In a dramatic turn of events, federal prosecutors have moved forward with criminal charges against the suspect accused of brazenly stealing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's purse, which contained thousands of dollars in cash. The alleged theft occurred earlier this month at The Capital Burger restaurant in the heart of Washington, DC, sending shockwaves through the political community. The incident, which unfolded in a matter of moments, has now escalated from a simple theft to a federal criminal case. Prosecutors are seeking to hold the suspect accountable for targeting a high-ranking government official and the significant financial loss incurred during the brazen act. Details of the case continue to emerge, highlighting the serious nature of the crime and the potential consequences for the alleged perpetrator. As the legal proceedings move forward, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of personal security, even in seemingly safe public spaces. MORE...

President Joe Biden has continued the tradition of issuing annual proclamations for Columbus Day, a federal holiday that commemorates Christopher Columbus's historic voyage to the Americas in 1492. While honoring the historical significance of European exploration, the proclamations have also increasingly acknowledged the complex and often painful history of indigenous peoples. In recent years, Biden's proclamations have sought to balance historical recognition with a more nuanced understanding of the impact of European colonization. The statements typically recognize both the achievements of Italian American immigrants and the experiences of Native American communities who were profoundly affected by early European contact. The annual proclamation serves not just as a historical remembrance, but as an opportunity for national reflection on cultural diversity, historical understanding, and the ongoing journey of reconciliation. By addressing the multifaceted narrative of Columbus Day, Biden aims to promote a more inclusive and comprehensive view of American history. These proclamations reflect a growing national conversation about how we interpret and commemorate historical events, demonstrating a commitment to acknowledging multiple perspectives and experiences in the American story. MORE...

Ukraine's Lifeline: U.S. Military Aid in Peril

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, the United States has been a critical lifeline for Ukraine, providing substantial military support to help the country defend itself against Russian aggression. However, the future of this crucial assistance is now hanging in the balance as Republican lawmakers, increasingly influenced by former President Donald Trump, grow more skeptical about continued aid.

In this compelling episode of the NPR Politics Podcast, political correspondents Sarah McCammon and Susan Davis, along with national security expert Greg Myre, dive deep into the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding Ukraine's ongoing struggle. They explore the potential consequences if U.S. military support were to be withdrawn and analyze the critical question: Can Ukraine sustain its resistance without American backing?

The podcast offers listeners an insider's perspective on the intricate political dynamics shaping this high-stakes international conflict. With expert analysis and nuanced reporting, the team breaks down the potential scenarios and implications for Ukraine, the United States, and global security.

Produced by Bria Suggs and Kelli Wessinger, and expertly edited by Casey Morell, with executive leadership from Muthoni Muturi, this episode promises to be an essential listen for anyone seeking to understand the evolving situation.

For an uninterrupted, in-depth listening experience, listeners can access the NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics, which offers sponsor-free episodes and exclusive bonus content.

Trump's Columbus Day Claim Sparks Confusion and Historical Debate

In a recent social media post on Truth Social, former President Donald Trump declared he was "reinstating" Columbus Day, a statement that quickly raised eyebrows among historians and political commentators. The curious claim immediately prompted questions, given that Columbus Day remains an official federal holiday in the United States.

CNN's Boris Sanchez delved into the complex and controversial history behind the holiday, highlighting the ongoing national conversation about Christopher Columbus's legacy. While Trump's announcement suggested a restoration, the holiday has continuously been observed, though its significance and interpretation have evolved significantly in recent years.

Many states and cities have increasingly chosen to recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day alongside or instead of Columbus Day, reflecting a growing awareness of the devastating impact of European colonization on Native American populations. This shift represents a nuanced approach to commemorating historical narratives that acknowledges multiple perspectives.

The holiday's contentious background stems from Columbus's complicated historical role, with growing recognition of the violence and oppression that accompanied European exploration and colonization of the Americas.

Trump's post appears to be another example of political rhetoric that seems to create controversy where none fundamentally exists, drawing attention to a holiday that continues to be observed nationwide.

