Good morning. You’re reading the Up First newsletter. Subscribe here to get it delivered to your inbox, and listen to the Up First podcast for all the news you need to start your day.
Today’s top stories
President Trump’s New Tariffs on Iran and Rising Unrest
President Trump announced yesterday a 25% tariff on countries doing business with Iran, escalating pressure on the nation amid ongoing unrest. The administration reports receiving hourly updates on the violence against protesters, with the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reporting over 600 deaths.Trump has previously warned of potential U.S. intervention to protect protesters, stating the U.S. was “locked and loaded.” This move signals a continued hardline stance against Iran, particularly concerning its nuclear program and regional influence.
Minnesota Sues Trump Administration Over Immigration Crackdown
Minnesota officials have filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s recent immigration crackdown within the state. The legal action follows an incident last week where an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent fatally shot 37-year-old Renee Macklin Good while she was in her car. The lawsuit alleges that federal agents have engaged in the unlawful arrest of bystanders, the detention of U.S. citizens, and the use of excessive force, including the deployment of irritants against protesters. Eyewitness accounts, as reported by NPR, suggest potential racial profiling in the enforcement actions.
Supreme Court to Hear arguments on Transgender Athlete Bans
The Supreme Court is set to hear arguments today in two landmark cases concerning state laws that prohibit transgender girls and women from participating in women’s sports at publicly funded schools. Currently, 27 states have enacted such bans.The cases raise critical questions about fairness, inclusion, and the interpretation of anti-discrimination laws. Supporters of the bans argue they are necesary to ensure fair competition, while opponents contend they violate federal statutes and the constitutional guarantee of equal protection under the law. The outcome of these cases could have far-reaching implications for transgender rights and athletic participation nationwide.
Today’s listen
See the rust on this pipe pumping natural mineral water? That rust is produced by microbes…and some scientists think those microbes, and others like them found in our homes, showers, and bathroom drains, could be our next big discovery.
Ari Daniel
hide caption
toggle caption
Ari Daniel
On today’s Short Wave podcast, NPR science reporter Ari Daniel explores the hidden world of microbes in our homes and their potential to solve global challenges. He discusses how scientists are studying the unique environments within our homes – from showerheads to drainpipes – to uncover microbial solutions for everything from energy production to pollution remediation. This research highlights the untapped potential of the microbial world and its relevance to a lasting future.
Three Things to No Before You go
- X (formerly Twitter) Faces Scrutiny Over AI Chatbot: Two countries have blocked X’s AI chatbot, Grok, due to concerns over its generation of sexually explicit content, including images of children. Several other nations are launching investigations into the platform’s safety protocols.
- Trump Proposes Credit Card Interest Rate Cap: Former President Trump has suggested a one-year cap on credit card interest rates at 10%.This proposal aims to alleviate financial burdens on consumers but faces potential challenges in implementation and economic impact.
- Nurses Strike in New York City: Approximately 15,000 nurses have initiated a strike at hospitals across Manhattan and the Bronx following failed contract negotiations. The strike centers around concerns over staffing levels, patient care quality, and fair compensation.
This newsletter was edited by Suzanne Nuyen.
