NPR News: 08-20-2026 5PM EDT
Summary
NPR News Now covers the USS Abraham Lincoln crew’s return amid reports of deteriorating conditions and Defense Secretary Hegseth’s dismissal of media claims. The episode also details a severe Ebola outbreak in the DRC, Walmart’s slower-than-expected sales growth, and a U.S. stock market decline driven by inflation and debt concerns. Additionally, it reports on Quebec’s cautious stance on a new Canada-U.S. trade deal, record-breaking heat waves in France, and a squid spill in Rhode Island.
Topics discussed
USS Abraham Lincoln crew returns amid reports of poor conditions
Ebola outbreak in DRC far worse than official numbers suggest
Walmart shares fall after slower-than-expected sales growth
US stock market hits three-week low amid inflation worries
Quebec Premier assesses impact of Canada-US trade agreement
France records all-time high for heat wave days and deaths
Squid spill blocks Rhode Island roadway in 'squidpocalypse'
Preview: NPR Politics Podcast on violent crime drop
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