Wild weather spreads across the U.S.

In Washington, D.C., the federal government is closed – as are most of the schools in the area. That’s because the first major snow storm in about three years barreled in Sunday night.

Meanwhile, the Southern U.S. is preparing for another storm that could paralyze parts of Texas, Arkansas and Northern Louisiana.

And Southern California is preparing for “life threatening, destructive gusts” driving wildfires.

That’s a lot of wild weather…so what’s going on?

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The battle over the truth of January 6

What happened on January 6, 2021? There have been news reports, documentaries and witness testimonies all trying to put that question to rest. But despite an impeachment trial and a House Select Committee investigation, the fight over how that day will be remembered isn’t over.

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Elon Musk wades into European politics

Billionaire Elon Musk begins 2025 as one of the most influential people in the United States.

He’s developed a close relationship with President-elect Donald Trump, and has been advising the incoming administration on policy and staffing. And Musk is now increasingly weighing in on European politics as well.

Host Scott Detrow speaks with reporter Rebecca Collard about Musk wading into European politics.

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How to put your drinking on ice this January

Every year, more and more Americans embark on Dry January – a whole month of giving up alcohol.

It’s easy to imagine the benefits: no hangovers, better sleep, happier wallet. But like with any resolution for the new year, staying committed can be hard.

Today, we’re bringing you an episode from our friends at the “Life Kit” podcast that’s all about how to get through Dry January – and reexamine your relationship with alcohol.

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Jimmy Carter’s complex legacy

Former President Jimmy Carter has died at the age of 100.

He was the nation’s 39th president, in office from 1977 to 1981.

He will of course be remembered for his accomplishments in office. But also for all that he accomplished in the four decades after he left the White House.

Host Andrew Limbong speaks about Jimmy Carter’s legacy with two NPR journalists who have covered the White House for years: national political correspondent Mara Liasson and senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith.

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He left everything to flee war in Syria. What does the war’s end mean for his future?

When Syria’s dictatorship fell in early December, celebrations broke out around the world – including nearly 6,000 miles away, in Toledo, Ohio.

That’s where Mohammed al-Refai, a refugee from Syria, lives now. NPR has followed his story for nearly a decade.

In 2015, millions of Syrians fled the civil war in their country. al-Refai got a visa to come to the U.S. His parents and siblings, who fled to Jordan, did not. So, he moved on his own to Toledo, where built a new life for himself.

He long dreamed of visiting his family and maybe, one day, returning to Syria.

With the Syrian civil war now over, we talked to al-Refai about what comes next.

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