Good morning. Welcome to today’s edition of the Up First newsletter. Subscribe to receive it directly in your inbox, and don’t miss the Up First podcast for all the essential morning news.
Highlights of the Day
Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook is embroiled in a legal battle as her attorney plans to challenge President Trump’s decision to dismiss her. Trump cites “cause” related to mortgage fraud allegations, which Cook disputes, arguing the president lacks the authority for such action. The allegations stem from Bill Pulte’s claims regarding Cook’s mortgage applications in 2021, suggesting inconsistencies in her primary residence declarations.
President Trump moved to fire Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook, in an escalation of Trump’s campaign to assert more control over the central bank.
Drew Angerer/Getty Images North America
Drew Angerer/Getty Images North America
- 🎧 Trump remains unfazed by the impending lawsuit, according to NPR’s Tamara Keith on Up First. He has a replacement for Cook ready, which could shift the Federal Reserve’s stance. Trump’s persistent pressure has focused on lowering interest rates, and replacing Cook may ensure compliance with his economic agenda. Pulte’s allegations target others, including Democratic figures like Senator Adam Schiff and Attorney General Letitia James, who are under DOJ scrutiny for similar claims.
The Democratic National Committee’s summer meeting concludes today in Minneapolis. This gathering marks their first significant assembly post-Trump’s return. DNC Chair Ken Martin emphasized shifting strategies towards electoral success over policy debates, as the party faces challenging midterms in 2026.
- 🎧 NPR’s Stephen Fowler notes the DNC’s focus on upcoming elections. Attendees discuss directing resources towards state-level parties, countering Trump’s legislative moves, and addressing partisan redistricting issues. Their rhetoric labels Trump’s actions as undermining congressional and constitutional norms.
In a personal update, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are engaged after a two-year relationship. The couple announced it on Instagram, with a photo of Kelce proposing in a garden, showcasing Swift’s engagement ring. The announcement aligns with Swift’s new album release and the impending NFL season.
- 🎧 Swift’s romantic endeavors often influence her music, explains NPR’s Isabella Gomez Sarmiento. Her relationship with Kelce, starting from a concert encounter, has already inspired her latest album, The Tortured Poets Department. Fans anticipate more insights in her upcoming work.
Today’s Feature
Screen capture of Nigel Tapp reuniting with his Montclair Community Pre-K class in a surprise Zoom.
Nick Kirkman
Nick Kirkman
Alana Schreiber was just eight years old when Hurricane Katrina displaced Nigel Tapp and his family, leading them to Montclair, N.J. Tapp’s brief stay at Montclair Community Pre-K left a lasting impression, prompting his classmates to create Nigel and the Hurricane, a book about their experiences. Years later, Schreiber, now working at NPR’s WWNO in New Orleans, organized a heartwarming Zoom reunion for Tapp with his former classmates, as detailed in a conversation with Michel Martin. Listen to their reunion story.
Advice for Living
Editor’s note: This comic will discuss mental health topics and suicidal ideation. If you are in crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to connect with a counselor.
After her second child’s birth, NPR’s LA Johnson found herself battling persistent, distressing thoughts. She consulted with mental health experts U’nek Clarke and Brooke Smith for coping strategies, which she shares through a comic illustration of her experiences.
- 🧠 Use mindfulness techniques during emotional distress. Start with deep breathing and engage your senses to return to the present.
- 🧠 Avoidance won’t eliminate intrusive thoughts. Confront them, acknowledge their presence, and let them pass.
- 🧠 Share your feelings with a loved one. This can help distinguish between feelings and symptoms.
For more assistance with managing intrusive thoughts, listen to this episode of NPR’s Life Kit. Subscribe to the Life Kit newsletter for more expert guidance on relationships, finances, and more.
Essential Facts Before You Leave
Eileen and Doug Flockhart look at a chalkboard announcing the birth of their seventh grandchild on the porch of their home in Exeter, N.H., Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2011.
Elise Amendola/AP
Elise Amendola/AP
- National Grandparents Day is approaching on September 7. NPR is reaching out to new grandparents to share their experiences. Contribute your insights for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue.
- The National Endowment for the Arts has decided to cancel its Creative Writing fellowship, a program that has supported American literary talent since 1966.
- The term “tea” has evolved significantly since its English origins in the 17th century. Today, it serves not only as a term for the drink but also as modern slang. Explore the evolution of “tea” over time.
This newsletter was edited by Suzanne Nuyen.
