News

A rare Ebola strain is spreading with no vaccine. Here's what you need to know
This outbreak is being called "the perfect storm." How did it start, what are the characteristics of the strain that's causing it and how much of a threat is it to global health?
Gabrielle Emanuel | May 20, 2026, 2:58 PM UTC

Barney Frank, former congressman and gay-rights pioneer, dies at 86
The former congressman was politically engaged until the end. As GBH reports, Even in hospice, Frank was actively working to spread the message of his forthcoming book, "The Hard Path to Unity: Why We Must Reform the Left to Rescue Democracy."
The NPR Network | May 20, 2026, 2:53 PM UTC

How one Oregon city has raised a billion dollars for climate change
The Portland Clean Energy Fund has raised a billion dollars for climate change action via a retail tax on large corporations in the city. Other cities are starting to shape similar funds.
Monica Samayoa | May 20, 2026, 2:00 PM UTC

Every season of 'Survivor,' ranked worst to best, by NPR's resident superfan
Survivor is a sport, a metaphor for society and yes, entertainment. As its 50th season ends, NPR critic Stephen Thompson ranked every season so far.

Former Spanish Prime Minister Zapatero is under investigation
A Spanish court is investigating former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero for alleged influence peddling and other possible crimes tied to a government airline bailout.
The Associated Press | May 20, 2026, 10:03 AM UTC

4 takeaways from Tuesday's primary night in half a dozen states
While Trump continues to rack up victories on his vengeance tour, general election opponents are waiting in swing districts and swing states. Can front-line GOP candidates navigate these choppy waters?
Domenico Montanaro | May 20, 2026, 9:00 AM UTC

Bees have coexisted with us for over a millennium. Their name remains a mystery
Its name is short — like its size — but the bee is one of Earth's most important and busy creatures.
Juliana Kim | May 20, 2026, 9:00 AM UTC

Overworked and understaffed: Special ed teachers turn to AI for help
A fast-growing number of special educators nationwide are using AI to create customized education plans. Despite the risks, some research shows it could improve the quality of teachers' work.
Jonaki Mehta | May 20, 2026, 9:00 AM UTC

Denver has a plan to heat and cool buildings without fossil fuels. It involves … sewage?
Like many cities, Denver's largest source of greenhouse gas emissions is its buildings. Heating and cooling skyscrapers requires a lot of fossil fuels. Now, the city is trying a surprising solution.
Ishan Thakore | May 20, 2026, 9:00 AM UTC

Gun rights groups see 'golden age' under Trump administration
New gun rules and lawsuits against states signal how this Trump administration is using its powers to align itself with the wishes of the gun rights movement.
Jaclyn Diaz | May 20, 2026, 9:00 AM UTC



