Up First from NPR

The fall of Syria's regime is a blow to Iran. Iranian money and troops propped up former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government. How much do the developments in Syria set back an adversary of Israel and the U.S.? Some American colleges have issued a warning to their international students. They're suggesting students should try to return before Inauguration Day, to avoid any trouble at the border. Also, who's flying drones over New Jersey?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 Didrik Schanche, Steven Drummond, Ally Schweitzer, HJ Mai and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Ben Abrams. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent, and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What does a change at the top mean for the FBI? Director Christopher Wray announced he will resign next month. Shooting an insurance executive in the back produced a disturbing response about America's healthcare industry. The Democratic National Committee is meeting in Washington over the next two days to reflect on the election results and hear pitches from candidates for leadership positions.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 Anna Yukhananov, Diane Webber, Megan Pratz, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Ben Abrams. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

People in Syria are slowly settling in to a new reality. The fall of the Assad regime offers new opportunities, but also creates big challenges. NPR's Ruth Sherlock is reporting from Damascus. The motive of the alleged gunman in the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson is still unclear. Police have been sifting through Luigi Mangione's online history since his arrest to learn more about his ideology, and the proposed merger between grocery giants Kroger and Albertsons hangs in the balance.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 James Hider, Andrew Sussman, Emily Kopp, HJ Mai and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Ben Abrams. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Police arrested 26-year-old Luigi Mangione in the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. He has been charged with second-degree murder. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will testify on Tuesday in his own corruption trial. The start of his defense comes amid Israel's ongoing war in Gaza. Jay-Z is the latest celebrity to be named in the web of allegations against Sean 'Diddy' Combs. The rapper has been accused of raping a teenage girl more than two decades ago. 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 Andrea de Leon, James Hider, Otis Hart, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Ben Abrams. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

After 54 years, the Assad's brutal reign in Syria is over. Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia with his family as rebel forces swept into the capital of Damascus. President Biden called the fall of the Assad regime a "moment of historic opportunity." But he also warned of the potential risks. And President-elect Trump gave his first network TV interview since winning the election. 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 James Hider, Andrew Sussman, Roberta Rampton, HJ Mai and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In 1972, the federal government launched a program to support the poorest disabled and elderly Americans. Supplemental Security Income, run by the Social Security Administration, provides monthly checks that are a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable people in this country.SSI was intended to serve as a powerful safety net and a tool for fighting poverty. But a recent NPR Investigation led by correspondent Joseph Shapiro has discovered a very different reality today.In today's episode of The Sunday Story, Shapiro explains how SSI's outdated rules have made the system difficult to run and almost impossible for its beneficiaries to navigate. Impoverished disabled and elderly people say they have been penalized for trying to improve their lives—for saving money, getting married, and even daring to have careers.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Syrian rebels continue their push south in an effort to take more territory as government forces fail to hold them back. Plus, there are calls for the South Korean president to resign after he tried to declare martial law. And, Pope Francis promotes 21 men as new cardinals.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Syrian opposition forces swept into another government stronghold as they continue with their largest offensive in years against the government of President Bashar al-Assad. It's been a milestone week for cryptocurrencies as a single Bitcoin hit a valuation of one hundred thousand dollars. And, officials in New York City have taken a step toward addressing the city's housing crisis with a new plan that could pave the way for 80,000 new homes over the next 15 years. 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 James Hider, Pallavi Gogoi, Andrea DeLeon, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Ben Abrams. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President-elect Donald Trump's embattled nominee for secretary of defense, Pete Hegseth, faces a tough path to confirmation in the Senate. New York City police are searching for the person who killed the head of America's largest health insurer. And, the conclusions of an economist who studied the impact of mass deportations on the job market.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 Roberta Rampton, Russell Lewis, Alfredo Carbajal, Lisa Thomson and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

South Korea's president shocked the nation when he tried to declare martial law and now he faces impeachment charges. The Supreme Court will hear a challenge to a Tennessee law that bans gender affirming hormone treatments for minors. The French government is on the brink of collapse as the Prime Minister faces a vote of no-confidence. Join the new NPR Plus Bundle to support our work and get perks like sponsor-free listening and bonus episodes across more than 25 NPR podcasts. 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 Miguel Macias, Krishnadev Calamur, Nick Spicer, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Kaity Klein. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden's move to pardon his son Hunter has been met with criticism from opponents and some allies. The rapid advance by rebel fighters in Syria is linked to a series of conflicts in the Middle East. And, protesters in Georgia are calling for elections as the government suspends talks for membership to the European Union. Join the new NPR Plus Bundle to support our work and get perks like sponsor-free listening and bonus episodes across more than 25 NPR podcasts. 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 Roberta Rampton, Andrew Sussman, Nick Spicer, Lisa Thomson and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden has issued a full and unconditional pardon of his son, Hunter Biden. President-elect Donald Trump says he'll nominate ally Kash Patel to serve as the next Director of the FBI. And, rebel militias made territorial gains in Syria as the country's 13-year civil war continues. Join the new NPR Plus Bundle to support our work and get perks like sponsor-free listening and bonus episodes across more than 25 NPR podcasts. 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 Dana Farringdon, James Hider, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Since its inception in 1973, the Endangered Species Act has been credited with helping to bring numerous species back from the brink of extinction. But as the country has continued to grow and develop it has also forced us to grapple with balancing the needs of endangered wildlife with the needs of humans. Today on The Sunday Story from Up First, host Ayesha Rascoe is joined by Montana Public Radio's Nick Mott to talk about his reporting on the Endangered Species Act, in a new podcast called The Wide Open, and how we navigate our complicated relationship with nature.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Lebanese refugees return home as the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah enters its fourth day. Housing costs loomed large in yesterday's parliamentary elections in Ireland. What the newly emboldened Republican state lawmakers in Texas want this session.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Aid groups warn lives will be lost in Gaza as winter settles in and people lack protection against harsh elements and seasonal illnesses. It's Black Friday and retailers are expecting a record-breaking number of shoppers. And, third party presidential candidates got fewer votes in 2024 than in recent years. 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 Didrik Schanche, Emily Kopp, Megan Pratz, Lisa Thomson and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Adam Bearne, Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Ted Mebane. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Tens of thousands of Lebanese are returning to the country's south, where they're discovering homes destroyed by the fighting with Israel. This Thanksgiving is set to be the busiest ever for air travel and there are new rules aimed at protecting customers. And, the science behind why taking a walk after a big meal is good for your health. Join the new NPR Plus Bundle to support our work and get perks like sponsor-free listening and bonus episodes across more than 25 NPR podcasts. 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 Didrik Schanche, Russell Lewis, Jane Greenhalgh, Lisa Thomson and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Adam Bearne, Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Ted Mebane. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has gone into effect. Security forces dispersed thousands of protesters in the capital of Pakistan after they marched on the city to demand the release of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. And, President-elect Donald Trump has threatened tariffs against Canada, Mexico and China in a bid to stem the flow of fentanyl and unauthorized migrants into the country.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 Didrik Schanche, Ryland Barton, Andrea de Leon, Lisa Thomson and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Nisha Heinis. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A possible 60-day ceasefire is in the works between Israel and Lebanon. President-elect Trump is promising big cuts in government spending and he wants to use a little-known tool to make them. And, a look at what conservative activist Leonard Leo plans to focus on during the next Trump administration. 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 Didrik Schanche, Roberta Rampton, Jan Johnson, Lisa Thomson and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Republican-controlled Senate is expected to consider President-elect Donald Trump's cabinet nominees in the new year. A new report on femicide from UN Women finds a woman or girl was killed every 10 minutes last year. And, The COP29 climate conference ended with an agreement to provide financing to developing nations to help cope with the effects of climate change.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 Krishnadev Calmur, Jim Kane, Rachel Waldholz, Lisa Thomson and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What turns a playful debate into an angry, tearful argument? Or a cheerful Thanksgiving feast into a frosty dessert? America is heading into the holiday season after a divisive election season. So we're featuring an episode from NPR's science podcast Short Wave about what happens in our brains during conflict: Why it tempts us to shut down, and how we can navigate difficult conversations—political or otherwise—without losing control.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President-elect Donald Trump picks a hedge fund manager to head Treasury and announces several other nominees to top posts. Florida's surgeon general comes out against fluoridating water, a long-standing practice intended to prevent tooth decay.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President-elect Donald Trump swiftly replaced his controversial pick for Attorney General, Matt Gaetz, with his former lawyer, Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed the right to strike NATO countries supplying Ukraine with weapons, as Moscow escalates its military efforts in the war. And, a massive atmospheric river is drenching the West Coast, fueling concerns about the impact of climate change on extreme weather events.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 Jason Breslow, Andrew Sussman, Neela Banerjee, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Ally Schweitzer.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara.We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

European officials investigate whether severed Baltic internet cables were an act of Russian sabotage, raising fears about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure. President-elect Trump names Matthew Whitaker, a loyalist with no foreign policy experience, as U.S. ambassador to NATO. And, with historic voter turnout helping Donald Trump secure a sweeping victory, will Republicans shift their stance on policies that make voting easier?Your feedback helps us make Up First better. Tell us what you like and what you don't like by taking our survey at npr.org/upfirstsurveyWant 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 Andrew Sussman, Tara Neill, Andrea DeLeon, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President-elect Donald Trump taps WWE executive Linda McMahon to lead the Department of Education, sparking questions about her qualifications and Trump's promise to close the agency. Republicans accuse FEMA of political bias in disaster response as its chief testifies before Congress amid a funding request for the agency. Dissatisfaction with Elon Musk's platform X fuels the rise of Bluesky as a social media alternative. And, Eyewitness accounts allege the Israeli military is using sniper drones to target civilians in Gaza, raising questions about the human toll of advanced warfare. 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 Nicole Cohen, Russell Lewis, Kara Platoni, Lauren Migaki, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Ally Schweitzer.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

1,000 days of war have devastated Ukraine and transformed life in Russia, as President Vladimir Putin expands nuclear threats amid the escalating conflict. In Hong Kong, pro-democracy activists are sentenced under a sweeping national security law. And, President-elect Donald Trump promises sweeping tax cuts, but experts warn his plans could deepen the national debt.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 Kevin Drew, Ryland Barton, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ukraine gets U.S. approval to fire long-range missiles into Russia, raising the stakes in a war that's entering a harsh winter. President Biden pushes his climate agenda at the G20 summit in Brazil, seeking to solidify U.S. leadership as allies prepare for President-elect Trump's return. And, Trump's plan to combat the fentanyl crisis sparks debate over whether tougher crackdowns on traffickers will help or harm efforts to save lives.Your feedback helps us make Up First better. Tell us what you like and what you don't like by taking our survey at npr.org/upfirstsurveyWant 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 Andrew Sussman, Tara Neill, Andrea DeLeon, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Deep, deep down on the floor of the world's oceans, rare and precious minerals exist in abundance. Mining companies have long had their eyes on this treasure but haven't had the technology to access it. Now they do and the race to mine the sea floor seems poised to begin. Today on The Sunday Story, we head to the Bismarck Sea off the coast of Papua New Guinea. It's here that a massive mining ship was recently hauling up chunks of the sea floor from a mile down, trying to gauge the mineral wealth and the possible damage extraction might cause.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What do President-elect Donald Trump's picks for his national security team say about his 2nd term priorities? New data shows a slight decline in sexually transmitted infections. The latest from the UN Climate Change Conference in Azerbaijan.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Up First co-hosts spent the week diving into some the promises President-elect Donald Trump has made for his return to the White House. From a pledge to pardon January 6th rioters and start mass deportations to a commitment to close the Department of Education, increase fossil fuel production, and roll-back protections for transgender people.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 Lisa Thomson and it was produced by Kaity Kline. It was made in collaboration with the entire Morning Edition team and with our engineering and studio teams.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President-elect Donald Trump selects vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. Bond markets are reacting to Trump's economic proposals, with fears of rising inflation and higher borrowing costs that could affect everyday Americans. And, President Biden meets China's Xi Jinping in Peru for a final summit, aiming to maintain stability during the transition of power to a new administration.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 Diane Webber, Pallavi Gogoi, Roberta Rampton, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Julie Depenbrock.And our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar.We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President-elect Donald Trump taps Matt Gaetz as Attorney General, sparking questions about Senate approval for the controversial nominee. Democratic-led states are organizing coalitions to push back against policies they expect from the incoming administration. And, Paris police deploy thousands of officers for a tense soccer match between France and Israel, amid fears of violence following unrest after a match in the Netherlands.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 Anna Yukhananov, Larry Kaplow, Ryland Barton, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Julie Depenbrock.We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President-elect Donald Trump's unconventional picks for his second-term team signal a shift in U.S. foreign policy. A jury awarded $42 million to three Iraqi men tortured at Abu Ghraib, holding a military contractor accountable for its role in their abuse. And, as the Trump administration signals rollbacks on climate action, the UK is stepping up with ambitious plans to combat global warming. 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 Megan Pratz, Lauren Migaki, Neela Banerjee, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock.We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. Our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As Congress reconvenes, Trump allies are pushing the president-elect's preferences for Republican leadership. As Trump considers his pick for attorney general, questions grow about the future direction of the Justice Department. And, President Joe Biden will meet with world leaders in South America in what could be his final big foreign trip while in office. 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 Anna Yukhananov, Roberta Rampton, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.In a previous version of this episode, we incorrectly said President Biden is in South America. He is not. He will travel to South America later this week.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President-elect Donald Trump has begun choosing members of his staff, as Republicans control the Senate and possibly even the House. Trump's return to the White House revives questions about the future of the Affordable Care Act. And, protest erupt in Israel after fired Defense Minister Yoav Gallant slams Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's war strategy.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 Dana Farrington, Diane Webber, Ryland Barton, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Julie Depenbrock.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We're in a moment of political change. This change often brings with it a reinterpretation of our democratic values. Those values originate with The U.S. Constitution and its 27 amendments. The words in these documents are the foundations of our democracy and the promises made are powerful, like the right to free speech, the right of the people to keep and bear arms and the promise that a person cannot be tried twice for the same crime. But what do these words really guarantee, especially as they are reinterpreted time and again as the world changes? Throughline, NPR's history podcast, has been exploring the long, fraught history of America's constitutional amendments in a series called "We the People" and in this episode they bring us some of the stories they've uncovered in their reporting.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Dutch authorities ban demonstrations for 3 days after attacks on Israeli soccer fans following a game in Amsterdam. President-elect Donald Trump benefited from his relationship with billionaire Elon Musk during his campaign - how could Musk benefit once Trump returns to office? And with Republicans controlling the Senate next congress, what could this mean for the federal judiciary?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Donald Trump's presidential transition plans are lagging. What can be expected from Trump's first 100 days in office. And January 6 rioters are already angling for a presidential pardon under Trump.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 Roberta Rampton, Megan Pratz, Anna Yukhananov, Olivia Hampton and Jan Johnson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In this bonus episode, Up First co-hosts Leila Fadel and A Martinez break down the latest analysis of the election results and what's ahead for the next Trump administration with the day's reporters, experts and analysts. 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 Lisa Thomson and Produced by Kaity Kline. It was made by the Morning Edition and Up First teams along with the entire NPR newsroom. It was also made in collaboration with our engineering and studio teams. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Donald Trump won after building a broad coalition. Trump's election victory gets rid of at least two of his criminal prosecutions. And stocks climb on hopes that Trump's re-election will boost economic growth.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Anna Yukhananov, Rafael Nam, Olivia Hampton and Jan Johnson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In this bonus episode, Up First co-hosts Leila Fadel and A Martinez break down what's behind President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House with the day's reporters, political strategists and analysts. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Donald Trump will return to the White House as the 47th president of the United States. And Republicans regain control of the Senate.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 Eric McDaniel, Dana Farrington, Olivia Hampton and Jan Johnson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Harris wrap up their campaigns in the wee hours of the morning on Election Day. Israel bans the UN aid agency for Palestinians, but aid workers say there is no Plan B in place. And Boeing's strike ends.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 Megan Pratz, Roberta Rampton, Russell Lewis, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We catch up with the final flurry of the campaign on the eve of Election Day. And striking Boeing machinists vote on the company's latest proposal backed by union leaders to end a seven-week strike.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 Megan Pratz, Roberta Rampton, Russell Lewis, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

There are only two days left until Election Day and for both the campaigns of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump swing states are the key to victory. In order to help us understand each campaign's strategy, today on the show we feature our colleagues at the NPR Politics Podcast. Host Miles Parks is joined by Domenico Montanaro and Mara Liasson to talk about what each campaign is doing to gain those magical 270 electoral votes needed to win the White House.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We look at the last minute political ads hitting swing states the weekend before the presidential election. We'll also look a at how political divides at work are causing an uptick in workplace incivility and what employers are doing about it. Plus, we'll have the latest from Spain, where deadly floods have ravaged swaths of the country's east.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This bonus episode features Up First co-hosts Steve Inskeep, Michel Martin, Leila Fadel and A Martinez. In the closing days of the election they get together to talk about their biggest takeaways from the voters they spoke with in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Nevada – swing states that could decide the election. Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.This episode was edited by Lisa Thomson, HJ Mai, Jan Johnson, Arezou Rezvani and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Lindsay Totty, Julie Depenbrock, Barry Gordemer, Ziad Buchh, Chad Campbell, Claire Murashima, Milton Guevara and Destinee Adams. We get engineering support from Andie Huether.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Harris and former President Donald Trump visit Arizona and Nevada, reports offer a picture of the economy ahead of Election Day, and labor unions deploy thousands of canvassers.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Emily Kopp, Rafael Nam, Roberta Rampton, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ana Perez, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez and Arthur Laurent. Our technical director is Hannah Gluvna. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

North Gaza's fate at stake in Israeli offensive, law enforcement agencies gear up for election violence and result challenges, and a look at presidential powers to change abortion access. Plus, the Los Angeles Dodgers win the World Series 4-1 against the New York Yankees.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 Lauren Migaki, Brett Neely, Catherine Laidlaw, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ana Perez, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. Our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Harris delivers her campaign's closing arguments, ex-President Donald Trump's mass deportation plan, and a federally funded preschool program struggles to hire and pay enough staff.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 Roberta Rampton, Alfredo Carbajal, Steve Drummond, Nicole Cohen, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ana Perez, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. Our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Trump's speeches have become more erratic and even profane, Israel has banned the UN agency for Palestinians refugees, UNRWA, and an ex-police detective accused of blindly firing shots into Breonna Taylor's apartment in 2020 is on trial again for violating her civil rights.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 Megan Pratz, Ryland Barton, Russell Lewis, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ana Perez, Nia Dumas, Chris Thomas, and Chad Campbell. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez and Arthur Laurent. Our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Trump returns to New York for major rally, South Korea briefs NATO on North Korean troops backing Russia and the Yankees seek a comeback after losing the first two World Series games. 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 Megan Pratz, Ryland Barton, Russell Lewis, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ana Perez, Nia Dumas, Chris Thomas, and Chad Campbell. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and Our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

