Rising Tensions, Sinking Confidence: America Faces Sharp Declines in Sentiment Amid Political Violence

Charlie Kirk’s Death Sparks National Outcry and Political Fallout

Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on September 10. Authorities released surveillance images and offered a $100,000 reward for information leading to a suspect’s arrest. President Trump responded by urging supporters to respond peacefully, condemning violence and announcing plans to posthumously award Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The tragedy has ignited renewed debate about political rhetoric, security at public events, and how quickly partisan divisions can turn deadly.

Widening Economic Anxiety: US Consumer Sentiment Drops Again

Consumer sentiment in the U.S. has fallen for the second month running, dropping to 55.4 in September from 58.2 in August, according to the University of Michigan survey.This is the lowest reading since May, and economists had expected a somewhat smaller decline. Key concerns include rising inflation, weakening labor-market indicators, and growing unease about how trade policies—especially tariffs—are affecting prices and economic outlook. Inflation expectations remain elevated: roughly 4.8% for the coming year, and 3.9% over five years.

Oil Prices Slide as Oversupply and Demand Worries Dominate

Despite geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and war in Ukraine, oil prices are falling. Brent crude dropped to around $65.88 per barrel and U.S. West Texas Intermediate to about $61.86, following signs of oversupply and weakening U.S. demand. U.S. crude stockpiles rose by nearly 4 million barrels, adding to downward pressure. While OPEC+ projects continued demand growth, global supply increases are pushing some analysts to adjust expectations downward.

Legal Battle Looms Over Presidential Tariff Powers

The Supreme Court is set to take up a case with sweeping implications: whether President Trump can unilaterally impose sweeping tariffs under a 1977 law citing an emergency. The case hinges on the “major questions doctrine,” a legal standard that requires clear congressional authorization for executive actions with broad economic or political consequences. Depending on the ruling, this could redefine the boundaries of executive power in trade policy and reshape how courts view similar assertions of authority.

Looking Ahead

In the coming days, all eyes will be on the investigation into Charlie Kirk’s death—who is charged, what evidence emerges, and how political leaders respond. On the economic front, the Federal Reserve’s next meeting looks pivotal: markets are expecting adjustments to interest rates, and inflation and employment data over the next week may tip the balance. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court decision on tariff power could shift the trade landscape significantly. Tariff-related and inflation pressures remain high, and any move on trade policy—bilateral or multilateral—will be watched closely.