The FBI released door camera footage from the home of Nancy Guthrie, the 84 year-old mother of Today Show host Savanah Guthrie who's been missing for eleven days.
President Trump meets with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss Israel?s security, as the White House signals possible progress in nuclear talks with Iran.
And immigration officials defend enforcement tactics on Capitol Hill while lawmakers remain divided ahead of a Friday deadline to fund the Department of Homeland Security.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Anna Yukhananov, Emma Bowman, Kate Bartlett, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Simon-Laslo Janssen.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Guthrie Door Camera Footage
(05:29) Trump & Netanyahu Meet On Iran
(09:11) DHS House Hearing

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Congress has until Friday to reach a deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security, with negotiations stalled over Democratic demands to overhaul immigration enforcement.
Britain?s prime minister Keir Starmer is fighting to hold onto power after new revelations show he hired a Washington ambassador with ties to Jeffrey Epstein, triggering calls for him to step down.
And Savannah Guthrie issues another emotional plea for her missing mother as a ransom deadline passes and investigators say they still have no suspects in the disappearance.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Kate Bartlett, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) DHS Funding Negotiations
(05:40) UK Epstein Fallout
(09:27) Latest on Guthrie Investigation

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The search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie, enters a second week as her family says they?ve received a message from the people who took her and investigators continue to look for suspects.
Ghislaine Maxwell is set to be questioned by members of Congress about Jeffrey Epstein, his crimes, and the powerful figures connected to him, even as she continues to challenge her own conviction.
And the Seattle Seahawks win Super Bowl 60, beating the New England Patriots 29-13, using a dominant defense to secure the franchise?s second championship.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by James Doubek, Megan Pratz, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Ava Pukatch.

Our director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Guthrie Investigation
(05:37) Ghislaine Maxwell Deposition
(09:20) Seahawks Win Super Bowl LX

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Before President Donald Trump?s first term, he was in a ?tight spot? financially, according to New Yorker writer David Kirkpatrick. At the start of his second term, Kirkpatrick says, Trump was in an ?even tighter? spot. But six months later, Trump?s financial situation had substantially improved.
Kirkpatrick has done a full accounting of the money, that?s flowed into the Trump family coffers. Kirkpatrick says even using the most conservative estimates, the Trumps have made almost $4 billion dollars ?off of the presidency,? in just about a year.
Today on The Sunday Story, we turn to our friends at NPR?s Planet Money to help us understand how President Trump and his family have found ways to profit from the presidency.

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U.S. and Iranian envoys have held talks aimed at averting possible U.S. strikes on Iran. Debates over immigration enforcement are front and center in a Texas primary contest. Plus, it?s a busy weekend for sports fans with the 2026 Winter Olympic Games and the Super Bowl.

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The U.S. and Iran begin high-stakes talks in Oman today over Tehran?s nuclear program, If they can't reach a deal, President Trump could launch a military strike from the large military force assembled in the Middle East.
Lawmakers now have just one week to fund the Department of Homeland Security, as Democrats release a detailed list of demands to overhaul how immigration enforcement officers operate.
And the FBI confirms a ransom letter in the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today show co-host Savannah Guthrie, as investigators search for answers and her family pleads for proof she is alive.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Jason Breslow, James Doubek, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas.

Our Director is Milton Guevara.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:12) US-Iran Talks Begin
(05:36) Dem List of DHS Demands
(09:24) Search For Nancy Guthrie Continues

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White House Border Czar Tom Homan says 700 federal agents will be leaving Minnesota after months of aggressive immigration enforcement, protests, and the killing of two U.S. citizens by federal agents.
A new NPR/PBS/Marist poll finds most Americans now say ICE has gone too far, as the Trump administration shifts its tone on immigration enforcement.
And the last remaining nuclear arms control treaty between the United States and Russia, the New START Treaty, is set to expire, raising new fears about unconstrained nuclear competition.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Dana Farrington, Robbie Griffiths, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh and Nia Dumas

