Up First from NPR
NPR
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
161 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 13min
Comey Indictment, Hegseth Summons Military Leaders, Impending Shutdown
James Comey faces indictment over obstructive testimony during his 2020 Senate hearing, raising political tensions. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's unprecedented global military meeting hints at significant forthcoming changes in defense strategy. Meanwhile, a looming federal shutdown has Democrats accusing the White House of intimidation tactics, amid negotiations over health care funding and the threat of mass layoffs. The political landscape continues to shift dramatically as these stories unfold.
192 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 13min
ICE Shooting In Texas, UNGA: Ukraine Warning, Government Shutdown Standoff
A tragic shooting at a Dallas ICE office raises concerns over escalating violence in immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, Ukraine's president warns that the ongoing conflict with Russia is triggering a new arms race. As tensions grow, a White House memo hints at potential mass layoffs if a government shutdown occurs, intertwining with discussions on health care premiums and their critical deadlines. The political landscape is murky, with party divisions complicating efforts to extend necessary support for citizens.
171 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 13min
Government Shutdown Looms, UNGA: Trump Slams Russia, Jimmy Kimmel Returns
Tensions rise as a government shutdown looms, with President Trump canceling crucial meetings over health care funding. Meanwhile, at the U.N., he labels Russia a 'paper tiger' and hints at U.S. support for Ukraine. The return of Jimmy Kimmel sparks intrigue as he delivers an emotional monologue defending free speech and clarifying past comments related to the murder of Charlie Kirk. The podcast dives into political dynamics and notable international speeches, providing a mix of serious news and entertainment.
175 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 13min
Autism and Tylenol, Jimmy Kimmel Returns, Trump At The UN
President Trump fuels controversy by promoting dubious links between Tylenol, vaccines, and autism while dismissing scientific warnings. Meanwhile, ABC reinstates Jimmy Kimmel's show after a brief suspension due to his comments. The podcast also covers Trump's presence at the U.N. General Assembly, where increasing support for Palestine is putting U.S. diplomacy to the test. Dive into these intriguing stories and more!
178 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 13min
Charlie Kirk Memorial, Trump Pressures DOJ, Palestinian State Recognition
A recent memorial for Charlie Kirk turned into a political rally, with Trump labeling him a martyr. Meanwhile, Trump is pressuring the Justice Department to prosecute political foes, leading to the ousting of a dissenting U.S. attorney. In international news, several countries have recognized Palestine as a sovereign state, but many Palestinians express that without tangible change on the ground, this recognition feels hollow.
119 snips
Sep 21, 2025 • 29min
Casualties of Trump’s War on Higher Ed
Elissa Nadworny, an NPR correspondent focused on higher education, dives into the consequences of the Trump administration's policies on U.S. colleges. She reveals how tightened visa regulations are straining university budgets and international student enrollments. The discussion also highlights significant funding cuts impacting crucial research, from pediatric healthcare to broader academic innovation. Furthermore, she explores the shifting public perception of higher education and the challenges institutions face in adapting to demographic changes.
135 snips
Sep 20, 2025 • 17min
The Week In Politics, The Week In Free Speech, The Week In Vaccines
David Fokinflett, NPR's media correspondent, dives into the current political landscape, revealing the likelihood of a government shutdown and its implications. He discusses recent court tests on free speech, spotlighting how the First Amendment is under pressure from regulators targeting critics. The conversation also highlights the contentious discussions from a vaccine advisory panel, including new guidelines for the MMRV shot and updates on COVID protocols. Fokinflett's insights shed light on the intricate dance between politics, media, and public health.
117 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 13min
Trump And Free Speech, CDC On Childhood Vaccines, Antifa Terror Designation
The discussion dives into President Trump's push for the FCC to target critical broadcasters, igniting debates about free speech and government overreach. A reshaped CDC vaccine panel is rolling back established childhood vaccine guidelines, raising safety concerns. Additionally, there's a move to label Antifa as a terrorist organization, stirred by recent violent incidents. These topics intertwine government power, public health, and civil liberties in a thought-provoking exploration.
139 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 14min
CDC Meeting On Vaccines, Fed Rate Cuts, Kimmel Suspended
CDC advisers are meeting to discuss COVID boosters and childhood vaccines amid skepticism from new members. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates to combat job market issues, influenced by political pressure. On the entertainment front, Jimmy Kimmel faces suspension after controversial comments, stirring reactions from the FCC and raising questions about network responses. This blend of health, economics, and celebrity drama makes for a compelling listen!
229 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 13min
Kirk Suspect Charged, Trump Visits The King, FBI Director Patel Testifies
A shocking murder case unfolds as Tyler Robinson is charged with killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, with serious implications including potential death penalty. President Trump's rare state visit to Britain blends royal pomp with important talks on trade and support for Ukraine amidst rising tensions with Russia. Meanwhile, FBI Director Kash Patel faces tough questions in Congress about his leadership and allegations of politically motivated actions, adding another layer of scrutiny to an already contentious climate.
