Up First from NPR Stakes of Trump's China Trip, Inflation Report Shows War Impact, Hantavirus Science
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May 12, 2026 
Tamara Keith, senior political correspondent who covered the presidential delegation in Beijing, previews the high-stakes U.S.-China visit. Scott Horsley, White House and economics reporter, breaks down how the Iran war is fueling inflation and higher travel costs. Gabriela Emanuel, health reporter, walks through the hantavirus outbreak, its transmission uncertainties, and why it differs from COVID.
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Treat Big Purchase Announcements As Signaling Moves
- Expect announced purchase deals to be symbolic rather than fully executed.
- Tamara Keith warns big purchase proclamations (soybeans, Boeing sales) are a trademark of trips but often lack immediate substance.
Stability Over Confrontation Drives The Summit
- Both Washington and Beijing aim to stabilize the relationship despite divergent goals.
- Melanie Hart and Dennis Wilder emphasize a polite summit surface while each side seeks tactical advantages on trade and strategic posture.
Iran War Is Pushing Inflation Back Up
- The Iran war is driving energy prices and pushing headline inflation higher.
- Scott Horsley reports gas up over $1.50 and forecasters expect April inflation near 3.7–3.8%, eroding recent wage gains.