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The Picture Show

Photos: What a year of ceasefire in Gaza looks like

A Palestinian mother mourns her son who was killed in an Israeli airstrike just over a month into the ceasefire, at Al-Shifa Hospital, Gaza City, on Nov. 20, 2025.

A Palestinian mother mourns her son who was killed in an Israeli airstrike just over a month into the ceasefire, at Al-Shifa Hospital, Gaza City, on Nov. 20, 2025. Anas Baba/NPR hide caption

Anas Baba/NPR
A Palestinian mother mourns her son who was killed in an Israeli airstrike just over a month into the ceasefire, at Al-Shifa Hospital, Gaza City, on Nov. 20, 2025.

A Palestinian mother mourns her son who was killed in an Israeli airstrike just over a month into the ceasefire, at Al-Shifa Hospital, Gaza City, on Nov. 20, 2025. Anas Baba/NPR hide caption

Anas Baba/NPR

It has been one year since Hamas released the remaining Israeli hostages and President Trump promised an end to the war, but Palestinians say the past 12 months have been a ceasefire in name only.

Health

Ongoing lawsuits allege GLP-1s can cause serious harm. But we don't know how often

Shelley and Todd Engel.

Shelley and Todd Engel. The Engel family hide caption

The Engel family
Shelley and Todd Engel.

Shelley and Todd Engel. The Engel family hide caption

The Engel family

Scant data about serious adverse effects makes it harder to answer scientific and legal questions about how often the drugs might cause serious harm like blindness or pancreatitis.

Serious GLP-1 complications

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Culture

The Kennedy Center names new artistic director, amid concerns

The blocked-off entrance to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Oct. 1. The center has been shut to the public since September.

The blocked-off entrance to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Oct. 1. The center has been shut to the public since September. Saul Loeb/AFP/via Getty Images hide caption

Saul Loeb/AFP/via Getty Images
The blocked-off entrance to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Oct. 1. The center has been shut to the public since September.

The blocked-off entrance to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Oct. 1. The center has been shut to the public since September. Saul Loeb/AFP/via Getty Images hide caption

Saul Loeb/AFP/via Getty Images

The center's executive director has named an agent who has worked with ZZ Top and Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee as the head of programming for the arts institution.

The Kennedy Center names new artistic director, amid concerns

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National

At least 2 deaths attributed to Isaias after hurricane bashes Florida and Alabama

A driver look at his overturned truck in a flooded parking lot on Saturday morning in Tiger Point, Fla., close to where Hurricane Isaias made landfall Friday night.

A driver look at his overturned truck in a flooded parking lot on Saturday morning in Tiger Point, Fla., close to where Hurricane Isaias made landfall Friday night. Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images
A driver look at his overturned truck in a flooded parking lot on Saturday morning in Tiger Point, Fla., close to where Hurricane Isaias made landfall Friday night.

A driver look at his overturned truck in a flooded parking lot on Saturday morning in Tiger Point, Fla., close to where Hurricane Isaias made landfall Friday night. Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images

Hurricane Isaias is blamed for at least two deaths, after the storm made landfall on the Florida coast and ran through Alabama. There are numerous reports of downed trees, with hundreds of thousands of people without power.

Elections

After losing ground with Latino voters, Democrats are turning to influencers for help

Democrats are trying to rebuild trust among Latino voters, and turning to content creators for help. Above, Spanish language voting stickers which read "He Votado Hoy" ("I Voted Today") at a Philadelphia polling place in 2019.

Democrats are trying to rebuild trust among Latino voters, and turning to content creators for help. Above, Spanish language voting stickers which read "He Votado Hoy" ("I Voted Today") at a Philadelphia polling place in 2019. Matt Rourke/AP hide caption

Matt Rourke/AP
Democrats are trying to rebuild trust among Latino voters, and turning to content creators for help. Above, Spanish language voting stickers which read "He Votado Hoy" ("I Voted Today") at a Philadelphia polling place in 2019.

Democrats are trying to rebuild trust among Latino voters, and turning to content creators for help. Above, Spanish language voting stickers which read "He Votado Hoy" ("I Voted Today") at a Philadelphia polling place in 2019. Matt Rourke/AP hide caption

Matt Rourke/AP

Democrats are hoping to win back Latino voters who have soured on both parties. They hope Latino content creators will bridge the gap.

National

The U.S. last held a public execution in the 1930s. The Pentagon wants to change that

A huge crowd gathers around a scaffold to witness the public hanging of Rainey Bethea in 1936 in Owensboro, Ky. Public outrage over the spectacle made Bethea's death the last public hanging in the country.

A huge crowd gathers around a scaffold to witness the public hanging of Rainey Bethea in 1936 in Owensboro, Ky. Public outrage over the spectacle made Bethea's death the last public hanging in the country. Getty Images/Hulton Archive hide caption

Getty Images/Hulton Archive
A huge crowd gathers around a scaffold to witness the public hanging of Rainey Bethea in 1936 in Owensboro, Ky. Public outrage over the spectacle made Bethea's death the last public hanging in the country.

A huge crowd gathers around a scaffold to witness the public hanging of Rainey Bethea in 1936 in Owensboro, Ky. Public outrage over the spectacle made Bethea's death the last public hanging in the country. Getty Images/Hulton Archive hide caption

Getty Images/Hulton Archive

The Pentagon says it will livestream the firing squad execution of Nidal Hasan at Fort Hood, the site of his 2009 mass shooting. That would be the first public execution in the U.S. since the 1930s.

The U.S. last held a public execution in the 1930s. The Pentagon wants to change that

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Middle East

Trump weighs joining the fight against Houthis after Riyadh airport attack

This image from video obtained and verified by AP shows thick black smoke and flames rising from a fire at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Friday, Oct. 9, 2026.

