CBS News Faces Nation’s Call to Curb Political Violence After Charlie Kirk Assassination

Lead: On September 14, 2025, CBS News’ Face the Nation confronted the fallout from conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination, as lawmakers and experts urged an end to incendiary rhetoric and bolstered security measures in Washington.

Nut Graf: In the wake of last week’s targeted killing at Utah Valley University, Face the Nation assembled a bipartisan panel-including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senators Chris Coons and James Lankford-alongside security analyst Professor Robert Pape to spotlight rising political violence, propose legislative responses and emphasize leaders’ responsibility to “turn down the rhetoric.”

Bipartisan Appeal for De-Escalation

House Speaker Mike Johnson, speaking from Baton Rouge, called Kirk’s killing a “turning point” that demands national unity and a return to civil debate. He announced plans for prayer vigils on Capitol Hill and at the Kennedy Center, and outlined efforts to strengthen residential security for members of Congress. Johnson also endorsed the White House’s $58 million request to enhance protection for the legislative and judicial branches.

Lawmakers Urge Online Safety Reforms

Senators Coons (D-DE) and Lankford (R-OK) highlighted the internet’s role in amplifying extremism. Coons noted bipartisan momentum behind the Kids Online Safety Act to reduce harmful content, while Lankford praised Oklahoma schools’ ban on in-class cellphones for restoring face-to-face interaction and curbing radicalization.

Expert Warns of ‘Era of Violent Populism’

Professor Robert Pape of the University of Chicago warned that America has entered an “era of violent populism,” marked by a spike in politically motivated attacks and growing public support for violence on both extremes. He urged top leaders from across the spectrum to publicly condemn violence in joint forums to reverse the trend.

Sunday Morning Highlights

Meanwhile, CBS News Sunday Morning offered viewers a lighter mix of culture and history:

  • A Renwick Gallery exhibition of state-fair crafts, from quilts to butter sculptures.
  • An interview with Jason Bateman on his new Netflix drama Black Rabbit.
  • A feature on the emotional perils of houseplant parenthood.

Sunday Morning continues to blend in-depth reporting with arts and lifestyle segments, providing a thoughtful counterpoint to the nation’s political turmoil.