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A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll reveals that 76% of Americans believe democracy is facing a serious threat.That percentage includes 89% of Democrats, 80% of Independents and 57% of Republicans. Additionally, 73% viewpolitically motivated violence as a significant issue. These findings emerge during President Trump's second term, when the U.S. is notably polarized.
The U.S. Capitol is seen on May 20 in Washington, D.C.Kevin Dietsch/Getty Imageshide caption
Senate Republicans aim to pass Trump's significant tax and spending bill later today.However, they first need to address a series of amendment votes from both parties, which are currently ongoing after a lengthy overnight session. Democrats oppose the plan's passage, and Republicans face internal divisions as they work to get the bill on Trump's desk by Friday.
The U.S. Agency for International Development officially shuts down and merges its remaining operations with the State Department today.A new study inThe Lancetestimates that it has saved over 90 million lives in the past two decades. When the Trump administration took office at the beginning of 2025, one of its first major moves was dismantling USAID.
Zohran Mamdani launched his mayoral campaign for New York City last year with odds stacked against him as he faced resistance from his own party's establishment. He tried hard to keep affordability the focal point of his campaign, but encountered attempts from others to misrepresent his identity. Unfounded claims were made suggesting he would promote Islamic law, while some accused him of supporting terrorism and being antisemitic. For the most part, New Yorkers didn't fall for these attacks. Mamdani is now the presumptive Democratic candidate after receiving the most votes in the primary last week.Morning Editionhost Leila Fadel sits down with Mamdani to discuss what his victory means for his party and how he plans to implement his policies if he becomes mayor, despite skepticism about their feasibility.Listen to the interviewor read more about him andwatch a video of the interview here.
Living Better is aspecial seriesabout what it takes to stay healthy in America.
Cancer survivors and advocates say that all too often, even well-intentioned people get the fundamentals wrong when they share their bad news. What is worse is when people disappear without a word. The phenomenon is so common that many cancer patients call it "cancer ghosting." This often occurs because people may be unsure of how to respond. But the silence can be even more painful than the treatments themselves, several cancer survivors tell NPR. Here'sadvice for what to do and say— and what not to say — when a loved one faces cancer.
Bobby Vylan of Bob Vylan crowdsurfs in front of the West Holts stage during day four of Glastonbury festival 2025 on June 28 in Glastonbury, England.Leon Neal/Getty Imageshide caption
This newsletter was edited bySuzanne Nuyen.
