Up First from NPR
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NPR's Up First is the news you need to start your day. The three biggest stories of the day, with reporting and analysis from NPR News — in 10 minutes. Available weekdays at 6:30 a.m. ET, with hosts Leila Fadel, Steve Inskeep, Michel Martin and A Martinez. Also available on Saturdays at 9 a.m. ET, with Ayesha Rascoe and Scott Simon. On Sundays, hear a longer exploration behind the headlines with Ayesha Rascoe on "The Sunday Story," available by 8 a.m. ET. Subscribe and listen, then support your local NPR station at donate.npr.org.Support NPR's reporting by subscribing to Up First+ and unlock sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org/upfirst
Episodes
Mentioned books
126 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 14min
Trump Economy, Federal Reserve December, Afghan Fighters' Struggles
Join Tamara Keith, NPR's Senior White House correspondent, as she dives into the complexities of the current economy. Despite President Trump's claims of prosperity, many voters remain skeptical. Keith also discusses the Federal Reserve's tough balancing act between job market concerns and inflation. Plus, hear about the struggles faced by Afghan fighters adjusting to life in the U.S. after their harrowing service, highlighting the often-overlooked psychological toll they endure. A compelling mix of politics and poignant human stories awaits!
149 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 13min
Trump Defends Affordability, SCOTUS & Presidential Power, Indiana Redistricting
Tamara Keith, NPR's senior White House correspondent, dives into Trump's affordability messaging as he rallies in Pennsylvania. Andrea Hsu, covering the Supreme Court, discusses potential shifts in presidential powers affecting independent agencies. Meanwhile, Sam Greenglass reports on Indiana's controversial redistricting efforts that could wipe out the last two Democratic seats, stirring local protests and legislative tensions. Together, they explore the intersection of politics, power, and public sentiment in a gripping discussion.
179 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 13min
SCOTUS FTC Case, ACA Extension Vote, Zelensky In London
Andrea Hsu, a radio reporter specializing in legal matters, discusses a Supreme Court case that could change presidential power over independent agencies, highlighting the potential implications for the Federal Reserve. Deirdre Walsh, an NPR congressional correspondent, dives into the political landscape surrounding the Affordable Care Act subsidies, detailing the Democratic plan for a three-year extension amidst Republican divisions. The podcast also covers President Zelenskyy's critical meetings in London amid tensions in Ukraine and shifting U.S. policies.
49 snips
Dec 7, 2025 • 24min
The Families Hiding from ICE
Jasmine Garsd, NPR immigration correspondent, dives deep into the lives of undocumented families living in fear of ICE. She shares the heartbreaking story of Em's family in Maryland, whose children endure panic attacks from the threat of detention. Garsd explains the complexities of emergency guardianship as a safety net for children and highlights the emotional burden parents face when seeking someone to care for their kids if they are deported. A supportive neighbor steps in, showcasing the human connection amid fear and uncertainty.
128 snips
Dec 6, 2025 • 18min
CDC Vaccine Vote; Netflix Buys Warner Bros; Economic Outlook
Rob Stein, an NPR health correspondent, discusses the CDC advisory committee's controversial recommendation to delay hepatitis B vaccines for newborns, potentially reversing decades of progress in combating the disease. Mandalit Delbarco, a culture correspondent, dives into Netflix's blockbuster $83 billion acquisition of Warner Bros., exploring the impact on Hollywood and concerns over antitrust issues. Scott Horsley, an economics correspondent, analyzes consumer sentiment trends and the Federal Reserve's complex decisions about interest rates amid ongoing inflation.
109 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 13min
Hegseth Scrutiny, Jan 6th Pipe Bomb Suspect, Texas Redistricting Ruling
Tom Bowman, NPR Pentagon correspondent, discusses the scrutiny surrounding Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after a watchdog report revealed his sharing of classified details. Ryan Lucas, NPR Justice correspondent, breaks down the arrest of Brian Cole Jr., linked to the Jan. 6 pipe bombs, highlighting the forensic evidence leading to his capture. Hansi Lo Wong, covering elections, explains the Supreme Court's decision favoring Texas's controversial congressional map, potentially impacting future elections and redistricting litigation across the country.
75 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 13min
Trump's Racist Somali Remarks, Signalgate Report, CDC Vaccine Meeting
Joining the discussion are Greg Myrie, NPR’s National Security correspondent known for his insights on defense issues, and Ping Huang, NPR’s Health correspondent who focuses on public health policies. They dive into Trump's inflammatory comments about Minnesota's Somali community and the political ramifications behind his strategy. Myrie reveals alarming findings about Defense Secretary Hegseth's risky messaging practices that may have jeopardized U.S. troops. Huang highlights potential shifts in CDC vaccine recommendations, raising concerns over new proposals affecting children's health.
114 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 15min
Russia Rejects Peace Proposal, Hegseth Defends Boat Strikes, Tennessee House Election
Eleanor Beardsley, an NPR correspondent based in Europe, shares insights from the recent failed peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting Kyiv's firm stance against territorial concessions. Deirdre Walsh, a congressional correspondent, discusses the shifting narrative regarding the lethal U.S. strike on a drug boat and the increased scrutiny from lawmakers. Stephen Fowler analyzes the closely contested Tennessee House election, revealing shifts in voter energy and potential implications for the 2026 midterms, with both parties eyeing critical signs for the future.
107 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 16min
Hegseth Boat Strikes, Witkoff To Moscow, National Guard Shooting Suspect
Danielle Kurtzleben, NPR White House correspondent, dives into the controversy surrounding U.S. boat strikes on Venezuelan vessels and the conflicting narratives from the White House. Charles Maines, based in Moscow, provides insightful commentary on U.S.-Russia talks led by Steve Witkoff, highlighting Putin's demands and the revised Ukraine peace plan. Meanwhile, Brian Mann uncovers the background of the National Guard shooting suspect, focusing on his mental health struggles rather than radical influences, sparking a thoughtful discussion on mental health crises.
114 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 14min
National Guard Shooting & Immigration, Venezuela Latest, Ukraine Negotiations
In this engaging discussion, Jimena Bustillo, an immigration policy reporter, uncovers the White House's new measures on asylum and visa reviews following a tragic shooting in D.C. John Otis, covering Latin America, sheds light on U.S. strikes in the Caribbean and Venezuela's sharp reactions. Meanwhile, Charles Maines reports from Moscow on the complex, ongoing negotiations regarding Ukraine's peace talks. Each guest provides vital insights, highlighting the intertwining of policy and current events across borders.