Our Director is Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Partial Drawdown in Minnesota
(05:36) NPR Poll: Trump and ICE
(09:18) Nuclear Treaty Expires

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Congress ended the shutdown but now faces a tight deadline to fund the Department of Homeland Security, with Democrats and Republicans far apart over immigration enforcement reforms after two U.S. citizens were killed by federal agents in Minnesota.
Russia has resumed heavy strikes on Ukraine?s power grid during extreme cold, despite President Trump saying Vladimir Putin agreed to pause attacks, putting new strain on fragile diplomatic efforts.
And President Trump is calling for the federal government to ?take over? elections in some states, escalating concerns among election officials about interference ahead of the midterms.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Miguel Macias, Ben Swasey, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:52) DHS Funding Negotiations
(05:27) Ukraine Peace Talks
(09:26) Trump Nationalizing Elections

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A partial government shutdown enters its fourth day as House Republicans weigh whether to back a Senate deal that would reopen most agencies while giving Congress two weeks to negotiate changes to immigration enforcement.
The U.S. is set to reopen nuclear talks with Iran, as regional powers push diplomacy even while President Trump warns military action remains on the table.
And investigators in Arizona say 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Today show host Savannah Guthrie, may have been abducted from her home as an urgent search continues.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, James Hider, Miguel Macias, Martha Ann Overland, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Government Shutdown Day 4
(05:31) US-Iran Nuclear Talks
(09:06) Guthrie Investigation

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A partial government shutdown is under way after Congress missed its funding deadline, with lawmakers advancing a plan to reopen most agencies while negotiations over Homeland Security and immigration enforcement continue.
A federal judge ruled the Trump administration can keep its immigration enforcement surge in Minneapolis going, even as plans to draw down agents haven?t materialized and residents see ongoing arrests and protests.
And President Trump says the performing arts center built as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy will close for two years for a massive renovation.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy and Adrianna Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) House Shutdown Vote
(05:34) Minneapolis Immigration Operations
(09:16) Trump Kennedy Center Closure

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President Trump has a vision for the American workforce. Forget expensive college educations. His eye is on the skilled trades. The U.S. Department of Labor has adopted the slogan ?Make America Skilled Again.?

But who gets to be part of this renaissance? 

Since the 1980s, women have made small but meaningful gains in the construction trades. Now there are concerns that President Trump?s campaign to end diversity, equity and inclusion will stall that progress ? setting back both women and the construction industry.

Today on the Sunday Story, we ask how women fit into this administration?s vision of this skilled trades future.

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The Justice Department has released its final tranche of the Epstein files - we'll look at what they have and haven't included. And, the U.S. in a partial government shutdown again, although this is one is expected to be shorter than the record-breaking shutdown that happened during the fall. Plus, another winter storm is hitting the U-S this weekend, this time, hitting parts of the Southeast.

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Senate leaders strike a short-term funding deal to keep most of the government running, but a partial shutdown now looks imminent as the House remains out until next week.
Border Czar Tom Homan suggested a possible drawdown of federal immigration agents in Minnesota, only for President Trump to later say there would be no pullback at all, as arrests and protests continue on the ground.
And the FBI seizes hundreds of thousands of ballots and election records from Fulton County, Georgia, as the Trump administration escalates scrutiny ahead of the midterms.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Gigi Douban, Ben Swasey, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:53) Senate Funding Deal
(05:38) Border Czar in Minnesota 
(09:51) Georgia Election Ballots Ceased

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Senate Democrats are threatening a partial government shutdown unless Republicans agree to new limits on immigration enforcement by Friday's deadline.
A protest at an ICE family detention center in South Texas turned confrontational as demonstrators demanded the release of a five-year-old boy and his father taken from Minnesota and held at the facility hundreds of miles away.
And despite pressure from President Trump to lower interest rates, the Federal Reserve is holding steady to fight lingering inflation and rising prices.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Susanna Capelouto, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Senate Funding Vote
(05:41) ICE Family Detention Protest
(10:28) Fed Holds Interest Rates

