NPR News: 04-03-2026 6PM EDT

In a fast-paced NPR News Now roundup, the top stories center on escalating US tensions with Iran—including two Air Force planes shot down and a record defense budget request—alongside legal pushback against a new voting restrictions order, rising housing pressures on seniors, and brief updates from Myanmar, NASA, and New Jersey politics.

US Planes Down, Massive Defense Budget Sought

Two US Air Force combat planes were shot down today, per an official not authorized to speak publicly. One crashed near the Strait of Hormuz, with its crew member rescued; the other fell in southwestern Iran, where search efforts continue for the second crew member. These incidents occur amid a month-long war with Iran. In response, the White House requested $1.5 trillion for defense—the largest in modern US history—from Congress. This annual blueprint outlines executive priorities, though Congress sets final spending. At a recent event with religious leaders, officials emphasized federal focus on military protection over state-handled programs like daycare, Medicaid, and Medicare, arguing national security demands precedence. The White House shared then deleted a video of the discussion.