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
146 snips
Oct 18, 2025 • 15min
"No Kings" Protests; Aid Slow for Gaza; U.S. - China Trade War Heats Up
Jane Arraf, an NPR reporter with firsthand experience in Gaza, shares critical insights on the humanitarian crisis during the U.S.-brokered ceasefire. She reveals that promised aid is drastically delayed, with Israel allowing far fewer shipments than needed. Additionally, Arraf highlights bureaucratic hurdles threatening aid organizations' operations. Meanwhile, the podcast dives into the escalating U.S.-China trade tensions, with new tech export restrictions rattling supply chains. Insightful discussions on civil liberties also emerge amid nationwide protests against the Trump administration.
206 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 15min
Bolton Indicted, Trump and Zelenskyy Meeting, Rebuilding Gaza
John Bolton faces 18 counts related to mishandling classified info during his time as national security advisor. Meanwhile, President Zelenskyy seeks long-range missiles from Trump in a crucial meeting while pondering a potential ceasefire amid skepticism. The staggering challenge of reconstructing Gaza looms large, with unexploded bombs buried in rubble and questions over leadership and funding for recovery efforts. The discussion highlights the political intricacies surrounding military support and regional stability.
193 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 13min
Venezuela Escalation, Shutdown Layoffs Paused, Military Pay
Tensions rise as President Trump authorizes covert CIA operations in Venezuela, linking them to anti-drug efforts. A federal judge temporarily halts government layoffs related to the shutdown, prompting unions to argue against harmful personnel cuts. Meanwhile, active-duty military personnel receive paychecks due to a last-minute funding fix, but their families face increasing financial stress, including reliance on food banks and emergency loans. The discussion highlights the complex motivations behind U.S. actions in Venezuela amidst broader political challenges.
148 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 13min
Gaza Ceasefire Tested, Shutdown Stalemate, SCOTUS Voting Rights
Tensions in Gaza escalate as Hamas hands over more bodies of hostages, testing the fragile ceasefire. Meanwhile, the government shutdown drags on with no negotiations in sight, raising concerns about troop pay and broader economic impacts. On the judicial front, the Supreme Court's decision on Louisiana's congressional map could significantly weaken the Voting Rights Act, raising crucial questions about minority representation and the implications of redistricting. It's a complex landscape of conflict and politics.
150 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 14min
What's Next For Gaza?, Trump Return From Middle East Trip, ICE Tactics
Meg Anderson, an NPR criminal justice reporter, dives into alarming ICE tactics in U.S. cities, revealing the increasing use of force and crowd-control measures. The discussion highlights the urgent need for community documentation of these encounters to hold federal officers accountable. Additionally, the podcast explores the fragile ceasefire in Gaza, the return of Hamas fighters, and Trump's role in securing the deal. Tensions remain as listeners ponder how long this ceasefire will hold and the implications for governance in the region.
231 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 12min
Hostages Released, Trump In The Middle East, Shutdown Layoffs
A significant phase of the Gaza ceasefire sees the release of Israeli hostages, sparking joy in Israel as families reunite. President Trump claims credit for brokering the deal during his visit to Israel, navigating complex reactions from leaders. Meanwhile, the ongoing government shutdown leads to layoff notices across multiple federal agencies, raising concern over military paychecks. With the Sharm el-Sheikh Summit on the horizon, attention shifts to the next steps in this delicate geopolitical landscape.
107 snips
Oct 12, 2025 • 17min
ICE Under Trump
Explore the aggressive tactics ICE has adopted under the Trump administration, including public raids and the bypassing of immigration courts. Experts discuss alarming arrest statistics and the harsh conditions within detention centers. The podcast delves into the rhetoric of mass deportations and the ethical implications of funding for immigration enforcement, raising questions about responsible spending. Is this wave of enforcement a new phenomenon, or part of a historical pattern? Gain insights from seasoned insiders in the immigration system.
86 snips
Oct 11, 2025 • 11min
Nobel Laureate Maria Corina Machado on Regime Change in Venezuela
Maria Corina Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader and 2025 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, speaks from hiding about her groundbreaking award and its dedication to President Trump. She passionately discusses the dire conditions in Venezuela, the regime's connection to drug trafficking, and the ongoing struggle for democratic transition. Emphasizing the need for strength to combat criminal structures, Machado addresses U.S. military intervention and encourages citizens to take an active role in rebuilding democracy.
82 snips
Oct 11, 2025 • 15min
Israel, Hamas Peace Deal Latest; Federal Worker Layoffs; Health Care Subsidies
The latest developments in the Israel-Hamas peace deal highlight the ongoing tensions and expectations for UN aid in Gaza. Meanwhile, federal layoffs are shaking up the workforce as the government shutdown continues, with political implications in play. The discussion also dives into health care subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, examining whom they benefit and the dire consequences if they expire, including significant premium hikes and loss of coverage for millions.
114 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 13min
Gaza Ceasefire, Trump's Middle East Peace Plan, Letitia James Indicted
A delicate ceasefire brings a rare quiet to Gaza as Israeli troops begin to withdraw. Meanwhile, 200 U.S. troops head to the region to monitor peace efforts amid President Trump's plans to engage with Middle Eastern leaders. In New York, Attorney General Letitia James faces indictment for alleged bank fraud, linked to her investigations of Trump. The chaos in her office follows significant political pressures and upheaval, as James vows to fight the charges, which she claims are politically motivated.
