NPR News Now: September 13, 2025, 2PM EDT
Brief Overview
This episode delivers a concise roundup of top news stories from the U.S. and abroad. The focus is on the fallout from the killing of political activist Charlie Kirk, federal and state responses to urban violence, President Trump's international policy statements, and significant events in the UK and Japan.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Aftermath of Charlie Kirk's Killing
- Suspect Held Without Bail: The 22-year-old man accused of killing Charlie Kirk is detained in Utah, with formal charges expected next week. (00:18)
- Erica Kirk’s Statement: Charlie Kirk's widow, Erica Kirk, made her first public comments, vowing to continue her husband's movement and blaming “evildoers” for his death.
- Quote (Erica Kirk): "The movement my husband built will not die. It won't." (00:39)
- Quote (Erica Kirk): "I refuse to let that happen." (00:44)
- Public Reaction: The killing has sparked intense debate on social media. Utah Governor Spencer Cox urged the public to step back and de-escalate tensions.
- Quote (Spencer Cox via reporter): "This is our moment. Do we escalate or do we find an off ramp? It's a choice." (01:01)
- Investigation: Authorities are still investigating possible motives and triggers.
2. Federal Action on Urban Crime
- Memphis, Tennessee: President Trump announced plans to send National Guard troops to Memphis, claiming support from local officials.
- Mayor's Response: Mayor Paul Young clarified he does not support National Guard presence, emphasizing the need for resources from investigative agencies (FBI, DEA, ATF).
- Quote (Paul Young): "That was an overstatement. I am focused on the resources, FBI, DEA, ATF. Those are the things that I believe will truly help us be able to support law enforcement and reduce violent crime. I do not support the National Guard." (01:36)
- Other Cities: Trump has also threatened similar federal interventions in New Orleans and Baltimore.
3. Baltimore Crime and Community Concerns
- Crime Rates: Baltimore is experiencing the lowest homicide rates in half a century, yet state police will soon patrol city streets. (02:28)
- Community Reactions: Some residents, represented by community leader Donald Gresham, express concerns over increased surveillance and the focus on arrests rather than social support services.
- Quote (Donald Gresham): "You feel like you're on a plantation. That's what you gonna feel like because you walk around, don't know when they're going to pull you up. They say they're there to protect us, but they never have been there to protect us in the community. It's going to be a place where they going to really feel like it's not home." (02:43)
- Focus of Concern: Critics worry resources are diverted from health care and education.
4. International Headlines
- Trump on NATO and Russia: President Trump urges NATO allies to boycott Russian oil and to impose a 50% tariff on Chinese oil purchases, arguing this would end the war in Ukraine. (03:12)
- UK Far Right Rally: Activist Tommy Robinson is organizing what may be Britain’s largest far right demonstration in years, invoking Charlie Kirk’s assassination as a rallying cry.
- Details: Speakers include Steve Bannon and European far right figures. Police are deploying over 1,600 officers, with counter-protests organized by Stand Up To Racism. (03:47)
- Community Safety: Scotland Yard addresses safety fears among Muslim Londoners.
5. Commemoration in Japan
- Nagasaki Ceremony: A remembrance event was held for Dutch prisoners who suffered in a World War II prison camp. Relatives and survivors gathered at a monument marking reconciliation and peace. (04:34)
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- Erica Kirk: "The movement my husband built will not die. It won't." (00:39)
- Erica Kirk: "I refuse to let that happen." (00:44)
- Spencer Cox (via reporter): "This is our moment. Do we escalate or do we find an off ramp? It's a choice." (01:01)
- Paul Young: "I do not support the National Guard." (01:36)
- Donald Gresham (on police presence): "You feel like you're on a plantation... They say they're there to protect us, but they never have been there to protect us in the community." (02:43)
Important Timestamps
- 00:18 — Overview of Charlie Kirk case and Erica Kirk’s first statement
- 01:19 — Trump announces plans for Memphis, Mayor Paul Young responds
- 02:28 — Baltimore crime rates and community reaction to policing
- 03:12 — Trump’s comments on NATO, Russia, and China tariffs
- 03:47 — UK far right demonstration preview; counter-protests and police preparedness
- 04:34 — Nagasaki WWII memorial ceremony
This distilled summary provides all key events, insights, and memorable exchanges for listeners looking to stay up-to-date with the latest news and wider context from this NPR News Now episode.