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President Trump takes his economic message to Iowa, trying to refocus on affordability after weeks of distractions ranging from Greenland to Venezuela and fallout from federal shootings in Minnesota.
Nearly a year after a deadly midair collision near Washington, D.C., investigators say deep, systemic failures at the FAA allowed known risks to go unaddressed until it was too late.
And NPR has obtained documents showing the Trump administration quietly loosened nuclear safety and environmental rules to fast-track new reactors, raising concerns about oversight and public trust.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Russell Lewis, Brett Neely, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our Supervising Producer is HJ Mai.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Trump Economic Message
(05:43) DC Helicopter Crash Report
(10:02) New Nuclear Regulation

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Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, the public face of the Trump administration?s immigration operations, is no longer leading enforcement efforts in Minnesota after two fatal shootings and escalating legal battles over who gets to investigate them.
President Trump heads to Iowa trying to sell his economic agenda, even as backlash grows from within his own party over his immigration crackdown in Minneapolis.
And a landmark trial begins in Los Angeles that will test whether major social media companies knowingly designed their platforms in ways that harm kids, a case that could force the tech industry to rethink how its apps are built.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Andrea de Leon, Rebekah Metzler, Brett Neely, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Bovino Out of Minnesota
(05:57) Trump Refocusing on Economy
(09:38) Social Media on Trial

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Protests and a general strike continue in Minneapolis after federal immigration agents fatally shot 37 year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti during a crackdown, the second ICE related killing in the state this month.
Senate Democrats threaten to block funding for the Department of Homeland Security unless Republicans agree to new limits on immigration enforcement, a standoff that could trigger a partial government shutdown.
And across the country, states are digging out from a major winter storm that left deadly ice and snow, widespread power outages, and thousands of canceled flights.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Krishnadev Calamur, Alfredo Carbajal, Mohamad ElBardicy and Adam Bearne.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas, Ava Pukatch and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Simon-Laslo Janssen. And our technical director is David Greenburg.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Minnesota ICE Shooting Aftermath
(05:44) Senate DHS Funding Vote
(09:26) Icy Weather

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Forty years ago, the space shuttle Challenger exploded 73 seconds after liftoff. Seven astronauts were killed, including teacher-in-space Christa McAuliffe. It was a devastating blow to the U.S. space program and a national tragedy for the country. In the days after the explosion, the search for answers began. Two NPR reporters, Howard Berkes and Daniel Zwerdling, focused their reporting on the engineers who managed Challenger?s booster rockets. On February 20, 1986, Berkes and Zwerdling broke a major story, providing the first details of a last-minute effort by those engineers to stop NASA from launching Challenger. 

In this special NPR documentary, Howard Berkes unfolds an investigation spanning forty years, from those desperate efforts in 1986 to delay the launch, to decades of crushing guilt for some of the engineers, and to the lessons learned that are as critical as ever as NASA?s budget and workforce shrink.

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At least half of the U.S. population will be hit by a powerful winter storm this weekend - we'll tell you how Oklahoma, and other states, are preparing. Plus, a look at how President Trump is using the military overseas as well inside the U.S. during his second term. Plus, a look at consumer spending in the U.S. and how sustainable it is at present levels. 

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In Minnesota, protests and business closures spread as immigration operations continue and confrontations with federal agents intensify.
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Ukraine?s president delivers a blunt message to Europe, warning that the continent must stop relying on the U.S. and prepare to defend itself as Russia?s war grinds on.
And across the U.S., states are bracing for a massive winter storm threatening millions of people with dangerous weather conditions.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Willem Marx, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Minnesota Protests
(05:28) Zelenskyy Slams Europe In Davos
(09:00) Winter Storm Approaches 

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Rahm Emanuel has held many political jobs, and he's considering a run for President. In a wide-ranging interview with NPR's Steve Inskeep, he critiques democrats and offers advice for the upcoming midterms.

Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

This bonus episode of Up First was edited by Reena Advani. It was produced by Barry Gordemer and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. Our Deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens and our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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European leaders meet for an emergency summit as allies weigh a possible deal with the U.S. on Greenland after President Trump walked back threats of military action and tariffs.
Trump?s clashes with Canada and Europe raise fresh doubts about the stability of U.S. alliances, as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney warns coercion and tariff threats are changing the global order.
And Supreme Court justices had tough question for Trump's lawyers as they hear arguments over whether a president can fire a Federal Reserve governor, a case that could redefine the independence of the central bank.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Miguel Macias, Andrew Sussman, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:59) Greenland Emergency Summit
(05:27) New World Order
(09:10) SCOTUS Justices Hear Fed Case

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European leaders brace for President Trump?s speech at the World Economic Forum, as new tariff threats and talk of acquiring Greenland overshadow talks on affordability.
The Justice Department issues subpoenas to Minnesota?s top Democratic leaders, as state officials accuse the Trump administration of weaponizing immigration enforcement and creating fear in immigrant communities.
And the Supreme Court hears a high-stakes case over President Trump?s attempt to fire a Federal Reserve governor, a move that could upend a century of precedent and rattle financial markets.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gigi Douban, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:24) Trump's Speech in Davos
(06:07) DOJ Subpoenas For Minnesota 
(09:49) SCOTUS Federal Reserve Case

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Gretchen Whitmer is in her final year as governor of the swing state of Michigan. The Democratic governor sat for an interview with NPR's Steve Inskeep and talked about tariffs, the prospects of a female president, and the security of upcoming elections.

Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

This bonus episode of Up First was edited by Reena Advani. It was produced by Adam Bearne, Kaity Kline and Ziad Buchh. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

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As world leaders gather in Davos, President Trump escalates pressure on allies with new tariff threats, renewed talk of acquiring Greenland, and plans for a sweeping new ?Board of Peace? that could reshape global diplomacy.
Three people die in six weeks at the country?s largest immigration detention center in El Paso, raising urgent questions about medical care, oversight, and the role of private contractors.
And Indiana completes one of the most improbable turnarounds in college football history, capping a perfect season with a national championship win over Miami.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Alfredo Carbajal, Russell Lewis, Mohamad ElBardicy, Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:58) Trump's World Stage
(05:51) El Paso Detention Deaths
(09:17) Indiana College Football Champions

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Minnesota braces for a possible escalation as federal troops stand by amid protests against immigration enforcement and renewed threats to invoke the Insurrection Act.
Tensions rise with European allies as the White House pressures Denmark and other NATO countries over Greenland, prompting warnings of damage to transatlantic relations.
And world leaders are being asked to buy into a new U.S.-led ?Board of Peace? for Gaza and other conflicts, with billion-dollar commitments and President Trump at the helm.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Padma Rama, Ben Swasey, Gerry Holmes, Mohamad ElBardicy, HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Simon-Laslo Janssen. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:57) Troops Stand By For Minnesota
(05:47) Greenland NATO Tensions
(09:34) Gaza Peace Board

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L.A. County Public Defender Noah Cox noticed the disturbing trend. Many of his clients seemed to struggle answering even the most basic questions about the crimes they?d been charged with, questions like, ?Where were you that day?? It seemed, Cox said, ?like they were having troubles related to some sort of intellectual ability.? But when he dug into their records, Cox could see that while many had committed serious crimes, most had never been identified as disabled or offered resources to help with cognitive impairments. So Cox set about to change that. He helped create a new unit in the Los Angeles Public Defender?s Office dedicated to representing people with cognitive disorders.

Today on The Sunday Story a look at the possibilities and challenges of helping those with cognitive impairments stay out of prison and get the resources they need to live productive lives.

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The Justice Department has launched an investigation into Minnesota's Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, alleging that they conspired to impede the work of ICE agents. Plus, an especially harsh winter hits Ukraine, where Russian strikes have taken out power plants, leaving many without heat and electricity. And, a new study finds that the use of generative AI is harmful to the development of children.