This image from video obtained and verified by AP shows thick black smoke and flames rising from a fire at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Friday, Oct. 9, 2026. UGC via AP hide caption

UGC via AP
This image from video obtained and verified by AP shows thick black smoke and flames rising from a fire at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Friday, Oct. 9, 2026.

This image from video obtained and verified by AP shows thick black smoke and flames rising from a fire at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Friday, Oct. 9, 2026. UGC via AP hide caption

UGC via AP

The surge in attacks, including against other Saudi airports, military facilities and oil infrastructure, has come in the week since a Saudi-led coalition launched a major military offensive against the Houthis.

Fine Art

The Met puts a modern artist front and center (and there's some Jackson Pollock, too)

When Lee Krasner was asked in a 1978 interview what she was doing while her husband Jackson Pollock was becoming so famous, she said, "I was working all the time." Krasner is shown above, at work, in 1981.

When Lee Krasner was asked in a 1978 interview what she was doing while her husband Jackson Pollock was becoming so famous, she said, "I was working all the time." Krasner is shown above, at work, in 1981. Ernst Haas/Getty Images hide caption

Ernst Haas/Getty Images
When Lee Krasner was asked in a 1978 interview what she was doing while her husband Jackson Pollock was becoming so famous, she said, "I was working all the time." Krasner is shown above, at work, in 1981.

When Lee Krasner was asked in a 1978 interview what she was doing while her husband Jackson Pollock was becoming so famous, she said, "I was working all the time." Krasner is shown above, at work, in 1981. Ernst Haas/Getty Images hide caption

Ernst Haas/Getty Images

In a blockbuster show, The Metropolitan Museum of Art places the work of two major 20th century artists side by side: the married couple Lee Krasner and Jackson Pollock.

Breakfast Around the World

Egypt's beloved breakfast is a fava bean duo with ancient roots

Nasser Al Fayoumi food cart and restaurant in downtown Cairo. Thousands of affordable ful and taamiya dishes and sandwiches are served daily here.

Nasser Al Fayoumi food cart and restaurant in downtown Cairo. Thousands of affordable ful and taamiya dishes and sandwiches are served daily here. Aya Batrawy/NPR hide caption

Aya Batrawy/NPR
Nasser Al Fayoumi food cart and restaurant in downtown Cairo. Thousands of affordable ful and taamiya dishes and sandwiches are served daily here.

Nasser Al Fayoumi food cart and restaurant in downtown Cairo. Thousands of affordable ful and taamiya dishes and sandwiches are served daily here. Aya Batrawy/NPR hide caption

Aya Batrawy/NPR

Egypt's most popular breakfast staple is a modern classic that's also been around for millennia. We take a look at taamiya for our summer series on breakfast around the globe.

Taamiya, Egypt's ancient, fava bean donut hole, is still a modern breakfast classic

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NPR Shorts
Exclusive Technology

Kalshi taps former FBI agent to fight against money laundering

Sean Fern, a former FBI agent, is joining the prediction market platform Kalshi to lead the company's efforts in fighting money laundering.

Sean Fern, a former FBI agent, is joining the prediction market platform Kalshi to lead the company's efforts in fighting money laundering. Provided by Kalshi hide caption

Provided by Kalshi
Sean Fern, a former FBI agent, is joining the prediction market platform Kalshi to lead the company's efforts in fighting money laundering.

Sean Fern, a former FBI agent, is joining the prediction market platform Kalshi to lead the company's efforts in fighting money laundering. Provided by Kalshi hide caption

Provided by Kalshi

The prediction market company says it wants to prevent its platform from being abused by criminals. The company is facing mounting pressure over market manipulation and insider trading on the site.

Only on NPR

Drugs in jars, bags of cash: Tennessee ignored warnings from Arizona's botched executions

Retired Judge David Duncan poses for a photo at his home in Phoenix. He is wearing a dark suit and red striped bowtie.

Retired Judge David Duncan conducted an independent investigation following three botched executions in Arizona. Courtney Pedroza for NPR hide caption

Courtney Pedroza for NPR
Retired Judge David Duncan poses for a photo at his home in Phoenix. He is wearing a dark suit and red striped bowtie.

Retired Judge David Duncan conducted an independent investigation following three botched executions in Arizona. Courtney Pedroza for NPR hide caption

Courtney Pedroza for NPR

Christa Pike's botched execution in Tennessee was not the first to go wrong on Frank Strada's watch. Before he took charge of Tennessee's prisons, Strada oversaw three botched executions in Arizona.

Former Tennessee prisons chief also oversaw botched executions in Arizona

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Asia

India cracks down on youth protests as anger grows against Modi and election chief

A protester shout slogans as they are detained and taken in a police vehicle during a protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in New Delhi, India, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026.

A protester shout slogans as they are detained and taken in a police vehicle during a protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in New Delhi, India, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026. Manish Swarup/AP hide caption

Manish Swarup/AP
A protester shout slogans as they are detained and taken in a police vehicle during a protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in New Delhi, India, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026.

A protester shout slogans as they are detained and taken in a police vehicle during a protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in New Delhi, India, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026. Manish Swarup/AP hide caption

Manish Swarup/AP

The protests focus on the Election Commission's voter list revision, which the opposition claims disenfranchises millions. The government denies the allegations, saying the revision aims to eliminate duplicate entries.

Global Health

Did Russia play by the rules in reporting lab worker's death?

A woman wearing a face mask walks past the anti-plague institute in the city of Irkutsk on October 7, 2026.

A woman wearing a face mask walks past the anti-plague institute in the city of Irkutsk on October 7, 2026. Tatyana Makeyeva/AFP/via Getty Images hide caption

Tatyana Makeyeva/AFP/via Getty Images
A woman wearing a face mask walks past the anti-plague institute in the city of Irkutsk on October 7, 2026.

