NPR News: 02-09-2026 1PM EST

Summary of NPR News: 02-09-2026 1PM EST

by NPR

5m•February 9, 2026
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Overview of NPR News: 02-09-2026 1PM EST

A midday news roundup from NPR covering national and international developments: a high-profile congressional appearance by Ghislaine Maxwell, political fallout in the U.K. over Jeffrey Epstein ties, tension between U.S. athletes and former President Trump, the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie’s mother, a major nurses’ labor agreement in New York, updated pediatric screen-time guidance, a corporate bankruptcy filing, and brief promos for NPR podcast series. Nora Rahm anchors the bulletin.

Top stories

Ghislaine Maxwell declines to answer House Oversight questions

  • Maxwell, serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking, appeared virtually before the House Oversight Committee and invoked the Fifth Amendment, refusing to answer questions about her time with Jeffrey Epstein.

Political fallout in the U.K. over Epstein connections

  • British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces criticism for his role in recommending Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Washington.
  • Starmer’s chief of staff resigned earlier; his communications chief also stepped down amid the scandal.
  • Starmer has apologized and said he regrets the decision.
  • A royal spokesperson said Prince William and Kate are “deeply concerned.” Reports also allege Prince Andrew (who was stripped of royal privileges over Epstein ties) passed confidential trade information to Epstein.

U.S. Olympians, Trump and online harassment

  • U.S. Olympic skier Hunter Hess (27) said he has “mixed emotions” about representing the U.S.; former President Trump called him a “real loser” on Truth Social.
  • Other athletes, including figure skater Amber Glenn, reported receiving threats and hateful messages after speaking on social issues (e.g., LGBTQ support).
  • The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee says it is tracking an increase in abusive messages against athletes.

Disappearance of Nancy Guthrie (Savannah Guthrie’s mother)

  • Nancy Guthrie, 84, disappeared from her Arizona home on Jan. 31. The case is in its second week.
  • Tucson media reported ransom notes; local station KGUN said it received a note demanding $6 million by Monday evening. Police have not confirmed details publicly.
  • The FBI is advising the family but has said the ransom decision is up to them.

New York nurses reach tentative deal to end strike

  • More than 10,000 nurses with two major hospital systems in NYC reached a tentative agreement to end a strike that began Jan. 12 over staffing and safety.
  • The deal must still be ratified by union members. Nurses remain on strike at NewYork-Presbyterian.

American Academy of Pediatrics updates guidance on children and screens

  • The AAP no longer recommends a strict two-hour-a-day screen-time limit for children.
  • New guidance focuses on quality of screen use (educational, interactive, caregiver-led) rather than solely quantity.
  • Dr. Tiffany Munzer (lead author) emphasized benefits of high-quality screen time while noting the continued importance of sleep, physical activity, and in-person connection.

Eddie Bauer files for bankruptcy protection

  • The outdoor apparel retailer Eddie Bauer filed for bankruptcy protection. The company, founded in 1920 as a Seattle fishing shop and known for outfitting notable expeditions, is restructuring amid financial trouble.

Key takeaways

  • Maxwell’s refusal to answer congressional questions underscores ongoing legal and public interest in Epstein-related networks.
  • The Epstein scandal continues to have political consequences internationally, affecting high-level appointments and public trust in leadership.
  • Athlete activism at international events is provoking partisan backlash and online threats; sports bodies are monitoring safety and harassment.
  • The Guthrie disappearance remains unresolved with possible ransom developments; law enforcement involvement continues.
  • Labor tensions in health care persist but negotiators achieved a tentative step toward resolution in NYC.
  • Pediatric advice on screen time is shifting from strict limits to a context- and content-based approach.
  • Legacy retail brands remain vulnerable amid changing markets and financial pressures.

Notable quotes

  • From Hunter Hess: “mixed emotions to represent the U.S. right now.”
  • From Donald Trump on Truth Social: “real loser … very hard to root for someone like this.”
  • Amber Glenn: “I’ve never had so many people wish me harm before.”
  • On gangs’ ceasefire memory (promo): “We had a barbecue. It was like it became a family reunion.” — Akilah Shurils (TED Radio Hour promo)

Actions & suggested follow-ups

  • Watch for developments in the House Oversight Committee’s efforts and any legal repercussions related to Maxwell’s testimony.
  • Follow U.K. political coverage for further fallout and any official inquiries related to Epstein-linked appointments.
  • If you’re a parent or caregiver, read the AAP’s full guidance to apply the “quality over quantity” approach to children’s screen use and prioritize sleep, movement, and in-person interaction.
  • For updates on the Guthrie case, rely on official police and FBI statements; avoid spreading unverified ransom details.
  • If you’re an athlete or follow athletes’ safety, monitor USOPC guidance and resources regarding online harassment.

Sources & reporting credits

  • NPR correspondents and reporters cited during the newscast: Lauren Frayer (London), Brian Mann (Milan), Bill Chappell, Amy Held, Nora Rahm. Additional reporting and promos for NPR series ThruLine (“America in Pursuit”) and TED Radio Hour were included.