NPR News: 09-16-2026 12PM EDT
Summary
NPR News Now covers the Federal Reserve’s expected interest rate hike amid persistent inflation and surging energy prices linked to the US war in Iran. The report details new estimates of the conflict’s $38 billion cost and extensive damage to military bases. Additionally, the episode highlights a wave of artists dropping Ed Sheeran’s tour following the removal of a performer who shouted "Free Palestine." Other stories include a fatal helicopter crash in Los Angeles and a new analysis mapping limited access to low-cost birth control for millions of US women.
Topics discussed
Fed expected to raise interest rates to combat inflation
Inflation and energy prices loom over midterm elections
New estimates on the cost of the Iran war
Musicians drop out of Ed Sheeran tour over free Palestine
Investigators arrive at scene of LA crashes
New analysis maps limited access to birth control
Up First: Tech leaders want to slow AI development
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