit, Marco Rubio in the Middle East, Trump's First Month

February 17, 2025

European leaders meet in Paris to discuss an emerging transatlantic chasm over security and the war in Ukraine. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in the Middle East amplifying President Trump's vision for Gaza. And a review of Trump's first four weeks reshaping the U.S. government.

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Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Didi Schanche, Krishnadev Calamur Reena Advani and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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A Home But Not A Cure

February 16, 2025

Thirty years ago, housing activists began an unusual experiment to help people struggling with homelessness and chronic addiction. They decided to get people into housing first and then try to help their clients with their addictions. This idea, called "Housing First," is now the central strategy guiding homeless services in America. But the concept is facing new scrutiny and growing criticism from conservative lawmakers. Today on The Sunday Story, we look at the controversy around Housing First and consider if the strategy is working as it was designed.

You can listen to Will James's full documentary on KUOW's Soundside podcast.

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