Fox News Hourly Update: Detailed Summary of 12PM ET Newscast on August 12, 2025

Published on August 12, 2025

The "Fox News Hourly Update" episode released at 12PM ET on August 12, 2025, delivers a comprehensive overview of the day's most pressing news topics. Hosted by Chris Foster and featuring insights from various Fox News contributors, the episode covers a range of subjects from federal actions in Washington, D.C., economic indicators, a tragic industrial accident, policy changes on cannabis, to severe weather updates across the United States. Below is a detailed summary of each key segment discussed during the broadcast.

1. Federal Deployment of National Guard in Washington, D.C.

Timestamp: [00:02 - 00:51]

The episode opens with Chris Foster reporting on a significant federal action in the nation's capital. President Trump has federalized the Metropolitan Police Department and deployed approximately 800 National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., in response to increasing crime and chaos on the streets.

• Tom Emmer, House Majority Whip, supports the move, stating, "the streets of our nation's capital have been filled with crime and chaos" ([00:15]). Emmer views President Trump's intervention as necessary due to what he perceives as the city's failure to maintain order.

• Contrarily, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticizes the deployment as an "unjustified power grab," arguing that crime rates in D.C. are at a 30-year low. This division in Congress reflects the ongoing political debate surrounding federal intervention in local law enforcement.

The House Oversight Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing next month with D.C. leadership to further discuss the implications of these federal actions.

2. Inflation Report and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Commissioner Change

Timestamp: [00:51 - 01:47]

Jenny Cassell provides an update on the latest inflation data, revealing that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) moderated in July with a 2.10% increase, maintaining a 2.7% rise for the year. However, the core CPI, which excludes food and energy, saw a slight increase of 0.3% for July and 3.1% for the year.

In related news, the President has dismissed the current BLS commissioner, Erica McIntofer, accusing her of "manufacturing unemployment figures." Heritage Foundation economist E.J. Antony has been nominated to replace her. Jared Halpern comments on Antony's background, noting his defense of the Trump administration's economic policies and his support for the dismissal of McIntofer. Antony's appointment awaits Senate confirmation.

This report is the first major economic update since the change in leadership at the BLS, signaling potential shifts in how economic data may be interpreted and reported moving forward.

3. Stock Market Reaches New Highs Amid Inflation Concerns

Timestamp: [01:47 - 02:04]

The inflation report has positively influenced investor sentiment, making an interest rate cut more likely in the upcoming month. Chris Foster highlights significant gains in the stock market:

• Dow Jones Industrial Average up by 465 points.
• S&P 500 increased by 54 points, reaching a new record high.
• NASDAQ surged by 205 points.

These movements suggest a bullish market response to the latest economic indicators, reinforcing investor confidence in the current economic trajectory.

4. Tragic Explosion at Pittsburgh Steel Plant

Timestamp: [02:15 - 02:43]

A devastating explosion occurred at the Clairton Coke Works factory outside Pittsburgh, resulting in two fatalities and sending ten individuals to the hospital. Nate Foy reports that witness accounts describe the explosion as resembling thunder and causing significant shaking.

The Clairton Coke Works is the largest coke-producing facility in the United States, essential for converting iron ore into steel. County officials have assured the public that the area is now stable, but questions remain about the explosion's cause and future safety measures.

5. Potential Changes to Cannabis Policy Under President Trump

Timestamp: [02:43 - 03:21]

Peter Doocy discusses potential reforms to cannabis policy if President Trump follows through on campaign promises. The proposed changes would equate cannabis abuse rates and criminal penalties with those of codeine or testosterone.

Doocy highlights the administration's focus on the economic benefits, suggesting that the cannabis market could be a significant source of tax revenue for the U.S. government. An unnamed speaker adds depth to the discussion, acknowledging the divisive views on marijuana:

• "Some people like it, some people hate it. Some people hate the whole concept of marijuana because if it does bad for the children, it does bad for people that are older than children." ([03:03])

On the other hand, proponents argue that cannabis is an effective treatment for chronic illnesses and its legalization could lead to widespread acceptance and use.

6. Severe Weather Updates Across the United States

Timestamp: [03:21 - 04:08]

Peter Doocy provides a comprehensive weather update, indicating a mix of severe weather conditions affecting different regions:

• Southeastern United States: Persistent flood risks due to ongoing heavy rains, particularly in the southern Appalachians.

• Upper Great Lakes and Midwest: Strong storms are expected in Wisconsin and Michigan, bringing isolated gusty winds and hail.

• Northeast: A heatwave is intensifying, with temperatures climbing into the 90s along the I-95 corridor from Washington, D.C., to Boston. Combined with high humidity, heat index values may exceed 100 degrees in certain areas.

• Tropical Storm Aran: Developing over the central Atlantic, Aran is forecasted to strengthen into the first hurricane of the season. However, it poses no immediate threat to the U.S. mainland through the weekend.

Officials continue to monitor these weather patterns closely, issuing warnings and preparedness advisories as necessary.

7. Final Remarks

Timestamp: [04:08 - 04:13]

Chris Foster signs off, reinforcing Fox News’ commitment to delivering timely updates. Additionally, Jason Chaffetz promotes the "Jason in the House" podcast, encouraging listeners to engage with in-depth political discussions and interviews with notable guests.

Conclusion

The August 12, 2025, episode of the "Fox News Hourly Update" effectively covers a breadth of significant topics, from federal law enforcement actions and economic indicators to tragic events and policy discussions. With contributions from various Fox News reporters and commentators, the episode provides listeners with detailed insights and diverse perspectives on current events shaping the nation.

For those interested in a deeper dive into these issues, Fox News Podcasts and related platforms offer extended discussions and analyses.