A woman wearing a face mask walks past the anti-plague institute in the city of Irkutsk on October 7, 2026. Tatyana Makeyeva/AFP/via Getty Images hide caption

Tatyana Makeyeva/AFP/via Getty Images

A global treaty signed by 197 countries — including Russia — requires reporting any death that could be a sign of an outbreak to come.

Immigration

U.S. working to reverse an Egyptian man's third-country deportation to Africa

A detainee boards a deportation flight on GlobalX Air in Minnesota in December 2025.

A detainee boards a deportation flight on GlobalX Air in Minnesota in December 2025. Photo by Elizabeth Flores/The Minnesota Star Tribune via Getty Images hide caption

Photo by Elizabeth Flores/The Minnesota Star Tribune via Getty Images
A detainee boards a deportation flight on GlobalX Air in Minnesota in December 2025.

A detainee boards a deportation flight on GlobalX Air in Minnesota in December 2025. Photo by Elizabeth Flores/The Minnesota Star Tribune via Getty Images hide caption

Photo by Elizabeth Flores/The Minnesota Star Tribune via Getty Images

The Trump administration's effort to return Ahmed Soliman to the U.S. come after an Arizona judge said his deportation violated due process.

Obituaries

Margaret Hamilton, whose software sent humans to the moon, dies at 90

Margaret Hamilton sits in mock-up of Apollo the command module on display at MIT in 1969.

Margaret Hamilton sits in mock-up of Apollo the command module on display at MIT in 1969. ASSOCIATED PRESS/AP hide caption

ASSOCIATED PRESS/AP
Margaret Hamilton sits in mock-up of Apollo the command module on display at MIT in 1969.

Margaret Hamilton sits in mock-up of Apollo the command module on display at MIT in 1969. ASSOCIATED PRESS/AP hide caption

ASSOCIATED PRESS/AP

Hamilton was in her early thirties when she led the team of software engineers that powered NASA's Apollo missions. She later said, "There was no choice but to be pioneers."

Margaret Hamilton, whose software sent humans to the moon, dies at 90

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Mike Ditka, who coached the Bears to their only Super Bowl championship, has died

WBEZ
Mike Ditka of the NFL 100 All-Time Team is honored on the field prior to Super Bowl LIV between the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs at Hard Rock Stadium on February 02, 2020 in Miami, Florida.

Mike Ditka of the NFL 100 All-Time Team is honored on the field prior to Super Bowl LIV between the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs at Hard Rock Stadium on February 02, 2020 in Miami, Florida. Maddie Meyer/Getty Images hide caption

Maddie Meyer/Getty Images
Mike Ditka of the NFL 100 All-Time Team is honored on the field prior to Super Bowl LIV between the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs at Hard Rock Stadium on February 02, 2020 in Miami, Florida.

Mike Ditka of the NFL 100 All-Time Team is honored on the field prior to Super Bowl LIV between the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs at Hard Rock Stadium on February 02, 2020 in Miami, Florida. Maddie Meyer/Getty Images hide caption

Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

The Chicago Bears legend was 86.

Understanding AI

Fired OpenAI employees question the company's commitment to safety

The OpenAI logo is seen on a smartphone screen.

Three employees recently fired by OpenAI allege the company punished them for being outspoken about safety. OpenAI disputes the claims and says they were dismissed for mishandling sensitive information. Andrej Ivanov/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Andrej Ivanov/AFP via Getty Images
The OpenAI logo is seen on a smartphone screen.

Three employees recently fired by OpenAI allege the company punished them for being outspoken about safety. OpenAI disputes the claims and says they were dismissed for mishandling sensitive information. Andrej Ivanov/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Andrej Ivanov/AFP via Getty Images

The three fired workers say OpenAI punished them for being outspoken about safety. The company disputes the claims and says they were fired over mishandling sensitive information.

Energy

Trump says U.S. to get diesel from Russia, relaxing pressure on Moscow to ease prices before midterms

The price of a gallon of diesel fuel is shown electronically on a pump at a QuikTrip station Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, in Greenwood Village, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

The price of a gallon of diesel fuel is shown electronically on a pump at a QuikTrip station Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, in Greenwood Village, Colo. David Zalubowski/AP hide caption

David Zalubowski/AP
The price of a gallon of diesel fuel is shown electronically on a pump at a QuikTrip station Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, in Greenwood Village, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

The price of a gallon of diesel fuel is shown electronically on a pump at a QuikTrip station Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, in Greenwood Village, Colo. David Zalubowski/AP hide caption

David Zalubowski/AP

Trump says the U.S. will obtain diesel from Russia, relaxing years of U.S. pressure on Moscow, to combat prices before midterms. He said he struck the deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin in a phone call.

Midterm elections 2026

Elections

Democrats need to reel in more men. These Mainers say the party needs better bait

Maine voters leave the 2026 Neil Rolde York-Ogunquit Democrats Celebration Lobster Bake with yard signs on Sept. 13 in York, Maine. Troy Jackson is running against U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, after replacing Graham Platner as the Democratic nominee.

Maine voters leave the 2026 Neil Rolde York-Ogunquit Democrats Celebration Lobster Bake with yard signs on Sept. 13 in York, Maine. Troy Jackson is running against U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, after replacing Graham Platner as the Democratic nominee. Joseph Prezioso/Getty Images hide caption

Joseph Prezioso/Getty Images
Maine voters leave the 2026 Neil Rolde York-Ogunquit Democrats Celebration Lobster Bake with yard signs on Sept. 13 in York, Maine. Troy Jackson is running against U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, after replacing Graham Platner as the Democratic nominee.

Maine voters leave the 2026 Neil Rolde York-Ogunquit Democrats Celebration Lobster Bake with yard signs on Sept. 13 in York, Maine. Troy Jackson is running against U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, after replacing Graham Platner as the Democratic nominee. Joseph Prezioso/Getty Images hide caption

Joseph Prezioso/Getty Images

Democrats are trying to win back male voters ahead of the midterms. In Maine, some fly fishermen say frustration with both parties is shaping their votes.

