Norton Arbelaez

In his first speech from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV – a 69-year-old Chicago native – shared a message of peace. He is the first American pope.

Religious institutions have long been a refuge for immigrants. Now, they’re mobilizing in response to recent actions from the Trump administration.

Israel’s cabinet approved plans that include “conquering the [Gaza] strip,” which would displace over a million Gazans. It could lead to long-term Israeli occupation of the territory.

President Trump stunned Hollywood over the weekend with his announcement of a 100% tariff on films produced outside the U.S., framing it as a move to revive domestic production and…

China says it’s limiting U.S. films being released there, in response to Trump’s tariffs. Hollywood has already been hit by worker strikes, streaming wars, and COVID shutdowns.

Port business slowed to a trickle after Pres. Trump’s imposition of a 145% tariff on Chinese goods. Even with a lower tariff, the uncertainty is hard on trade.

The right says it’s pushing back on cancel culture. Are they just redefining it? Plus, the president banishes pennies and paper straws.

Former OC Supervisor Andrew Do pleaded guilty last year to bribery. Some supervisors say his plea deal with the federal government is too lenient.

Can the “chaos” at the Department of Defense be resolved, or is it just how this White House operates? Plus, KCRW examines the political legacy of Pope Francis.