Pentagon Exodus Under Hegseth, Venezuela Oil and Democracy, Clancy Trial Deadlocked

The Pentagon is losing experienced leaders under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, raising concerns about depleted weapons stockpiles and the military’s ability to manage a prolonged war with Iran. President Trump says Venezuela isn't ready for elections, while his Energy Secretary signs new oil deals in Caracas with the unelected government. In Massachusetts, jurors in the Lindsay Clancy trial told the judge they are deadlocked after five days of deliberations, raising the possibility of a mistrial in the case of a mother accused of killing her three children. Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Support public media with NPR+ and enjoy perks for over 25 podcasts like this one.