NPR News: 05-16-2026 10AM EDT

This episode of NPR News Now reports on a Senate primary testing Republican Party dynamics, Wall Street volatility tied to inflation, an Israeli strike during a ceasefire, and midway updates from the PGA Championship and Preakness Stakes.

Louisiana Senate Primary

Voters in Louisiana cast ballots in a Republican primary that directly challenges President Trump's influence within the party. Senator Bill Cassidy, one of seven Republicans who voted to convict Trump after the January 6 insurrection, seeks a third term against challengers including Representative Julia Letlow, whom Trump recruited. Local voters such as Kevin Dupree described Cassidy's impeachment vote as a personal betrayal that ended his viability, while St. Martin Parish GOP chair Kelby Dagle questioned the party's shift toward personality over principles. Cassidy has worked to mend ties with Trump supporters while emphasizing his independent record. The outcome will show how durable the former president's hold remains on Republican primaries in the state.

Wall Street and Inflation Pressures