12 million displaced. As many as 150,000 dead. Half the country facing starvation. The simple truth? War is tearing apart Sudan. NPR's West Africa correspondent Emmanuel Akinwotu recently reported near the heart of that fighting. Along the way, he met a young man who, with his family, survived for months on flour and water while hiding under a bed. He found doctors caring for the sick and dying even as shells exploded nearby. The current humanitarian crisis in Sudan is seen as one of the worst in the world, but has little global attention. "They forget about us," one exhausted doctor said. "It's a forgotten war."Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel hits military targets in Iran in retaliation for Iran's attacks earlier this month. The Washington Post editorial page declines to endorse a presidential candidate, shocking the paper's newsroom. Also, Game 1 of the World Series ends with thrills for the LA Dodgers and disappointment for the New York Yankees.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

T​he presidential candidates are racing around the seven swing states and today they're both in Texas — one of the reddest states in the country. Swing states like Georgia are on edge as the FBI warns state and local officials that extremists with election grievances could turn to violence in the coming weeks. Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón is recommending that the Menendez brothers be resentenced and released from prison. And President Biden is set to make a formal apology for the federal government's Native American Boarding schools. 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 Roberta Rampton, Padma Rama, Denise Rios, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woefle. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Kaity Klein. We get engineering support from Patrick Mu. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

NPR's Morning Edition radio news show hosted a live event about the election on October 22, 2024 at WHYY in Pennsylvania. This bonus episode features interviews from that event with experts and campaign surrogates for presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Democratic Congress member Madeleine Dean of Pennsylvania spoke on behalf of the Harris campaign and Republican Congress member Byron Donalds of Florida spoke on behalf of the Trump campaign.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 produced and edited by Taylor Haney, HJ Mai, Alice Woelfle, Iman Maani, Adam Bearne, Mohamad ElBardicy. The live event was produced by Kelley Dickens, Luke Garrett and Barry Gordemer, with engineering support from Neil Tevault and Hannah Gluvna. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and Zachary Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Parts of north Gaza are under siege where the Israeli military says it's working to stop Hamas from regrouping. The U.S. confirms at least three thousand North Korean troops are training in Russia but whether they'll be deployed to fight in Ukraine is still uncertain. And NPR's Michel Martin and Steve Inskeep discuss some of the views about the election they've heard from voters in Pennsylvania. 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 Hannah Bloch, Ryland Barton, HJ Mai, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna and Neil Tevault. Our technical director is Zac Coleman. And a special thanks to everyone at Anthony's Italian Coffee and Chocolate House in South Philadelphia. In this report, we incorrectly say that Asian troops have not been involved in a European conflict since World War I. Asian troops did in fact fight in Europe during World War II, including three divisions of Indian infantry in Italy in 1944-45. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In the final days on the presidential race former President Donald Trump doubles down on his approach to campaigning. California won't swing the presidential race, but voters in the blue state could determine who controls the House of Representatives. And Italy's right-wing government is trying to salvage a deal to send migrants to offshore detention centers in Albania. 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 Megan Pratz, Padma Rama, Ryland Barton, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Kaity Klein. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

An NPR investigation has found former President Donald Trump has made more than 100 threats to investigate, prosecute, jail or otherwise punish his perceived opponents - including private citizens. A federal court in Louisiana is weighing whether a state law requiring the Ten Commandments be displayed in public schools is constitutional. And Russian President Vladimir Putin is hosting a summit of world leaders despite the west trying to isolate him over the war in Ukraine. 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 Barrie Hardimon, Susanna Capeluto, Ryland Barton, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woefle. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Andie Huether. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israeli forces carried out a series of airstrikes across Lebanon late Sunday night targeting a Hezbollah-operated financial institution. Former President Donald Trump vows to carry out retribution against political adversaries, which could mean investigations by the Justice Department and the FBI. NPR's Michel Martin and Steve Inskeep preview some of the voices they've heard while reporting in the swing state, Pennsylvania. 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 Hannah Bloch, Andrew Sussman, Jan Johnson, HJ Mai, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

For generations, we've been sold a singular story of happiness: find "the one," live happily ever after. But what if there is no "one?" What if you're alone? When Meghan Keane, the creator of NPR's Life Kit, found the dating process miserable, she set off to find fulfillment in being single. Her new book Party of One, illustrated by LA Johnson, follows her voyage beyond the traditional path. With insights from marriage historians and rumination researchers, the ideas she gathers ease the relationship pressure on anyone – coupled, single, or somewhere in between.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Both presidential candidates court swing state voters. With Hamas' leader dead, what does this mean for the militant group, and for the October 7th hostages believed held in Gaza? Also - Cuba's electrical system fails.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas who is believed to be the architect of the Oct 7th attack on Israel has been killed. What a group of voters who disliked both former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden are thinking now that Vice President Harris is in the race. And President Biden is in Berlin today to meet with European leaders for the last time as President. 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 Hannah Bloch, Kelsey Snell, Nick Spicer, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. Our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Andie Huether.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Harris is making the case that she's the right president for Republicans. Former President Donald Trump is courting Latino voters with an economic argument for his candidacy. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will address leaders of the European Union to lay out his plan to end the war with Russia. And the Archdiocese of Los Angeles has agreed to pay $880 million to victims who say they were abused by catholic priests.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 Meghan Pratz, Ryland Barton, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woefle. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

With less than three weeks to go in the election the race is narrowing in the swing states — with former President Donald Trump polling slightly ahead on average. The U.S. sends a letter warning Israel to increase aid to Palestinians in northern Gaza or possibly risk access to weapons funding. And Ukraine says North Korea is military personnel to Russia, on top of the munitions it already sends.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 Dana Farrington, Andrew Sussman, Ryland Barton, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Kaity Klein. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A new Israeli military offensive in north Gaza has humanitarian organizations raising the alarm over the threat of starvation. Vice President Kamala Harris is on a push to shore up support among Black men. And a new feature on the real estate website Zillow will show potential property buyers climate risks on listings. 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 Hannah Bloch, Roberta Rampton, Janaya Williams, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. A previous version of this episode incorrectly said that Vice President Harris is proposing loans for Black entrepreneurs. In fact, the proposed loans would go to Black entrepreneurs and others.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Donald Trump is ratcheting up his political rhetoric to appeal to extreme-right voters. A close Senate race in Wisconsin could determine whether or not Democrats retain control of the Senate. And, the latest from the Middle East after a Hezbollah drone attack strikes an Israeli military base. 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 Krishnadev Calamur, Hannah Bloch, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Christopher Thomas and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Andie Huether. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Author Ta-Nehisi Coates is no stranger to controversy. Over a decade ago Coates wrote his thought provoking article in The Atlantic magazine titled The Case for Reparations. The article sparked a global conversation and led to Coates testifying in front of congress about reparations. Now Coates is back with a new book of essays, one of which takes on the conflict in the West Bank. Today on The Sunday Story host Ayesha Rascoe talks to author Ta-Nehisi Coates about his new book, The Message and why some people fear books so much they lead efforts to have them banned.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The death toll from Milton is lower than expected because many residents got out of harm's way. Some of the leaders behind the Stop the Steal movement are back on the National Mall today. Home mortgage rates climbed this week even despite cuts by the Federal Reserve.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Redacted TikTok documents describe how habit-forming the app can be. Cleanup is underway in Florida two days after Hurricane Milton battered the state. And, SpaceX runs afoul of environmental regulations.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 Luis Clemens, Gigi Douban, Gisele Grayson, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Christopher Thomas and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Hurricane Milton brought a devastating storm surge and high winds to a huge swath of Florida's western Gulf Coast. A view of the Israeli incursion from southern Lebanon. NPR speaks with Black male voters in Detroit about who they support for president.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 Hannah Bloch, Gigi Douban, James Hider, Russell Lewis, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Christopher Thomas and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Hurricane Milton is expected to be catastrophic when it makes landfall Wednesday. Fourteen attorneys general sue TikTok, saying it places profit over kids' mental health. The EPA issues a rule requiring replacement of all lead pipes within 10 years.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 Scott Hensley, Russell Lewis, Kara Platoni, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Disaster relief officials try to push back on rampant misinformation about hurricane relief. Why presidential candidates appear on podcasts. And Israelis mark one year after Oct. 7.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 Hannah Bloch, Megan Pratz, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This week NPR is reporting on how the war between Israel and Hamas has changed people's lives, one year in. Also, how is the conflict affecting Arab-American voters' attitudes in the swing state of Michigan?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 Vincent Ni, Arezou Rezvani, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In the last few years, more than a dozen states have enacted laws that ban almost all abortions. Some include exceptions for rape, incest, and to protect the life of the mother. But a small, vocal group of anti-abortion activists say even these exceptions are morally wrong. They want to see a ban not only on all abortions but also on some fertility treatments, including IVF. They believe an embryo deserves the same rights as any human.On this episode of The Sunday Story from Up First, NPR's Sarah McCammon takes us to a protest outside an IVF clinic and talks to activists who call themselves "abortion abolitionists." These activists say their goal is to turn their beliefs into policy and are heartened by the progress they've made.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel attacked northern Lebanon for first time in year-long conflict. Strong job numbers recalibrate the U.S. economic outlook. Rescue efforts struggle to reach mountainous areas.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The strike by dockworkers on the East and Gulf Coasts is suspended, after the two sides reached a tentative agreement on wages. The Harris campaign tries to show it's on top of October surprises. A federal jury in Memphis convicts three ex-police officers in the beating death of Tyre Nichols.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 Pallavi Gogoi, Russell Lewis, Roberta Rampton, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Iman Ma'ani, Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Prosecutors reveal new details about their election interference case against former President Donald Trump. A defiant Hezbollah offers journalists tours of its bombed-out Beirut stronghold. A federal jury deliberates in the police brutality case against officers accused of killing Tyre Nichols.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 Jason Breslow, James Hider, Russell Lewis, Vincent Ni, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Iman Maani, Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel has promised retaliation after the Iranian missile attack, launched after Israel invaded southern Lebanon. What went right and wrong for the VP candidates in last night's debate. In parts of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, efforts to clean up from flooding after Tropical Storm Helene are slow-going.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 Russell Lewis, Vincent Ni, Megan Pratz, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Iman Maani, Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel says it has launched a "limited" ground operation into Southern Lebanon, launching a major escalation in its conflict with Hezbollah. Plus, what to listen for during tonight's vice presidential debate.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 Vincent Ni, Megan Pratz, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Iman Maani, Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Lebanon prepares to bury Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. In North Carolina, damage from flooding is "widespread and catastrophic," according to Gov. Roy Cooper. The two candidates for vice president are both veterans. How do their campaigns approach vets' issues? And for NPR's new series on stress reduction, we consider the benefits of "positive reappraisal."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 Russell Lewis, Vincent Ni, Andrew Sussman, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Iman Maani, Paige Waterhouse, Nia Dumas and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange, and our technical director is Andie Huether.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel's assassination of Hassan Nasrallah — who led Hezbollah for more than 30 years — has been met with mixed reactions in the region. In Israel, there have been celebrations, even as people prepare for the possibility of retaliation. In Ramallah, in the West Bank, streets filled with Palestinians chanting promises to continue resistance against Israel. Nasrallah's death raises questions about who will fill a power void at the top of what the US considers a terrorist organization. For more coverage, and for differing views and analysis of the conflict, go to npr.org/mideastupdates.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 Denise Couture, Shannan Rhoades, Julia Redpath, Vincent Ni, and James Hider. It was produced by Brent Baughman, Martin Patience, Michael Radcliffe, and Samantha Balaban. Our senior supervising editor is Evie Stone. Engineering support from Neisha Heinis, Arthur Laurent, and Andie Huether. Our technical director is Hannah Gluvna.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Today on The Sunday Story we feature an episode from the NPR podcast Planet Money about the inner workings of the residential solar industry and how the business practices of some companies have soured customers on the promise of this renewable energy. And the team looks into where the residential solar industry is headed in the future.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, was killed on Friday, when a series of blasts targeting Hezbollah rip through Beirut. His killing and the attack on the capital signal a major escalation in the fighting between Israel and Lebanon. Plus, Hurricane Helene might've been downgraded to a tropic storm, but it still managed to drench North Carolina - we'll have the latest on the storm's impact.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Hurricane Helene has been downgraded to a tropical storm, but when it made landfall late last night as a Category 4 hurricane, it packed a dangerous one-two punch of high winds and a storm surge. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will address the UN General Assembly in New York on Friday, and the Sudanese army has launched a major offensive to take back the capital.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 Russell Lewis, Tara Neill, Donald Clyde, HJ Mai and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Iman Maani, Nia Dumas and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange, and our technical director is Andie Huether.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says he has a plan to defeat Russia. He's in Washington on Thursday to discuss this plan with President Biden. New York Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted, according to media reports, and Florida braces for the impact of Hurricane Helene.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 Rebecca Rosman, Andrea de Leon, Russell Lewis, HJ Mai and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Iman Maani, Nia Dumas, Brianna Joseph and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As the conflict between Israel and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah intensifies, concern grows about the potential involvement of Iran. Last year, there were a number of issues with the form to get federal student aid. A new investigation is detailing what went wrong with FAFSA, and Missouri executed a man even though the office that worked to convict him says they made a mistake.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 James Hider, Nicole Cohen, Cheryl Corley, HJ Mai and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Iman Maani, Nia Dumas and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Tens of thousands of people in Lebanon are fleeing from Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah. Vice President Harris wants to make it easier to restore abortion rights. She spoke with Wisconsin Public Radio about her policy priorities, and California is suing ExxonMobil alleging the oil giant knowingly misled the public about the effectiveness of plastic recycling.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 Vincent Ni, Padma Rama, Robert Little, HJ Mai and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Iman Maani, Nia Dumas and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel's military has warned people in southern Lebanon to evacuate homes used to store weapons for Hezbollah. This comes after last week's explosion of Hezbollah communication devices and multiple strikes. World leaders gather in New York this week to discuss the biggest geopolitical issues and crisis, and the mayor of Birmingham, Alabama, is calling for action after a mass shooting.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 Vincent Ni, Tara Neill, Russell Lewis, HJ Mai and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Iman Maani, Nia Dumas and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In Central Asia, the world's youngest desert occupies a basin that once held a vast saline lake. The Aral Sea. Up until the 1960s, the sea spanned more than 26 thousand square miles across two countries. It supported thriving fishing communities along its shores. But then, in the name of progress and development, much of the river water that fed the sea was diverted for agriculture. Now the Aral Sea has all but disappeared, shrunk to about tenth of its original size. The UN Environment Programme has called the Aral Sea's destruction quote "one of the most staggering disasters of the 20th century." On this episode of The Sunday Story, Above The Fray Fellow Valerie Kipnis takes us to the Aral Sea to try to understand what went wrong and whether anything can be done to save the little water that's left.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Serious allegations against a Republican gubernatorial candidate in North Carolina and tensions in Georgia over the counting of ballots are just two of this week's top political headlines - we'll bring you the latest. Plus, Israel turned pagers and two-way radios used by Hezbollah and civilians in Lebanon into mini bombs - we'll look at what that move, plus another air strike, could mean in the context of wider regional tensions.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Donald Trump tried to overturn the election results and slander election workers in 2020. Less than two months before this year's election, officials are preparing for new conspiracy theories. Online influencers are trying to find evidence of debunked events in Springfield, Ohio, and many people with sickle cell disease are slow to sign up for new genetic treatments.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 Ben Swasey, Brett Neely, Scott Hensley, HJ Mai and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Iman Maani, Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

People in Lebanon are unplugging electronics and turning off their phones after a second day of exploding devices. Israel, which has not publicly acknowledged any responsibility for the attacks, has a long history of covert operations, and one of the largest unions in the United States is staying on the sidelines of this year's presidential election. 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 Vincent Ni, Andrew Sussman, Megan Pratz, HJ Mai and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Iman Maani, Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Electronic pagers carried by members of the militant group Hezbollah exploded across Lebanon and Syria on Tuesday. The incident killed at least a dozen people and injured thousands more. The Federal Reserve is set to announce a long-awaited rate cut. And drug overdose deaths in the U.S. are falling sharply. 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 Vincent Ni, Rafael Nam, Andrea de Leon, HJ Mai and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Iman Maani, Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Before his alleged attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump, a gunman had a different attention-grabbing cause. Ryan Wesley Routh said he was recruiting soldiers for Ukraine. Springfield, Ohio, which has been in the news after Trump and his running mate promoted a false story about immigrants, has canceled a festival celebrating cultural diversity. And Rupert Murdoch aims to change his will to affect who controls Fox News. 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 Andrew Sussman, Lisa Thomson, Emily Kopp, HJ Mai and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Iman Maani, Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A man is in custody for what the FBI describes as an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at his Florida golf club. Venezuela's government claims the CIA plotted to kill President Nicolás Maduro. And a court weighs the future of TikTok in the U.S.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 Russell Lewis, Tara Neill, Julia Redpath, HJ Mai and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Chris Thomas and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Eating less beef could make a large dent in Americans' climate pollution. But data show it's men who are disproportionately eating beef. Now food and climate researchers are thinking about how to impact climate pollution through the lens of gender. But for many U.S. men, eating fewer burgers or steaks can require overcoming some big obstacles.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ukraine has been asking for permission to use Western-supplied long-range missiles to strike deep within Russian territory. The Biden administration has not given Ukraine the green light on that — we'll look at what that means in this protracted conflict. Also, it's been a year since a massive and coordinated United Auto Workers Strike secured better pay for workers - but a year on, workers are worried about job security. Plus, a new era in space tourism, with a civilian taking a space walk. He didn't have any NASA astronaut training, but we'll tell you what he DID have.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Donald Trump said he wont debate Vice President Kamala Harris as the candidates hit the campaign trail in key swing states. Boeing is facing a major strike after more than 30,000 machinists overwhelmingly rejected a contract offer, adding to the airline maker's ongoing struggles with safety and financial challenges. President Biden and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer may decide to give Ukraine long-range weapons when they meet at the White House today. And, California is moving forward with a bill that requires health warning labels on gas stoves, raising concerns about the impact of cooking emissions on air quality.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 Don Clyde, Megan Pratz, Neela Bannerjee, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Iman Maani, Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Chris Thomas and Ana Perez.We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