A growing number of Americans are expressing deep concerns about the nation's economic landscape, with a recent CNN poll revealing a stark shift in public sentiment. The survey, conducted by SSRS, shows that nearly 60% of respondents now believe that economic conditions have deteriorated under current leadership, marking a significant increase from earlier this year. In a striking trend, the percentage of Americans who view the current economic situation negatively has jumped from 51% in March to 59% today. This uptick mirrors some of the most challenging approval ratings seen during recent presidential administrations, drawing parallels to the economic challenges faced by previous administrations. The poll's findings suggest a mounting frustration among voters about the country's economic direction, with a clear majority now pointing to policy decisions as a key factor in the nation's economic struggles. This growing dissatisfaction could have profound implications for future political discourse and electoral dynamics. MORE...

Rural School District Rises to the Challenge: Demonstrating Educational Excellence In the heart of America's countryside, a small school district is stepping up to showcase its educational value and commitment to student success. Facing skepticism from parents and policymakers, this tight-knit community is determined to prove that rural schools can deliver high-quality, innovative education that prepares students for the future. With passion and strategic planning, the district is transforming perceptions by highlighting its unique strengths. Through cutting-edge curriculum, personalized learning approaches, and strong community connections, these schools are breaking down stereotypes about rural education. They're not just teaching—they're inspiring, empowering, and creating pathways to success for every student. From advanced technology integration to robust extracurricular programs, this district is showing that size doesn't determine educational quality. Instead, dedication, creativity, and a deep commitment to student growth are the true markers of an exceptional school system. MORE...

As I approached the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books in 2025, a familiar excitement tingled through me. Having been a devoted attendee since 2016, when I was first honored with a special recognition, I knew this annual literary celebration would be something extraordinary. The festival has always been more than just a gathering of book lovers—it's a vibrant tapestry of storytelling, creativity, and intellectual exploration. Each year brings new authors, emerging voices, and unexpected literary discoveries that transform the campus of the University of Southern California into a pulsing hub of literary energy. This year promised to be particularly special, with whispers of groundbreaking panel discussions, innovative author presentations, and a lineup that reflected the evolving landscape of contemporary literature. The anticipation was palpable, and I couldn't wait to immerse myself in the world of words once again. MORE...

In a move that has reignited debates about presidential power and justice, the latest pardon from the Oval Office has once again cast a spotlight on the perceived inequities within the criminal justice system. The decision appears to underscore a growing concern that political connections can significantly influence legal outcomes, potentially eroding public trust in the fairness of judicial processes. This controversial pardon seems to reinforce a troubling narrative: that those with close ties to political leadership may enjoy preferential treatment, while ordinary citizens navigate a more unforgiving legal landscape. The optics of the pardon suggest a system where proximity to power can translate into legal leniency, raising critical questions about equal justice under the law. As public scrutiny intensifies, the pardon highlights the delicate balance between executive privilege and the fundamental principles of fairness and accountability. It serves as a stark reminder that the intersection of political influence and legal judgment continues to be a contentious and deeply problematic aspect of the American justice system. MORE...

In a dramatic maritime incident, the US Navy has reported the loss of a sophisticated F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet during a routine deck operation aboard the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. The high-performance aircraft unexpectedly slipped from its towing equipment and plunged into the ocean, marking an unusual and costly mishap for the naval fleet. The incident occurred on Monday, leaving naval personnel stunned as the multimillion-dollar fighter jet disappeared beneath the waves. While details surrounding the exact circumstances of the jet's unexpected descent remain limited, the Navy has confirmed the loss and is likely to launch a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the maritime accident. Such incidents, though rare, underscore the complex and challenging nature of maritime aviation operations, where precision and careful handling are critical to maintaining the safety and integrity of expensive military equipment. The loss of the F/A-18 Super Hornet represents a significant financial setback and will prompt a thorough review of current deck handling procedures aboard naval vessels. MORE...

In a surprising turn of events, Ed Martin, the Trump-appointed interim US Attorney for the District of Columbia, has publicly acknowledged his past misstep of endorsing a Capitol riot participant with alleged Nazi sympathies. Martin now admits that he was unaware of the individual's extremist ideological background when he initially offered praise. The attorney's candid revelation highlights the complex and sensitive landscape surrounding the January 6th Capitol insurrection, where individuals with diverse and potentially dangerous political ideologies were involved. Martin's statement suggests a desire to distance himself from any associations with extremist views, emphasizing that his initial commendation was made without full knowledge of the rioter's controversial background. As Martin continues his path toward a permanent appointment, this acknowledgment serves as a critical moment of reflection on the importance of understanding the full context of individual actions during a deeply polarizing period in American political history. MORE...