NPR News: 05-13-2026 2PM EDT

This NPR News Now broadcast from May 13, 2026, delivers updates on U.S. trade talks with China, surging costs from the Iran war, domestic election changes in Alabama, the ceremonial opening of the UK Parliament, and a new trial for Alex Murdaugh.

Trump's China Visit and Public Views on Tariffs

President Trump is on a state visit to China, with trade as the central focus of his discussions with leader Xi Jinping. A new NPR/Chicago Council/Ipsos poll reveals that most Americans view U.S. tariffs as harmful to both U.S. and Chinese economies, while also increasing consumer costs domestically. For instance, physical therapist Elisa Kodjuar in the Chicago area paid an extra $20 in tariffs for a Chinese-made board game, calling the policy counterproductive and unlikely to yield better trade deals. In contrast, David Morgan from North Carolina supports tariffs, crediting low-cost Chinese competition with sinking his furniture business and drying up orders. The poll identifies broad support for a potential compromise: reducing U.S. tariffs on China in return for China purchasing more American agricultural goods.