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Protests intensify in Minneapolis after a second ICE-related shooting, as President Trump threatens to invoke the Insurrection Act in Minnesota.
Venezuela?s top opposition leader brings her Nobel Peace Prize to Washington to press her case with President Trump, even as the U.S. signals support for an interim leader.
And President Trump unveils what he calls a new healthcare plan, leaning on cheaper insurance with limited benefits as Congress debates the future of ACA subsidies.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Cheryl Corley, Tara Neill, Diane Webber, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(1:57) Trump and Minnesota
(05:29) Venezuela's Opposition
(09:20) Trump's Healthcare Plan

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The FBI searches the home of a Washington Post reporter as part of a leak investigation, raising concerns among press advocates about an escalation against press freedom.
U.S. talks with Denmark and Greenland end without a deal on Greenland?s future, but a new working group forms as allies push back on President Trump?s security-driven claims.
And after widespread confusion and backlash, the Trump administration reverses course and restores roughly $2 billion in funding for mental health and addiction programs nationwide.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Emily Kopp, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

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Veteran federal prosecutors in Minnesota resign after pressure from Justice Department leaders to investigate the widow of Renee Macklin Good, the woman killed by an ICE agent, raising new questions about political interference.
President Trump takes his economic message on the road, pitching affordability as voters remain frustrated by high prices.
And while gas prices have dipped, rising heating costs, grocery prices, and stubborn inflation show why relief still feels out of reach for many families.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gigi Douban, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:19) Minnesota Prosecutors Quit
(06:10) Trump in Detroit
(09:52) Inflation Report

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Minnesota officials sue the Trump administration, accusing federal immigration agents of unconstitutional conduct, as protests and enforcement intensify after an ICE officer killed 37 year-old Renee Macklin Good.
President Trump is weighing options, including military action, as Iran?s largest protests in years grow deadlier as the regime cracks down on nationwide demonstrations.
And the Supreme Court hears arguments in two cases over whether states can bar transgender athletes from competing in women?s sports.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Gigi Douban, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Kaity Kline.

We get engineering support from Simon Laslo-Janssen. Our technical director is Zac Coleman.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Trump Weighs Options In Iran
(05:35) Minnesota Sues DHS, 
(08:52) SCOTUS Trans Sports Cases

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Tension is mounting in Minneapolis as the Trump administration sends hundreds of additional federal agents into Minnesota and anger grows over last week's ICE shooting that killed 37 year old Renee Good.
Deadly protests in Iran intensify as President Trump warns the U.S. could strike the regime if the crackdown continues.
And the Justice Department subpoenas the Federal Reserve, prompting Chair Jerome Powell to accuse President Trump of trying to pressure the central bank over interest rates.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Daniel Burke, Kate Bartlett, Pallavi Gogoi, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Simon-Laslo Janssen. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(03:10) Federal Agents Sent to Minnesota
(06:53) Iran Protests
(10:34) DOJ Subpoenas Federal Reserve

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Since President Trump?s second inauguration, more liberals, people of color and LGBTQ folks say they are buying guns and getting training. This is the latest in a trend that researchers, gun clubs and trainers say they?ve been watching for years. No longer do firearm buyers fit the old stereo-type of being white, rural and Republican. Today on The Sunday Story, NPR?s Frank Langfitt shares his reporting on the changing face of American gun ownership.

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Protests continue in Minneapolis after ICE agents kill a local woman, Renee Good, with more protests planned this weekend. Plus, Iranians have been taking to the streets in cities across the country, protesting against the government there. We'll look at what's behind the protests as well as the government's response. Also, the U.S. federal government might want to get involved with upcoming elections in several ways. We'll look at what this might mean for the midterm elections, and how states are preparing.