NPR gets a rare look inside Sudan where fighting between the Sudanese army and paramilitary forces has left millions displaced and struggling for survival. As grocery prices remain high, new data examines whether profits are outpacing rising costs. And the trial of three Memphis police officers begins with disturbing footage of the fatal traffic stop of 29 year-old Tyre Nichols.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 Rebecca Rossman, Susana Capeluto, Emily Kopp , Mohamad El Bardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Iman Maani, Nia Dumas, Lindsay Totty and Chris Thomas.We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Kamala Harris took the fight to former President Donald Trump as they faced off in their first presidential debate, clashing over the economy, abortion, immigration, and other issues. Congress is heading towards a potential government shutdown as House Republicans push a controversial bill, which faces opposition from both Democrats and some within their own party. And, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and the UK's foreign secretary are in Kyiv, discussing lifting restrictions on Ukraine's use of long-range weapons as Ukrainian leaders push to strike military targets in Russia.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 Roberta Rampton, Kelsey Snell, Miguel Macias, Mohamad El Bardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Iman Maani, Nia Dumas, Lindsay Totty and Chris Thomas.We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are set to face off in their first, and possibly only, debate of the presidential campaign. An Israeli airstrike killed dozens and wounded many in a designated humanitarian zone in Gaza, raising concerns about civilian casualties and the escalating conflict. And bodycam footage shows NFL star Tyreek Hill being forcibly removed from his car by Miami police before Sunday's game.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 Megan Pratz, Vincent Ni, Russell Lewis, Mohamad El Bardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Iman Maani, Nia Dumas, Lindsay Totty and Chris Thomas.We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.In a previous version of this episode, our host quoted the death toll reported by the Associate Press and in the Official Palestinian Press Agency as 40 killed. That number was corrected to 19 by the Gaza Health Ministry.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

New details have emerged about the Georgia school shooting, including a phone call from the alleged gunman's mother warning the school just before the attack. Venezuela's opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez, believed to have won the presidential election, has fled to Spain. And, Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill was detained by police just hours before the first Sunday of the NFL season, raising questions about his treatment during the encounter . 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 Russell Lewis, Tara Neill, Donald Clyde, Mohamad El Bardicy, and Lisa Thomson.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Iman Maani, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Wilderness is a designation of an area intended to be free from human intervention unless it's deemed absolutely necessary. But as climate change increases the frequency and severity of wildfires when does it become necessary for land stewards to intervene? In Sequoia National Park this question of whether or not to intervene has land managers and environmentalists at odds with one another. Host Ayesha Rascoe talks with reporter Marissa Ortega-Welch about her new podcast series How Wild. In a segment from the first episode Marissa asks: with increasing wildfires threatening giant sequoias, known as some of the world's oldest trees, should we intervene or leave the wilderness to evolve on its own?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What can NASA and Boeing engineers are learn from the trouble-plagued Starliner capsule, which has just returned back to Earth without its crew? Plus, a look at where Vice President Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump stand on key foreign policy issues.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

While former President Donald Trump denies the incident, NPR has confirmed new details about the altercation at Arlington National Cemetery involving two of his campaign staffers. The father of the teenager accused in the Georgia school shooting now faces charges for allowing his son access to a firearm. And, the August jobs report is expected to shed light on whether strong hiring is driving up inflation, something the Federal Reserve is closely monitoring.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 Megan Pratz, Susanna Capeluto, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.We get engineering support from Phil Edfors and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Authorities are investigating the fatal shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, where a 14-year-old is charged with killing four people and wounding nine others. Donald Trump's legal team heads to court today, with key decisions about his January 6th trial expected ahead of the November election. Candidates are heavily focusing on swing states like Pennsylvania and Georgia as the 2024 election nears its final stretch. And, two Russian nationals are accused of using U.S. influencers to secretly spread Kremlin propaganda online, already reaching millions ahead of the election.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 Anna Yukhananov, Roberta Rampton, Brett Neely, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Jan Johnson.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Hannah Gluvna.A previous version of this episode incorrectly said that the FBI visited the alleged shooter's home in 2023. In fact, it was local law enforcement that visited the suspect.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A major government reshuffle is underway in Ukraine as intensifying Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian cities kills dozens and injures hundreds. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure from protesters and political rivals accusing him of prioritizing his political survival over Israel's security. And, a longtime New York political aide is accused of secretly working for the Chinese government, sparking concerns over foreign influence in U.S. policymaking. 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 Carrie Kahn, Rebecca Rossman, Luis Clemens, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Jan Johnson.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The 2024 presidential election campaign is entering its final stretch as the candidates mobilize and prepare for next week's debate. Venezuelan courts issued an arrest warrant for opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez after he claimed victory in July's presidential election, he's accused of conspiring against President Nicolas Maduro's government. And Disney, which owns ESPN, ABC, and Disney-Plus, pulled it's programming from DirecTV over a public contract dispute.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 Dana Farrington, Luis Clemons, Jan Johnson, and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lindsay Totty.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacy Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A nationwide strike is underway in Israel Massive protests in several Israeli cities are putting pressure on Benjamin Netanyahu's government following the military's recovery of six hostages killed in Gaza. Unions are getting extra attention this election cycle as candidate hope to win over swing states with strong union support. And both presidential candidates have put America's housing issues on their agenda, but they have very different and vague plans to fix it.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 Carrie Kahn, Megan Pratz, Catherine Laidlaw, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Jan Johnson.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Chris Thomas and Lindsay Totty.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacy Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

By the time he was in middle school, writer Gabino Iglesias gravitated toward stories that unsettled him. Stories that scared him enough that he needed to turn on a light. Now a Bram Stoker Award-winning author, Iglesias writes this type of fiction himself. Today on The Sunday Story, Iglesias talks to host Ayesha Rascoe about his new novel, House of Bone and Rain, which centers on a group of friends determined to avenge a murder. Iglesias describes how he uses supernatural elements to make a story more powerful, the redeeming parts of toxic masculinity, and the beauty and perils of unwavering loyalty.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Both presidential campaigns are aggressively courting voters in Georgia. Beginning this weekend, the United Nations is undertaking a polio vaccination campaign in Gaza. Experts urge caution as Mexico seeks to reform its judiciary.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In her first major interview as the presidential nominee Kamala Harris was forward-looking while also defending Biden's policies. Donald Trump has been speaking in more moderate terms about reproductive rights. A deadly food-borne bacteria linked to deli meat has killed at least nine people a hospitalized dozens more.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

French authorities move to hold the CEO of tech giant Telegram responsible for serious crimes committed on the messaging app. Trump faces criticism for using slain troops at Arlington National Cemetery in campaign material. Some U.S. citizens are being targeted by GOP-led efforts to prevent noncitizens from voting.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A new indictment against the former president in the January 6th case. Trump campaign staff had an altercation with an official at Arlington National Cemetery. Thousands of athletes with disabilities from all over the world gather for the Paralympics.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Arguments over food prices are central to efforts to halt a 25 billion dollar grocery store merger. A rare and deadly mosquito borne illness has public parks in Massachusetts shut down at dusk. The Israel-Lebanon border is calm for now and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The IDF and Hezbollah fired a major barrage of rockets across the Israel-Lebanon border. With just over two months left in the presidential race, what does the latest NPR poll tell us about where things stand? The U.S. Ambassador to India is accused of lying under oath to cover up the alleged inappropriate behavior of a close advisor.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In the Xinjiang region of western China, the government has rounded up and detained at least hundreds of thousands of Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic groups. Many haven't been heard from in years, and others are still desperately searching for their families. Western governments have called this crackdown a cultural genocide and a possible crime against humanity. NPR Correspondent Emily Feng has been reporting on Uyghurs inside and outside of China for years. In this episode, she profiles two Uyghur men who have found themselves sometimes unwilling actors within the Chinese state's systems of control over Uyghurs. As they work to silence others, they sometimes find themselves silenced as well. Additional Context: Listen to Emily Feng's 2022 reporting, "The Black Gate: A Uyghur Family's Story" part one and part two. For more on the history of the Uyghur people, listen to the episode "Five Fingers Crush The Land" from NPR's Throughline podcast.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Now that the second of the two major political conventions is over, how are the parties positioning themselves for the rest of the campaign? An anti-trust case involving the two biggest grocery retailers starts Monday. In Afghanistan, the Taliban has codified new rules with familiar strictures.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Harris accepted the Democratic nomination for President. Former President Trump campaigned at the southern border in Arizona, and the FDA approved a new COVID-19 vaccine designed to help protect against the latest strains of the virus. 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 Roberta Rampton, Krishnadev Calamur, Scott Hensley, Janaya Williams and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. Our technical director is Zac Coleman. And our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice Presidential candidate Tim Walz introduced himself to the American public with a keynote speech at the Democratic National Convention. Vice President Harris will carry on portions of President Biden's agenda but there are some key differences she will campaign on, and a new survey finds Gen Z'ers feeling optimistic about the future but unprepared and disengaged at school. 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 Krishnadev Calamur, Roberta Rampton, Adriana Gallardo, Nicole Cohen, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

On day two of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Barack and Michelle Obama took aim at former President Donald Trump. Trump and his running mate — Ohio Senator JD Vance — plan to visit vital swing states every day this week, and the final report is out in an investigation into the deadliest mass shooting in Maine's history.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 Roberta Rampton, Megan Pratz, Gigi Douban, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

On the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, President Biden gave a keynote speech passing the torch to Vice President Harris. Activists in Chicago have assembled outside of the DNC to protest the war in Gaza, and Secretary of State Antony Blinken is due in Egypt and Qatar to continue Gaza ceasefire negotiations.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 Megan Pratz, Kevin Drew, Greg Dixon, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden is scheduled to speak on the first night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Former President Donald Trump is visiting swing states and focusing his attacks on Harris' economic policies, and for the first time Ukraine's President has clearly stated the objective of Ukraine's military incursion into Russia.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Jan Johnson, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In the U.S., many kids in trouble with the law are sentenced to juvenile detention facilities. In New Hampshire, the largest such facility is a place commonly known as the Youth Detention Center, or YDC (recently renamed the Sununu Youth Services Center). YDC was founded with good intentions: keep kids out of adult jails and prisons and care for them. But now, nearly 1,300 former residents of YDC have come forward, filing lawsuits over alleged abuse at the facility. The allegations include hundreds of cases of assault and rape that span over six decades. It's become one of the biggest youth detention scandals in American history.New Hampshire Public Radio's Jason Moon and his colleagues on the Document team spent the last year investigating the Youth Development Center. They combed through the cases, worked around legal roadblocks, and spoke with residents and staff who'd never before told their stories.This week on The Sunday Story, host Ayesha Roscoe and Moon discuss what may have happened inside YDC and how the allegations stayed under wraps for so long.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Third-party negotiators say a ceasefire agreement for the Israel-Hamas war is close. Talks are also underway to end the civil war in Sudan. Protests are expected at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next week.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Harris laid out her vision for the economy in a policy speech. Former President Donald Trump pledged to bring down consumer prices and increase wages, and five people were charged in connection with the death of actor Matthew Perry.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 Roberta Rampton, Megan Pratz, Ciera Crawford, Janaya Williams and H-J Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Inflation eased in July, but some costs like food and housing remain stubbornly high. A new round of talks to end the Gaza war begins today. The president of Columbia University has resigned following criticism of their handling of campus protests. And violent anti-government demonstrations continue today in Bangladesh. 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 Vincent Ni, Greg Dixon, Rafael Nam, Rebecca Rossman, Janaya Williams and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Trump campaign said it had been hacked and Iranians were behind it. Eight states have ballot measures around reproductive rights to be put to voters in November, and US-brokered peace talks on Sudan begin in Geneva today to try to alleviate the world's largest displacement crisis.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 Brett Neely, Catherine Laidlaw, Rebecca Rosman, Janaya Williams, and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former president Donald Trump sat down for a wide-ranging interview on X with Elon Musk. Vice Presidential candidate Tim Walz will hold his first solo rally in LA speaking with union workers, and Mexico's most notorious drug lord released a public letter that raises questions about government collusion and corruption.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 Julia Redpath, Pallavi Gogoi, Miguel Macias, Janaya Williams, and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Israeli military ordered more evacuations in southern Gaza. Ukrainian forces made a surprise incursion into Russia, and Paris wrapped up two and a half weeks of Olympic games with closing ceremonies in the national stadium.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 Greg Dixon, Nick Spicer, Russell Lewis, Janaya Williams and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Andie Huether. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Who gets to compete? Since the beginning of women's sports, there has been a struggle over who qualifies for the women's category. A Martinez speaks with Rose Eveleth, the host of a new podcast series called Tested from NPR's Embedded and CBC in Canada, which traces the surprising, 100-year history of sex testing in elite sports. The series follows the unfolding story of elite female runners who have been told they can no longer race as women, because of their biology. They face hard choices: take drugs to lower their natural testosterone levels, give up their sport entirely, or fight.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Russia is struggling to mount a days-long Ukrainian incursion into Russia itself. Kamala Harris rallied in Arizona Friday while Donald Trump did the same in Montana. Athletes earned more medals as the Olympic games approach Sunday's closing ceremonies.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Less than 90 days until the November election, both Presidential campaigns are in full force. A look back on changes in law enforcement and activism since the police killing of teenager Michael Brown, Jr. in Ferguson, Missouri a decade ago, and U.S. track and field athletes have big night at the Paris Summer Olympics. 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 Megan Pratz, Lindsay Totty, Russell Lewis, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Gov. Tim Walz are drawing large rally crowds in the Midwest. Ukraine has received more weapons but is struggling to halt a Russian offensive in eastern Ukraine, and one year after the devastating Maui wildfires, officials want to make evacuations safer. 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 Dana Farrington, Nick Spicer, Neela Banerjee, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Kamala Harris and her new VP pick made their first campaign appearance together in Philadelphia. Walz's track record as Governor of Minnesota offers clues about his governing style, and far right rioters caused havoc in UK cities. 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 Dana Farrington, Acacia Squires, John Helton, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. Financial markets in Europe and Asia are beginning to rebound after taking a major tumble. The slide was a chain reaction sparked by fears about the health of the US economy. In a landmark antitrust case, a judge ruled that Google is a "monopolist," and Tropical Storm Debby hammered the southeastern US with deadly rain and wind.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 Dana Farrington, Rafael Nam, Julia Redpath, Susanna Capelouto, Denice Rios, Janaya Williams, 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.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to announce her running mate as the final stage of the presidential campaign gets underway. Embassies in Lebanon urge citizens to leave as the threat of war intensifies. An American sprinter wins gold and world records fall for the U.S. women's swim team. 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 Dana Farrington, James Hider, Russell Lewis, Jan Johnson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Nia Dumas and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.A previous version of this episode incorrectly said that Bryan Stern is a former Navy SEAL. In fact, he is actually an Army veteran and Navy Reserve officer.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. is the largest exporter of natural gas in the world. And Louisiana's Gulf Coast is where much of America's natural gas is piped in to be liquified for export.Over the last twenty years, liquified natural gas (LNG) has been heralded as a clean and efficient "bridge fuel" for nations transitioning away from coal and oil, towards a future of renewable energy. But the promise of LNG has not reflected reality. In today's episode of The Sunday Story, WWNO reporters Halle Parker and Carlyle Calhoun talk about the impact of the LNG export industry on Louisiana's Gulf Coast. And they follow the supply chain of LNG all the way to Germany and Japan.To hear more of Halle and Carlyle's reporting on LNG, listen to their three-part series, "All Gassed Up," on the podcast Sea Change from member stations WWNO and WRKF.Part One: The Carbon CoastPart Two: The German ConnectionPart Three: The Sugar Daddy of LNGLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A weaker-than-expected jobs report sent stocks tumbling and stoked fears the Federal Reserve is working too slowly to adequately support the economy. The U.S. is sending warships to the Mideast as Israel targets militant leaders in the region. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has revoked the Pentagon's plea deal with 9/11 defendants.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Three high-profile prisoners were released by Moscow in exchange for Russian prisoners held by the U.S and its allies. Israel and Lebanon are bracing for the possibility of escalating attacks after Israel's killing of top leaders from Hamas and Hezbollah, and Simone Biles cemented her legacy as the greatest gymnast of all time at the Paris Olympics.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 James Hider, Rebecca Rosman, Miguel Macias, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Donald Trump participated in a tense Q&A at a convention for Black journalists in Chicago. After nearly 20 years, the case against the three alleged planners of the 9/11 attacks has concluded, and two killings of top Hamas and Hezbollah leaders within 24 hours are raising fears of reprisals that could ignite a regional war in the Middle East. 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 Andrew Sussman, James Hider, Barrie Hardymon, Janaya Williams and Jan Johnson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The political leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, was killed in Iran. The event touches everything from the war in Gaza to U.S. relations with Iran. And President Biden's decision to drop out of the presidential race has shifted the states that are considered up for grabs in November, as the campaigns turn their attention to the Sun Belt. 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 James Hider, Ben Swayze, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The GOP is hoping to flip a Democratic House seat in Arizona with donations from heavy hitters in the crypto industry. The FBI has new information about the 20-year-old shooter who tried to assassinate former President Donald Trump, and the latest from day four of the Paris Olympics.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 Anna Yukhananov, Russell Lewis, Janaya Williams, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbot. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

