NPR News: 08-19-2026 11PM EDT
Summary
NPR News Now covers the U.S. federal debt hitting $40 trillion, with interest payments becoming the second-largest expense. The episode reports on Israel launching criminal investigations into specific Gaza war incidents, including the killing of a five-year-old girl. Moderna announces promising results for a personalized mRNA melanoma vaccine. Additionally, updates include U.S.-Canada trade negotiations, deportations to Liberia, and potential tropical storms near Hawaii.
Topics discussed
Federal debt hits $40 trillion; interest costs surge
Israel investigates attacks on Palestinian civilians and aid workers
Moderna's mRNA therapy shows promise against melanoma
US-Canada trade deal negotiations to avert tariffs
Liberia to accept 1,200 US immigrant detainees
Hurricane Lala aftermath and potential new storm threat
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