Overview of NPR News Now
NPR’s November 11 news update covers a leadership change among House Republicans, a failed impeachment effort against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, a measles outbreak in Pennsylvania, bomb threats at European schools, a court ruling involving Voice of America, and the death of actor Stacy Keach.
U.S. Politics and Congress
House Republicans selected Ohio Congressman Jim Jordan to lead them in the next Congress, defeating Steve Scalise. NPR described Jordan, a co-founder of the Freedom Caucus, as a change candidate. Democrats are expected to choose Hakeem Jeffries as their House leader next week, while Senate Republicans re-elected John Thune.
The House also blocked an effort to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth by a vote of 211–204. Representative Thomas Massie brought the measure, citing military actions without congressional approval in Iran and Yemen, strikes on alleged drug boats, and the Pentagon’s response to Senator Mark Kelly’s remarks about illegal orders. Hegseth called the charges a sham, and most Republicans considered the effort finished.
Measles Outbreak in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has reported more than 1,500 measles cases and six related deaths this year, with the largest number of cases in Lancaster County. Health officials are building trust with Amish communities through home vaccinations and word-of-mouth clinics. Surveys suggest about one-third of Amish families in the county vaccinate their children, often for cultural or practical reasons.
European School Bomb Threats
Schools in Italy, Scotland, and Northern Ireland evacuated thousands of students after bomb threats. The threats follow similar incidents involving European passenger planes the previous week. No injuries were reported.
Court Ruling on Voice of America
A federal appeals court ruled that the Trump administration illegally fired the director of Voice of America. The judges found that the official overseeing VOA’s parent agency lacked the required approval from its Senate-confirmed advisory board. VOA’s coverage had been reduced from 49 languages to four; the administration’s nominee to lead the agency has said she would rebuild it.
Remembering Stacy Keach
Actor Stacy Keach has died at 85, according to a statement from his wife. He was known for his stage work and television roles, including private investigator Mike Hammer.