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
44 snips
Sep 7, 2025 • 27min
When the Oil Runs Dry
In this engaging discussion, NPR correspondent Camila Domonoske, who covers the life cycle of oil wells, unpacks the complexities of America’s aging oil infrastructure. She highlights the staggering number of abandoned wells and the environmental risks they pose, particularly in relation to methane emissions. Domonoske also addresses the economic challenges of properly sealing these orphan wells and the pressing need for stronger regulations to tackle these hidden hazards. Her insights offer a critical look at America's energy dependency and its impact on our future.
99 snips
Sep 6, 2025 • 14min
Feds Eye More Cities, Hyundai Plant Raid, Influential Pastor
Tensions rise as the Trump administration eyes more cities for federal intervention amid a National Guard buildup near Chicago. In a shocking move, nearly 500 workers are arrested at a Hyundai construction site in Georgia, sparking debates over immigration policies and worker rights. Meanwhile, a pastor from Idaho is gaining traction among national Republicans, influencing discourse in Washington, D.C. The political landscape is heating up as differing opinions clash over the use of military forces in urban crime control.
160 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 14min
RFK Jr. Grilled, Europeans Pledge Troops to Ukraine, DC Sues Trump Admin
Tensions rose in a recent Senate hearing as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended his vaccine policies amid fierce scrutiny. Meanwhile, European leaders strengthened their commitment to Ukraine, pledging troop support post-war. A legal battle emerged as D.C.'s attorney general filed suit against the Trump administration, challenging the National Guard's deployment in the city. The intertwining of health policy and global security illustrates the complexities of current international relations.
127 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 12min
RFK Jr. Testifies Before Senate, Fed Confirmation Hearing, Harvard's Legal Victory
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testifies in the Senate amid CDC turmoil. The contrasting health strategies of Democrats and Republicans take center stage, especially regarding vaccine mandates. Meanwhile, President Trump's influence on the Federal Reserve comes under scrutiny as he nominates candidates for its board. In a legal win for Harvard, a judge rules the Trump administration unlawfully froze research funds, raising questions about the intersection of politics and academic freedom. Tune in for insights and a bit of fun!
199 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 14min
Lawmakers Call For Epstein Files, Trump's Crypto Token, China's Military Parade
Congress members are pushing to unveil more documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, igniting debates on transparency and accountability. Meanwhile, the Trump family's cryptocurrency venture takes a public leap, stirring ethical concerns about profit and power. Celebrating World War II's 80th anniversary, China showcases its military might in a grand parade, signaling its assertive stance in global politics. This discussion dives into the intertwining dynamics of political influence, international relations, and the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency regulations.
239 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 13min
Government Shutdown Looms, Brazil's Ex-President on Trial, Earthquake in Afghanistan
Congress grapples with the looming threat of a government shutdown as lawmakers return from recess. Meanwhile, Brazil's former president faces trial over coup allegations, raising questions about political accountability. In Afghanistan, a devastating earthquake has created a humanitarian crisis, with aid workers struggling to deliver assistance due to challenging conditions and Taliban restrictions. The intersection of domestic governance and global crises highlights the urgent need for international support and collaboration.
84 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 14min
European Troop Coalition, Heads of State Meet in China, Trump and Labor Day
European leaders are strategizing to send troops to Ukraine, raising questions about long-term security in the region. Meanwhile, President Xi Jinping's summit in China brings together leaders from Russia and India, presenting challenges to U.S. global influence. Back in the States, Trump reflects on labor issues amidst his first Labor Day since returning to the White House, juxtaposing his optimistic rhetoric with the harsh realities facing workers. The discussion highlights the tensions in America’s workforce and evolving international relations.
80 snips
Aug 31, 2025 • 24min
A CLEAR Path to the Front of the Line
Kim Naderfein-Petersa, a producer for The Sunday Story, dives into the controversial role of the private company CLEAR in airport security. She unpacks how CLEAR allows some travelers to bypass long lines, highlighting the inequities faced by others. The discussion raises pressing questions about fairness and the moral implications of privatizing public services. Naderfein-Petersa also explores the evolution of CLEAR and the challenges of blending private interests with public safety, prompting reflection on economic inequality in access to services.
70 snips
Aug 30, 2025 • 16min
Trump Tariff Ruling, Texas Abortion Medication Bill, New Dietary Guidelines
A federal appeals court has ruled that much of Trump's tariffs are illegal, yet enforcement is paused until October. In Texas, lawmakers are moving forward with strict legislation on abortion medication, allowing citizens to sue providers. Meanwhile, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is set to unveil new dietary guidelines, raising questions about their impact on the nation's eating habits. These discussions dive into significant political and health shifts shaping the future.
156 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 14min
Minneapolis Shooting Latest, New Acting CDC Director, North Korean Leader to Beijing
A father's heartfelt tribute to his son lost in a tragic shooting resonates deeply, highlighting the impact of gun violence. Meanwhile, a new acting director at the CDC raises eyebrows amid pressing health issues. In international news, North Korea, China, and Russia's leaders come together for a historic meeting, signaling shifts in global alliances. The complexities of transferring government responsibilities to the private sector come into focus, raising questions about the future of public services.
