Up First from NPR Trump Addresses Nation, Congress ACA Vote, Venezuela Oil Tankers
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Dec 18, 2025 
Deepa Shivaram, NPR White House correspondent, analyzes President Trump's primetime address touting an impending economic boom despite low approval ratings. Barbara Sprunt, congressional correspondent, highlights a bipartisan push to extend healthcare subsidies, revealing notable Republican dissent. Greg Myrie, national security correspondent, discusses the U.S. ban on sanctioned oil tankers heading to Venezuela, shedding light on the potential escalations and challenges facing the country's oil exports. Tune in for insights on the latest political and economic moves!
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Promises Of Future Economic Relief
- President Trump framed the economy as improving and urged Americans to "hang on" for benefits coming next year.
- Deepa Shivaram noted polling shows low approval on the economy, making that future-promises message risky for Trump.
Blame Attribution For Housing Costs
- Trump tied rising housing costs to immigration and blamed prior administrations for the problem.
- Deepa Shivaram said housing prices reflect multiple factors and can't be pinned solely on immigrants.
Swing Republicans Force Health Subsidy Vote
- Four swing-district Republicans joined Democrats to force a discharge petition to extend ACA subsidies.
- Barbara Sprunt explained this reflects district pressures and growing willingness to buck House leadership.