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 James Hider, Tara Neill, Krishnadev Calamur, Janaya Williams, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Tensions are high between Israel and Iranian-backed Hezbollah after a rocket hit a soccer field filled with children in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Nicolas Maduro was declared the winner of the Venezuelan Presidential election, and Donald Trump has been ramping up attacks on Kamala Harris as her campaign continues to energize Democrats.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This past spring, in the east African nation of Uganda, the country's highest court upheld The Anti-Homosexuality act. It calls for tough sentences-sometimes even the death penalty - for LGBTQ+ people. On this episode of The Sunday Story, the tale of a trans woman in Uganda who calls herself Rihanna Mukasa. Rihanna was one of the first to be brought to court under the Anti-Homosexuality Act. As she fought a convoluted legal battle, she was brutalized in prison for nine months. After her release, Rihanna found an unexpected ally in her deeply traditional and religious mother. Together, they've become outspoken critics of the government, risking their lives to stand up for LGBTQ+ rights in the country that considers them criminals.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Paris pulls off its opening ceremonies despite security risks. The U.S. government responds to TikTok's efforts to stay operating under its current owner. Consumer companies notice shoppers shying away from high prices.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Two alleged kingpins of Mexico's Sinaloa Cartel were arrested in El Paso, Texas. Vice President Kamala Harris strikes a different tone than President Biden in a speech on the conflict between Israel and Gaza, and the 2024 Summer Olympic Games are underway in France. 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 Miguel Macias, Roberta Rampton, Russell Lewis, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara.We get engineering support from Andie Huether. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In a speech from the Oval Office, President Biden explained his reasons for declining to run for a second term. Vice President Kamala Harris has staked out her own approach to Israel and Gaza, and voters in Western PA share their thoughts on the campaigns and candidates. 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 Roberta Rampton, Gabriel Spitzer, Dana Farrington, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will address a joint meeting of Congress. Vice President Harris has started campaigning for President, and a new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll shows a surge in the number of undecided voters. 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 Andrew Sussman, Roberta Rampton, Dana Farrington, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Kamala Harris paid tribute to President Biden and rallied staff on Day One of her push to cement her place at the top of the Democratic ticket. Republicans are warning of possible legal obstacles to the Harris nomination, and the head of the Secret Service was on Capitol Hill answering questions about the assassination attempt on Donald Trump.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 Roberta Rampton, Megan Pratz, Anna Yuhkananov, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden is dropping out of the Presidential race. He has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the party's new nominee, but it is unclear how Democrats will proceed. Republicans are attempting to tie her to Biden's biggest troubles, including immigration and inflation.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Megan Pratz, Janaya Williams, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Fear can be a powerful weapon. Gao Zhi, a 44-year-old Chinese man, knows this well. In 2020, after criticizing the Communist Party on social media, he left China and gained asylum in the Netherlands. But after Wang Jingyu, a Chinese celebrity dissident, moves into Gao's home, things start to go terribly wrong. Gao fears he and his family are now in the crosshairs of the Chinese Communist Party. On this episode of The Sunday Story, NPR's Global Democracy Correspondent Frank Langfitt and a reporting partner bring us the story of Gao and Wang. It's a tale of how the fear authoritarian regimes sow can be used to create a world of lies, betrayal, and manipulation.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Trump secured the nomination from the Republican Party, but the identity of his opponent grew more uncertain. A software flub caused havoc. A drone evaded Israeli air defenses and killed one in Tel Aviv.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Donald Trump formally accepts the Republican presidential nomination, in a more subdued speech than his usual fare, as he aims to widen his support. And pressure mounts on President Joe Biden to end his reelection bid.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 Megan Pratz, Padma Rama, Krishnadev Calamur, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Lilly Quiroz, Ben Abrams and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Republican vice presidential pick J.D. Vance welcomed by party faithful. Lawmakers plan a series of hearings next week over Trump's assassination attempt. And President Joe Biden has COVID, amid mounting questions over his reelection bid.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 Padma Rama, Krishnadev Calamur, Roberta Rampton, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Lilly Quiroz, Ben Abrams and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Andi Heuther. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Republicans vow to "make America safe again," but the statistics contradict their claims of growing crime. And Democrats who want to keep President Joe Biden off the ballot are opposing an obscure party rule.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 Ravenna Koenig, Alfredo Carbajal, Roberta Rampton, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Donald Trump has picked Senator J.D. Vance as his vice presidential nominee. The U.S. Secret Service is in crisis following the attempted assassination of Trump. And President Joe Biden is shifting his campaign.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 Megan Pratz, Roberta Rampton, Kelsey Snell, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Details emerge about the person who allegedly tried to assassinate Donald Trump. Conspiracy theories abound over the event that left Trump hurt. And the attempted assassination will impact the tenor of the Republican National Convention and speeches there.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Padma Rama, Brett Neely, Andrew Sussman, Olivia Hampton and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Whoopi Goldberg is an icon of entertainment. She's played many roles in Hollywood, and she has perhaps been most inspirational for the way she has shown up as herself. But before the acclaim, Whoopi Goldberg was known as Caryn Johnson and in her own words, "A little bit different.. and out there."In her new memoir, "Bits and Pieces," she dives into her upbringing with her mother, Emma, and brother, Clyde, and how her relationships with them shaped her sense of herself. In this episode of The Sunday Story, Goldberg sits down with host Ayesha Rascoe to talk about the previously untold stories that made her who she is today. They discuss family, love, and coping with loss.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden continues to work to overcome calls from within his own party to step aside. A Hezbollah spokesman says the Lebanese militant group will follow Hamas' acceptance or rejection of any potential ceasefire agreement with Israel. Two major international soccer tournaments electrify fans this Sunday.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden held a press conference on the sidelines of the NATO summit and his performance was closely watched by Democratic lawmakers, European allies and the American public. A new NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll measured public opinion about President Biden post-debate, and Israel ordered hundreds of thousands of people in Gaza City to evacuate.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 Dana Farrington, Roberta Rampton, Mark Katkov, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden is facing more calls to step down, putting Vice President Kamala Harris under fresh scrutiny from Republicans and others. Donald Trump is attempting to distance himself from Project 2025, a controversial plan for the conservative overhaul of government. And Houston residents are recovering after Hurricane Beryl knocked out power to more than two million homes and businesses. 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 Roberta Rampton, Megan Pratz, Eric Westervelt, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden spoke to world leaders at the NATO summit in Washington and sought to reassure them about the strength of the alliance and of his Presidency. Ukrainians are condemning a deadly missile strike on a children's hospital in Kyiv, and an NPR investigation tracked down one source of execution drugs in Texas.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 Roberta Rampton, John Helton, Robert Little, Janaya Williams, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Republican Party has released its Trump-inspired platform for 2024. European leaders are meeting in Washington, D.C. for the 75th NATO summit, and a new method for organ harvesting is raising legal and ethical concerns.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 Nick Spicer, Will Stone, John Helton, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

More Congressional Democrats have called for President Joe Biden to step down, but he is receiving unwavering support from others in his administration. France's far right party fell short in legislative elections yesterday, Boeing has agreed to plead guilty to fraud charges stemming from the crashes of two 737 Max jets, and Hurricane Beryl makes landfall in Texas.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 Russell Lewis, Roberta Rampton, Mark Katkov, Janaya Williams, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott. An earlier version of this episode mistakenly identified the four members who called for President Joe Biden to step aside as House committee chairs. They are House committee ranking members. The earlier version also mistakenly identified Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) as House speaker. He is House minority leader.In addition, the earlier version indicated that the French far-right was routed by a coalition of parties from the center and the left. It was a coalition of leftist parties on the one hand and the French president's centrist allies on the other.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This week on The Sunday Story, a new series from NPR's Embedded podcast that explores what happens when one political party has near-complete control. Supermajority, hosted by WPLN reporter Meribah Knight, follows three conservative moms in Tennessee over the course of a year as they learn to navigate their Republican-controlled state legislature. Reeling from a mass shooting at their kids' school, the three moms become advocates for gun control. But this isn't a story about gun control. It's about what they find when they step inside their state capitol for the first time in their adult lives. These political newcomers confront powerful lawmakers, a dizzying legislative process and most importantly – their own long-held beliefs. What can the women accomplish? How will the work change them? And what might it all reveal about democracy?Listen to the full series on the Embedded podcast from NPR.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

At a rally in Wisconsin and in an interview with ABC News, President Biden pushed back against calls for him to step down; Kansas' top court affirms the right to abortion in that state; Iranians elect a reformist presidential candidate.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Britain's Labour Party won the UK general election by a landslide, ending 14 years of Conservative Party rule. The US government is using new tactics to address the problem of critically low water levels in the Colorado River, and Republican voters in Florida reject the idea of man-made climate change despite Florida being among the states most vulnerable to climate disasters.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 Mark Katkov, Eric Whitney, Matthew Schuerman, Janaya Williams and Olivia Hampton. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Joe Biden met with Democratic governors at the White House as they tried to manage the fallout from his bungled debate. Israel is working to expand Jewish settlements in the West Bank, and Phoenix is headed for another record-breaking year of heat-related deaths.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Sadie Babits, Andrew Sussman, HJ Mai, Janaya Williams and Olivia Hampton. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Supreme Court's presidential immunity ruling will have a profound effect on the power wielded by future American presidents. The White House has proposed new rules to protect workers from extreme heat, and a devastating ransomware attack on U.S. and Canadian car dealerships is the latest in an ongoing global crisis. 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 Krishnadev Calamur, Sadie Babits, Andrew Sussman, HJ Mai, Janaya Williams and Olivia Hampton. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Supreme Court has granted Donald Trump broad immunity for his official actions as President. Hurricane Beryl is causing extensive damage in the Caribbean, and the first ever millennial saint has been approved for canonization.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Rachel Waldholz, HJ Mai, Janaya Williams and Olivia Hampton. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Chris Thomas, Lindsay Totty and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden's debate performance has led to concerns about his reelection campaign. French voters have given the country's far right a victory in the first round of parliamentary elections, and American gymnast Simone Biles is heading to her third Olympics in Paris next month.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 Dana Farrington, Nick Spicer, Russell Lewis, Janaya Williams and HJ Mai. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Chris Thompson and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

NPR's Eyder Peralta reports from a country caught between criminal gangs, a broken government and a multinational police mission with a history of brutality. In this episode of The Sunday Story, Eyder asks what that current situation means for Haitians facing spiraling gang violence and the arrival of an international security force in a nation with a legacy of disastrous foreign interventions.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Supreme Court decisions and the first presidential debate of the general election season make for a busy week in politics. President Biden shows a re-energized self at a North Carolina rally. And, the federal government now says local public housing authorities may cover tenants' cost of powering their air conditioners.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump attacked each other's presidencies during their first presidential debate last night. While Trump spewed falsehoods, Biden, at times, just didn't make sense. And in Oklahoma, the top education official has ordered public schools to begin teaching the Bible in classrooms. 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 Megan Pratz, Lisa Thomson, Tara Neill and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Chris Thompson and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will face off tonight at the first presidential debate in Atlanta. The candidates are expected to discuss a range of issues that have already surfaced on the campaign trail including inflation, the border, abortion and the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. President Biden is also pardoning nearly 2,000 LGBTQ+ veterans. And a dramatic failed coup in Bolivia ended with a top military commander in prison. 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 Megan Pratz, Lisa Thomson, Tara Neill and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Chris Thompson and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Deadly protests over Kenya tax hikes. U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich stands trial for espionage in Russia. And Republican vice presidential candidates make their final pitch to Donald Trump.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 Tara Neill, Kevin Drew, John Helton, Megan Pratz, Olivia Hampton and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Christopher Thomas and Nina Kravinsky.Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Hannah Gluvna.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange strikes a plea deal. A Florida court weighs whether special counsel Jack Smith can prosecute former President Donald Trump. And the Upper Midwest grapples with devastating river flooding linked to climate change.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Ally Schweitzer, Neela Banerjee, Olivia Hampton and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Christopher Thomas and Nina Kravinsky.Our technical director is Stacey Abbott, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel's defense chief meets with senior U.S. officials over the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, gunmen kill more than 19 police officers and civilians in southern Russia, abortions up two years since the Supreme Court revoked federal abortion protections.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 Kevin Drew, Catherine Laidlaw, John Helton, Olivia Hampton and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Christopher Thomas and Nina Kravinsky.Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A few hours north of Seattle, Washington, there's a kind of ghost town dotted with decaying barns and milking sheds, an old cemetery, and once-stately buildings that housed thousands. It was never an actual town, it was a psychiatric facility, Northern State Hospital—a place that contained deep contradictions. The gardens and farm fields were designed to provide residents work and fulfillment in a bucolic setting. But the medical treatments were often harsh.Northern State closed in 1973. It was a time when states across the nation were shutting down their own mental institutions in favor of a new model of community care.Today on The Sunday Story, a look at the move towards deinstitutionalization—what it's meant for people with mental illness and for the entire society.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What the Supreme Court decision on guns means for domestic violence victims. How extreme heat affects bodies when they are not used to it. Why the French National Rally party is gaining Jewish supporters.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Tiktok submitted its first court filings, offering a glimpse into how the popular social media company plans to argue against a looming ban on the app in the US. The Los Angeles school board, the country's second largest school district, voted to ban cellphones and social media during school hours. And, travelers purchasing carbon offset promises on their tickets may not be getting their money's worth.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 Gabriel Spitzer, Ally Schweitzer, Neela Banerjee, Mohamad ElBardicy and Lisa Thomson.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Christopher Thomas and Taylor Haney.Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.Our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is expected to announce new financial sanctions against individuals and organizations involved in fentanyl trafficking. Amid heightened cross border attacks, the leader of Hezbollah threatens all out war if Israel conducts military operations in Lebanon. And a growing number of teens in America, especially young boys, are falling victim to sexual extortion online.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 Catherine Laidlaw, Tara Neill, Hannah Block, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Christopher Thomas, Claire Murashima and Taylor Haney.Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun apologized to families of 737 Max victims during a Senate hearing and admitted that the company retaliated against whistleblowers in the company. Tribal, state and federal officials in New Mexico are scrambling to save homes and lives as two rapidly growing fires threaten the village of Ruidoso. And Ascension hospitals, one of the country's largest health systems, is still recovering from a massive ransomware attack that caused dangerous mix ups and serious complications with patient care.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 Russell Lewis, Eric Whitney, Diane Webber, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Christopher Thomas and Taylor Haney.Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden is set to announce a plan to protect hundreds of thousands of undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens from deportation. A coalition of environmental, labor and health professionals are petitioning the Federal Emergency Management Agency to treat extreme heat as a "major disaster." And Russian President Vladimir Putin makes a rare trip to North Korea for a two-day state visit. 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 Alfredo Carbajal, Nick Spicer, Sadie Babits, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Chris Thomas and Taylor Haney. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Cross border fighting intensifies between Israel and Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon as the Israeli military pauses daytime military operations in Southern Gaza's Rafah city. 80 of the 90 countries at a peace summit in Switzerland called on Russia to respect Ukraine's territorial integrity. And, An NPR Ivestigation finds that 50% of US military bases are located in areas where healthcare is hard to find.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 Hannah Block, Nick Spicer, Andrew Sussman, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Christopher Thomas and Taylor Haney.Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What does a comedian know about baseball? And what can America's oldest baseball field tell us about the civil rights movement?Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama is America's oldest ballpark. It's older than Wrigley Field and Fenway park. But its history is full of contradictions. In its heyday, Rickwood was home to both the Birmingham Barons and the Birmingham Black Barons, one of the most talented teams in the Negro Leagues. The field hosted a women's suffrage event, but the stadium's owner also allowed a KKK rally to take place there.Comedian Roy Wood Jr. hosts a new podcast called Road to Rickwood from WWNO & WRKF, which takes a closer look at the field's history as a microcosm of the civil rights movement itself. Wood Jr. grew up in Birmingham playing baseball at Rickwood. In the podcast, he speaks to historians, civic leaders, major league baseball executives, former Negro Leaguers, and members of Alabama's first integrated sports team. For himself and those he interviewed, baseball was an oasis. It was also a space where racism shaped the lives of some of the nation's best baseball players.In today's episode of The Sunday Story, Wood Jr. sits down with host Ayesha Rascoe to talk baseball, Birmingham, and race in America.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. Supreme Court of Friday tossed out a ban on bump stocks - modifications that make semi-automatic rifles work more like machine guns. Also Ukraine is hosting a peace summit in Switzerland, but some key players, including Russia, will not be there. Plus, a series of new reports released this week tell us more about the bird flu is speading through cattle in the U.S..Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The commonly used abortion pill Mifepristone will stay on the market after the Supreme Court disqualified a case aimed at limiting access to the pill. Despite an ongoing court challenge, Telsa shareholders overwhelmingly vote to reinstate a massive pay package for CEO Elon Musk. And the White House announced a partnership with Microsoft and Google to help secure vulnerable healthcare systems in America.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 Catherine Laidlaw, Emily Kopp, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Christopher Thomas and Julie Depenbrock.Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Arthur Laurent.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden meets with leaders of the largest economies at the G7 Summit in Italy where they'll discuss the world's most pressing issues including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Mediators are working to close a ceasefire deal in Gaza after Hamas proposed amendments to the US backed proposal. And, Microsoft's president is testifying before the House Homeland Security Committee as ProPublica publishes an investigation into the company's security practices around 2020's SolarWinds cyber hack.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 Roberta Rampton, Hannah Bloch, Alice Woelfle, and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Arthur Laurent.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden says he will respect the judicial process after his son Hunter was convicted on three felony charges. Meanwhile, Republicans are going after the head of the justice department, the House will vote today on a resolution to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress for failing to turn over recording of President Biden's interview with prosecutors on the mishandling of classified documents. And, inflation numbers are out today and it looks like people will have to wait a little longer for interest rates to cool.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Cross border attacks between Israel and Lebanon are intensifying as Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets with Israeli leaders to push for a ceasefire deal in Gaza. The country's largest Protestant group gathers for its annual meeting. The Southern Baptist convention will vote on a number of key issues including banning women pastors and IVF fertility among other issues churches are facing. And, Siri is getting an AI upgrade after Apple announced a deal with ChatGPT.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 Hannah Bloch, Cheryl Corely, Gabriel Spitzer, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in the Middle East to push president Biden's ceasefire deal amid international outrage over Israel's mission that rescued four hostages and killed more than 270 Palestinians in Gaza. European election results are in, and some of the biggest countries in the EU are swinging to the right. Also, Hunter Biden's defense will present their case as the felony gun trial of the president's son continues. 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 Hannah Bloch, Nick Spicer, Dana Farrington, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Arthur Laurent.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Can you get a college scholarship for playing video games? Are they becoming more accessible? Will forever games really last... forever? Wailin Wong, co-host of The Indicator from Planet Money, joins us to discuss the economics of gaming and efforts to make the industry sustainable in the wake of mass layoffs.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A series of new executive actions are aimed at improving security at the southern border, we'll tell you how the changes are being received at the border. Also, it's June, usually around the time the U.S. Supreme Court goes into recess - but justices still have 16 fairly major cases to consider - that's a lot. And, we'll check in on the health of the U.S. economy, looking at barometers like inflation, mortgage rates, and employment numbers.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Alex Jones, the right-wing media personality who trades in conspiracy theories, requests Chapter 7 liquidation to pay Sandy Hook families who sued him for defamation. NPR media reporter David Folkenflik shares his own experiences with Washington Post publisher Will Lewis, who reportedly pushed to squash a story involving him. Atmospheric CO2 hits a new record.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 Catherine Laidlaw, Emily Kopp, Neela Banerjee, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Chris Thomas, and Milton Guevara. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

