Up First from NPR Public Media Cuts, Trump And Fed Chair, Israel Strikes Syria
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Jul 17, 2025 Senate Republicans have voted to slash billions in funding for public media and foreign aid. Tensions are rising as President Trump threatens Fed Chair Jerome Powell over economic policies. Meanwhile, Israel is ramping up military actions, launching airstrikes in Damascus to support the Druze community amid escalating conflict with Syrian militias. The interplay of U.S. diplomacy and regional security dynamics adds depth to these pressing issues.
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Senate Rescinds Public Media Funding
- Senate Republicans moved to rescind $9 billion from NPR, PBS, and foreign aid programs, an uncommon action reversing already approved funding.
- This marks a decades-long effort to cut public media funds, aligning with President Trump's preferences to curb federal spending.
Fed Chair Independence Threatened
- President Trump considered firing Fed Chair Jerome Powell over interest rate policies, raising questions about Fed independence.
- Experts warn this politicization could harm the economy by removing the usual buffer from political influence in economic decisions.
Israel Airstrikes Deepen Syria Conflict
- Israel conducted airstrikes in Syria defending the Druze minority amidst local clashes, complicating regional dynamics.
- The U.S. supports working with Syria's new government, but Israel remains deeply mistrustful, causing tension between allies.