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
61 snips
Feb 22, 2025 • 15min
Pentagon Upheaval, Hamas Releases More Hostages, NY State Prisons
A significant shift in military leadership leads to debates over diversity and strategy within the Pentagon. As tensions rise, Hamas releases more hostages, intensifying the emotional narrative of ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, unrest brews in New York State prisons as correctional officers protest dire working conditions, prompting the governor to deploy National Guard troops. These stories reveal a landscape of upheaval and pressing issues at home and abroad.
86 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 13min
Migrants Leave Guantanamo, Israeli Hostages Update, Changes at FEMA
The release of Venezuelan migrants from Guantanamo Bay sparks discussions on legal issues and family communication failures. In Israel, the emotional impact of a misidentified hostage body intensifies tensions in ongoing peace talks with Hamas. Meanwhile, drastic cuts at FEMA raise concerns about the agency's ability to manage disasters effectively, highlighting staffing struggles and the need for improved recovery strategies. Learn how past disasters inform future resilience efforts in vulnerable areas.
69 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 13min
Trump and Zelenskyy Feud, DOGE Savings Claims, Hamas Releases Four Hostage Bodies
Tensions between Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy are explored, highlighting their conflicting approaches to the war in Ukraine. Claims of massive savings from DOGE face scrutiny, revealing a possible overestimation. In a somber turn, Hamas releases the bodies of four Israeli hostages, igniting emotional responses from families and communities. The contrasting reactions in Gaza and Israel are examined, adding depth to the complex narrative of the ongoing conflict.
115 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 14min
Measles Outbreak, Foreign Aid Cuts, Bolsonaro Charges
A troubling measles outbreak in West Texas has health officials on high alert, with vaccination rates under scrutiny. Vaccine hesitancy is complicating public health efforts in rural areas. Meanwhile, significant cuts to U.S. funding are hindering pro-democracy initiatives abroad, raising concerns over global human rights amid China's growing influence. In Brazil, former president Jair Bolsonaro faces serious legal troubles, including charges related to attempts to undermine democratic processes, signaling political instability in the region.
99 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 12min
Ukraine Talks, U.S. Health Agency Cuts, NYC Mayor Eric Adams Fallout
High-stakes U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia aim to tackle the Ukraine conflict, but Ukrainian voices are notably absent. Meanwhile, the Trump administration's drastic cuts to federal health agencies lead to significant layoffs, raising concerns about public health. In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams faces mounting pressure as four key aides resign, igniting political chaos. Amidst this turmoil, the Justice Department's controversial decision to dismiss corruption charges against Adams raises eyebrows, with him defiantly claiming political motivations behind the scrutiny.
67 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 13min
Paris Emergency Summit, Marco Rubio in the Middle East, Trump's First Month
European leaders convene in Paris to tackle security issues stemming from the war in Ukraine, revealing deepening concerns about U.S. influence. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio aims to reinforce Trump's vision for Gaza amid evolving Middle Eastern dynamics. The review of Trump’s first month highlights aggressive policies and constitutional debates on executive power, showcasing a stark shift from previous governance. Join the discussion as these pivotal developments unfold on the global stage.
64 snips
Feb 16, 2025 • 29min
A Home But Not A Cure
Will James, a seasoned reporter and producer at KUOW, dives into the Housing First initiative aimed at addressing homelessness. He highlights personal stories, including Kenny Taylor's journey from homelessness to stable housing, while candidly discussing the initiative's successes and shortcomings. The conversation addresses ongoing criticisms of the Housing First model amid rising homelessness rates and the looming fentanyl crisis, ultimately questioning if the approach is enough to support those in need.
230 snips
Feb 15, 2025 • 14min
The Future of Ukraine ... and a US Consumer Agency. More on Black Hawk Crash
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy urgently appeals for NATO support amidst ongoing Russian aggression. Discussions highlight the evolving U.S. foreign policy and its implications for European unity. The turmoil at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reveals the human impact of recent layoffs. Additionally, insights into the investigation of a Black Hawk helicopter crash shed light on communication challenges and safety concerns. The interplay of international diplomacy and domestic policy offers a captivating glimpse into complex global dynamics.
51 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 15min
Justice Department Shakeup, Guantanamo Migrants Lawsuit, Immigration Crackdown Poll
A significant shakeup at the U.S. Justice Department has sparked mass resignations over a corruption case tied to the New York City mayor. Meanwhile, legal aid groups are fighting for migrant detainees at Guantanamo Bay, highlighting serious rights concerns. In public opinion, a recent poll reveals divided views on immigration, with growing support for stricter measures among some factions, yet resistance remains. The podcast delves into these critical issues that reflect current political tensions and the ongoing debate around immigration policy.
73 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 14min
Migration and Trade with India, Trump and Putin Chat, Future of Education Department
Trump prepares for a crucial meeting with India's Prime Minister, addressing trade issues and immigration tensions. His recent chat with Putin hints at a new approach to U.S.-Russia relations, particularly concerning Ukraine. Meanwhile, the confirmation of the new education secretary raises eyebrows amidst the Trump administration's plans to dismantle the agency. Additionally, a controversial federal workers' resignation program gets a legal nod, leaving employees in limbo about their future.
