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
57 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 13min
Trump's Victory Lap, Ukraine Weapons, Immigration And The Economy
President Trump is gearing up for a grand Independence Day ceremony to celebrate his recent domestic policy success, claiming a victory for his party. Meanwhile, the Pentagon is pulling back on weapons shipments to Ukraine, raising concerns about global tensions. In a surprising demographic shift, the U.S. may experience a net loss of immigrants for the first time in decades, which could spell trouble for the economy. The episode mixes political analysis with pressing international updates, making for an engaging discussion.
93 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 13min
GOP Megabill Latest, Tax Cuts And Debt, Sean Combs Conviction
House Republicans are in a mad dash to push a massive tax and spending bill to President Trump's desk, amid fears it could balloon national debt by trillions. Internal divisions within the GOP complicate negotiations over tax cuts. Meanwhile, Sean Combs faces mixed verdicts in a high-profile trial that touches on serious allegations. The contrasting headlines underscore the shifting landscape of politics and celebrity, with significant implications for both government policy and public perception.
82 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 37min
One-on-One with Zohran Mamdani
In this engaging conversation, Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic nominee for New York City mayor and state assembly member, shares his unexpected rise in politics. He discusses the importance of connecting with everyday New Yorkers and overcoming personal challenges, including anti-Muslim bigotry. Mamdani delves into the need for wealth distribution, addressing income inequality, and emphasizes coalition building for sustainable political change. His vision focuses on genuine community engagement and enhancing public services to improve the lives of all New Yorkers.
91 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 14min
Tax And Spending Bill, Medicaid Concerns, Gun Tracing Fund
The Senate's passage of a significant tax and spending bill is stirring controversy, particularly due to unpopular Medicaid cuts. These changes could threaten coverage for many vulnerable individuals. Meanwhile, the ATF plans to relax gun regulations, raising concerns about their effects on law enforcement and gun tracing. As discussions around a potential ceasefire in Gaza unfold, the implications of these legislative shifts resonate widely.
79 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 14min
Megabill Wrangling, State Of Democracy Poll, USAID Ends
Republican leaders are struggling to balance deep cuts in a crucial reconciliation bill while trying to protect vulnerable programs. A majority of Americans believe democracy is facing serious threats, highlighting growing public concern. Meanwhile, USAID's closure raises questions about its impact on global health and U.S. foreign assistance. Additionally, a new political figure emerges in the New York City mayoral race, shedding light on local political dynamics and the challenges of misinformation.
172 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 13min
Senate Spending Bill, Ukraine Airstrikes, Idaho Firefighter Shootings
Senate Republicans are in uproar over proposed Medicaid cuts in the new tax and spending bill, stirring up political tensions. In Ukraine, recent missile and drone strikes have heightened the conflict, resulting in civilian casualties. Meanwhile, a tragic ambush in North Idaho has left two firefighters dead, prompting community outrage and an ongoing investigation. The complexities of these urgent issues reveal the intertwining of healthcare, international conflict, and local violence.
78 snips
Jun 29, 2025 • 23min
America is Changing Lanes on EVs
In this discussion, Camila Domonoske, NPR's Business Desk correspondent, navigates the shifting landscape of America's electric vehicle industry. She highlights the contrasting approaches of the Biden and Trump administrations towards EV policies. The podcast delves into the challenges faced by automakers as they adapt to changing consumer demands and political environments. Domonoske also explores the evolving dynamics around Tesla, particularly amidst controversies surrounding its CEO, and the implications for EV infrastructure and market growth in the coming years.
71 snips
Jun 28, 2025 • 15min
SCOTUS Rulings, Trump Megabill, Israeli PM Denies IDF Deliberately Fired on Gazans
The Supreme Court's ruling limits judges' ability to issue nationwide injunctions but leaves birthright citizenship questions unanswered. Trump’s ambitious legislation is on a tight timeline, causing heated negotiations among Republicans. In the Middle East, the Israeli PM firmly denies claims that troops intentionally fired at Palestinians in need of aid, stirring controversy. Meanwhile, the automotive industry sees a shift in electric vehicle policies, highlighting contrasting approaches from the current and previous administrations.
110 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 24min
Supreme Court Decision on Nationwide Injunctions
The Supreme Court's recent ruling limits judges' ability to issue nationwide injunctions against the executive branch. It raises critical questions about birthright citizenship and the balance of power between the judicial and executive branches. Dissenting opinions highlight concerns over the implications for justice and public sentiment regarding immigration policies. As debates around executive authority intensify, the ramifications of this decision could reshape future judicial landscapes and impact individuals across the nation.
134 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 28min
Iran Intelligence, Supreme Court Term Ends, Gaza Food Program
Former First Lady Michelle Obama shares her journey of redefining herself in her new podcast, discussing the complexities of ambition and personal choice. The conversation highlights the importance of owning one’s narrative while reflecting on significant life moments. Meanwhile, the podcast dives into U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear program and concludes with a review of the Supreme Court's recent rulings, connecting domestic policies to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Expect engaging insights mixed with candid reflections.
