Alabama Execution Puts Judicial Override in the Spotlight
When Alabama executed Ronald Bert Smith last week, it attracted attention around the country. Witnesses say Smith heaved and coughed for 13 minutes during the lethal injection. Alabama’s prison commissioner says proper procedures were followed, but an autopsy would be performed to determine whether there were irregularities. Alabama Media Group columnist John Archibald says as disturbing as the execution was, it’s the way the death sentence came about– through judicial override– that bothers him more.
U.K. Parliament bans women from being prosecuted for late-term abortion
The new law makes it illegal to investigate, arrest, prosecute or imprison any woman in England or Wales for terminating her own pregnancy — no matter what term or trimester she's in.
A battle of sounds stops at the inter-Korean border
The two Koreas have engaged in psychological warfare since the 1960s, with weapons like huge billboard screens, loudspeakers installed along the border, and airdropping propaganda leaflets.
Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones accused of hiding money from Sandy Hook families
U.S. bankruptcy Trustee Christopher Murray has filed three suits accusing Infowars host Alex Jones of hiding millions of dollars in cash and property.
Trump administration actions contradict MAHA rhetoric on toxic chemicals
Trump says he backs the MAHA agenda which includes eliminating toxins linked to human health problems. But his administration continues to cuts funds, grants and regulations that support that goal.
New Report: U.S. drug overdose deaths rise again after hopeful decline
The latest 12-month report from the CDC showed 1,400 more deaths in January of this year compared with the year prior. This comes after more than a year of dramatic progress. Experts say they're not sure if this is a "blip" or something more troubling.
Announcing the 2024 NPR College Podcast Challenge Honorable Mentions
Here are some of the best entries in NPR's 2024 College Podcast Challenge.