New Israeli bombardments are killing civilians, just days after Israel proposed terms for a ceasefire. A Northern Virginia resident speaks with NPR about her spat with the wife of Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito. Far-right parties are expected to gain seats in elections for EU parliament.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 Hannah Bloch, Barrie Hardymon, Nick Spicer, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Chris Thomas, and Milton Guevara. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden speaks to Americans from Normandy, France, marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Lawmakers introduce bills whose only aim is to send a political message. Voters in four states and the District of Columbia cast ballots in the last primary elections of 2024.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 Roberta Rampton, Padmananda Rama, Kelsey Snell, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Arthur Laurent.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Biden administration is expected to issue an executive order that could restrict crossings at the U.S. southern border. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to win a third term. A panel of FDA experts examines whether MDMA, found in the party drug ecstasy, could treat post-traumatic stress disorder.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 Alfredo Carbajal, John Helton, Jane Greenhalgh, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Arthur Laurent.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The latest negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza are underway. The trial of President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden begins in Delaware. Mexico is poised to elect its first female president.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 Hannah Bloch, Krishnadev Calamur, Tara Neill, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Arthur Laurent.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Starting in 2018, sixteen people were arrested in India for allegedly plotting to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They included professors, a poet, trade unionists and members of an improv acting troupe. Even an elderly Jesuit priest.The evidence against them, discovered on their electronic devices, appears damning: minutes of terror cell meetings, emails to banned Maoist rebels and a letter suggesting a suicide attack on Modi.Today, fifteen defendants continue to await trial. They all say they were falsely accused and that the evidence against them was fabricated and planted by hackers in order to silence them. Digital forensic investigators not only agree but say Modi's own government may be involved.In this episode of The Sunday Story, NPR's Lauren Frayer follows the twists and turns of what Indian police say was a complex plot to sabotage Modi's government, and that defendants say was a setup. One of the defendants, the Rev. Stan Swamy, died while fighting to clear his name.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Donald Trump claims his trial was "rigged," but does not give any evidence. President Biden says it's time to end the war in Gaza now. The top two candidates in Mexico's presidential elections Sunday are both women, meaning the country's likely to make history.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Donald Trump is now a convicted felon following the verdict in his New York hush money trial. The guilty verdict on all 34 counts marks the end of the criminal trial, and ushers in the beginning of what could be a long and winding set of legal challenges. And sentencing is scheduled for July, just days before the Republican National Convention where the former president has long been expected to become the GOP's official presidential nominee and continue with his campaign.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Alice Woelfle, Olivia Hampton and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Zac Coleman. And our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll offers insights into how the outcome of former President Donald Trump's New York criminal trial might affect how people vote. Secretary of State Antony Blinken says the U.S. is paying attention as some NATO allies allow Ukraine to strike military targets inside Russia using their weapons. And Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito says he will not recuse himself from cases related to former President Trump and his 2020 election defeat. 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 Dana Farrington, Nick Spicer, Elana Hadler Perl, Lisa Thomson and Ally Schweitzer. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. Our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Biden campaign has launched a summer drive to shore up support from Black voters. Pope Francis has issued an apology for using a slur to refer to gay men during a private meeting with Italian bishops. And South Africans head to the polls in what could be a major political turning point since apartheid ended 30 years ago. 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 Roberta Rampton, Cheryl Corley, John Helton, Lisa Thomson and Claudia Peschiutta. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. Our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

International condemnation continues in response to an Israeli airstrike on Rafah that killed at least 45 people, according to the Gaza health ministry. Attorneys will deliver their closing arguments in former President Donald Trump's New York criminal trial. And as the summer fire season kicks off more than a quarter of the U.S. Forest Service's wildland firefighting jobs are vacant ahead of what's forecasted to be a warmer, drier summer. 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 Lauren Migaki, Krishnadev Calamur, Eric Whitney, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Gaza health ministry says that an airstrike in Rafah killed 35 Palestinians and injured dozens more in what was supposed to be a safe zone for people displaced by the war. Rescue and recovery efforts are underway in Papua New Guinea where hundreds of people are feared dead following a massive landslide. And the U.S. is increasingly focused on repatriating the remains of military service members who were killed in WWII and the Korean War. 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 John Helton, Andrew Sussman, Lisa Thomson and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty.. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors Our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Imagine being a homeowner and paying your mortgage on time every month and then, suddenly, losing your house to foreclosure. It sounds like a nightmare. But an NPR Planet Money investigation reveals that this is happening to a striking number of people because of something called 'zombie 2nd mortgages.' On today's episode: What are zombie mortgages? Is all this legal? And is there any way for homeowners to fight the zombies?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The International Court of Justice orders Israel to suspend its offensive in Rafah. How policing has changed in Minneapolis since George Floyd was killed. Federal researchers find that more kids are being diagnosed with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The National Collegiate Athletics Association along with the nation's five biggest athletic conferences have agreed to settle antitrust lawsuits worth $2.8 billion. Louisiana lawmakers have voted to classify two drugs commonly used to induce abortions as dangerous and controlled substances. And the Justice Department sues Live Nation Entertainment and Ticketmaster calling it an illegal monopoly. 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 Elana Perl, Carrie Feibel, Emily Kopp, Lisa Thomson and Claudia Peschiutta. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. And our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak calls a general election as he trails the opposition in the polls. Russia's military has started tactical nuclear weapons drills in response to what the Kremlin says are growing threats from the West amid the war in Ukraine. And there aren't a lot of homes on the market, but those that are for sale are selling fast as competition among would-be buyers is keeping prices high. 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 Nick Spicer, Julia Redpath, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The leaders of Ireland, Spain and Norway announce their countries will recognize Palestinian statehood and the Israeli foreign minister says he's recalling the country's ambassadors for consultations in response. Lawyers for former President Donald Trump and two co-defendants are in court in Florida today asking a federal judge to dismiss the charges against their clients. And a ransomware attack on a major health care system continues to affect hospitals and patients two weeks after it happened. 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 John Helton, Russell Lewis, Diane Webber, Alice Woelfle and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The chief prosecutor at the International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants for top leaders of Hamas and Israel, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Democratic-led Senate will hold a second vote on bipartisan border legislation that failed to pass earlier this year. And Scarlett Johansson says the maker of ChatGPT copied her voice for its new AI personal assistant. 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 Lauren Migaki, Kelsey Snell, Kevin Drew, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has named an acting president following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi, the country's foreign minister and other officials in a helicopter crash. Prime Minister Benjamin Netyanyahu is facing accusations from his own war cabinet that he doesn't have a strategy for replacing Hamas in Gaza. Michael Cohen will return to the stand in what will likely be the final day of testimony in the New York criminal trial of former President Donald Trump. And a London court is expected to deliver a final decision on whether or not Julian Assange can appeal extradition to the U.S. 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 John Helton, Lauren Migaki, Dana Farrington, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfe. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

"They can just kill anyone."Since 2016, thousands have been killed in the Philippines' war on drugs. The bloody campaign began under the Philippines' last president, Rodrigo Duterte, who said he would be "happy to slaughter" three million drug addicts in the country. When current president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office in 2022, he promised to end this spree of state-sanctioned killings of alleged drug users and sellers, and focus on rehabilitation instead.In today's episode of The Sunday Story, NPR's Emily Feng travels to the Philippines to see what has come of Marcos' attempt to burnish the country's international reputation and to put an end to what most people in the Philippines now refer to as EJKs, or "extrajudicial killings." She found that the killings have continued. And she spoke to researchers, doctors, advocates, and victims' families to try to understand why.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The first aid trucks crossed into Gaza on a floating pier built by the U.S. government. Boeing's annual meeting was tightly controlled as the aircraft company has come under intense scrutiny. Why even vegan restaurant chains are beginning to serve meat.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden meets leaders of Black sororities and fraternities ahead of delivering the commencement address at Morehouse College as campus protests continue. Autoworkers in Alabama will vote on whether or not to unionize a Mercedes-Benz plant. And Greg Abbott, the governor of Texas, has pardoned Daniel Perry, who was convicted of murdering Garrett Foster at a Black Lives Matter protest in 2020.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 Roberta Rampton, Julia Redpath, Eric Westervelt, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from James Willetts. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden and former President Donald Trump have agreed to a pair of unusually early debates. The Biden administration is moving ahead with a $1 billion arms transfer to Israel a week after pausing a separate shipment of bombs to the country. And officials in Slovakia say that after hours of surgery following an assassination attempt, the country's Prime Minister Robert Fico is in stable but serious condition. 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 Megan Pratz, Roberta Rampton, Miguel Macias, Lisa Thomson and Claudia Peschiutta. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Russian President Vladimir Putin heads to China for a two-day summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says people under 30 and lower-income families are the most likely to be maxed out and fall behind on their credit card bills. And the Canadian wildfire season gets underway as fires prompt evacuations and threaten towns in Western provinces. 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 Nick Spicer, Julia Redpath, Miguel Macias, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrives in Kyiv as Ukrainian troops struggle to push back a new Russian offensive. President Biden is set to announce new tariffs on Chinese imports targeting electric vehicles, semiconductors and solar cells. And criminal gangs from China and Mexico continue to flood the U.S. with fentanyl at an unprecedented rate despite billions of dollars in spending to keep the deadly drug out. 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 Nick Spicer, Roberta Rampton, Gigi Douban and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

More than two months after toppling the prime minister of Haiti, gang leaders control most of the country's capital city Port-au-Prince. Michael Cohen will take the stand today to testify in the New York election interference trial of former President Donald Trump. And as Israel expands its attacks in the Gaza Strip, it also marks Memorial Day. 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 Tara Neill, Krishnadev Calamur, Peter Granitz, Lisa Thomson, Ben Adler and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former Up First host Rachel Martin joins us to discuss her new podcast. Wild Card from NPR is part-interview, part-existential game show in which Rachel rips up the typical interview script and invites guests to play a game about life's biggest questions. We ask her what prompted this new direction and then, Rachel turns the tables and puts Ayesha in the guest seat to play the game. Get more Wild Card here.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The State Department releases a highly critical report on Israel's conduct in Gaza. The trial of Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey begins next week. And a solar storm is creating beautiful auroras in the sky but may also disrupt the power grid.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Biden administration has proposed a change to immigration laws meant to discourage people from crossing the border illegally. An American-built floating pier off the coast of Gaza is nearly ready — and U.S. officials say it will help increase the flow of aid into the war zone. And two months after armed gangs took control of the capital of Haiti the country may finally be starting to stabilize. 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 Kelley Dickens, Vincent Ni, Tara Neill, Ben Adler, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Stacey Abbott. Our executive producer is Erika Aguilar.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden says he'll stop the shipment of U.S. military aid to Israel if it launches a major offensive in Rafah. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has survived a leadership threat, thanks in part to Democrats. And when House Republicans questioned public school leaders about antisemitism, the superintendents pushed back.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 Vincent Ni, Kelsey Snell, Nicole Cohen, Ben Adler, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Destinee Adams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors, and our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Biden administration is weighing how hard to push back on Israel's conduct of its war against Hamas. Stormy Daniels testifies in Donald Trump's New York trial about an affair that the then-presidential candidate is accused of covering up in 2016. And TikTok wants a federal court to throw out Congress's new "sell-or-be-banned" law.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 Vincent Ni, Dana Farrington, Kevin Drew, Lisa Thomson, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

After seven months of war and nearly 35,000 deaths, a pause in the fighting in Gaza seemed in sight — and then it wasn't.Russian President Vladimir Putin takes his fifth oath of office, which if he serves the full term would give him a longer tenure than Joseph Stalin. And the House could vote on another motion to oust a Republican speaker — but this time, Democrats might save Mike Johnson.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 Vincent Ni, Nick Spicer, Kelsey Snell, Lisa Thomson, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Gaza ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas appear to have hit a roadblock. China's president heads to France for a state dinner — hoping to drive a wedge between Europe and America. Boeing is hoping it has better success in space than it's lately had inside the atmosphere.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 Vincent Ni, Nick Spicer, Russell Lewis, Lisa Thomson, Elana Perl and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In recent years, high profile cases of police brutality across the U.S. have brought increased attention and scrutiny to police misconduct and use of force incidents. When something happens, the police often say "we're investigating." But what's really being done to ensure police are held accountable for their actions?Sukey Lewis is a criminal justice reporter at KQED. As part of the multi-newsroom California Reporting Project, she has spent years obtaining previously-sealed police internal affairs records, to find out what happens when law enforcement agencies investigate themselves.In this episode of The Sunday Story, host Ayesha Rascoe speaks with Lewis about the new season of her podcast, On Our Watch, which focuses on correctional officers. Lewis talks about her reporting on New Folsom, one of the most dangerous prisons in California. And she shares the stories of two whistleblowers who worked as correctional officers within the prison and ultimately died while fighting to expose its secrets.You can listen to all eight episodes of season 2 of On Our Watch at kqed.org/onourwatch.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Second week of testimony in Donald Trump's hush money criminal case has ended. It dug up a world of information brokers, tabloids and a secret exchange of money. Closing arguments in the U.S. government's case against Google wrapped up this week. It accuses the tech company of being an illegal monopoly. Experts in disease prevention have new recommendations for when women should start getting mammograms.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

After more than a week of silence, President Biden addressed the pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses Thursday seeking a balanced approach to a divisive issue. "Google" has been its own verb for years now, which the federal government argues is illegal. (The search engine, that is — not the verb itself.) And protests are engulfing the former Soviet republic of Georgia over a proposed "foreign agents law" that could move the country away from the west and toward Russia.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 Roberta Rampton, Gabriel Spitzer, Nick Spicer, Elana Perl and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange, and our technical director is Zac Coleman. Our executive producer is Erika Aguilar.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Arizona lawmakers have repealed a Civil War-era law that bans nearly all abortions. The police clearing pro-Palestinian encampments on college campuses are doing their jobs under intense scrutiny. And Donald Trump's New York criminal trial takes Wednesdays off, so he spent the day campaigning in two swing states.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 Gigi Douban, Larry Kaplow, Megan Pratz, Elana Perl Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

New York City police used force overnight to zip-tie the hands of dozens of Columbia University student protesters and haul them away in buses, clearing the encampment two weeks after tents first popped up. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is back in Israel to pressing for more aid to Palestinians in Gaza — and a hostage deal. And Florida's six-week abortion ban takes effect today — with exceptions only in rare circumstances.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 Kevin Drew, Vincent Ni, Acacia Squires, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A standoff at Columbia, as students defy the university's order to disband the protest against the Gaza war. In Charlotte, an effort to serve a warrant on a fugitive suspect turned deadly, with four officers killed and four more wounded. And Ukraine prepares to receive U.S. military aid that can't come soon enough.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 Miguel Macias, Denice Rios, Nick Spicer, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The International Criminal Court is reportedly weighing arrest warrants for Israeli and Hamas leaders, including Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Student protests over Israel's war in Gaza are spreading to new campuses, but at Columbia, the university and protesters both appear to be working to de-escalate. And Spain's prime minister says he's staying in office — despite allegations of corruption against his wife.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 Vincent Ni, Russell Lewis, Nick Spicer, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

From brightening ocean clouds to launching sulfur dioxide into the stratosphere, some entrepreneurs and scientists are testing technology that could reflect sunlight back into space to combat global warming. There's evidence some types of solar geoengineering could lower global temperatures a lot. But along with potential benefits come huge potential risks. Experts say the science isn't settled and regulations aren't keeping up. Today on The Sunday Story, a journey into the world of solar geoengineering.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Campus demonstrations in support of Gaza have spread to schools unaccustomed to such activism. In New York City and Washington, D.C., Donald Trump's attorneys defended him and made some extreme claims. An independent investigation finds Israel has not supported claims that a significant number of workers at the The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East are members of Hamas.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As protests and arrests continue at college campuses across the U.S.. are the students calling for divestment in Israel getting closer to their demands? The U.S. Supreme Court took nearly three hours to debate whether a president should have absolute immunity from criminal prosecution. And New York State's highest court has overturned the criminal conviction of former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein.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 Andrea de Leon, Meghan Sullivan, H-J Mai, Elana Perl, Jan Johnson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, our technical director is Zac Coleman, and our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Arizona is now the fourth state to bring "fake elector" charges against allies of Donald Trump. The U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments today about whether Trump is immune from criminal prosecution for his official acts as president. And Up First's Steve Inskeep is on a reporting trip in China, where economic pessimism is rising amid frayed U.S. ties.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 Ben Swasey, Krishnadev Calamur, Reena Advani, Elana Perl, Jan Johnson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, Taylor Haney and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The New York jury weighing criminal charges against Donald Trump has now heard from the trial's first witness. Elon Musk's Tesla is running into a whole lot of red lights: slumping sales, mass layoffs, and now a 55 percent drop in profits. And more than 100 people who reported being abused by former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar will share a nearly $140 million settlement. 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 Krishnadev Calamur, Emily Kopp, Cheryl Corley, Jan Johnson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Protests against the war in Gaza on college campuses now stretch from coast to coast. The United Kingdom is ready to pay a country thousands of miles away to take its unwanted refugees. And a years-long labor battle at Starbucks reaches the U.S. Supreme Court, which could set a precedent for future union building efforts.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 Alfredo Carbajal, Emily Kopp, Nick Spicer, Ally Schweitzer and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, and our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Opening arguments begin today in Manhattan: the People of the State of New York vs Donald J. Trump. As the House passed foreign aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan over the weekend, it tucked in a bill that threatens the future of Tiktok in the U.S. And the U.S. Supreme Court takes up homelessness – specifically, the question of whether people can be punished for sleeping outside.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Julia Buckley, Catherine Laidlaw and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Historical markers dot the American landscape. They are on the sides of roads, in parks, rest areas, in the middle of nowhere. They purport to offer a glimpse into the past, marking a moment or place of significance worth remembering. But a year-long investigation by NPR's Laura Sullivan found some of these markers present a fractured and confused telling of the American story. Some share humor and joy but many present a version of history that's been distorted or outright fictionalized with offensive lies.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Congress is expected to vote Saturday on aid for U.S. allies over the objections of some Republicans. Volkswagen workers at a Tennessee plant have voted overwhelmingly to join the United Auto Workers. There are new guidelines to safeguard melatonin overuse by children.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Less than a week after Iran launched air strikes into Israel, Israel appears to have responded. New York City police raided a college campus and arrested more than 100 students protesting the war in Gaza. And 12 New York City residents now hold Donald Trump's fate in their hands.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 Mark Katkov, Larry Kaplow, Dana Farrington and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel is now engaged in conflicts on three separate fronts: Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran. A new timeline shows Maui's deadly wildfire last year moved incredibly fast. And inflation is proving more stubborn than expected so far this year.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 Andrew Sussman, Eric Westervelt, Julia Redpath and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. wants China to help calm tensions in the Middle East by leveraging its influence with Iran. Democrats want to dismiss the impeachment trial against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, while some conservatives want to dismiss House Speaker Mike Johnson for backing aid to Israel and Ukraine. And hot ocean temperatures are turning coral reefs a ghostly white.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 James Hider, Dana Farrington, Neela Banerjee and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Iran is calling its air strikes on Israel a huge success, even though nearly all their missiles and drones were shot down. It looks like House Speaker Mike Johnson could finally bring foreign aid for Ukraine and Israel up for a vote — well...make that four votes. And the U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments today in a January 6th case that asks the question: How does one specific federal law define the obstruction of a congressional proceeding?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 Mark Katkov, Dana Farrington, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Iran and its allies launched more than 300 drones and missiles at Israel over the weekend. Israel, the U.S. and several other countries shot nearly all of them down. And Donald Trump goes on trial today — the first criminal trial ever for a former president.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 Mark Katkov, Andrew Sussman, Dana Farrington, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