Democrats need to reel in more men. These Mainers say the party needs better bait

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Explainer Elections

Why mailing a ballot close to Election Day may get it rejected for a late postmark

A Wake County Board of Elections employee prepares a mail-in ballot to be sent out to a voter in September in Raleigh, N.C.

A Wake County Board of Elections employee prepares a mail-in ballot to be sent out to a voter in September in Raleigh, N.C. Matt Ramey/AP hide caption

Matt Ramey/AP
A Wake County Board of Elections employee prepares a mail-in ballot to be sent out to a voter in September in Raleigh, N.C.

A Wake County Board of Elections employee prepares a mail-in ballot to be sent out to a voter in September in Raleigh, N.C. Matt Ramey/AP hide caption

Matt Ramey/AP

If you're using the U.S. Postal Service to return a ballot close to Election Day, officials recommend getting it postmarked at a post office to avoid getting caught up in mail processing changes.

Trump makes last-minute pitch in San Antonio after upending the GOP map

Texas Public Radio
President Donald Trump spoke to supporters at a rally Wednesday night at the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio.

President Donald Trump spoke to supporters at a rally Wednesday night at the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio. Vincent Reyna for the San Antonio Report hide caption

Vincent Reyna for the San Antonio Report
President Donald Trump spoke to supporters at a rally Wednesday night at the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio.

President Donald Trump spoke to supporters at a rally Wednesday night at the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio. Vincent Reyna for the San Antonio Report hide caption

Vincent Reyna for the San Antonio Report

President Donald Trump rallied supporters in San Antonio as Republicans work to shore up several competitive races across Texas, including Ken Paxton's U.S. Senate bid and Carlos De La Cruz's campaign in the newly redrawn 35th Congressional District.

Only on NPR

People are asking ChatGPT to help them decide how to vote in the midterms

This illustration shows people chatting with a robot, symbolizing the use of AI chatbots.

This illustration shows people chatting with a robot, symbolizing the use of AI chatbots. Getty Images hide caption

Getty Images
This illustration shows people chatting with a robot, symbolizing the use of AI chatbots.

This illustration shows people chatting with a robot, symbolizing the use of AI chatbots. Getty Images hide caption

Getty Images

Voters are already voting in the midterms. This year, some voters are trying something new to get ready for the election: asking AI to help research their ballot and even decide who to vote for.

Midterm voting is underway. Some voters are relying on AI to make a decision

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In race for Tennessee governor, Blackburn refuses to debate Democrat Green

WPLN News

Democrat gubernatorial candidate Jerri Green appears alongside an empty podium in the place of her GOP opponent, Marsha Blackburn, on Sept. 30, 2026. Marianna Bacallao/WPLN News hide caption

Marianna Bacallao/WPLN News

Democrat gubernatorial candidate Jerri Green appears alongside an empty podium in the place of her GOP opponent, Marsha Blackburn, on Sept. 30, 2026. Marianna Bacallao/WPLN News hide caption

Marianna Bacallao/WPLN News

Democratic nominee for governor Jerri Green held a forum with an empty podium standing in for Sen. Marsha Blackburn, who's running for governor but says she won't debate.

Analysis Elections

Toss-ups, triage and targets: How to read the wide-open 2026 House map

A general view of voting machines at the Franklin County Board of Elections on Oct. 6, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio.

A general view of voting machines at the Franklin County Board of Elections on Oct. 6, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio. Jeff Dean/Getty Images hide caption

Jeff Dean/Getty Images
A general view of voting machines at the Franklin County Board of Elections on Oct. 6, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio.

A general view of voting machines at the Franklin County Board of Elections on Oct. 6, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio. Jeff Dean/Getty Images hide caption

Jeff Dean/Getty Images

Both parties are spending heavily in roughly 60 House districts — where Trump won by an average of 9 points in 2024 — that could be key to deciding control of the chamber, an NPR analysis finds.

Toss-ups, triage and targets: How to read the wide-open 2026 House map

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Alaska's US Senate race collides with the pollock industry in a fight over fish

Alaska Public Media
Evon Waska outside his smoke house in Bethel, AK on Friday, Aug. 14, 2026. Kuskokwim fisherman have not been allowed to fish for silver salmon this summer. This has lead to empty drying racks and smoke houses.

Evon Waska outside his smoke house in Bethel on Aug. 14, 2026. Kuskokwim fisherman were not allowed to fish for silver salmon this summer, and Waska said his family was already eating salmon they put up for winter. Gabby Hiestand Salgado/KYUK hide caption

Gabby Hiestand Salgado/KYUK
Evon Waska outside his smoke house in Bethel, AK on Friday, Aug. 14, 2026. Kuskokwim fisherman have not been allowed to fish for silver salmon this summer. This has lead to empty drying racks and smoke houses.

Evon Waska outside his smoke house in Bethel on Aug. 14, 2026. Kuskokwim fisherman were not allowed to fish for silver salmon this summer, and Waska said his family was already eating salmon they put up for winter. Gabby Hiestand Salgado/KYUK hide caption

Gabby Hiestand Salgado/KYUK

In Alaska's tight U.S. Senate race, bycatch has become a flashpoint, and the race may turn on which candidate is perceived as the most willing and able to rein in the fish trawlers.

Student Podcast Challenge

A student hated reading for years. Her podcast explores finding the right diagnosis

Cora Walsh with her parents, Chris Walsh and Emily Johnson.

Cora Walsh with her parents, Chris Walsh and Emily Johnson. LA Johnson/NPR hide caption

LA Johnson/NPR
Cora Walsh with her parents, Chris Walsh and Emily Johnson.

