September 25, 2024 - PBS News Hour full episode

The presidential candidates were on the campaign trail Wednesday laying out their plans to tackle one of the most consequential issues of the election, the economy. Lisa Desjardins reports from North Carolina.

In our news wrap Wednesday, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy warned the U.N. General Assembly that Russia's war could spread to neighboring countries in Europe and Central Asia, a Senate investigation says Secret Service failures during the July assassination attempt on former President Trump were preventable and the House passed a temporary measure to keep the government funded.

One of the global problems addressed at the U.N. General Assembly is the climate crisis. Multiple wars and other geopolitical tensions have cast a particularly sobering shadow over whether nations can meet meaningful pledges. The new book, "What If We Get It Right?" offers a more optimistic conversation about what individuals can do. Amna Nawaz spoke with author Ayana Elizabeth Johnson.

Tuesday, Missouri executed Marcellus Williams over the objections of the local prosecutor and against the wishes of the murdered victim’s spouse. Earlier this year, the St. Louis County prosecutor filed a motion to overturn the conviction, citing a lack of credible evidence, ineffective trial counsel and racial discrimination in jury selection. William Brangham discussed more with Jonathan Potts.

The political battles over the rights of transgender Americans have led to difficult decisions for several families, especially those living in states with restrictions on transition-related medical care for minors. Laura Barrón-López reports on a Texas family’s journey to access that care.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy told the United Nations that Russia is preparing to attack Ukraine's nuclear plants. At the same time, Iranian officials have repeatedly stated they are interested in resuming nuclear diplomacy. Nick Schifrin discussed more with Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Israel's punishing bombardment of Hezbollah targets and more in Lebanon continued Wednesday, killing dozens more in addition to the hundreds already killed and thousands injured. The Israel Defense Forces also look to be preparing a ground invasion and both the Prime Minister and his top generals warn they may soon cross into southern Lebanon. Nick Schifrin reports.

Hurricane Helene is in the Gulf of Mexico and headed toward Florida. Floridians have been filling sandbags, preparing to hunker down in the face of heavy rains, storm surge and floods. Current forecasts show that Helene will arrive as a dangerous Category 4 hurricane on Thursday. Geoff Bennett discussed more with Jamie Rhome, deputy director of the National Hurricane Center.