How can Black women face workplace challenges without losing faith—or losing themselves—in the process? Today on The Sunday Story, host Ayesha Rascoe sits down with Lauren Wesley Wilson, author of the new book, What Do You Need?Lauren has dedicated her career to helping women of color thrive in the workplace as the founder and CEO of ColorComm, a networking community for women of color in communications and media. In this episode, she reflects on big moments in her career, and shares advice for women who may still be searching for a workplace where they can belong.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Kamala Harris was in Arizona, where the state's high court reinstated an 1864 law all but banning abortion. House Speaker Mike Johnson met with former Pres. Donald Trump in Florida. Argentine police are breaking up protests with water cannons as the economy falters.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We look back at the complicated life and legacy O.J. Simpson leaves behind after he died yesterday from cancer. More than two years into its full scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia's war of attrition in Ukraine appears to be succeeding in ways its military superiority has not. And the Justice Department charges baseball star Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter with $16 million of bank fraud.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 James Hider, Nick Spicer, Rose Friedman, Ravenna Koenig, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden is hosting a meeting with the leaders of two key U.S. allies — Japan and the Philippines — to counter China's power in Asia. The European Union is moving forward with major changes to its migration policies that would make it harder to seek asylum in Europe. And high school seniors are struggling to figure out a new college financial aid form that's been plagued by delays and errors.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 Miguel Macias, Nick Spicer, Steve Drummond, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Arizona's Supreme Court says an abortion ban passed during the Civil War should be the law of the land today. The EPA is, for the first time, putting limits on "forever chemicals" in our drinking water. And Japan's prime minister comes to Washington, just as President Biden questions a global business deal.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 Megan Pratz, Scott Hensley, Roberta Rampton, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Josephine Nyounai.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Donald Trump wants to leave abortion policy up to the states. The Vatican calls surrogacy and gender theory "grave threats" to "human dignity." And Missouri plans to execute a man who shot and killed two of his family members nearly 20 years ago — despite an unusual coalition advocating against his execution.And a bonus: What was it like to experience a total solar eclipse?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 Krishnadev Calamur, Cheryl Corley, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We've got everything you need to be ready for today's total solar eclipse. (Except for those glasses...you're on your own there!) The Biden administration is taking another crack at an issue it's struggled to get through the courts. And this weekend marked six months of the war in Gaza — with still no clarity on how it might end.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 Russell Lewis, Steve Drummond, Mark Katkov, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

David Baron says seeing a total solar eclipse is "like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."Today on The Sunday Story, we're sharing an episode from NPR's Life Kit. Baron talks to NPR's scientist-in-residence and astrophysicist Dr. Regina Barber about what to expect when viewing the total solar eclipse on April 8, including the sensations you may feel and the strange lighting effects in the sky.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

October 7, 2023, was a Saturday. This Saturday, we look back at the last six months of violence, beginning with the surprise attack by Hamas on communities in southern Israel and continuing as Israel keeps up its retaliation and Hamas continues to hold hostages.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel is allowing aid to flow into Northern Gaza after President Joe Biden warned that U.S. support would depend on steps taken to address civilian harm and humanitarian suffering. No Labels is deciding not to put a third-party unity ticket together to run in the 2024 presidential election. And, a federal judge decided border officials are responsible for migrant children in encampments on California's southern border. 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 Mark Katkov, Krishnadev Calamur, Alfredo Carbajal, Lisa Thomson and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Zac Coleman and our Executive Producer is Erika Agular.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A key member of Benjamin Netanyahu's war cabinet says Israel should set a date for elections. NATO is marking 75 years since its founding — and it remains an alliance that worries about Russia. And an NPR investigation asks why Baltimore's Key Bridge didn't have more protection from passing ships.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 Mark Katkov, Nick Spicer, Barrie Hardymon, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A massive 7.4 magnitude earthquake has struck Taiwan, the biggest quake to rock the Asian island in 25 years. rotest votes in Wisconsin's primary — against President Biden and Donald Trump. And a controversial Texas immigration law is back in court for a crucial test.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 Miguel Macias, Padma Rama, Alfredo Carbajal, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Josephine Nyounai, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Two airstrikes in the last 24 hours are drawing new scrutiny to Israel's military actions in the Middle East. Florida's Supreme Court has pretty much ensured that abortion will be the issue on the state's November ballot. And it turns out Google's "incognito" web browsing mode hasn't been incognito after all.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 Ryland Barton, Mark Katkov, Uri Berliner, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The United Nations' main judicial body says Israel must allow more aid into Gaza, but can the court's order be enforced? Many California fast food workers get a big raise Monday, but restaurant owners say the increase to $20 an hour puts them in a bind. And March Madness does it again: a Cinderella Final Four men's team, and an epic women's showdown Monday night.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 Mark Katkov, Pallavi Gogoi, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In China, a man has been playing the piano outdoors, often in places of great sadness—the epicenter of an earthquake, a dam that submerged villages, a street emptied during a COVID lockdown.He plays just one song: "Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence," by the late composer Ryuichi Sakamoto.In the fall of 2022, one of his performance videos goes viral, tapping into years of unexpressed collective grief. In this episode of The Sunday Story, NPR correspondent John Ruwitch asks: who is the piano man, and why has he chosen this path?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Some car companies are looking for workarounds to get their vehicles from ships to dealers after the Baltimore bridge collapse. Demonstrations turn violent in Europe as farmers protest European Union environmental policies and cheap Ukrainian imports. Chocolate lovers will have to pay more for treats as cocoa prices skyrocket.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

If you paid enough money Thursday night, you could get your picture taken with three presidents — all at once. Reopening the Port of Baltimore will be a Herculean effort, as crews must clear six million pounds of steel out of the Patapsco River. And Russia's government isn't trying to hide that the four suspects on trial for last week's Moscow terrorist attack have been tortured.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 Dana Farrington, Russell Lewis, Nick Spicer, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We now have an initial timeline — minute by minute — of how a massive cargo ship came to crash into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge. Sam Bankman-Fried, the Crypto Wunderkind convicted of fraud, will be sentenced Thursday to a prison term that could last decades. And the Walt Disney Company and Gov. Ron DeSantis appear to have both realized that Florida is a small world after all.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 Russell Lewis, Julia Redpath, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

At the site of Baltimore's Key Bridge, rescue efforts have turned to recovery. In Gaza, families are so desperate for food that 12 people drowned trying to retrieve airdropped aid boxes from the sea. And after a newsroom revolt at NBC, the network has ousted its newest contributor, former RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel.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 Eric Westervelt, Mark Katkov, Pallavi Gogoi, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A one-and-a-half mile bridge in Baltimore has collapsed a large container ship crashed into it and caught fire, with several vehicles falling into the waters below. Israel has canceled a high-level delegation to Washington, after the U.S. declined to block a United Nations resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza. And a challenge to FDA regulations that make abortion pills more accessible reaches the Supreme Court.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 Miguel Macias, Mark Katkov, Krishnadev Calamur, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel's Defense Minister is in the U.S. today at a moment of tension between the two allies. An offshoot of the Islamic State claims responsibility for Friday's mass shooting in Moscow, while Russian authorities point instead to Ukraine. And two of Donald Trump's legal battles collide today — one criminal, one civil, both in New York City.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 Mark Katkov, Nick Spicer, Krishnadev Calamur, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This week the EPA released new rules for vehicle emissions, which will push the auto industry to speed up the transition to electric vehicles. It's expected that electric vehicles will make up over 50% of new cars by 2032. For now EVs account for less than 10% of vehicle sales and drivers still have lots of questions about them and how they really affect the environment. We asked The Sunday Story listeners to share their questions about EVs and the response was overwhelming. So to answer those many questions, host Ayesha Rascoe turns to NPR's business desk correspondent, Camila Domonoske, who covers cars and energy.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Russian authorities say they've arrested several people responsible for the attack at a large concert venue on the Moscow outskirts, where more than 100 people were killed. House Speaker Mike Johnson passes spending bills with the help of Democrats, and now some Republicans are threatening his job. Catherine, Princess of Wales, announces after weeks out of the public eye that she is receiving treatment for cancer.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Secretary of State Tony Blinken visits Israel as Gaza braces for famine. Donald Trump is ready to take Truth Social public — and it's not just his diehard supporters who want to buy stock. And the Justice Department hits Apple with an antitrust lawsuit for monopolizing the smartphone market.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 Mark Katkov, Julia Redpath, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Taylor Haney. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Biden administration gives electric vehicles a jolt — with new EPA rules that aim to make two-thirds of new cars, trucks and SUVs electric or hybrid by 2032. Alabama follows other conservative states by banning public schools and universities from spending money on diversity, equity, and inclusion. And some of Reddit's most loyal users are so upset the company is going public, they might try to bet against its stock.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 Denice Rios, Susanna Capelouto, Pallavi Gogoi, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Taylor Haney. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Migrants in Texas are waking up to a new day of anxiety after a whirlwind of court orders about a controversial immigration enforcement law. Six former Mississippi police officers who pleaded guilty to torturing two Black men are being sentenced this week in federal court. And Ohio Republicans nominate the candidate endorsed by Donald Trump for a race that could determine control of the U.S. Senate.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 Alfredo Carbajal, Susanna Capelouto, Padma Rama, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Taylor Haney. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The United Nations says famine is imminent in Northern Gaza. In one state that has banned abortion, maternal health care now looks very different. And it's Primary Day in five more states — including Arizona, one of a handful of states likely to decide the election this fall.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 Mark Katkov, Carrie Feibel, Megan Pratz, Dana Farrington, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Taylor Haney. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors and David Greenburg, and our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

An outcome never in doubt: Russia's electoral commission says Vladimir Putin has won yet another term as president. Donald Trump once again defends the January 6th protesters who stormed the Capitol. And two voter concerns about Vice President Kamala Harris as she campaigns for President Biden: his age and her readiness.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 Nick Spicer, Dana Farrington, Roberta Rampton, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Taylor Haney. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Israeli government currently prohibits foreign journalists from entering Gaza. NPR's Leila Fadel found another way of reporting from inside the territory.This week on The Sunday Story, we bring you an episode from NPR's Embedded podcast. Fadel speaks with host Kelly McEvers about voice memos she's been receiving from a Palestinian college student trying to survive as bombs fall around her in Gaza. And we hear from a Palestinian American family that escaped the war–only to find that it has followed them home.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Haitians wait for the arrival of a peacekeeping force from Kenya, as violence continues there. After a judge's ruling in Georgia, District Attorney Fani Willis remains on the election interference case against former President Donald Trump. The judge said either she or the special prosecutor with whom she had a romantic relationship needed to step aside. Israel gears up for a planned offensive in Gaza's southern city of Rafah.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In Russia, nothing happens without some intrigue — even a presidential election in which Vladimir Putin is a near-lock to win a fifth term. We get a first-hand glimpse of the chaos in Haiti, as our correspondent finally makes it across the border. And Chicago pulls an about-face — from welcoming migrants seeking asylum to evicting them.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 Nick Spicer, Tara Neill, Alfredo Carbajal, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Many Haitians are troubled by an international plan to impose a transitional government. European Union lawmakers have approved the world's first comprehensive regulations on artificial intelligence. And as we barrel toward a presidential election with two unpopular candidates, third-party bids are scrambling to get on the ballot.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 Tara Neill, Dana Farrington, Nick Spicer, Jan Johnson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A House vote today takes aim at TikTok — and its Chinese parent company. Conspiracy theories about noncitizens voting are back this election year, and they're taking even deeper hold with many Republicans. And with Israel blocking most aid shipments to Gaza by land, aid groups are turning to the sea to feed starving people.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 Kelsey Snell, Ben Swasey, Mark Katkov, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Haiti's armed gangs have gotten their wish: The prime Minister says he plans to resign. On this primary day in Georgia, we hear from a Democrat skeptical about Joe Biden and a Republican fed up with Donald Trump. And a temperature check on inflation, as gas prices begin their usual spring surge.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 Megan Pratz, Kelsey Snell, Rafael Nam, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Muslims are making the start of Ramadan today — and there is, as yet, no ceasefire between Israel and Hamas to stop the war during this holy month. In Haiti, police say they are "on their knees" as the coordinated attacks from armed gangs enter their second week. And in a moment of global conflict, a movie about the creation of the atomic bomb sweeps the Academy Awards.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 Mark Katkov, Tara Neill , Rose Friedman, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Barbenheimer was the summer blockbuster phenomenon of 2023 around the movies Barbie and Oppenheimer. Both movies made a box office splash and now Oppenheimer is leading in the Oscar nominations race with 13 nods. But there are plenty of lesser known films in the running, including three primarily in a foreign language, vying for best picture. To help understand which films and stars are the favorites to win we are joined this week by Pop Culture Happy Hour hosts Aisha Harris and Linda Holmes.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden and former President Trump both hold campaign events in Georgia today. For Biden, it's part of his post-State of the Union tour of swing states. The humanitarian crisis continues in Gaza, with no ceasefire before Ramadan. Nigerian officials say more than 250 students were abducted from school.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden takes on his age — and, without saying his name, his opponent. Donald Trump is poised to install loyalists atop the Republican National Committee. And a surreal standoff in Haiti continues, between the government and armed gangs.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Up First was edited Roberta Rampton, Megan Pratz, Tara Neill, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Julie Depenbrock, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Zac Coleman. And our executive producer is Erika Aguilar.Correction: An earlier version of this episode referred to Morton Blackwell as a member of the Republican National Committee from Louisiana. He represents Virginia.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden gives his election-year State of the Union address tonight as polls show him trailing former President Donald Trump. Alabama passes a law protecting in vitro fertilization clinics from civil and criminal liability. And how Israel's fractious society has been united by the war in Gaza, five months in.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Up First was edited Roberta Rampton, Susanna Capelouto, Mark Katkov, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Julie Depenbrock, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

NPR has confirmed Nikki Haley is due to suspend her presidential campaign after a big win on Super Tuesday for Donald Trump. Why a prominent California Democratic Senate candidate spent millions of dollars to boost a Republican opponent. And, how a cyberattack on an obscure but critical U.S. health care company has disrupted our entire system.Correction: In the broadcast version of this story, the reporter incorrectly refers to a United Health Care subsidiary as "Optus." The correct name is "Optum."Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Up First was edited Dana Farrington, Kevin Drew, Andrew Sussman and Ben Adler. It was produced by Julie Depenbrock, Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Josephine Nyounai, and our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Super Tuesday is here — with more voters casting ballots than any other day. The Supreme Court says states like Colorado can't kick Donald Trump off the primary ballot for his actions on January 6. And a United Nations report has found "reasonable grounds to believe" Israelis were victims of sexual violence during the October 7 Hamas attack.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Krishnadev Calamur, James Hider, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Julie Depenbrock, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Vice President Kamala Harris calls for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as the U.S. begins airdropping food into Gaza. In an apparent effort to depose Haiti's prime minister, armed gangs stormed two prisons and let thousands of inmates escape. And France moves to not just bolster the right to an abortion, in contrast to the U.S., but to enshrine that right into the country's constitution. 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 was edited by Hannah Bloch, Mark Katkov, Miguel Macias and Ben Adler. It was produced by Julie Depenbrock, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Why is it so complicated to save the Everglades?The Everglades is home to the largest mangrove ecosystem in the western hemisphere and a sanctuary for over three dozen endangered and threatened species. It also provides fresh water, flood control, and a buffer against hurricanes and rising seas for about 9 million Floridians.But climate change, pollution, agriculture and rapid development are causing potentially irreversible damage.In 2000, the state of Florida and the federal government struck an extraordinary deal to save the Everglades. The Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan was the largest ecosystem restoration project in the world.But from the moment it was signed into law, things got complicated.Now almost 25 years later, the Everglades is as endangered as ever, and the problems have become even more difficult—and expensive—to solve.Today on The Sunday Story, Ayesha Rascoe talks with WLRN's Jenny Staletovich. Jenny has a new podcast series out called Bright Lit Place that tells the dramatic story of the Everglades, what's been done to the ecosystem, and what needs to happen to save it.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The latest in U.S. politics, from presidential border visits to an averted government shutdown. Oregon's state legislature votes to recriminalize drug possession, overhauling what may be the U.S.'s most progressive drug policy yet. Thousands vied for a seat in Iran's parliament on Friday, but voter turnout was low.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny is being laid to rest after dying in prison for charges widely seen as politically motivated. Gaza health authorities say more than 100 civilians were killed trying to get food from aid trucks, though Israel says that number is much lower. And scientists have started cloning genetically modified pigs with organs designed to be transplanted into people.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 was edited by Mark Katkov, Hannah Bloch, Scott Hensley, HJ Mai and Ben Adler. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, our technical director is Zac Coleman and our executive producer is Erika Aguilar.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Supreme Court will decide if Donald Trump is immune from prosecution for his official actions as president. Mitch McConnell plans to step down as Senate Republican leader at the end of the year. And the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 30,000.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 was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Kelsey Snell, Hannah Bloch, HJ Mai and Ben Adler. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Joe Biden celebrated an easy win in Tuesday's Michigan primary. But it came with a warning on Gaza. Hunter Biden testifies today in the House GOP impeachment probe into his father. And could the Alabama Supreme Court ruling that gave fertilized eggs the same rights as children spur other states to do the same?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 was edited by Megan Pratz, Kelsey Snell, Barbara Sprunt, HJ Mai and Ben Adler. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, and our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Michigan is holding its presidential primaries today, and some Democrats say they're voting uncommitted instead of President Biden. Some Michigan voters warn Biden to change course on the Israel-Hamas war. What's the president hearing from voters who delivered the state in 2020? Also, the United States goes to court to stop a grocery megamerger. Kroger and Albertsons propose to combine. What does it mean for your neighborhood supermarket?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 was edited by Reena Advani, Emily Kopp, HJ Mai and Ben Adler. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to move ahead with a ground offensive in the border city of Rafah, even though a ceasefire deal may delay the operation. The battle over free speech on social media reaches the U.S. Supreme Court, and Congress faces yet another government shutdown deadline this week.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Mark Katkov, Ben Adler and HJ Mai. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In the sleepy town of Asebu, a few miles inland from the Atlantic along Ghana's Cape Coast, a serene 5,000 acre rural settlement is rising out of the palm forests and farmland. Pan-African Village is envisioned as an idyllic haven for settlers from the African diaspora. It was established in 2019, after a local chief announced that anyone from the diaspora could have plots for free. Hundreds of people, largely from North America and the Caribbean, have accepted the offer and are in the midst of building large homes. They regard themselves as the first wave of settlers, carving a new life in their ancestral homeland, devoid of racism and repression. But while locals have tentatively welcomed returning diaspora, Ghana is also experiencing some of the worst economic conditions in decades. In Pan-African Village, brewing tensions over ownership and privileged access to the land are threatening to spill over into violence and unravel the promise of this diaspora haven. This week on The Sunday Story, producer Andrew Mambo speaks with Emmanuel Akinwotu, NPR's West Africa Correspondent, about the complicated relationship between the diaspora settlers and the place they see as their ancestral home.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As the Russia-Ukraine War heads into its third year, we look at the state of the conflict. Also, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has spent millions in her home state and sharpened her attacks on former President Donald Trump, hoping to chip away at his support.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Lawmakers in Alabama are working on a legislative solution to a recent state Supreme Court decision which ruled that a frozen embryo has the same rights as a child. How do lawmakers want to fix the issue? Tomorrow will mark the two-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. We'll check with NPR's Joanna Kakissis to hear how people in Ukraine feel about the future. And a data leak from a Chinese technology company is giving the world a glimpse into the Chinese cyber spying ecosystem. 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 Susanna Capelouto, Mark Katkov, Andrew Sussman and HJ Mai. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez and Phil Edfors, and our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley is ramping up her attacks on former President Donald Trump, but her path to winning the GOP nomination remains very narrow at best. Why is she staying in the race? A key witness in the Republican-led impeachment inquiry against President Biden has been charged with lying about an alleged bribery scheme. And a new study shows that nearly half of all American adults know someone who died from an overdose. How is this affecting the people who are closest to the crisis?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 Lisa Thompson, Krishnadev Calamur, Andrea De Leon and HJ Mai. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez and our technical director is Hannah Gluvna.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Supreme Court today hears a challenge to the EPA's authority to regulate air quality. Three GOP-led states want the court to freeze a plan that limits air pollution that crosses state borders. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has vowed to stay in the presidential race through Super Tuesday. But Saturday's primary in her home state is shaping up to be another decisive victory for former President Donald Trump. What's her case for staying in the race? And Alabama's Supreme Court rules that fertilized eggs have the same rights as children.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Padma Rama, Susanna Capelouto and HJ Mai. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez, and our technical director is Neisha Heinis.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

