NPR News: 04-29-2026 9AM EDT

This NPR News Now broadcast from April 29, 2026, rounds up key developments including congressional scrutiny of U.S. military actions under President Trump, a British royal visit emphasizing transatlantic unity, Supreme Court arguments on migrant protections, a humanitarian report on Gaza's water crisis, and findings on Europe's escalating climate impacts.

Congressional Pushback on U.S. Wars

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chair General Dan Kane are testifying before the House Armed Services Committee for the first time since the Trump administration launched the war against Iran. Lawmakers are expected to question the conflict's costs to Americans and the rapid depletion of U.S. weapons stockpiles. This hearing occurs amid ongoing congressional efforts to require presidential authorization for military actions. Recent Democratic-led measures have faced blocks: the GOP-led Senate halted pushes for debate, with Trump loyalists arguing he operates within his commander-in-chief powers. The latest vote, 51-47, defeated a measure to limit Trump's war powers regarding Cuba, with only Republicans Susan Collins of Maine and Rand Paul of Kentucky joining Democrats. Democrats plan further votes this week on Iran war powers as the conflict nears its 60-day mark, highlighting tensions over executive military authority.