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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
70 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 13min
Trump's Justice Department, Disappearing DEI, Flu Peaks Again
The Justice Department is undergoing major shifts with the new Attorney General, raising concerns about potential firings and changes in federal prosecutions. Corporations are quietly retreating from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives amid political pressures, with major players like Google and 3M leading the way. Additionally, influenza is peaking early this winter, while COVID-19 cases continue to decline. The discussion also touches on the rise of AI chatbots and their implications for human interactions.
71 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 14min
Deadline For Federal Workers, Reaction To Trump's Gaza Plan, Future Of US Foreign Aid
Federal workers face tough choices as the deadline to accept a resignation offer looms. President Trump's controversial plans for Gaza stir varied reactions, particularly from Palestinians in the West Bank. Discussions reveal deep concerns about the impact of proposed U.S. aid cuts on humanitarian efforts globally. Amidst this, insights into the uncertainty and skepticism federal employees experience add to the complexities of this tumultuous news cycle.
80 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 12min
Trump And Gaza, Migrants At Guantanamo, USAID Staff On Leave
President Trump's provocative vision for U.S. claims in Gaza raises eyebrows, hinting at possible displacement of residents. The arrival of the first planeload of migrants in Guantanamo Bay stirs legal and political debates. Meanwhile, USAID staff face emotional turmoil with looming shutdowns, impacting essential global health initiatives. The podcast delves into these pressing issues, highlighting the complexities of foreign policy and its human consequences.
78 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 14min
Canada Tariffs, Education Department Targeted, DOGE
The U.S. temporarily halts trade wars with Canada, keeping bourbon safe while highlights of ethical concerns swirl around the administration's plans to slash the Department of Education. Tensions escalate as tariffs loom over Canada, inciting grassroots boycotts. Meanwhile, the podcast raises eyebrows over Elon Musk's connections to DOGE and explores the implications of proposed government payroll cuts impacting diversity and funding in education. A blend of serious issues seasoned with engaging dialogue keeps listeners hooked.
74 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 16min
USAID Programs Halted, Netanyahu in Washington, Rubio Visits Panama, Cannabis Safety
Foreign aid programs face a major halt, creating turbulence within USAID and sparking discussions around its future amid Trump administration changes. Meanwhile, Netanyahu's pivotal talks in Washington highlight international diplomacy. In Panama, Marco Rubio addresses foreign influence over the Panama Canal. Additionally, the podcast dives into the cannabis landscape, addressing safety concerns, potency risks, and the challenges of unregulated markets, aiming to guide consumers toward safer products.
46 snips
Feb 2, 2025 • 26min
Time to Leave
Lauren Sommer and Rebecca Hersher, both reporters from NPR's Climate Desk, delve into the crucial issue of climate change's impact on housing. They discuss the challenges faced by communities from California to Arizona as they confront wildfires, water scarcity, and flooding. Key topics include innovative housing designs for fire resistance, legal battles over new developments, and the urgent need for sustainable growth strategies. The emotional struggles of residents navigating these disasters offer a powerful lens on the intersection of climate and housing.
65 snips
Feb 1, 2025 • 14min
Tariffs Come Due, Chopper Traffic After Crash
President Trump's looming tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China spark discussions on economic implications and trade tensions. The episode delves into the motivations behind these tariffs, including their links to fentanyl trafficking. Meanwhile, aviation safety comes under scrutiny as the FAA imposes helicopter flight restrictions near Reagan National Airport to enhance security. The podcast also highlights a recent helicopter and jet incident, raising critical questions about air travel safety.
44 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 12min
Plane Crash Latest, German Far Right, Nuclear Testing
Cockpit recordings are shedding light on a recent plane collision near Washington, D.C., revealing the personal stories of those involved. Meanwhile, Germany's far-right party is making waves as it enters mainstream politics, sparking debate on immigration policy. On another front, researchers are probing the implications of nuclear weapons programs at a secret Nevada facility, weighing scientific needs against political motives. Each topic intertwines complex social issues with urgent current events, making for a compelling discussion.
82 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 14min
D.C. Plane Crash, Migrant Housing At Guantanamo, January 6th Criminal Records
A shocking plane collision between an American Airlines jet and a military helicopter creates a desperate rescue operation over the Potomac River. Meanwhile, a contentious plan emerges to house deported migrants at Guantanamo Bay, stirring up historical and ethical debates. Additionally, an investigation reveals troubling criminal records of some pardoned January 6th defendants, shedding light on the complexities of their backgrounds and the legal implications of these pardons. This gripping mix of tragedy and political controversy keeps listeners on edge.
46 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 14min
Trump Remaking Government, RFK Jr. Confirmation Hearings, US Education Report Card
This week, Trump’s strategy to reshape the federal government is making waves, including new incentives for federal employees to resign. Senate confirmation hearings for RFK Jr. are igniting controversy, especially around his public health viewpoints and anti-vaccine stance. Meanwhile, a national assessment reveals alarming declines in math and reading skills among students post-pandemic, highlighting significant educational challenges ahead. The impact of federal funding freezes adds another layer of tension to these issues.