WikiLeaks Founder Julian Assange will be in a London courtroom today. He's trying to stop his extradition to the United States. A planned Israeli invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza may force Palestinians into Egypt despite its objections. What will it mean for the more than 1 million Palestinians in Rafah displaced by Israel's war against Hamas? And Louisiana's legislature is in a special session that threatens to undo some of the state's recent criminal justice reforms. Lawmakers will consider over two dozen bills, including a bill that would make state executions easier. 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 Miguel Macias, Mark Katkov, Liz Baker and HJ Mai. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Russia has taken control of a frontline city in Ukraine only days before the war's second anniversary. With supplies running low, will Ukraine's defense forces be able to withstand a Russian assault? Despite international pressure, Israel seems set on a ground invasion of Rafah. Its stated goal is to destroy Hamas, but the city is filled with over a million displaced civilians searching for safety. And Texas plans to build a new military base in the border city of Eagle Pass. It's the latest escalation in the immigration fight between Texas and the federal government. 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 Andrew Sussman, Mark Katkov, Denice Rios and HJ Mai. It was produced by Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Milton Guevara. We get engineering support from Stacy Abbott and our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Mass shootings in America are now regular news. The latest happened days ago, at a Super Bowl parade for the Kansas City Chiefs. After the chaos and shock, the same question gets asked, "How did we get here?" In looking for an answer you can go all the way back to the founding of the nation and the birth of the relationship between the gun industry and the American government.Today on The Sunday Story producer Andrew Mambo talks to reporter Alain Stevens of The Trace and host of WBUR's podcast The Gun Machine. They talk about the roots of that relationship and how despite being deeply intertwined and often mutually beneficial, it has also led to scenes like the one in Kansas City.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Family and allies of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny say he was murdered. A New York judge ordered Trump Organization leaders to pay $364 million for fraud. President Joe Biden's tough words on Israel raise questions over the extent of his influence.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny dies in prison. An Atlanta judge will decide if the prosecutor on Trump's Georgia election interference case, should be removed for a conflict of interest stemming from a romantic relationship. Israel plans to push Palestinians out of Southern Gaza as Israeli forces raid the region's largest hospital. And, two juveniles are in custody related to the Kansas City shooting as public looks for answers.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 Andrew Sussman, Ben Swasey, Catherine Laidlaw, Mohamad ElBardicy and HJ Mai.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz.We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. Our technical director is Zac Coleman. And our Executive Producer is Erika AguilarLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

22 people were shot including children during the Kansas City Super Bowl parade, at least one person has died. Sources believe National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan will brief top lawmakers on the threat of Russian antisatellite nukes. And, migrant crossings at the southern border have dropped by 50% after reaching record numbers in December. 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 Cheryl Corley, Dana Farrington Alfredo Carbajal, and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz.We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

House Republicans voted to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Aljandro Mayorkas accusing him with refusal to comply with immigration laws and breach of public trust. Vice President Kamala Harris heads to Germany to reassure NATO allies that they can rely on U.S. support. And exit polls show Indonesia's defense minister will be the new president of a country that plays a role in the South China Sea security. 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 Kelsey Snell, Roberta Rampton, Miguel Macias, and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz.We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Neisha Heinis.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As Israel plans an offensive in Rafah, negotiators are meeting in Cairo to discuss a path towards a ceasefire in Gaza. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's Ukraine meeting with NATO allies with be virtual after cancelling his trip Brussels due to health complications. And after nearly nine years away, Jon Stewart returns to The Daily Show just in time for the presidential campaign.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 Andrew Sussman, Lisa Thomson, Miguel Macias and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz.We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel is telling 1.4 million Palestinians sheltering in Southern Gaza to evacuate, as attacks continue in Rafah. Former President Donald Trump threatened to abandon NATO allies if they don't spend more on defense. And, after sinking a bipartisan bill to handle the border crisis, Republicans are calling on President Joe Biden to use executive action to solve the problem.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Andrew Sussman and Mohamed ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz.We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What happens when you put friendship at the center of your life?NPR's Rhaina Cohen has been thinking about this question for years. It started when she met someone. This someone was not a lover, but a friend. As their relationship deepened, Cohen began to wonder why there wasn't a special term for a platonic relationship that felt romantic, or an understanding of partnerships that went beyond the status of "best friend."In today's episode of The Sunday Story, host Ayesha Rascoe sits down with Rhaina Cohen to talk about her forthcoming book, The Other Significant Others: Reimagining Life with Friendship at the Center.You can listen to the song, "Dear Friend," by Rings of Maple here.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel prepares for a possible ground invasion of the southern end of Gaza. The failure of a border control measures shows the waning power of Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell. The Kansas City Chiefs are poised to win their second consecutive NFL championship.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A special counsel report says President Joe Biden willfully retained and disclosed classified materials after his tenure as vice president, but stopped short of recommending charges. Ukraine is replacing it's top general amidst stalled progress in the war with Russia. And, federal authorities seize former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's passport as he faces allegations of plotting a coup.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 Dana Farrington, Ally Schweitzer, Tara Neill and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.And our executive producer is Erika Aguilar.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Supreme Court is set to rule on Colorado's controversial decision to disqualify Donald Trump from the primary ballot, a case with significant implications for the 2024 presidential election. A U.S. drone strike in Baghdad targets a senior commander of an Iran-backed militia, raising questions of escalation in the Middle East. Pakistan is on edge as a contentious election is underway amidst an economic and political crisis.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Miguel Macias, and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Secretary of State Antony Blinken lands in Israel with Hamas' first public response to a ceasefire deal, which Qatari negotiators describe as "generally positive." Democrats blame former President Donald Trump for sinking a bipartisan Senate bill meant to address the crisis at the border. And, there's more attention on the legal responsibilities of parents with guns after a Michigan jury found the mother of the 2021 Oxford Highschool shooter guilty of manslaughter. 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 Gerry Holmes, Kelsey Snell, Catherine Laidlaw, and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Widespread flooding in southern California is turning hillsides into rivers of mud, as a slow-moving storm brings life threatening conditions to the Los Angles area. Both Democrats and Republicans will head to the polls in Nevada on Tuesday to vote for their party's presidential nominee, but many Republicans won't have all the choices on the ballot. And Dartmouth college is reinstating standardized testing requirements in admissions, citing research that shows it might help disadvantaged students.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 Megan Pratz, Sadie Babits, Nichole Cohen and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock.We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. carried out more strikes on Iranian-backed groups as Secretary Antony Blinken heads to the Middle East to try and avoid further escalation. The Senate unveiled a $118 billion bipartisan Immigration bill meant to address national security at home and abroad, but House Republicans say it's dead on arrival. And, torrential rainfall in Los Angles, California didn't stop Taylor Swift from making history winning her 4th Album of the Year Grammy Award.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 Gerry Holmes, Sadie Babits, Bilal Qureshi and Mohamad El Bardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Ana Perez.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Since its debut in 2008, NPR's Tiny Desk has become a must-stop destination for music superstars like Taylor Swift and Alicia Keys but also for lesser-known musicians, including those who compete in the annual Tiny Desk contest. Today on The Sunday Story host Ayesha Rascoe talks to senior producer Bobby Carter about the Tiny Desk series, how it has evolved over time and how the Tiny Desk contest has opened the door to the music industry for many artists.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. attacked 85 targets in Iraq and Syria in retaliation for the deaths of three American servicemembers last weekend. Tech executives were grilled at a Capitol Hearing. And the scene at a park in Eagle Pass, Texas, where federal and state authorities are each seeking control over the border.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden sanctions Israelis for violence in the West Bank. What can turnout in today's South Carolina Democratic primary tell us about the general election in November? One year after a train carrying toxic chemicals derailed in East Palestine Ohio, some residents are still putting their lives back together.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The House approves a three-year expansion for the Child Tax Credit. E.U. leaders back a $50 billion Ukraine aid package as the country struggles with tensions between the president and his military chief. And Universal Music Group pulls some of the world's most popular artists from TikTok.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 Kelsey Snell, Mark Katkov, Rose Friedman and Olivia Hampton.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Ana Perez.We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Qatar's prime minister sounds a cautious note on the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal. The Federal Reserve weighs when to cut interest rates. And electric vehicle sales slow.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 Jan Johnson, Rafael Nam, Christine Arrasmith and Olivia Hampton.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Ana Perez.We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. weighs a response to a drone strike that killed American soldiers, Texas bars federal agents from entering a park used by migrants illegally entering the U.S. and a farmers' blockade reaches Paris.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 Gerry Holmes, Eric Westervelt, Mark Katkov and Olivia Hampton.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Ana Perez.We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden vows to respond to a drone attack that killed three U.S. soldiers at a remote base in Jordan. Israel accuses the main U.N. agency in Gaza of aiding Hamas in its October 7 attack. And House Republicans seek to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.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 Mark Katkov, Gerry Holmes, Kelsey Snell and Olivia Hampton.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Ana Perez.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Primary season has just begun but for most Republicans, it's a wrap. The question now is not who the party will pick as its presidential candidate but who former President Donald Trump will choose as his running mate. Today on The Sunday Story, we turn to our colleagues at NPR's Politics Podcast as they consider the vice presidency and who might be on Trump's short list.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A jury ordered former president Donald Trump to pay writer E. Jean Carroll $83.3 million for defaming her. President Biden is heading to South Carolina to shore up support from Black voters. What the international court decision on the Gaza conflict means.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The UN's top court will deliver its interim ruling on the genocide charges brought against Israel by South Africa. Campaign politics is putting a bipartisan Senate border deal in limbo as former President Donald Trump urges Republican lawmakers to reject it. And, The Biden Administration is pausing approval of new natural gas export facilities as it weighs their impact on climate change.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 Kelsey Snell, Sadie Babits, Ally Schweitzer and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline.We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Nikki Haley makes a major push in her home state of South Carolina. New revelations suggest Boeing could be at fault for a door plug blowout on a 737 MAX plane. And a man on Alabama's death row is set to be executed using nitrogen gas.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 Megan Pratz, Rusell Lewis, Barrie Hardymon and Olivia Hampton. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Donald Trump wins New Hampshire's GOP primary. Nikki Haley banks on the upcoming contest in her home state of South Carolina. And mass protests are expected in Argentina against the new president's economic reform plans.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 Megan Pratz, Taylor Haney and Olivia Hampton. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The New Hampshire primary takes place today, with the Republican field essentially reduced to two presidential candidates: Donald Trump and Nikki Haley. Twenty-one soldiers are killed near the border with Gaza in the Israeli military's deadliest incident since the start of the war. And the parents of a teen who opened fire at his suburban Detroit high school in 2021 face trial over their criminal responsibility for having purchased the semi-automatic handgun he used to kill four.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 Megan Pratz, Gerry Holmes, Cheryl Corley and Olivia Hampton.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ron DeSantis endorses Donald Trump ahead of New Hampshire primary. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates a Hindu temple on the site of a historic mosque. And Democrats launch an abortion rights campaign tour.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 Megan Pratz, Roberta Rampton, Miguel Macias and Olivia Hampton.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Clarification: In this episode, we say that abortion used to be a constitutional right. To be precise, abortion used to be a fundamental right protected under the Constitution's 14th Amendment. The Supreme Court ruled in 2022 in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health case that abortion was as not a constitutional right nor a fundamental right protected by the Constitution.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Medical errors happen all the time. They can be overlooked or they can lead to big lawsuits and settlements. But what they rarely lead to is an apology. Doctors and hospitals have long responded to medical mistakes with silence. There are many reasons for this approach: fear of legal liability, loss of status, even shame. But increasingly, patients, families, and yes, doctors, are calling for a new approach, one that acknowledges the lasting damage that comes from a failure to address medical mistakes. This week on The Sunday Story, we talk to Tradeoffs health reporters about a family with a nightmarish story of a what they say was a medical error, and a look at what's being done to keep others from suffering in the same way.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Donald Trump gets an endorsement from Senator Tim Scott just ahead of the NH primary. Also, several dozen countries hold elections this year - we take a step-back to consider what's at stake for global democracy.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A report from the Justice Department finds multiple failures in how law enforcement responded to the shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas. Congress has passed yet another short term funding bill against the wishes of the far-right Freedom Caucus. And Iran's role in a number of conflicts in neighboring countries.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A communications blackout has hindered humanitarian efforts in Gaza as intense fighting between the Israeli military and Hamas militants claims more lives. Pakistan has carried out airstrikes in Iran, following Iran's incursion on its territory. And republican lawmakers continue to delay more U-S aid for Ukraine until democrats agree to changes in immigration policy.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

What's behind the uptick in attacks between the U-S military and the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen. How the presidential race for the republican nomination looks in New Hampshire. And today, the Supreme Court hears a case that could upend federal regulations.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Donald Trump wins the Iowa caucuses by a big margin. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis comes in second. How critical is the next contest in New Hampshire for former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The republican primaries begin today with the Iowa caucuses. What Israel's war against Hamas looks like in Gaza after a 100-days of retaliation. And after his inauguration was in doubt, Guatemala's new president is sworn in. 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 Ben Swasey, Mark Katkov, Kevin Drew, Reena Advani and Mohamad ElBardicy It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

California's governor has made the rounds on local and national news pitching a new court as a solution to homelessness. But there's a gap between how these courts are being sold and the reality. Today on The Sunday Story, Ayesha Rascoe and Anna Scott explore what this policy experiment in California can help us understand about the causes of and solutions to homelessness.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Another powerful winter storm brings much of the Midwest to a halt; Subzero temperatures are predicted for the Iowa Caucus on Monday; The US strikes Yemen again, trying to get the Houthis to stop their attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. and Britain launch airstrikes on Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen. Taiwan prepares for closely watched elections. Israel presents its response to South Africa's charge of genocide in the International Court of Justice.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 Mark Katkov, Michael Sullivan, Andrew Sussman, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, and Ana Perez. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

New York State and former president Donald Trump present closing arguments in the trial involving Trump's business practices. South Africa's case against Israel for genocide in the International Court of Justice. The U.S. government approves a new way to invest in Bitcoin. 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 Krishnadev Calamur, Mark Katkov, Pallavi Gogoi, and Miguel Macias. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbot. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Donald Trump made his case for immunity to appeals court judges. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been hospitalized for the past week, following surgery for prostate cancer. Some House Republicans want to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Andrew Sussman, Kelsey Snell, and Miguel Macias. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A federal appeals court will hear arguments about whether Donald Trump is immune from federal prosecution over alleged attempts to overthrow the 2020 election. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is making his fourth trip to Israel to try to prevent a wider conflict. The new federal financial aid application for college students arrived three months late and contains an error that means some students miss out on funds. 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 Krishnadev Calamur, Nicole Cohen, Miguel Macias and Mark Katkov. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams, and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Congress reaches a deal on government funding, with little time to get it passed. Secretary of State Antony Blinken returns to Israel seeking to prevent a wider war in the Middle East. Controversy erupts following Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's undisclosed hospitalization.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 Krishnadev Calamur, Jim Kane, Ally Schweitzer, Kelsey Snell, Michael Sullivan, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ben Abrams and Ziad Buchh. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Extreme weather driven by climate change is affecting housing across the country. Millions of homes are at risk of flooding, fire or drought. Increasingly, local municipalities are facing hard decisions about whether to tear homes down or ban new construction altogether. Today on The Sunday Story, a visit to three communities in America trying to balance the need for housing with the threat of climate-driven disaster.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The FBI has arrested 1,200 people in connection with the Capitol riots and is still looking for more suspects. Secretary of State Antony Blinken makes another trip to the Middle East. Wastewater shows that COVID cases are on the rise, but fewer people are ending up in the hospital.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Former President Donald Trump says if he's elected he'll pardon many rioters convicted of crimes in connection with the Jan. 6 insurrection. Can he really do that? And the Islamic State claimed responsibility for a deadly attack in Iran this week. Why does the violent Sunni group have its sights set on Iran? Plus, a growing trove of unsealed court documents related to convicted sex-trafficker Jeffrey Epstein has revived conspiracy theories. What are people saying in the darkest corners of the web?Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Today's episode of Up First was edited by Barrie Hardymon, Michael Sullivan and Brett Neely. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Taylor Haney. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Explosions in Iran, a drone strike in Lebanon and a threat from Hezbollah's leader to punish those responsible. Is the risk of a wider regional conflict growing? And new court documents related to disgraced financier and convicted sex-trafficker Jeffrey Epstein are now public. Plus, a glimpse into the journey of migrants desperately trying to make it to the U.S.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 Mark Katkov, Andrea DeLeon, and Tara Neill. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Taylor Haney. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbot. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A top Hamas leader was killed in Lebanon's capital of Beirut. How big a blow is this for the militant group? And Harvard's president has resigned after just 6 months on the job. Does her departure point to an even bigger political battle brewing? Plus, New York's attorney general is hoping to oust the National Rifle Association's long-time leader from his position on corruption charges.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 Catherine Laidlaw, Mark Katkov, Michael Sullivan and Andrea DeLeon. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Taylor Haney. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis . And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A landmark court ruling in Israel has delivered a blow to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing government while it wages war in Gaza. And state legislatures are planning to tackle issues this year that federal lawmakers have been slow to take on. Plus, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency may soon set limits on several so-called forever chemicals in drinking water. 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 Kevin Drew, Ally Schweitzer, and Susanna Capelouto . It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. Engineering support comes from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

