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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
141 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 13min
Latest on the Kirk Investigation, Who Was Charlie Kirk?, Russian Drones Over Poland
The tragic shooting of activist Charlie Kirk raises questions about political violence and its impact on discourse. Kirk's rise in conservative politics through Turning Point USA is explored, highlighting his controversial legacy. Meanwhile, Russian drones over Poland escalate tensions, testing NATO's response and provoking fears of broader conflict. This mix of urgent news delves into the emotional aftermath for communities and the evolving geopolitical landscape.
93 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 32min
IL Gov. Pritzker On Crime, Immigration, Trump's 'Power Grab'
JB Pritzker, the Democratic governor of Illinois, discusses his battle against federal immigration enforcement in Chicago and the implications for local communities. He emphasizes the dangers of conflating crime with immigration and advocates for community-based solutions over militarization. Pritzker also critiques government inefficiencies and calls for strategic investments in education and healthcare to reduce crime rates. Additionally, he navigates the political landscape influenced by Trump and highlights the need for reform in various policies affecting the people of Illinois.
160 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 13min
Israel Strikes Qatar, ICE In Chicago, MAHA and Kids
Israel's airstrikes in Qatar target Hamas leaders amid fragile peace talks, raising tensions in the region. Meanwhile, immigration agents are deployed in Chicago, sparking community safety concerns and political debates. In a shift towards child health, the White House unveils a plan critiqued for leaning on vaccine skepticism linked to RFK Jr. Additionally, there's a critical discussion on harmful chemicals affecting children's health, highlighting the urgent need for practical solutions.
97 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 13min
SCOTUS Immigration Sweeps Ruling, Limited Epstein Files, Trump's Handling of Russia
The Supreme Court's ruling paves the way for controversial immigration sweeps in Los Angeles, raising concerns over racial profiling. Limited documents from Jeffrey Epstein's estate reveal surprising connections to former President Trump, igniting political debates. Meanwhile, tensions escalate as Russia continues its aggressive stance in Ukraine, despite Trump's diplomatic maneuvers. This episode intertwines legal, political, and military narratives, shedding light on the complexities of current events.
199 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 13min
Trump and Chicago, Trump Assassination Attempt Trial, Russia Ukraine Drone Attacks
Tensions rise in Chicago as President Trump walks back a controversial warning that shook local sentiment. Meanwhile, jury selection begins for a man accused of attempting to assassinate him, raising eyebrows about his self-representation in court. Across the globe, Russia intensifies its drone assaults in Ukraine, striking key targets and straining peace negotiations. The discussion also touches on Trump's proposed sanctions against Russia, as Ukraine continues to enhance its military defenses against the escalating conflict.
55 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.
105 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.
167 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.
133 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!
208 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.