Cora Walsh with her parents, Chris Walsh and Emily Johnson. LA Johnson/NPR hide caption

LA Johnson/NPR

Middle schooler Cora Walsh of Long Island, N.Y., has won the 2026 NPR Student Podcast Challenge with a story about her journey with dyslexia.

Seventh Grader wins student podcast challenge with dyslexia story

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Mental Health

ChatGPT for Teens has special safeguards. A watchdog group finds most don't work

Three teen boys are shown intently using their smartphones.

Open AI launched ChatGPT for Teens in August, but a watchdog group that studied it recommends people under 18 do not use the artificial intelligence platform. Matt Cardy/Getty Images hide caption

Matt Cardy/Getty Images
Three teen boys are shown intently using their smartphones.

Open AI launched ChatGPT for Teens in August, but a watchdog group that studied it recommends people under 18 do not use the artificial intelligence platform. Matt Cardy/Getty Images hide caption

Matt Cardy/Getty Images

A study from Common Sense Media says most safeguards in ChatGPT for Teens failed. The chatbot talks to teens like a friend and doesn't alert parents when users talk about self-harm and suicide.

Report says teen safety features on ChatGPT don't work

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Only on NPR

ICE has quietly used this warehouse as a detention facility all summer, neighbors say

The Roxbury warehouse is located in a wooded area.

A Roxbury, N.J., warehouse was one piece of a billion-dollar plan by the Department of Homeland Security to detain migrants. José A. Alvarado Jr. for NPR hide caption

José A. Alvarado Jr. for NPR
The Roxbury warehouse is located in a wooded area.

A Roxbury, N.J., warehouse was one piece of a billion-dollar plan by the Department of Homeland Security to detain migrants. José A. Alvarado Jr. for NPR hide caption

José A. Alvarado Jr. for NPR

Throughout the summer, rumors have been bubbling in North New Jersey that ICE has quietly been using a warehouse as a detention center. NPR investigated.

ICE has quietly used this warehouse as a detention facility all summer, neighbors say

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BOTD
NPR
NPR's Book of the Day

Lois Lowry on 'Building 903,' 'The Giver' and relationships between the old and young

BOTD
NPR
building 903
Clarion Books
building 903
Clarion Books

It's been more than a decade since Lois Lowry has dealt with the end of the world. Her 1993 YA dystopian novel "The Giver" became a hugely popular middle school staple. Since then, she's stayed away from grim futures filled with despotic leaders and authoritarian rules. Until now.

Lois Lowry on 'Building 903,' 'The Giver' and relationships between the old and young

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New movies

Movie Interviews

Aaron Sorkin warns of Facebook's recklessness in 'The Social Reckoning'

Jeremy Strong plays Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg in Aaron Sorkin's The Social Reckoning.

Jeremy Strong plays Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg in Aaron Sorkin's The Social Reckoning. Leah Gallo/Sony Pictures Entertainment hide caption

Leah Gallo/Sony Pictures Entertainment
Jeremy Strong plays Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg in Aaron Sorkin's The Social Reckoning.

Jeremy Strong plays Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg in Aaron Sorkin's The Social Reckoning. Leah Gallo/Sony Pictures Entertainment hide caption

Leah Gallo/Sony Pictures Entertainment

Sorkin's latest film follows Mark Zuckerberg as his company fights lawsuits and whistleblowers after modifying its algorithm to promote reshares, which overwhelmingly tend to be divisive.

THE SOCIAL RECKONING Aaron Sorkin

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Review Movie Reviews

Five children are taken from their parents in 'Fjord,' which won top prize at Cannes

Sebastian Stan plays a man accused of abusing his own children in Fjord.

Sebastian Stan plays a man accused of abusing his own children in Fjord. Neon hide caption

Neon
Sebastian Stan plays a man accused of abusing his own children in Fjord.

Sebastian Stan plays a man accused of abusing his own children in Fjord. Neon hide caption

Neon

Cristian Mungiu's latest film takes place in a small Norwegian town, where a recently arrived couple stands accused of abusing their children — but in Fjord, the truth is never quite clear.

FA: Film Review: Fjord

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Movie Interviews

How 'Musk' director Alex Gibney became a critic

2S8313G Washington, United States. 20th Jan, 2025. Tesla CEO and X owner Elon Musk gestures on stage when he speaks inside the Capital One Arena after President-elect Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States in Washington, DC on Monday, January 20, 2025.

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk gestures on stage at the Capital One Arena after President-elect Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States in Washington, DC on Monday, January 20, 2025. Ken Cedeno/UPI/Alamy Live News hide caption

Ken Cedeno/UPI/Alamy Live News
2S8313G Washington, United States. 20th Jan, 2025. Tesla CEO and X owner Elon Musk gestures on stage when he speaks inside the Capital One Arena after President-elect Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States in Washington, DC on Monday, January 20, 2025.

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk gestures on stage at the Capital One Arena after President-elect Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States in Washington, DC on Monday, January 20, 2025. Ken Cedeno/UPI/Alamy Live News hide caption

Ken Cedeno/UPI/Alamy Live News

A trove of documents and interviews with people close to tech billionaire Elon Musk reveal a damning picture of his rise as one of the world's richest and most powerful men.

How 'Musk' director Alex Gibney became a critic

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Music Interviews

Beck completes heartache trilogy with new album, 'Ride Lonesome'

Beck's Ride Lonesome is his first album since 2019.

Beck's Ride Lonesome is his first album since 2019. Mikai Karl hide caption

Mikai Karl
Beck's Ride Lonesome is his first album since 2019.

Beck's Ride Lonesome is his first album since 2019. Mikai Karl hide caption

Mikai Karl

The singer-songwriter returns to string-filled heartache in his first full studio album in seven years.

Beck completes heartache trilogy with new album, 'Ride Lonesome'

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WATCH

Los Texmaniacs: Tiny Desk Concert

Los Texmaniacs' accordion-driven music is a living history lesson, which just so happens to be perfect for twirling on the dance floor.