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Protesters in Minneapolis return to the streets as federal agents take over the investigation into the killing of a Minnesota woman by an ICE agent, while Portland officials condemn another immigration-related shooting.
A review of immigration related shootings under President Trump shows a rising pattern of violence as federal agents carry out increasingly aggressive and public operations in U.S. cities.
And President Trump signals the U.S. could run Venezuela ?much longer? than expected, as oil executives head to the White House to discuss America?s expanded oversight of the country?s future.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Gigi Douban, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Milton Guevara and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Minneapolis Protests
(05:29) Immigration Enforcement Shootings
(09:04) Running Venezuela

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Minnesota state law enforcement officials are working with the FBI to investigate the fatal shooting of a Minneapolis woman by an Immigrations and Customs Enforcement officer. 
U.S. forces boarded a tanker carrying sanctioned oil after a two-week chase across the Atlantic, as the Trump administration expands plans to take control of Venezuela?s oil sales indefinitely.
And Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.?s new dietary guidelines flip decades of advice, elevating meat and dairy and alarming many public health researchers.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Kelsey Snell, Kate Bartlett, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from David Greenburg. Our technical director is Stacey Abbott.

And our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Minnesota ICE Shooting
(05:48) Venezuela Oil Tanker Pursuit
(09:35) RFK Jr's New Dietary Guidelines

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President Trump talks about next steps for Venezuela, calling for U.S. companies to help rebuild the economy even as much of the existing power structure remains in place.
Facing tough midterm elections in 2026, Trump tells House Republicans he?s struggling to understand voters and leans into culture-war issues rather than cost-of-living concerns.
And European leaders rally around Greenland, pushing back on Trump?s renewed claims that the United States needs the territory for national security.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, Kelsey Snell, Kate Bartlett, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:59) Next Steps In Venezuela
(05:47) GOP 2026 Roadmap
(09:32) Greenland and Europe

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Ousted Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro and his wife plead not guilty in New York, after a U.S. military operation brought them out of Venezuela and into a federal courtroom.
Lawmakers are divided after a classified congressional briefing on Venezuela, with Republicans insisting the president acted within the law and Democrats asking what comes next.
And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention scales back routine childhood vaccine recommendations at President Trump?s direction, some pediatricians warn it could leave more kids vulnerable.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Kelsey Snell, Gigi Douban, Jane Greenhalgh, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacy Abbott. And our technical director is Neisha Heinis.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(1:57) Maduro Pleads Not Guilty
(05:32) Congress on Venezuela
(09:18) Vaccine Schedule Overhaul

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President Trump says the United States will run Venezuela after U.S. forces seized Nicolás Maduro and his wife in Caracas.
Venezuela?s acting president Delcy Rodriguez shifts from defiance to calls for cooperation as the White House ramps up pressure and threatens further action.
And Nicolás Maduro is set to appear in a New York courtroom, facing drug trafficking, weapons, and narco-terrorism charges that could test the reach of U.S. law overseas.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Andrew Sussman, Tara Neill, Krishnadev Calamur, Mohamad ElBardicy, and HJ Mai.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) U.S. In Venezuela
(05:49) Future Of Venezuela 
(09:46) Maduro In NYC Court

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Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is in a federal prison in Brooklyn, New York, awaiting trial on charges of narcoterrorism, cocaine-importation conspiracy and weapons charges. The operation to capture Maduro happened in the middle of the night as U.S. troops enjoyed the element of surprise. The U.S. says Maduro is not the legitimate president of Venezuela and accuse him of being the leader of a violent drug cartel.

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The U.S. bombed the Venezuelan capital Caracas and other areas of the country, and captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. President Donald Trump said Maduro is being flown to the U.S. and Attorney General Pam Bondi says he will be indicted in the Southern District of New York. The events come after months of escalating U.S. pressure, sending troops and warships to the Carribean.

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Somali-run day care centers in Minnesota report threats and vandalism after a viral right-wing video accusing them of fraud prompts federal action with nationwide consequences.
The Justice Department misses its deadline to release the Epstein files, fueling confusion and conspiracy theories as heavily redacted and unreliable documents trickle out.
And Switzerland begins days of mourning after a deadly New Year?s Eve fire rips through a crowded nightclub at a ski resort, killing dozens and injuring many more.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Luis Clemens, Dana Farrington, Miguel Macias, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Kaity Kline and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is David Greenburg..

