NPR News Now – September 14, 2025, 1PM EDT

Main Theme

A concise five-minute roundup of key national and international news, including updates on the Charlie Kirk assassination investigation, U.S. public health policy, escalating tensions with Russia, U.S. diplomatic moves in the Middle East and Europe, previews of the Primetime Emmy Awards, and looming budget negotiations on Capitol Hill.

Key Stories and Insights

1. Investigation Continues into Charlie Kirk’s Assassination (00:16 – 01:05)

• Summary: The probe into the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University remains active. 22-year-old Tyler Robinson is in custody, with formal charges pending.
• Key Points:
  • Utah Governor Spencer Cox is urging restraint in public discourse: “Governor Spencer Cox, a Republican, has been calling for everyone to tone down their rhetoric about the shooting. He told CNN Kirk would want that.” (00:23)
  • Coverage features reflection on Kirk’s legacy of forgiveness and community engagement, beyond his “inflammatory” public image.
    • Notable quote:

      “Charlie said some very inflammatory things and, and some in some corners of the web, that's all people have heard. But he also said some other things about forgiveness. … He said that we have to engage and that's what I appreciate most about Charlie.” — Analyst (00:43)

  • The Governor mentioned investigators are not ready to discuss a motive, including the relevance of Robinson’s transgender partner.

2. Trump Administration Report Omits Tobacco Control (01:05 – 01:52)

• Summary: A new health report from the Trump Administration ("Make Our Children Healthy Again") sparks criticism for excluding smoking and nicotine addiction from chronic disease strategies.
• Key Points:
  • Brian King, formerly of the FDA’s tobacco division, criticizes the omission:
    • Notable quote:

      “Attempting to combat chronic disease without tobacco control is like attempting a triathlon without a bicycle. You're destined for failure before leaving the starting line.” — Brian King (01:43)

  • Despite reduced youth tobacco use, smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death.
  • Anti-smoking advocates express dismay at the administration’s approach.

3. Russian Drone Incursions Heighten NATO Tensions (02:02 – 02:55)

• Summary: Russia’s drone activity intensifies security concerns, with Romania claiming its airspace was violated days after NATO jets engaged Russian drones over Poland.
• Key Points:
  • Romania scrambled F-16s to intercept a Russian drone, which eventually vanished from radar.
  • Romanian Defense Minister Ionut Mostianu condemned Russia’s actions on social media, warning of regional instability.
  • Poland raised its defense alert, closing Lublin airport temporarily and increasing joint patrols.
  • NATO’s Eastern Sentry mission is deploying more military assets to counter Russian drones.
  • Notable quote:

    “NATO countries remain vigilant and ready to defend every inch of allied airspace.” — Terry Schultz, reporting from Brussels (02:37)

4. Secretary of State Marco Rubio Visits Israel; U.S.-UK Diplomatic Developments (02:55 – 03:38)

• Summary: Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrives in Israel to discuss the looming seizure of Gaza City, a focal point in Israel’s ongoing war against Hamas.
• Key Points:
  • Gaza City is currently sheltering about a million Palestinians fleeing the conflict.
  • President Trump is set for a second state visit to the UK, with royal engagements planned.
• International diplomatic focus remains on conflict zones and U.S. relations with allies.

5. 2025 Primetime Emmy Awards Preview (03:38 – 04:29)

• Summary: A segment by Mandalit del Barco highlights top nominees for the evening’s Emmy ceremony.
• Key Shows & Performers:
  • "Severance" (outstanding drama contender)
  • "The Pit" (Noah Wylie favored for acting honors)
  • Kathy Bates in "Matlock" (lead actress category)
  • "The Studio" (satirical Hollywood comedy forecasted to win, with Seth Rogen as nominee and co-creator)
  • Netflix’s "Adolescence," with 15-year-old Owen Cooper up for acting as a teenage murder suspect
    • Notable quote:

      “Doc, I haven’t done anything.” — Owen Cooper as quoted by Mandalit del Barco (04:21)

6. Looming U.S. Government Shutdown (04:29 – 04:55)

• Summary: Congress returns from recess facing urgent negotiations to pass budget appropriations before the fiscal year ends.
• Key Points:
  • Lack of progress on appropriation bills places government operations at risk.
  • A single, catch-all bill needs approval from both chambers and President Trump to prevent a shutdown.

Memorable Quotes & Moments

• On tobacco control:
  “Attempting to combat chronic disease without tobacco control is like attempting a triathlon without a bicycle. You're destined for failure before leaving the starting line.” — Brian King (01:43)

• On political discourse and Charlie Kirk’s legacy:
  “He said we have to engage and that's what I appreciate most about Charlie.” — Analyst (00:43)

• On NATO’s posture:
  “NATO countries remain vigilant and ready to defend every inch of allied airspace.” — Terry Schultz (02:37)

• On Emmy contenders:
  “Doc, I haven’t done anything.” — Owen Cooper as referenced by Mandalit del Barco (04:21)

Important Timestamps

• Charlie Kirk Investigation & Utah Response: 00:16 – 01:05
• Tobacco Control Omission in Trump’s Report: 01:05 – 01:52
• Russian Drone Activity & NATO Response: 02:02 – 02:55
• Rubio’s Israel Visit & UK Trip Details: 02:55 – 03:38
• Primetime Emmys Preview: 03:38 – 04:29
• Congressional Budget Deadline: 04:29 – 04:55

This summary reflects stories aired in NPR News Now at 1PM EDT, September 14, 2025. For listeners, these concise updates offer a pulse on political upheaval, health policy debates, global security, cultural highlights, and legislator deadlines—all in under five minutes.