NPR’s Up First delivers the essential news to start your day. Each episode covers the three most significant stories, offering comprehensive reporting and analysis from NPR News.
Episodes are available on weekdays at 6:30 a.m. ET. The hosts include Leila Fadel, Steve Inskeep, Michel Martin, and A Martinez. On Saturdays, the show airs at 9 a.m. ET with Ayesha Rascoe and Scott Simon. Sundays feature a more in-depth exploration of stories with Ayesha Rascoe on ‘The Sunday Story’ at 8 a.m. ET.
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Recent Episodes
May 25, 2026: US-Iran Negotiations and Ebola Outbreak
President Trump announced progress on a deal with Iran following talks with Gulf leaders and Israel. The early agreement aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, although discussions on the nuclear program are pending. Some Republican senators voiced concerns.
May 24, 2026: Cities and States Tackle Climate Change
Amid federal rollbacks on climate policies, state and local governments are advancing their initiatives to counteract climate change. Julia Simon reports on innovative solutions being pursued.
May 23, 2026: Pressure on Cuba and Rising Costs
The U.S. has increased pressure on Havana. A Tennessee judge dismissed charges against Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Electricity costs are expected to rise with warmer weather, impacting consumer utility bills.
May 22, 2026: GOP Opposition Against Trump
Republican lawmakers broke for recess without passing important immigration funding requested by Trump. Discontent is growing within the party over his initiatives.
May 21, 2026: Immigration Package and Tensions with Iran
Congress races to approve a $72 billion immigration package amid internal GOP disputes. Trump delays actions with Iran, raising friction within his party.
May 20, 2026: GOP Primary Shakeups and Mosque Shooting Investigation
Trump influenced the ousting of Congressman Thomas Massie in Kentucky. Democratic voter turnout was robust in key state primaries. A mosque shooting in San Diego is under investigation as a hate crime.
May 19, 2026: Mosque Shooting and Legal Challenges
The San Diego mosque tragedy resulted in several casualties. Meanwhile, primaries tested Trump’s political sway, and he faces legal battles with the IRS.
May 18, 2026: Political Turmoil and Legal Disputes
Senator Bill Cassidy lost his Louisiana primary due to Trump’s criticism of his past actions. Legal headlines also featured Musk’s lawsuit against Altman over OpenAI.
May 17, 2026: Development in Lagos and Its Impact
Authorities in Lagos are removing traditional settlements to make way for upscale developments. Despite community resistance, property seizures continue, significantly affecting residents.
Traditionalist Catholic Group Challenges Papal Authority with Bishop Consecrations 
Alibaba Challenges Pentagon’s Military Affiliation Designation 
Keiko Fujimori Takes Lead as Peru’s Presidential Race Nears Conclusion 
AI Investments Gain Momentum Amid Investor Caution 
World Cup Developments: England’s Performance and Portugal’s Rise 
Colombia Edges Past Congo to Reach World Cup Knockout Stage