PBS News Hour full episode, Dec. 25, 2025

Key Concepts

• Atmospheric River: A concentrated band of moisture in the atmosphere, responsible for the severe flooding in California.
• Santa Claus Evolution: The historical development of the Santa Claus figure from Saint Nicholas to the modern-day icon.
• Jazz Legacies Fellowship: A new program providing financial support to veteran jazz musicians.
• Plug-in Solar: A growing trend of accessible solar energy solutions for renters and those unable to install traditional rooftop systems.
• Post-Roe America: The challenges and realities faced by women navigating pregnancy and reproductive healthcare in the wake of the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

California Storm and National News

The broadcast opened with coverage of a powerful storm battering California, triggering severe flooding, mudslides, and evacuations. At least three people, including a sheriff’s deputy, were killed. This Christmas Day marked a record-setting rainfall for the state, with further dangerous conditions expected. Rescue operations were underway, exemplified by the dramatic rescue of a family stranded on a roof in San Bernardino County, filmed by resident Tim Needham. The storm, classified as an atmospheric river, caused power outages affecting nearly 150,000 people and prompted Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency, mobilizing the National Guard. Burn scars from earlier wildfires exacerbated the flooding risk, as the soil was unable to absorb water. Northern California also experienced heavy rain, wind, and mudslides, with a shelter-in-place warning issued in Wrightwood.

Nationally, the broadcast reported on a conversation between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. negotiators, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, regarding potential peace talks with Russia, including a possible demilitarized zone and a referendum. Pope Leo XIV, in his first Christmas Day sermon, condemned the treatment of Palestinians in Gaza and called for an end to all wars. The broadcast also noted the unusual warmth across much of the U.S., with temperatures 15-30 degrees above normal. Finally, a Powerball jackpot of $1.8 billion was won in Arkansas, the second-largest U.S. lottery jackpot ever.

The Evolution of Santa Claus

The segment featuring author Gerry Bowler explored the history of Santa Claus. Bowler’s book, “Santa Claus: A Biography,” traces the figure’s origins from the 4th-century Bishop Saint Nicholas, known for his generosity and miraculous resurrection of murdered boys, to the modern-day icon. The evolution involved a shift from a religious saint celebrated on December 6th to a gift-bringer associated with Christmas Eve. Protestant abolition of saint worship led to the adoption of figures like the Christ child, but these lacked the intimidating aspect of Saint Nicholas. This led to the emergence of scary helpers like Krampus in some regions.

The modern Santa Claus image was largely shaped by 19th-century American poets and writers, notably Clement Clarke Moore’s “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” which popularized the image of a jolly man in a red suit delivering gifts by reindeer-powered sleigh. Bowler emphasized that Santa Claus is a myth created and sustained by families, embodying generosity and fantasy. He noted that despite commercialization, the core essence of Santa Claus has remained remarkably stable since the early 20th century.

Supporting Jazz Legacies

A report highlighted the Jazz Legacies Fellowship, a new initiative funded by the Mellon Foundation and the Jazz Foundation of America. This fellowship provides $100,000 to 20 veteran jazz musicians over 62, allowing them to pursue creative projects, address financial needs, or simply enjoy a more secure retirement. The program recognizes the contributions of musicians who may not have achieved mainstream fame but have dedicated their lives to the art form.

The segment featured interviews with several fellows, including pianist Valerie Capers and drummer Herlin Riley, who spoke about the challenges of a career in jazz and the importance of passing on their knowledge to younger generations. The fellowship aims to address the often-overlooked financial struggles of seasoned jazz musicians and ensure their legacies are preserved.

Accessible Solar Energy: Plug-in Systems

Laura Klivans reported on the growing trend of plug-in solar systems, offering a more accessible alternative to traditional rooftop solar installations. These smaller, modular systems are particularly appealing to renters, those in multifamily housing, and individuals with limited budgets. Agnes Chan in Berkeley, California, was featured as an adopter, highlighting the affordability and ease of installation.

However, the report noted regulatory hurdles in many states, requiring plug-in solar users to comply with the same regulations and fees as rooftop solar owners. Experts like Bill Brooks emphasized the need for updated safety standards and a simplified registration process. Utah recently passed legislation allowing plug-in solar with minimal registration requirements, and similar bills are being considered in other states. Companies like Craftstrom are capitalizing on the growing demand, offering DIY kits and advocating for regulatory changes.

Navigating Post-Roe America: "Unbearable"

Amna Nawaz interviewed Irin Carmon, author of “Unbearable,” a book exploring the experiences of five women navigating pregnancy and reproductive healthcare in the post-Roe v. Wade landscape. Carmon’s work highlights the limitations and harms within the American medical and legal systems, even for women who desire to continue their pregnancies.

Carmon explained that her own pregnancy during the overturning of Roe v. Wade prompted her to examine the often-unacknowledged physical and emotional toll of pregnancy, regardless of a woman’s circumstances. She emphasized the incomplete narrative surrounding American reproduction and the ways in which pregnant individuals are often treated as less autonomous. Carmon’s book reveals that challenges and inequities persist across socioeconomic backgrounds and geographic locations. She argued that the overturning of Roe v. Wade has diminished the constitutional rights and autonomy of pregnant people.

Additional Segments

The broadcast also included a brief segment on the Rockettes celebrating their 100th anniversary and a musical performance by members of the U.S. military.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The broadcast presented a diverse range of stories, from the immediate crisis of the California storms to long-term issues of accessibility, cultural evolution, and artistic preservation. A common thread running through many of the segments was the theme of resilience – the ability to adapt and overcome challenges, whether facing natural disasters, navigating a changing legal landscape, or pursuing a passion in the face of financial hardship. The broadcast underscored the importance of recognizing and supporting often-overlooked communities and legacies, from veteran jazz musicians to women navigating the complexities of reproductive healthcare.