Our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(0:00) Introduction
(01:54) Daycare Fraud Claims Fallout
(05:31) Epstein Files Mess 
(09:27) Swiss Nightclub Fire

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Health insurance costs jump for millions after pandemic-era Affordable Care Act subsidies expired overnight.
The Trump administration freezes child care funding nationwide after targeting Minnesota over unproven fraud claims tied to Somali-run day care centers.
And New York City?s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, is sworn in at midnight as he prepares to take office.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Carrie Feibel, Cheryl Corley, Andrea De Leon, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.

(0:00) Introduction
(02:33) Health care Subsidies Expire
(05:53) Trump and Minnesota
(10:06) Mamdani Takes Office in NYC

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President Trump confirms the first known U.S. strike inside Venezuela, saying it targets drug trafficking as critics warn it risks escalation.
Iranian authorities shut down cities and security forces move in to contain growing protests as anger over inflation and sanctions boils over.
And the flu is spreading fast across the U.S., with a new strain driving cases higher just as vaccination rates slip and hospitals brace for what?s next.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Rebekah Metzler, James Hider, Rebecca Davis, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Producer is Michael Lipkin.

(0:00) Introduction
(03:30) U.S. Strikes Inside Venezuela
(07:25) Iran Protests
(11:22) Flu Cases Surge

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President Trump doubles down on demanding Hamas disarm after meeting with Israel?s prime minister, and warned Iran not to rebuild its nuclear program.
Ukraine?s president presses the White House for decades-long U.S. security guarantees as part of a proposed peace deal with Russia.
And a year after DOGE?s push to shrink government, agencies are smaller, spending is higher, and millions of Americans? data remains in play.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Ruth Sherlock, Anna Yukhananov, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Our Supervising Senior Producer is Vince Pearson.

(0:00) Introduction
(03:13) Trump Pushes Hamas Disarmament 
(07:25) Ukraine Peace Talks 
(10:45) A Year Of DOGE 

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President Trump and Ukraine?s Volodymyr Zelenskyy signal momentum on peace talks, but fighting continues and key disputes remain.
Israel?s prime minister is in Mar-a-Lago today as pressure mounts over Gaza, Iran, and what comes next in Trump's ceasefire deal.
And anti-poverty groups warn funding chaos is forcing cuts just as more Americans need help.

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Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Dana Farrington, Miguel Macias, Catherine Laidlaw, Mohamad ElBardicy, Adriana Gallardo.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.

We get engineering support from Simon-Laslow Jansen. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

(00:00) Introduction
(03:26) Trump Zelensky Meeting
(07:17) Netanyahu Mar-a-Lago Meeting 
(10:53) Rough Year For Poverty Aid 

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At the end of every year, many of us resolve to make small changes in our lives. But what would it take to make a radical change?and can it still be done if you?ve reached retirement age? Today on The Sunday Story, WBUR reporter Anthony Brooks shares stories about people he?s met who?ve done just that. 


To hear more of Anthony?s reporting on people who reinvented themselves late in life, check out his series "The Third Act."


This interview originally aired on January 19, 2025.

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NPR?s Ron Elving has been thinking about the state of U.S. politics since President Donald Trump returned to power. Also, several countries in South America elected conservative and even far right leaders in 2025, marking a political and ideological shift in the region. And, we?ll have the highlight reel from the year in sports. 

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President Trump has announced the U.S. launched a number of strikes against Islamic State militants in northwestern Nigeria. Congress started 2025 with an ambitious legislative agenda, but 12 months later has ceded much of its power to President Trump and has passed a record low number of bills. And, shoppers spent a record amount of money this holiday season even as polling finds Americans are feeling glum about the economy.

Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

Today?s episode of Up First was edited by Gerry Holmes, Jason Breslow, Emily Kopp, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle.

It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. 

We get engineering support from David Greenberg. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

And our Executive Producer is Jay Shaylor.

(00:00) Introduction
(02:00) U.S. Strikes ISIS In Nigeria
(05:40) The Year In Congress
(09:28) Holiday Spending

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