Life Kit: Tools to help you get it together

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Life Kit

What to do if you're being harassed online

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3D illustration of a phone with a lock on the screen surrounded by concentric circles that have smiley faces on them. A hand reaches into the circles and unlocks the phone. Outside of the circles, menacing eyes look at the phone.
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3D illustration of a phone with a lock on the screen surrounded by concentric circles that have smiley faces on them. A hand reaches into the circles and unlocks the phone. Outside of the circles, menacing eyes look at the phone.
Carlo Cadenas for NPR
3D illustration of a phone with a lock on the screen surrounded by concentric circles that have smiley faces on them. A hand reaches into the circles and unlocks the phone. Outside of the circles, menacing eyes look at the phone.
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Carlo Cadenas for NPR
3D illustration of a phone with a lock on the screen surrounded by concentric circles that have smiley faces on them. A hand reaches into the circles and unlocks the phone. Outside of the circles, menacing eyes look at the phone.
Carlo Cadenas for NPR

If you're posting frequently on social media, there's a chance that someday, one of those posts may make you a target of online harassment. Digital security expert Harlo Holmes and artist and independent researcher Ra'il I'nasah Kiam share tips on what to do if that happens — and how to tighten up your privacy online.

How to deal with online harassment — and protect yourself from future attacks

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Life Kit

How to make hard decisions

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Facing a tough choice.
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Making a hard decision can be agonizing. What if you pick the wrong thing? In this episode, an Oxford professor walks us through a different approach: What if there isn't a best alternative?

Faced with a tough decision? The key to choosing may be your mindset

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Life Kit

There's a better way to apologize

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Gold foil balloons spelling the word "sorry" are strung up in front of a blue backdrop.
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Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR
Gold foil balloons spelling the word &quot;sorry&quot; are strung up in front of a blue backdrop.
Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR

We all screw up. What comes afterwards can make or break a relationship. In this episode, psychologist Harriet Lerner shares her tips for apologizing well and moving forward.

You're apologizing all wrong. Here's how to say sorry the right way

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Green group says developer offered them money to back Navajo energy project

KNAU News Talk
Raymond Peaches stands near where one proposed hydropower project might one day sit on the Navajo Nation. Critics of the project point to questionable tactics used by the developer and his allies as they advocate for the facility.

Raymond Peaches stands near where one proposed hydropower project might one day sit on the Navajo Nation. Critics of the project point to questionable tactics used by the developer and his allies as they advocate for hydro facilities. Chris Clements/KNAU hide caption

Chris Clements/KNAU
Raymond Peaches stands near where one proposed hydropower project might one day sit on the Navajo Nation. Critics of the project point to questionable tactics used by the developer and his allies as they advocate for the facility.

Raymond Peaches stands near where one proposed hydropower project might one day sit on the Navajo Nation. Critics of the project point to questionable tactics used by the developer and his allies as they advocate for hydro facilities. Chris Clements/KNAU hide caption

Chris Clements/KNAU

Emails show that in March 2024, the developer offered a $10,000 donation to the nonprofit, "contingent" on it ending its opposition.

Law

Flock is catching flak. Experts say other police surveillance tools are more worrisome

A police officer monitors video surveillance in the real-time crime center at the Irvine Police Department in California in 2024. The $2 million center, located at police headquarters, is manned by two crime specialists, a crime analyst and a drone pilot to give responding officers more information. It's unclear if Irvine uses Axon Fusus or another software in its crime center.

A police officer monitors video surveillance in the real-time crime center at the Irvine Police Department in California in 2024. The $2 million center, located at police headquarters, is manned by two crime specialists, a crime analyst and a drone pilot to give responding officers more information. It's unclear if Irvine uses Axon Fusus or another software in its crime center. Paul Bersebach/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images hide caption

Paul Bersebach/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images
A police officer monitors video surveillance in the real-time crime center at the Irvine Police Department in California in 2024. The $2 million center, located at police headquarters, is manned by two crime specialists, a crime analyst and a drone pilot to give responding officers more information. It's unclear if Irvine uses Axon Fusus or another software in its crime center.

A police officer monitors video surveillance in the real-time crime center at the Irvine Police Department in California in 2024. The $2 million center, located at police headquarters, is manned by two crime specialists, a crime analyst and a drone pilot to give responding officers more information. It's unclear if Irvine uses Axon Fusus or another software in its crime center. Paul Bersebach/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images hide caption

Paul Bersebach/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images

Real-time crime-center software is a sometimes overlooked but powerful tool allowing police to aggregate immense amounts of data, significantly expanding their surveillance reach.

Flock is catching flak. Experts say other surveillance tools are more worrisome

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Global Health

What is the pneumonic plague?

The cause of bubonic plague (the Black Death of the Middle Ages) is yersinia pestis. The yersinia- bacteria are rod-shaped, non-motile, Gram-negative bacilli. Yersinia pestis is primarily carried by the fleas of rats. Transfer to humans occurs when such fleas feed on human blood. Infection is rapid, causing swollen lymph nodes and leading to septicaemia and pulmonary infection. Extensive control measures against rats and their fleas have eliminated the plague from Europe, but it still occurs in other regions of the world

The cause of bubonic plague (the Black Death of the Middle Ages) is yersinia pestis. The yersinia- bacteria are rod-shaped, non-motile, Gram-negative bacilli. Yersinia pestis is primarily carried by the fleas of rats. Transfer to humans occurs when such fleas feed on human blood. Infection is rapid, causing swollen lymph nodes and leading to septicaemia and pulmonary infection. Extensive control measures against rats and their fleas have eliminated the plague from Europe, but it still occurs in other regions of the world Science Source hide caption

