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Politics - September 12, 2025

Breaking News: Person of Interest Sought in Killing of Charlie Kirk; Inflation, Job Market Show Weakness; Bolsonaro Sentenced for Coup Attempt; Quitting Advice and Fall Movie Guide Highlights

Greetings! This morning, we bring you an update-packed edition designed to kickstart your day effectively. Subscribe here for daily delivery straight to your inbox, and tune into our Up First podcast for comprehensive news coverage.

Authorities have released images of a person of interest linked to the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The individual, yet to be identified, was seen fleeing the crime scene wearing a black T-shirt, white Converse sneakers, and a hat adorned with a triangle symbol. A high-powered bolt-action rifle and unused ammunition believed to belong to the suspect were also recovered at the site. Utah’s Governor Spencer Cox appealed for public assistance in identifying this elusive individual.

Recent data from the Labor Department reveals mounting inflation and rising consumer prices, coupled with emerging signs of job market instability. Employment numbers showed a meager growth of 22,000 jobs in August, while revised figures indicate a job loss in June for the first time since 2020. Despite these economic fluctuations, stock markets have been thriving. The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged by over 600 points yesterday, leading all major indexes to reach record highs.

Brazil’s Supreme Court has sentenced former President Jair Bolsonaro to a prison sentence of 27 years and three months for his attempt to seize power following his defeat in the 2022 elections. This historic verdict marks the first time a former Brazilian leader has been tried for an attempted government overthrow. Bolsonaro is known to be politically aligned with Donald Trump. The current president commented that it was “unexpected” such an event would occur.

Quitting often carries a stigma of failure, but cognitive psychologist Annie Duke, career educator Colin Rocker, and psychologist Angela Duckworth offer advice on recognizing when it’s appropriate to walk away from a goal, as featured in NPR’s Life Kit. Learn the signs that indicate it’s time to quit by reading this informative comic from Life Kit. Stay tuned for more expert advice on various aspects of life by subscribing to the Life Kit newsletter.

Fall is here, and with it comes an exciting lineup of movies at the theater. From romantic comedies to heist films, sports/horror hybrids, Broadway musical adaptations, and beyond, there’s something for everyone in this season’s cinematic offerings.

On television, The Paper, a spin-off of The Office, follows a newsroom team grappling with financial and cultural challenges at a local Toledo newspaper. The Peacock mockumentary promises another dose of comedic charm.

In the literary world, beloved character Henry Huggins celebrates his 75th anniversary this week. Revisit the timeless tale of Ramona Quimby’s neighbor through a nostalgic lens.

Ed Sheeran is set to perform live later today at NPR’s Tiny Desk. Don’t miss out on the live stream starting at 12:00 PM ET.

Test your knowledge with our daily news quiz, and see if you can improve upon that “Competent” message.

Finally, fans of Hollow Knight have eagerly awaited the release of its sequel, Hollow Knight Silksong. The game’s challenging yet fair gameplay has earned it rave reviews from critics. Keller Gordon, in his review, describes every loss as a reminder of one’s potential for success, making victories all the more electrifying.

This edition was skillfully edited by Obed Manuel.