

CNN 5 Things
CNN
We bring you 5 stories that will get you up to speed and on with your day. Updates at 6am, 9am, 12pm, 3pm and 6pm Eastern, every weekday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 21, 2025 • 7min
Civil fraud ruling, CDC layoffs, Menendez parole hearings & more
Donald Trump celebrates a legal win in a New York fraud case. California and Texas are battling over redistricting maps that could reshape political futures. The CDC faces massive layoffs, raising concerns about transparency. The Menendez brothers' parole hearings may open the door for their freedom. Lastly, TikTok’s safety comes into question as discussions about its impact on young users' mental health heat up.

Aug 21, 2025 • 7min
Trump's penalty overturned, East Coast braces, attack's manpower problem & more
A court has thrown out Trump's civil fraud penalty, shaking up the political landscape. As Hurricane Erin approaches, residents from Florida to Maine are bracing for impact. Meanwhile, Israel faces challenges with exhausted troops in Gaza City. Tensions remain high as the Kremlin dashes hopes for a Ukraine-Russia meeting. In a lighter note, a judge promotes kindness by dismissing a ticket for a parent rushing to care for their sick child. Plus, there's a heartfelt tribute to a social media star known for their compassion.

Aug 21, 2025 • 7min
Gaza city takeover, Zelensky’s compromise, streamer dies online & more
Tensions escalate as Israel's Prime Minister plans a significant assault on Gaza City while Zelensky reveals conditions for a potential ceasefire. Hurricane Erin's shifting path raises concerns for the East Coast. Meanwhile, a secret nuclear base in North Korea has been uncovered, highlighting security threats. In a more tragic note, a popular French streamer dies live on air, sparking conversations about online culture and bullying.

5 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 7min
Gaza City assault, Hurricane Erin approaches, TX redistricting bill vote & more
Israel ramps up its military assault on Gaza City, intensifying the humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, Hurricane Erin strengthens into a Category 2 storm, threatening the East Coast with heavy winds and storm surges. In Texas, the legislature approves a contentious redistricting bill, reshaping political power. Finally, a precarious incident on a Delta Airlines flight raises safety concerns after a wing section breaks off during turbulence, though passengers were unharmed.

Aug 20, 2025 • 7min
Epstein files ruling, Obama on CA redistricting, Vance vs protesters & more
A judge has blocked the release of grand jury materials from the Epstein case, stirring controversy. Barack Obama discusses the challenges of redistricting in California. As Hurricane Erin approaches, evacuations are ramping up along the East Coast. Immigrants seeking U.S. citizenship face new obstacles. The Vice President's visit to the DC National Guard reveals political tensions amid ongoing discussions about public safety and education. It's a whirlwind of legal, political, and environmental updates that keep listeners informed.

Aug 20, 2025 • 7min
Battle over voting maps, border wall changes, frozen shrimp recall & more
Texas and California are in the midst of a redistricting battle, with new maps sparking intense political maneuvering. President Trump is calling for the resignation of a top Fed official amid concerns over mortgage fraud. Changes at the US-Mexico border are on the horizon, stirring debate. Meanwhile, diplomatic tensions are escalating between Israel and its allies. On a lighter note, Walmart shoppers should be aware of a warning regarding contaminated frozen shrimp.

Aug 20, 2025 • 7min
Hurricane Erin strengthens, CEO steps down, White House TikTok & more
Tensions rise as Russia dampens hopes for a meeting between its leaders and Ukraine. Hurricane Erin gains strength, posing potential threats to the East Coast. In corporate news, leadership changes occur at a retail giant due to poor sales. Health officials voice discontent over misleading health information and the integrity of scientific data. Plus, discussions abound on TikTok's future in the U.S., hinting it may stick around despite ongoing ownership debates.

Aug 20, 2025 • 7min
Israeli military call-up, ‘anti-Americanism’ visa screens, Yosemite pride flag & more
Tensions rise as Russia holds back on a crucial meeting with Ukraine, while Israel boosts its military in preparation for a Gaza City takeover. In Texas, Democrats are standing firm amid a contentious congressional redistricting vote. A new visa policy aimed at filtering out 'anti-Americanism' draws parallels to the 1950s. Additionally, a National Park ranger is fired over an emblematic pride flag, sparking discussions about inclusion and representation in public spaces.

4 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 7min
Moscow stalls, Trump’s Smithsonian attack, manipulated crime figures & more
Tensions rise as the Kremlin remains noncommittal ahead of a potential summit with Ukraine's leaders. Trump takes a controversial stance against the Smithsonian's focus on slavery, igniting cultural debates. Meanwhile, the DOJ investigates alleged manipulation of crime statistics in Washington, D.C. Hurricane Erin prompts a state of emergency in North Carolina, while impending tariffs threaten to raise prices on hundreds of everyday items.

Aug 19, 2025 • 6min
Putin-Zelensky meeting, tariff rebate checks, Hurricane Erin forecast & more
Tensions rise as discussions emerge about a potential meeting between Putin and Zelensky, aimed at easing conflict. Meanwhile, upcoming releases of Jeffrey Epstein case files promise to shed light on past controversies. Concerns grow as the Trump administration dismisses tariff rebate checks amidst surging import prices. Hurricane Erin is also making waves along the East Coast, creating urgency for residents. In Texas, a lawmaker's dramatic protest highlights ongoing political clashes over congressional maps.