Science Source
The cause of bubonic plague (the Black Death of the Middle Ages) is yersinia pestis. The yersinia- bacteria are rod-shaped, non-motile, Gram-negative bacilli. Yersinia pestis is primarily carried by the fleas of rats. Transfer to humans occurs when such fleas feed on human blood. Infection is rapid, causing swollen lymph nodes and leading to septicaemia and pulmonary infection. Extensive control measures against rats and their fleas have eliminated the plague from Europe, but it still occurs in other regions of the world

The cause of bubonic plague (the Black Death of the Middle Ages) is yersinia pestis. The yersinia- bacteria are rod-shaped, non-motile, Gram-negative bacilli. Yersinia pestis is primarily carried by the fleas of rats. Transfer to humans occurs when such fleas feed on human blood. Infection is rapid, causing swollen lymph nodes and leading to septicaemia and pulmonary infection. Extensive control measures against rats and their fleas have eliminated the plague from Europe, but it still occurs in other regions of the world Science Source hide caption

Science Source

The ancient disease of plague is back in the headlines after the death this month of a Russian lab worker.

National

Fill in the blank in the quiz: A plague research employee in Russia died from ____

From left: A BTS member, Cher, David Ellison.

From left: A BTS member, Cher, David Ellison. Bryan Steffy/Getty Images for iHeartRadio; Mike Coppola/Getty Images; Amy Sussman/Getty Images hide caption

Bryan Steffy/Getty Images for iHeartRadio; Mike Coppola/Getty Images; Amy Sussman/Getty Images
From left: A BTS member, Cher, David Ellison.

From left: A BTS member, Cher, David Ellison. Bryan Steffy/Getty Images for iHeartRadio; Mike Coppola/Getty Images; Amy Sussman/Getty Images hide caption

Bryan Steffy/Getty Images for iHeartRadio; Mike Coppola/Getty Images; Amy Sussman/Getty Images

Plus: Nobels! Protests! Ambiguous quotes! A mysterious death in Russia!

Book News & Features

Poet and essayist Anne Carson wins 2026 Nobel Prize in literature

Poet Anne Carson at the 75th National Book Awards in 2024.

Poet Anne Carson at the 75th National Book Awards in 2024. Andy Kropa//Invision/AP hide caption

Andy Kropa//Invision/AP
Poet Anne Carson at the 75th National Book Awards in 2024.

Poet Anne Carson at the 75th National Book Awards in 2024. Andy Kropa//Invision/AP hide caption

Andy Kropa//Invision/AP

Carson's writing, including The Beauty of the Husband, Autobiography of Red, and Eros the Bittersweet, is eclectic in genre and theme.

Who will become the next Nobel laureate?

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World

South African human rights lawyer Navi Pillay wins the Nobel Peace Prize

South African lawyer Navanethem "Navi" Pillay sits at the Nuremberg Forum in Germany following the announcement that she will be awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Committee is honoring her for her efforts to promote peace and international law. Photo: Daniel Karmann/dpa (Photo by Daniel Karmann/picture alliance via Getty Images)

South African lawyer Navanethem "Navi" Pillay sits at the Nuremberg Forum in Germany following the announcement that she will be awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Committee is honoring her for her efforts to promote peace and international law. Daniel Karmann/picture alliance via Getty Images hide caption

Daniel Karmann/picture alliance via Getty Images
South African lawyer Navanethem "Navi" Pillay sits at the Nuremberg Forum in Germany following the announcement that she will be awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Committee is honoring her for her efforts to promote peace and international law. Photo: Daniel Karmann/dpa (Photo by Daniel Karmann/picture alliance via Getty Images)

South African lawyer Navanethem "Navi" Pillay sits at the Nuremberg Forum in Germany following the announcement that she will be awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Committee is honoring her for her efforts to promote peace and international law. Daniel Karmann/picture alliance via Getty Images hide caption

Daniel Karmann/picture alliance via Getty Images

South African human rights lawyer Navi Pillay wins the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for advancing human rights and international law.

Norwegian Nobel Committee awards this year's Peace Prize

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Author Interviews

Jennifer Welch isn't holding back on Trump, Democrats or political division

Jennifer Welch attends the Lambda Legal Liberty Awards National Dinner at The Glasshouse on June 4 in New York City.

Jennifer Welch attends the Lambda Legal Liberty Awards National Dinner at The Glasshouse on June 4 in New York City. Roy Rochlin/Getty Images hide caption

Roy Rochlin/Getty Images
Jennifer Welch attends the Lambda Legal Liberty Awards National Dinner at The Glasshouse on June 4 in New York City.

Jennifer Welch attends the Lambda Legal Liberty Awards National Dinner at The Glasshouse on June 4 in New York City. Roy Rochlin/Getty Images hide caption

Roy Rochlin/Getty Images

The podcaster talks to Leila Fadel about her new book, her evolving politics and what it means to build a future with people whose views she strongly opposes.

Podcaster Jennifer Welch talks about her new book, 'Not Today, Fascists'

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Short Wave podcast: Revealing the science behind everyday mysteries

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Short Wave

In flood-prone parts of Southeast Asia, these voicemails save lives

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Boats and houses float on the surface of Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia. In the foreground, a Southeast Asian person wearing a sun hat and holding an oar sits in the prow of their green wooden boat, along with several baskets and containers of food.

Cambodia is one of the most flood-prone countries in the world. Forty-year-old Douch Bopha lives in a floating village on the edge of the Tonle Sap Lake and sells food to local fishermen. Ryan Kellman hide caption

Ryan Kellman
Boats and houses float on the surface of Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia. In the foreground, a Southeast Asian person wearing a sun hat and holding an oar sits in the prow of their green wooden boat, along with several baskets and containers of food.

