NPR News Now NPR News Now

NPR News: 08-21-2026 1AM EDT

Aug 21, 2026 · 4m

Summary

President Trump threatens economic sanctions on nations aiding Iran, while Treasury Secretary Bessent highlights China’s role. In other news, two Hong Kong activists face prison under national security laws, and a New York woman is charged with plotting a bomb attack. Legislative Director James Braid leaves the White House ahead of midterms, and Aisha Mahab wins a California special election. Additionally, the USS Abraham Lincoln returns home, cannabis addiction rates rise, and Hawaii prepares for another storm.

Topics discussed

Trump threatens economic consequences for nations aiding Iran Hong Kong activists convicted under national security law Woman charged with plotting bomb attack at NY State Capitol White House Legislative Director James Braid to depart Aisha Mahab wins special election to replace Eric Swalwell USS Abraham Lincoln returns after record deployment amid controversy Study shows rise in cannabis addiction and potency in US Hawaii prepares for potential tropical storm after Hurricane Lala
Listen ad-free on Castria