2024 will be a big year in American politics. How will the economy, immigration, abortion rights, ongoing wars, and looming criminal trials for the leading Republican candidate shape this year's presidential election? Also, why economic forecasters predict slower growth and lower inflation in the year to come. Plus, how many climate-focused companies are embracing artificial intelligence.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 Dana Farrington, Uri Berliner, Neela Banerjee. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Adam Bearne, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Today on The Sunday Story host Ayesha Rascoe talks to NPR labor correspondent Andrea Hsu and NPR culture correspondent Mandalit del Barco about the forces driving this year's massive strikes. More than half a million workers went on strike in 2023, largely from the private sector.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

More than 150 missiles and drones fell on Ukrainian cities on Friday, hitting a shopping mall and a maternity hospital. President Zelensky says there will be payback. The Israeli army says it will ramp up its offensive in Gaza, all while artillery exhanges between Hezbollah militants in Lebanon and Israel also increase. Three special counsels will be investigating former President Trump, President Biden, and Biden's son, Hunter. But some at the Department of Justice think they may be overused.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Israeli offensive in Gaza continues as new evacuation orders are issued. Around 1,000 trucks wait at the Ukraine-Poland border as a Polish truckers blockade protests the lack of shipping regulations. A Georgia judge rules in favor of newly drawn congressional maps that give republicans an advantage. 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 Susanna Capeluto, Michael Sullivan, Alice Woelfle and Miguel Macias. It was produced by Julie Depenbrock, Mansee Khurana and Chad Campbell. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The World Health Organization warns that disease could kill more people in Gaza than the bombings, if living conditions and health care systems do not improve. The New York Times sues the makers of ChatGPT, saying the chatbot threatens the digital news industry. Plus, 2023 is likely to be the hottest year on record and some scientists say we're not prepared for what's coming.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 Neela Banerjee, Gabriel Spitzer, Denice Rios and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Julie Depenbrock, Mansee Khurana and Chad Campbell. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Secretary of State Antony Blinken travels to Mexico to discuss immigration policy as a caravan of thousands of migrants travels towards the southern border. Militias backed by Iran are targeting American and Israeli forces in several Middle Eastern countries. And the U.S. economy is showing signs of recovery, but President Biden isn't always getting credit for it.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 Michael Sullivan, Dana Farrington, Alice Woelfle, Russell Lewis and Miguel Macias. It was produced by Julie Depenbrock, Mansee Khurana and Chad Campbell. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Despite U.S. calls to protect Palestinian civilians, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to intensify attacks on Gaza until Hamas is defeated. India's external affairs minister is meeting with his counterpart in Moscow to strengthen relations between the longtime allies. And, after some big wins in 2023, the United Auto Workers union is setting its sights on foreign automakers with plants in the south.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Michael Sullivan, Pallavi Gogoi and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Julie Depenbrock, Mansee Khurana and Lisa Weiner. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Christmas in Bethlehem is somber this year. In the wake of the war in Gaza, church leaders are canceling traditional celebrations. The 2024 presidential election year is upon us and it's promising to be unlike any we've seen before. And, although little legislation was passed this year, Congress has seen plenty of action.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Michael Sullivan, Roberta Rampton, Kelsey Snell and Mohamad ElBardicy. It was produced by Julie Depenbrock and Mansee Khurana. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As China's economy slows and optimism fades, aging workers who've spent decades of their lives building up Chinese cities find themselves in a difficult position. They're facing mandated retirement, but have little to show for years of backbreaking work.In this episode of The Sunday Story, NPR correspondent Emily Feng tells the story of migrant workers in China, and brings us the voices of two construction workers who labored in hopes of achieving the Chinese dream, but found it out of reach. Now they wonder: how will they survive in old age?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The UN Security Council agreed on a resolution pressing for more humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. In the territory itself, people are suffering from lack of food and water and intermittent communications blackouts. A jury found two paramedics guilty in the death of Elijah McClain while he was in police custody.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In the U.N. Security Council, negotiators try to win U.S. support for a resolution in Gaza. Violet rhetoric swirls online after Trump ballot decision in Colorado. Leaders in Michigan say Chicago is experiencing a migrant crisis.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 Cheryl Corley, Ally Schweitzer, Michael Sullivan, Andrew Sussman, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Claire Murashima, David West and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez and Phil Edfors, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Negotiations between Israel and Hamas are underway with Egypt helping to broker a deal. European Union leaders hail a breakthrough agreement on migration. Intense rain events are getting more common, say climate scientists.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 Neela Banerjee, Ally Schweitzer, Michael Sullivan, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Claire Murashima, David West and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Colorado Supreme Court blocks Donald Trump from that state's 2024 presidential primary, citing the 14th Amendment. The latest from the war between Israel and Hamas. Nearly 40 million Congolese vote for a new president.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 Ally Schweitzer, Michael Sullivan, Ben Swayse, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Claire Murashima, David West and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The U.S. announces Operation Prosperity Guardian in response to attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea. Texas criminalizes border crossings at the state level. Catholics react to the Vatican allowing priests to bless same-sex couples.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 Ryland Barton, Cheryl Corley, Michael Sullivan, Ally Schweitzer, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Claire Murashima, David West and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urges a wind-down in Israel's major combat operations. Republicans in Congress seek tighter border controls in exchange for Ukraine and Israel aid. Newspaper founder Jimmy Lai goes on trial in Hong Kong.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 Dana Farrington, Ally Schweitzer, and Michael Sullivan. It was produced by Claire Murashima, David West and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Today on The Sunday Story host Ayesha Rascoe explores the media's challenge in covering Donald Trump. As he campaigns for a second term as President, Trump is increasingly threatening retribution and violent acts if he's reelected. Rascoe speaks with a journalist and a scholar who both believe the media is failing to convey the danger Trump poses to American democracy.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Israeli military said it accidentally killed three hostages held in Gaza. In a statement, the army said it mistook them as a threat and fired. Just because inflation is cooling down doesn't mean prices are also going down - and they won't be any time soon. Two former police officers face murder charges after the fatal shooting of a mentally ill woman last June in San Antonio, Texas. Advocates there hope for mental health and police reform.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Disagreements emerge between U.S., Israeli, Palestinian and Gulf leaders and activists over who should be in charge of the Gaza Strip after the war. Criminal prosecutors across Ohio broke rules in the courtroom that are supposed to protect the rights of defendants on trial, all in an effort to get convictions. Hunter Biden is being investigated for using his ties to influential people to make business deals and allegedly using shell companies to hide millions of dollars in earnings; GOP congressman James Comer, who is leading the probe, is now accused of doing the same. 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 Michael Sullivan, Robert Little, Alice Woelfle and Olivia Hampton.It was produced by Kaity Kline, David West and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Russian President Vladimir Putin traditionally ends most years with an extended press conference. What does Putin say as another year ends with his country still at war in Ukraine? The Supreme Court will hear its first abortion case since overturning of Roe v. Wade. Lower courts delivered mixed rulings on mifepristone. What does this mean for women who receive abortion pill in the mail? Also, the civil fraud trial against former President Trump is done.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 Mark Katkov, Will Stone, Dana Farrington and HJ Mai. It was produced by Kaity Kline, David West and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Republican-controlled House is set to vote on formalizing its impeachment inquiry of President Joe Biden. Biden makes some of his most critical comments to date about Israel's response to the October 7 Hamas attack. And Alabama plans to execute a prisoner in January using nitrogen hypoxia, a process so novel and untested that state officials required the man's spiritual adviser to sign a waiver that said he could be exposed to the deadly gas.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 Kelsey Snell, Roberta Rampton, Noah Caldwell and Olivia Hampton.It was produced by Kaity Kline, David West and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Gilly Moon. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A Texas woman has left the state, whose highest court ruled she does not meet the exception to the abortion ban, to have the procedure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meets President Biden in Washington as the pair makes a last-ditch plea to Congress for funding. And the Supreme Court has been asked to fast track a case that centers on whether former President Donald Trump should be shielded from criminal prosecution.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 Diana Webber, Roberta Rampton, Krishnadev Calamur and Olivia Hampton. It was produced by Kaity Kline, David West and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from James Willetts. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

World policy leaders meeting in Qatar discuss the Gaza war and its impact on regional security. Donald Trump plans to skip testifying for a second time in the New York civil fraud trial against him and his company. And Argentine President Javier Milei is inaugurated after promises of big changes to his country struggling with an economic crisis.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 Michael Sullivan, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy and Olivia Hampton. It was produced by Kaity Kline, David West and Chad Campbell. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Today on The Sunday Story host Ayesha Rascoe explores the growing crisis of medical debt in America. Nationwide, 100 million people have health care debt, according to a KHN-NPR investigation, which has documented a crisis that is driving Americans from their homes, draining their savings, and preventing millions from accessing care they need.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Images of Palestinian men stripped to their underwear prompt outrage. Genetic editing leads to new treatments for blood ailment. Income-based plan zeroes out payments for millions of borrowers.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Justice Department has charged President Biden's son on nine counts related to his failure to pay federal taxes. Israeli military soldiers and Hamas militants fight in urban combat. And the presidents of Harvard, MIT, and The University of Pennsylvania face backlash over comments made during a House hearing on campus antisemitism. 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 Krishnadev Calamur, Mark Katkov, Steve Drummond and Erika Aguilar. It was produced by Lilly Quiroz, Ziad Buchh and Taylor Haney. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors . And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Republican presidential candidates take to the stage for the fourth primary debate. Israeli officials blast the international community for its response to allegations of sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas. And former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy decides to leave Congress. 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 Megan Pratz and Padma Rama. It was produced by Lilly Quiroz, Ziad Buchh and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Some U.S. lawmakers question whether aid to Ukraine should continue amid a battlefield stalemate. Sen. Tommy Tuberville drops his hold on more than 400 military promotions. And four Republican presidential candidates prepare for a fourth debate in Tuscaloosa, Ala.Clarification: A previous version of this episode did not make clear that Congressional Republicans have additional border policy requests including proposed requirements for asylum cases and ways to curtail illegal crossings.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 Mark Katkov, Kelsey Snell and Megan Pratz. It was produced by Lilly Quiroz, Mansee Khurana and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Justice Department accuses former U.S. ambassador Victor Manuel Rocha of working as a "clandestine agent" on behalf of Cuba. The Pentagon says that Houthi rebels from Yemen attacked an American naval destroyer and three commercial ships in the Red Sea. And South Africa marks the 10th anniversary of the death of Nelson Mandela.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kirshnadev Calamur, Andrew Sussman and Miguel Macias. It was produced by Lilly Quiroz, Mansee Khurana and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel says it expanded its ground offensive against Hamas to all parts of Gaza. This includes the occupied territory's southern areas, where people fled to in the early days of the war. What does this mean for the civilians in Gaza? The Supreme Court on Monday hears arguments for and against a bankruptcy settlement. It involves Purdue Pharma, maker of the pain medication OxyContin. And former Wyoming Congresswoman Liz Cheney warns about the threat of a second Trump presidency.Up First was edited by Michael Sullivan, Krishnadev Calamur, Reena Advani and HJ Mai. It was produced by Lilly Quiroz, Mansee Khurana and Lindsay Totty. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In this week's episode, Ayesha shares the latest series out of NPR's Embedded. In "All The Only Ones," Laine Kaplan-Levenson unearths the little-known and often neglected history of trans youth in America. The series follows the lives of young transgender people today and travels back in time to the turn of the 20th century to meet some of the earliest trans youth documented in American history.You can listen to the 3-part series on the Embedded feed here.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Fighting between Israel and Hamas has resumed after a seven-day pause. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai. Sandra Day O'Connor is remembered as a champion of women in the law.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israeli airstrikes on Gaza resumed on Friday after a weeklong ceasefire. What does the return to war mean for civilians? The White House wants lawmakers to provide additional funds to Israel and Ukraine. House Republicans won't go along, unless they get a concession on their border policy. And Florida's Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis debated California Democrat Gavin Newsom. Up First was edited by Michael Sullivan, Kelsey Snell, Dana Farrington and HJ Mai. It was produced by Ana Perez, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors and Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott. Our Executive Producer is Erika Aguilar.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel and Hamas agree to extend a temporary truce by another day. The House weighs whether to expel first-term Republican Congressman George Santos. And the Department of Justice indicts an Indian intelligence officer for allegedly ordering the assassination of a Sikh separatist in New York. Up First is produced by Ana Perez, Ben Abrams, and Julie Depenbrock. Our editors are Michael Sullivan and Kelsey Snell. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors and Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks with NATO foreign ministers in Brussels before heading to the Middle East. President Biden visits Colorado where he's expected to tout his administration's investment in clean energy jobs. And world leaders prepare to begin climate change negotiations in Dubai.Up First is produced by Ana Perez, Ben Abrams, and Julie Depenbrock. Our editors are Mark Katkov, Dana Farrington, and Sadie Babits. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Biden says Israel and Hamas have agreed to extend a temporary truce for two more days. Authorities investigate the shooting of three men of Palestinian descent as a hate crime. And the 2024 race for the Republican presidential nominee shapes up.Up First is produced by Ana Perez, Ben Abrams, and Julie Depenbrock. Our editors are Michael Sullivan, Andrea DeLeon, and Megan Pratz. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel and Hamas consider extending a four-day pause in fighting. Global climate talks begin later this week in Dubai. And three days of memorial events start in Georgia for former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who died on Nov. 19 at the age of 96. Up First is produced by Ana Perez, Julie Depenbrock, and Ben Abrams. Our editors are Michael Sullivan, Neela Bannerjee, and Russell Lewis. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors and Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Today on The Sunday Story host Ayesha Rascoe heads to Westchester County, in upstate New York to meet with The New York Times Crossword editor Will Shortz. The two sit down at the table tennis center Will owns to talk about how he became the Puzzlemaster on Weekend Edition Sunday, his love for all things puzzles and how recently, in his seventies, he has finally found love in his personal life as well.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Hamas released 24 hostages Friday as Israel freed 39 Palestinian prisoners. Another exchange is expected today. Anti-immigrant sentiment fuels looting and vandalism in central Dublin. Why "buy now pay later" plans are expected to grow even more common this holiday season.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

A four day cease-fire takes effect between Israel and Gaza ahead of the possible release of 50 hostages for 150 Palestinian prisoners. Progressive prosecutors across the country face resistance from police departments that see them as soft on crime. And a journalist remembers the impact Rosalynn Carter had on journalism related to the often neglected subject of mental health. Up First is produced by Ana Perez, Claire Murashima, and Chad Campbell. Our editors are Michael Sullivan, Barrie Hardimon, and Diane Webber. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and Josephine Nyounai. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel says the release of 50 hostages in Gaza in return for 150 Palestinians will not start before Friday. Retailers forecast a record numbers of shoppers over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Protesters rally against a new, police training facility in Atlanta.Up First is produced by Ana Perez, Claire Murashima, and Chad Campbell. Our editors are Michael Sullivan, Emily Kopp, Susanna Capeluto. We get engineering support from Gilly Moon, Phil Edfors, and Kwesi Lee. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel and Hamas agree to a deal involving the release of some hostages in exchange for a multi-day cease-fire. Sam Altman returns to OpenAI as CEO after days of turmoil at the artificial intelligence company. And Wisconsin's Supreme Court hears a case related to gerrymandering in the state. Up First is produced by Ana Perez, Claire Murashima and Chad Campbell. Our editors are Didi Schanche, Uri Berliner and Ben Swayse. We get engineering support from Phil Edfors and Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ukraine enters winter with stalled front lines and uncertainty over the West's continued support for its war with Russia. Migrants set up camps in the tiny border town of Jacumba, California without basic necessities or support from aid organizations. And tens of millions of travelers prepare to take to the skies as Thanksgiving nears. Up First is produced by Ana Perez, Chad Campbell and Claire Murashima. Our editors are Michael Sullivan, Andrea DeLeon, and Russell Lewis. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Officials discuss a possible deal related to the release of some hostages in Gaza in exchange for a pause in fighting. Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter dies at 96 in Plains, Georgia. And Javier Milei wins Argentina's presidential run-off. Up First is produced by Ana Perez, Chad Campbell and Claire Murashima. Our editors are Susanna Capelouto, Michael Sullivan and Tara Neill. We get engineering support from Carleigh Strange and Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In 2011, NPR correspondent Howard Berkes noticed an anomaly in the sidebar of a government report on the Upper Big Branch mine disaster in West Virginia. It suggested that there was an extraordinarily high rate of black lung disease among the coal miners who'd been killed in the explosion. And it set him on a decade-long investigation to understand the cause of a hidden epidemic, the toll it took on miners and their families, and why government agencies had failed to prevent it.You can find more of Howard's landmark reporting on black lung disease on the episode page.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israeli troops are evacuating Al-Shifa Hospital now that it's under their control. A maverick politician could become Argentina's next president. Why would a movie studio decide against releasing a movie it's already finished?Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel says it is uncovering an intricate network of tunnels used by Hamas in Gaza. Members of United Auto Workers approve a contract negotiated by the union. And prosecutors in Guatemala say they intend to bring charges against President-elect Bernardo Arevalo. Up First is produced by Ana Perez and Shelby Hawkins. Our editors are Michael Sullivan, Emily Kopp and Tara Neill. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and Arthur Laurent. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Our show director is Ziad Buchh. And our executive producer is Erika Aguilar. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Joe Biden speaks about global affairs with China's leader Xi Jinping. Israel raids Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital. And an NPR investigation finds that thousands of U.S. military servicemembers and veterans are at risk of losing their homes. Up First is produced by Ana Perez, Julie Depenbrock, Shelby Hawkins and Ziad Buchh. Our editors are Roberta Rampton, Bob Little and Michael Sullivan. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott and Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy