NPR News Now NPR News Now

NPR News: 09-21-2026 12PM EDT

Sep 21, 2026 · 4m

Summary

NPR News Now covers the White House revoking press credentials, a tanker attack in the Strait of Hormuz, and record-high diesel prices linked to the US-Iran war. The segment also features Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee’s warning that higher unemployment may be necessary to combat inflation, contrasting with Fed Chair Kevin Warsh’s views. Finally, researchers report a 28% decline in daily spoken words over 14 years, highlighting how reduced conversation is eroding social connection and cognitive benefits.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: Charles Schwab White House pool excludes major news outlets Legal and First Amendment implications of media ban Tanker attacked in Strait of Hormuz Iranian blockade and increased attacks on shipping Diesel prices hit record high Economic impact of rising fuel costs Fed official warns of economic pain to fight inflation Contrasting views on Fed rate hikes and labor market Study: Daily word count drops 28% over 14 years Benefits of conversation and impact of AI Sponsor: Angie
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