Cambodia is one of the most flood-prone countries in the world. Forty-year-old Douch Bopha lives in a floating village on the edge of the Tonle Sap Lake and sells food to local fishermen. Ryan Kellman hide caption

Ryan Kellman

For residents of Prek Touch, Cambodia — right on the banks of the Mekong River — flooding is a regular part of life. But as those floods worsen due to climate change, it's getting harder to adapt. Along with other flood-prone regions throughout Southeast Asia, government officials are facing an issue: how to deliver widespread weather warnings in a timely, effective way. One solution that's working for Prek Touch? Voicemails. Today on the show, NPR climate correspondent Rebecca Hersher explains how a simple phone alert can prompt preparation, increase evacuation, and save lives.Interested in more stories about natural disaster preparedness? Email us your question at [email protected] to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.

These voicemails save lives

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Short Wave

Why you shouldn't be afraid of flying, according to a flight expert

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Many Americans are afraid of flying — yet for many, it's a key form of travel for work or get home to loved ones for the holidays.
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Many Americans are afraid of flying — yet for many, it's a key form of travel for work or get home to loved ones for the holidays. fhm/Getty Images hide caption

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Many Americans are afraid of flying — yet for many, it&#039;s a key form of travel for work or get home to loved ones for the holidays.

Many Americans are afraid of flying — yet for many, it's a key form of travel for work or get home to loved ones for the holidays.

fhm/Getty Images
Many Americans are afraid of flying — yet for many, it's a key form of travel for work or get home to loved ones for the holidays.
Enlarge this image

Many Americans are afraid of flying — yet for many, it's a key form of travel for work or get home to loved ones for the holidays. fhm/Getty Images hide caption

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Many Americans are afraid of flying — yet for many, it&#039;s a key form of travel for work or get home to loved ones for the holidays.

Many Americans are afraid of flying — yet for many, it's a key form of travel for work or get home to loved ones for the holidays.

fhm/Getty Images

There are many statistics out there that prove that flying on a commercial airplane is safe, that plane crashes are overall pretty unlikely. Still, up to an estimated 40% of Americans feel some fear at the thought of flying. So, amid the travel rush of the holiday season, we ask MIT aeronautical engineer Mark Drela: How does a plane lift off and stay up in the air? Interested in more stories on physics? Email us at [email protected]. We'd love to hear from you!Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.

Why you shouldn't be afraid of flying, according to a flight expert

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Short Wave

This is what living on Mars could do to the human body

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An image of rocks on Mars. Biologist Kelly Weinersmith and cartoonist Zach Weinersmith spent four years researching what it would look like if humans lived here.
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An image of rocks on Mars. Biologist Kelly Weinersmith and cartoonist Zach Weinersmith spent four years researching what it would look like if humans lived here. NASA/JPL/Cornell hide caption

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An image of rocks on Mars. Biologist Kelly Weinersmith and cartoonist Zach Weinersmith spent four years researching what it would look like if humans lived here.

An image of rocks on Mars. Biologist Kelly Weinersmith and cartoonist Zach Weinersmith spent four years researching what it would look like if humans lived here.

NASA/JPL/Cornell
An image of rocks on Mars. Biologist Kelly Weinersmith and cartoonist Zach Weinersmith spent four years researching what it would look like if humans lived here.
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An image of rocks on Mars. Biologist Kelly Weinersmith and cartoonist Zach Weinersmith spent four years researching what it would look like if humans lived here. NASA/JPL/Cornell hide caption

NASA/JPL/Cornell
An image of rocks on Mars. Biologist Kelly Weinersmith and cartoonist Zach Weinersmith spent four years researching what it would look like if humans lived here.

An image of rocks on Mars. Biologist Kelly Weinersmith and cartoonist Zach Weinersmith spent four years researching what it would look like if humans lived here.

NASA/JPL/Cornell

As global warming continues and space technology improves, there is more and more talk about the growing possibility of a sci-fi future in which humans become a multiplanetary species. Specifically, that we could live on Mars. Biologist Kelly Weinersmith and cartoonist Zach Weinersmith have spent four years researching what life on Mars would look like if we did it anytime soon. In their book A City On Mars, they get into all sorts of questions: How would we have babies in space? How would we have enough food? They join host Regina G. Barber and explain why it might be best to stay on Earth. Check out Kelly and Zach Weinersmith's book A City On Mars.Have another space story you want us to cover on a future episode? Email us at [email protected] — we'd love to hear from you!

This is what living on Mars could do to the human body

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Understanding AI

OpenAI caught Russians and Iranians using ChatGPT for influence campaigns

A person in silhouette stands in front of a screen showing OpenAI's logo.

OpenAI says Russian operatives used its AI chatbot to update their bosses, shedding light on influence campaigns previously not attributed to Russia. Jeff Chiu/AP hide caption

Jeff Chiu/AP
A person in silhouette stands in front of a screen showing OpenAI's logo.

OpenAI says Russian operatives used its AI chatbot to update their bosses, shedding light on influence campaigns previously not attributed to Russia. Jeff Chiu/AP hide caption

Jeff Chiu/AP

The company says Russian operatives used its AI chatbot to update their bosses, shedding light on influence campaigns previously not attributed to Russia.

The challenge of growing colossal pumpkins inside Ohio's prisons

The Statehouse News Bureau
A large pumpkin sits outside a prison. A barbed wire fence can be seen in the background.

This year's pumpkin was disqualified from the national weigh-in. It will now sit outside the Belmont Correctional Institution for the rest of the season. Kaitlin Thorne/The Ohio Newsroom hide caption

Kaitlin Thorne/The Ohio Newsroom
A large pumpkin sits outside a prison. A barbed wire fence can be seen in the background.

This year's pumpkin was disqualified from the national weigh-in. It will now sit outside the Belmont Correctional Institution for the rest of the season. Kaitlin Thorne/The Ohio Newsroom hide caption

Kaitlin Thorne/The Ohio Newsroom

People incarcerated in Belmont Correctional Institution work hard each year to grow giant pumpkins for competitions. But growing pumpkins inside a prison comes with challenges.

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