NPR News: 05-08-2026 7PM EDT

The NPR News Now episode covers a range of U.S. developments, from a key court ruling on Virginia redistricting to economic data, policy efforts on child care and water, and briefer business and cultural updates. No single theme dominates, but political and labor market stories lead.

Virginia Redistricting Setback for Democrats

The Virginia Supreme Court ruled against a voter referendum from last month that had favored Democrats in redistricting, overturning what the court described as the popular will in varied ways. This delivers a blow to Democrats in their national battle with Republicans over maps, preserving older district lines. Democrats are split on response: some plan to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, while others eye midterm gains, noting the old map still allows them to pick up one or two seats. Republicans are celebrating the decision, as reported by Jad Khalil of member station VPM.

Easing Regulations for Child Care Expansion

Amid a national child care crisis framed as a workforce issue, Nashville is prioritizing zoning approvals for new centers and easing regulations to simplify openings. Cynthia Abrams of member station WPLN notes similar deregulation efforts under consideration in California, Washington State, New Hampshire, and Colorado, aiming to boost supply where shortages hinder employment.